Sermon Central
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Be Transfigured Series
Contributed by Rev. Dr. Andrew B Natarajan on Oct 16, 2016 (message contributor)
Summary: Jesus took three disciples who were transfigured in life they were with Jesus and therefore life was transformed in latter stages. They were died as martyrs.
Text: MARK 9:2-9
Theme: “Be Transfigured”
Background:
Mark 8 describes Jesus involved in many activities and programs. He taught, did miracles, healed. Mark 9:10ff describes Jesus tells about resurrection, miracles, importance on fasting-prayer.
1. Go to Mountain
Mark 9:2 Called, took to High Mountain
Called:Calling of God is very personal unless you are called you cannot recognize his voice. He calls his sheep by name (John 10:3-5). God called Abraham and led him (Acts 7:4). God called Moses (Exodus 3:4). God called Samuel (I Samuel 3:10). He called the disciples and chosen the twelve (Luke 6:13). Paul says God called him in my mother’s womb (Galatians 1:15).
Took them apart:Jesus took only three, took his dear ones to show the plan of God. Our devotion, love for God, desire for his gospel will draw us very closer to him. Abraham, Moses, Elijah, Elisha, David, Isaiah, Daniel, Joseph, Isaac and many children of God spent lonely with the Lord. The Hymn: “Draw me nearer….to you Lord”
High Mountain and transfigured:This mountain was called as sacred mountain (2 Peter 1:18). God reveals his plan, shows his grace, and make known the vision only when we are alone and spent time with him. God loves to share his thoughts to whom he can trust.
V.3. His cloth became shining and exceedingly white:Jesus cloth was shining and became white. God cloths us with is holiness. We should put on Jesus (Ephesians 4:24). Let your cloth be white (Ecclesiastes 9:8). White dress is clean; bright which is righteousness of saints (Revelation 19:8). His cloak was without seam (John. 19:23).
2. Learn from Saints
Mark 9:4 Moses and Elijah: Moses represents Torah and Elijah represents Prophets. What they were discussing? Cross-death-resurrection-plan of God.When you go alone with God heaven comes down. God reveals about you and others, your sufferings, expectations of God from you. Daniel experienced it- (Daniel 2:19), John experienced it -(Revelation 1:10). Paul had it- (2 Corinthians 12:1-2-3), Cornelius –( Acts 10:3-4,30 fasted; Peter- (Acts 10:9-10).
Mark 9:5-6 It is good to be here:
Spiritual experiences are always greater than the ordinary experience. Good to be in church, in prayer, meetings, spiritual gatherings.But here on the earth this experience and living in the world cannot be separated.
Mark 9: 7 Cloud
Cloud represents God’s presence which was known as Shekinah. Exodus 13:21(Pillar of cloud and fire) Exodus 24:15-16, 40:34-35; Leviticus 16:2, Mercy seat and Cloud; Numbers 11:24-25. 1 Kings 8:10-11. He comes with cloud - Revelation 1:7,14:14, Luke 21:27.
3. Become dear to God
Beloved Son:
Matthew 3:17- beloved by Baptism; Matthew 12:18 - beloved by evangelism; Ephesians 1:4-5 - beloved by holiness; Colossians 1:13 - beloved is redeemed from darkness
Hebrews 5:5 beloved will be exalted highly
2 Peter 1:17 beloved will get Honor & Glory.
Beloved always expected to do die for him. Those who love God more, they will do sacrifice more. Love of God helps you to empty yourself, deny this world, love his Kingdom.
Mark 9:9 Do not tell till the time comes
Spiritual secrets must be kept till the time.
Joseph told the revelation problem came to him (Genesis 37:5, 8, 11).
God bless you all.
