Chapter 6—The Transfiguration
I saw that the faith of the disciples was greatly strengthened at
the transfiguration. God chose to give the followers of Jesus strong
proof that he was the promised Messiah, that in their bitter sorrow and
disappointment they should not entirely cast away their confidence.
At the transfiguration the Lord sent Moses and Elias to talk with Jesus
concerning his sufferings and death. Instead of choosing angels to
converse with his Son, God chose those who had an experience in
the trials of earth. A few of his followers were permitted to be with
him and behold his face lighted up with divine glory, and witness his
raiment white and glistening, and hear the voice of God, in fearful
majesty, saying, This is my beloved Son, hear him.
Elijah had walked with God. His work had not been pleasant. God,
through him, had reproved sin. He was a prophet of God, and had to
flee from place to place to save his life. He was hunted like the wild
beasts that they might destroy him. God translated Elijah. Angels bore
him in glory and triumph to heaven.
Moses had been a man greatly honored of God. He was greater
than any who had lived before him. He was privileged to talk with
[41]
God face to face as a man speaketh with a friend. He was permitted
to see the bright light and excellent glory that enshrouded the Father.
Through Moses the Lord delivered the children of Israel from Egyptian
bondage. Moses was a mediator for the children of Israel. He often
stood between them and the wrath of God. When the wrath of God
was greatly kindled against Israel for their unbelief, their murmurings,
and their grievous sins, Moses love for them was tested. God promised
him that if he would let Israel go, let them be destroyed, he would
make of him a mighty nation. Moses showed his love for Israel by his
earnest pleading. In his distress he prayed God to turn from his fierce
anger, and forgive Israel, or blot his name out of his book.
When Israel murmured against God and against Moses, because
they could get no water, they accused him of leading them out to kill
them and their children. God heard their murmurings, and bade Moses
30