The Transfiguration

Richard Morgan

Florida Christadelphian Bible School (2002)

This 2002 series, The Transfiguration, unfolds the meaning of one of the most striking events in the gospels. Brother Richard Morgan shows how the vision of Christ on the mountain with Moses and Elijah was not only a glimpse of his future glory, but also an exhortation for disciples today. Each class develops a theme of transformation, the living Word, the cost of discipleship, the hope of glory, and the assurance of resurrection life. Listeners are invited to see in the transfiguration both the strength Christ drew to face the cross and the pattern of change that must take place in every believer who seeks to share in his glory.

Metamorphosis

The opening study introduces the word “transfiguration” itself, rooted in the Greek term for metamorphosis. Using the natural example of a caterpillar transformed into a butterfly, this class illustrates the stages of spiritual change—beginning with baptism, growing through feeding on the Word, passing through death, and emerging in the resurrection to eternal life. The transfiguration is presented as a vision of this complete transformation.

The Living Word

This lecture explores how Jesus embodied the Word of God in every aspect of his life. On the mountain, Moses and Elijah represented the law and the prophets standing alongside the Word made flesh. The study emphasizes how Christ lived out scripture, drew strength from it, and showed the balance of grace and truth in his ministry, providing an example for believers to let the Word live within them.

Gain the Whole World

Here the focus turns to the temptation Christ faced to seize kingship without the cross. The lecture traces his footsteps in the pattern of Abraham’s journey, showing how Christ resisted the lure of immediate power and chose instead the path of sacrifice. The lesson exhorts disciples to value eternal inheritance over fleeting worldly gain.

The Dew of Hermon

This class highlights Christ’s preparation as high priest, interceding with both grace and truth. Drawing on the symbolism of Mount Hermon, it shows how Moses and Elijah reflected God’s twofold character—mercy and severity—while strengthening Christ for his coming trial. The imagery of prayer, fasting, and priestly garments is developed to show how he was readied to bear the sins of many.

A Vision of the Future

The study reflects on the transfiguration as a prophetic vision, assuring Christ of the joy set before him. Just as the blueprint of a house anticipates the finished building, so the Word of God contains the design of God’s purpose. This session explores how the tabernacle, temple, and promises of God point forward to the glory that awaits, reinforcing faith in the certainty of God’s plan.

His Face Did Shine as the Sun

The concluding lecture returns to the central image of Christ’s shining face and radiant garments. The vision is set against the struggles he bore and the enemies he faced, reminding disciples that though opposition may seem overwhelming, God’s power and angelic host are far greater. It closes with the assurance that the glory glimpsed on the mountain points to the ultimate victory of Christ and the hope shared by all who follow him.

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Give ear, and hear my voice; give attention, and hear my speech.

Isaiah 28:23 (ESV)