Dan 7:9-10, 13-14; Ps 96; 2 Peter 1:16-19; Mt 17:1-9
The Book of Daniel, was written about 170 BC during the bitter persecution of the Jews by Antiochus Epiphanes. Apocalyptic literature was intended to strengthen the people in their suffering, using coded but readily understood visions. Prophetic teaching insists on right conduct, with the certainty that God’s kingdom will prevail. Daniel’s vision of the heavenly throne of God, approached by “One like a son of man”, was used in the Book of Revelation. Jews applied this title to the Messiah, the One through whom salvation is realised.
The Second Letter of Peter, was attributed to Peter but probably written some time after his death, possibly in the next century. Containing much positive teaching, it seeks to strengthen hearers in their faith, while warning them against false teachers, especially “those scoffers” who claim there will be no second coming. The day of judgement “will come like a thief”. We must be prepared while “we await the new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells”, foreshadowed by Jesus’ transfiguration.
Matthew’s description of the transfiguration includes several themes in the Old Testament and in Jewish apocalyptic literature to indicate the divine presence: bright light, cloud, white garments. With the Father’s confirmation of his Son, these all indicate that Jesus will come in glory at the end of time.
Psalm Response: The Lord is king, most high above all the earth.
Dan 7:9-10, 13-14; Ps 96; 2 Peter 1:16-19; Mt 17:1-9
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