Mark 9:4
And there appeared unto them Elias with Moses: and they were talking with Jesus.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Jewish expectation held that Moses would return as the 'prophet like unto me' (Deuteronomy 18:15) and Elijah would precede the Messiah (Malachi 4:5-6). Rabbinic traditions speculated about Moses' fate—he disappeared on Mount Nebo (Deuteronomy 34), and Elijah ascended in a whirlwind (2 Kings 2:11). Their appearance confirmed Jesus as the culmination of Law and Prophets. The discussion about Jesus' 'exodus' (Luke 9:31) deliberately uses exodus terminology for His death, connecting His sacrifice to Israel's deliverance from Egypt. This demonstrated that the cross wasn't defeat but the ultimate redemptive act, surpassing even the exodus. Peter, James, and John's witness to this event strengthened apostolic testimony that Christianity fulfilled, not contradicted, Old Testament revelation.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Moses and Elijah's appearance demonstrate that all of Scripture (Law and Prophets) points to and finds fulfillment in Christ?
- What does their discussion of Jesus' coming 'exodus' (death) reveal about how the Old Testament redemptive acts prefigured Christ's ultimate deliverance?
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Analysis & Commentary
Moses and Elijah appeared, 'talking with Jesus' (συλλαλοῦντες τῷ Ἰησοῦ). Their presence is theologically rich: Moses represents the Law, Elijah the Prophets—the entire Old Testament points to Christ. Both experienced unique encounters with God (Moses on Sinai, Elijah at Horeb). Both had unusual departures from earth (Moses' burial by God, Elijah's translation). Both were expected to return in Jewish eschatology (Deuteronomy 18:15; Malachi 4:5-6). Their conversation with Jesus (Luke 9:31 specifies they discussed His coming 'exodus' in Jerusalem) shows that redemptive history flows toward Christ's death and resurrection. The Law and Prophets don't stand independently but find fulfillment in Jesus. Their subordinate position (talking with Jesus, then disappearing, leaving 'Jesus only,' v. 8) demonstrates Christ's supremacy. Reformed theology emphasizes that all Scripture testifies to Christ (Luke 24:27; John 5:39).