Matthew 17:6 - When the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces, and were very afraid.
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What does "Matthew 17:6" mean?
Matthew 17:6 describes the reaction of the disciples (Peter, James, and John specifically) after witnessing the Transfiguration of Jesus. Let's break down the meaning:
"When the disciples heard it..." This refers to hearing the voice of God speaking from a bright cloud, affirming Jesus: "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him." This divine declaration, coupled with the already astonishing sight of Jesus glowing and conversing with Moses and Elijah, was overwhelming.
"...they fell on their faces..." This is a posture of deep reverence, humility, and submission. Falling on one's face was a common way to show respect and awe in the presence of something or someone perceived as holy or divine. It signifies a recognition of their own unworthiness and the overwhelming power and glory before them.
"...and were very afraid." The disciples were not just respectfully bowing; they were terrified. Their fear likely stemmed from several factors:
The supernatural: They were witnessing a blatant break in the natural order. The transfiguration itself, the appearance of Moses and Elijah, and the audible voice of God were all experiences far beyond their understanding or comprehension.
The holiness of God: Encountering the divine, especially in such a direct and powerful way, can be frightening. The sheer holiness and power of God can make humans feel insignificant and vulnerable.
Recognition of their own sinfulness: In the presence of such holiness, the disciples may have become acutely aware of their own flaws and shortcomings. The fear could be a result of feeling unworthy to witness such a sacred event.
The unknown: They didn't fully understand what they were seeing or what it meant. This uncertainty contributed to their fear.
In summary, Matthew 17:6 illustrates the disciples' reaction to a profound and terrifying encounter with the divine. They were overwhelmed by the glory and holiness of God, humbled by their own unworthiness, and frightened by the supernatural nature of the Transfiguration. Their reaction is a testament to the powerful impact of witnessing something truly extraordinary and sacred.
Matthew 17:6 - When the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces, and were very afraid.
What does "Matthew 17:6" mean?
Matthew 17:6 describes the reaction of the disciples (Peter, James, and John specifically) after witnessing the Transfiguration of Jesus. Let's break down the meaning:
"When the disciples heard it..." This refers to hearing the voice of God speaking from a bright cloud, affirming Jesus: "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him." This divine declaration, coupled with the already astonishing sight of Jesus glowing and conversing with Moses and Elijah, was overwhelming.
"...they fell on their faces..." This is a posture of deep reverence, humility, and submission. Falling on one's face was a common way to show respect and awe in the presence of something or someone perceived as holy or divine. It signifies a recognition of their own unworthiness and the overwhelming power and glory before them.
"...and were very afraid." The disciples were not just respectfully bowing; they were terrified. Their fear likely stemmed from several factors:
The supernatural: They were witnessing a blatant break in the natural order. The transfiguration itself, the appearance of Moses and Elijah, and the audible voice of God were all experiences far beyond their understanding or comprehension.
The holiness of God: Encountering the divine, especially in such a direct and powerful way, can be frightening. The sheer holiness and power of God can make humans feel insignificant and vulnerable.
Recognition of their own sinfulness: In the presence of such holiness, the disciples may have become acutely aware of their own flaws and shortcomings. The fear could be a result of feeling unworthy to witness such a sacred event.
The unknown: They didn't fully understand what they were seeing or what it meant. This uncertainty contributed to their fear.
In summary, Matthew 17:6 illustrates the disciples' reaction to a profound and terrifying encounter with the divine. They were overwhelmed by the glory and holiness of God, humbled by their own unworthiness, and frightened by the supernatural nature of the Transfiguration. Their reaction is a testament to the powerful impact of witnessing something truly extraordinary and sacred.