Matthew Chapter 17 — The Transfiguration and True Faith
Jesus is transfigured before three disciples on a mountain, heals a boy the disciples could not, and miraculously provides for the temple tax.
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Notable Verses
Matthew 17:2
“He was changed before them. His face shone like the sun, and his garments became as white as the light.”
This verse describes the Transfiguration, a pivotal moment revealing Jesus' divine nature to His disciples.
Matthew 17:20
“He said to them, “Because of your unbelief. For most certainly I tell you, if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you will tell this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you."”
This famous teaching emphasizes that even a small amount of genuine faith has immense power.
Chapter Summary
Matthew 17 recounts the Transfiguration, where Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain. There, His appearance is transformed, and He is seen speaking with Moses and Elijah, while a voice from a cloud identifies Him as God’s beloved Son. Following this event, Jesus explains that John the Baptist came in the spirit of Elijah. Upon returning to the crowds, Jesus heals a boy afflicted by a demon after the disciples failed to do so, explaining that their failure was due to a lack of faith. He teaches that faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains. The chapter also includes Jesus' second prediction of His death and resurrection. Finally, when questioned about the temple tax in Capernaum, Jesus instructs Peter to find a coin in the mouth of a fish to pay the tax for both of them, demonstrating His authority while choosing not to cause offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Moses and Elijah appeared with Jesus on the mountain. They represent the Law and the Prophets, showing that Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament scriptures.
Jesus told the disciples they were unable to cast out the demon because of their unbelief. He indicated that such situations require significant faith, prayer, and fasting.
Jesus told Peter to catch a fish from the sea. Inside the fish's mouth, Peter found a stater coin, which was the exact amount needed to pay the tax for both Jesus and Peter.
Study Note
The 'didrachma' mentioned in verse 24 was a specific Greek silver coin used to pay the annual half-shekel temple tax required of Jewish males.
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