What does Matthew 17:4 mean?

Explanation

In the New Testament of the Bible, the book of Matthew 17:4 describes an event that is commonly referred to as the Transfiguration of Jesus.

In this verse, Peter responds to the extraordinary vision he is witnessing on a high mountain alongside James and John, who are also apostles of Jesus.

During the Transfiguration, Jesus' appearance changes and becomes radiantly glorious.

Moses and Elijah, two major Old Testament figures, appear and converse with Jesus.

In his amazement and perhaps confusion, Peter offers to make three shelters (or tabernacles): one for Jesus, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.

The term "tabernacle" refers to a dwelling place or a temporary shelter.

Peter’s suggestion highlights his impulsive character and a desire to commemorate this momentous occasion.

The deeper meaning here may be seen in Peter's recognition of the importance of the event but also his misunderstanding of its true significance.

He equates Jesus with Moses and Elijah, not fully grasping the superior nature and role of Jesus as the Son of God.

Historical Context

The event of the Transfiguration takes place shortly after Peter confesses that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God (Matthew 16:16).

Jesus had begun to explain to his disciples that he would suffer, die, and be raised on the third day.

The Transfiguration is a moment that affirms Jesus' divinity, giving the disciples a glimpse of his glory, and essentially prepares them for the impending suffering and death of their master.

The Jewish Feast of Tabernacles, or Sukkot, was a time when the Israelites built temporary booths to live in to commemorate their ancestors' journey in the wilderness and God's provision.

Peter’s idea to build tabernacles may have been inspired by this feast, suggesting that he sees Jesus, Moses, and Elijah as significant figures in God's interaction with his people on par with the wilderness experience.

Theological Insights

Within Christian theology, the Transfiguration is a pivotal event.

It affirms the divinity of Christ and the idea that Jesus fulfills the law and the prophets, represented by Moses and Elijah.

For Peter to suggest building three tabernacles implies equality among the three figures, which could be seen as a mistake given that Christian theology holds Jesus as superior to the prophets.

Some theologians interpret this scene as a foretaste of the Kingdom of God, where Jesus is revealed in glory. Others see it as a typological event where Jesus is the new Moses delivering a new law of love and grace.

Practical Applications

From Matthew 17:4, several practical applications can be drawn:

• Recognizing divine moments and experiences in life, but also seeking proper understanding.
• The importance of being attentive to God’s revelations and the readiness to respond, but with discernment.
• Avoiding the tendency to "box in" or control spiritual experiences rather than allowing God to reveal the purposes behind them.

Cross-References

• Matthew 16:16: "And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God."
• Exodus 33:7: "And Moses took the tabernacle, and pitched it without the camp, afar off from the camp, and called it the Tabernacle of the congregation..."
• Mark 9:5-6: "And Peter answered and said to Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias."
• Luke 9:33: "And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said."
• 2 Peter 1:17-18: "For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory..."

Language Study

In the original Greek text of the New Testament, key words would include:

• "tabernacles" (σκηνάς/skēnas): often used to denote temporary dwellings or tents.
• "good" (καλόν/kalon): can mean good, beautiful, or pleasant.

Peter expresses that it is good or wonderful to be present for this event.

• "here" (ὧδε/hōde): indicating the specific place where the Transfiguration is occurring.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient religious practices including Judaism, the construction of physical structures like the tabernacle was of significant importance as a point of contact between the divine and the earthly realm.

In comparison, other religious traditions also feature concepts of sacred spaces where humans can encounter the divine or commemorate significant spiritual events.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the event of the Transfiguration and Peter's response are matters of faith and spirituality rather than empirical evidence.

The sudden change in Jesus' appearance and the appearance of historical figures who had long passed could be interpreted symbolically or as a vision rather than a physical phenomenon.

Commentaries

Various commentaries on Matthew 17:4 provide insight into the verse:

• The Pulpit Commentary suggests that Peter, not knowing what to say but wishing to show reverence and awe, proposed the building of tabernacles.
• Matthew Henry's Commentary points out Peter's mistake in making Jesus equal with Moses and Elijah but also notes his good intentions in wanting to honor this moment.
• John Calvin notes that Peter’s desire to build tabernacles demonstrated his reverence for the divine revelation but also his incomplete understanding of the situation.

Commentators generally agree that Peter's response is well-intentioned but also reflects his lack of understanding of the full significance of what he was witnessing.