Jesus Only / Mark 9:2-13

Undercover boss - ceo, entry level, the big reveal, knowing the power of the person changes their life - for better or worse

For several years, the disciples have heard Jesus speak of his power. They’ve caught glimpses of his power through miracles, but in tonights story, they see Jesus from a whole new perspective…

2 And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, 3 and his clothes became radiant, intensely white, as no one on earth could bleach them.

“The word transfigured describes a change on the outside that comes from the inside. It is the opposite of ‘masquerade,’ which is an outward change that does not come from within.” (Wiersbe) He was revealing who he truly is. The greater miracle is that he was able to veil his diety in human flesh for so long. No form or appearance that we should desire him.

If you were to see a photo of Jesus and his disciples you wouldn’t have known who was Jesus.

To you, does Jesus seem normal or beautiful? He displays his beauty to those who believe.

4 And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. 5 And Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” 6 For he did not know what to say, for they were terrified.

In the Old Testament, both Elijah and Moses had encounters with God on mountains. Moses recieved the law on Mount Sainai. He is the author of the initial books of the bible, representing the law.

Elijah encountered God when he sent fire down from heaven on Mount caramel. Elijah stood against the false prophets and predicted the coming savior. He represents the prophets.

Peter wants to settle in and places Jesus on the same level as Moses and Elijah.

7 And a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud, “This is my beloved Son; listen to him.” 8 And suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone with them but Jesus only.

The law shows our need for salvation (ten commandments). The prophets pointed to the coming savior. The Father’s affirmation proved that he is the only savior. Jesus only.

Are you putting anyone or anything on the same level as Jesus? Are you trusting in Jesus only?

Passion Jenga illustration - if anyone or anything else is the foundation, your faith won’t last.

Jesus is the only one they needed. And Jesus is the only one who can save….

9 And as they were coming down the mountain, he charged them to tell no one what they had seen, until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. 10 So they kept the matter to themselves, questioning what this rising from the dead might mean. 11 And they asked him, “Why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?” 12 And he said to them, “Elijah does come first to restore all things.

Second coming.

And how is it written of the Son of Man that he should suffer many things and be treated with contempt? 13 But I tell you that Elijah has come, and they did to him whatever they pleased, as it is written of him.”

“For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John, and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come.”

The law, the prophets, John the baptist were all pointing to Jesus. And the culmination of these people and predictions is the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Tell gospel.

Invite to trust in only Jesus.