​Introduction: Jesus and the Mountain of Prayer
Some moments in Jesus' earthly ministry stand out, showing us His deep connection with the Father. Among these are the times Jesus withdrew to the mountains to pray, which gives us an example of His devotion and dependence on God. These retreats to the high places were not mere breaks from the demands of His public ministry; they were sacred meetings with the Father where divine communion and strength were sought and found.

Jesus’ choice of a mountain as His place of prayer is symbolic. Mountains, often seen as places of revelation and encounter with God in the Bible, provided a serene and secluded environment for deep, uninterrupted prayer. On these heights, Jesus, the Son of God, immersed Himself in prayer, modeling the importance of seeking solitude to connect with our Creator.
​
In the Gospels, we see Jesus ascending the mountains at pivotal moments: before choosing His disciples, after performing miracles, and as He faced the cross. Each instance reflects His firm commitment to align His will with the Father’s, drawing spiritual strength and clarity for His mission.

As we continue our Mountains of the Bible series today, we will specifically look at Jesus's prayer at the Garden of Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives. In this mountain prayer, we are invited to witness the intimacy He shared with the Father and draw inspiration for our prayer lives. In this high place of seclusion, we find a model of prayer and a testament to the power and necessity of withdrawing from the noise of life to seek God’s presence and guidance.
As I reflect on the importance of prayer, I'm grateful for the dedicated men and women in my life. While preparing for this message, I couldn’t help but think of the numerous individuals I know who are committed to prayer. I am deeply thankful for those who pray for me, my family, and this church.

One memory stands out of an elderly woman from the church where I grew up and later served as the youth pastor. She was a passionate woman of prayer. She told me she prayed for my ministry and family week after week, even before I was married and had children. Without fail, whenever I faced a spiritual or ministerial challenge, she would find me and say, “God has laid you on my heart today, and I have been praying for you.” She rarely shared specifics but always made it clear that she was praying.

Prayer should be a cornerstone of every Christian’s life, and it is powerful. As believers, we must embrace it as the divine gift, a means to communicate with God, exemplified by Jesus throughout His earthly life.

The High Priestly Prayer: A Model of Divine Intercession
Our focus today is John 17, also known as the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus. It is one of my favorite chapters in the Gospel of John. Here, we glimpse Jesus' prayer life, witnessing an intimate moment between Him and the Father. The prayer reveals how we, as His followers, are direct beneficiaries of His intercession.

The prayer at The Garden of Gethsemane, nestled at the foot of the Mount of Olives, holds great significance in Jesus’ life. Here, under the ancient olive trees and the quiet night sky, Jesus retreated to pray, seeking support and strength in the hours leading up to His arrest.

After sharing the Passover meal with His disciples, Jesus led them to this familiar place of reflection and prayer. The evening was tense in anticipation of what was to come. Gethsemane became the stage for one of the most emotional moments in Christian theology. It is here that Jesus retreats to pray to the Father for strength and guidance and to pray for his people.
Without further ado, let’s look at the prayer of Jesus.

Embracing Jesus' Priestly Prayer in Our Lives

John 17:1 – 5

The chapter begins with Jesus lifting His eyes to heaven and praying to the Father, a posture believed to be customary at the time. This contrasts with our modern practice of folded hands and bowed heads. Jesus opens with, “The hour has come,” referring to His imminent death, resurrection, and ascension. In this prayer, Jesus focuses on three ways to pray.

A. Jesus Prays for Himself

1. To Glorify God: Jesus’ prayer for God to be exalted through His death on the cross teaches us the true purpose of our lives. Just as Jesus affirmed the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan, we, too, should live to glorify God in all we do. This means recognizing that eternal life begins now—by knowing and building a relationship with God. Our actions, decisions, and daily lives should reflect this truth, continually pointing others to the glory and grace of God.
2. To Be Glorified in the Father’s Presence: Jesus’ desire to restore His pre-incarnation glory encourages us to seek a deeper understanding of His divine nature. Acknowledging His eternal existence and divine authority can foster a deep reverence and worship in our spiritual practice. This understanding also reinforces our faith, knowing that Jesus, in His glory, is continually interceding for us.
   
   

John 17:6 - 19

B. Jesus Prays for His Disciples (Verses 6-19)

1. Not for the World: Jesus’ prayer for His disciples reminds us of our unique position as believers. We are called to be set apart, having received and believed God's words. This understanding should deepen our commitment to living according to His teachings and being faithful witnesses to those around us.
2. To Keep the Disciples: Jesus’ prayer for the security of His disciples highlights the importance of steadfast faith. We are encouraged to remain firm in our beliefs, trusting that God will keep us secure. This assurance helps us face challenges and temptations with confidence, knowing we are held by His love and power.
3. For Unity: Jesus’ prayer for unity among His disciples calls us to seek harmony within our Christian communities. Just as the Father and the Son are one, we must strive for relational and spiritual unity. This unity is a powerful testimony to the world, demonstrating the love and truth of the gospel.
4. For Complete Joy: Jesus’ desire for His disciples to find complete joy in Him challenges us to seek our fulfillment in Christ rather than the transient pleasures of the world. By focusing on the joy of a relationship with Jesus, we experience a deeper, more lasting happiness that transcends circumstances.
5. Protection from the Evil One: Jesus’ prayer for protection against Satan reassures us of His ongoing intercession on our behalf. Knowing that Jesus prays for our safety and security in salvation empowers us to stand firm against spiritual attacks, confident in the victory that He has secured for us.
   
   

John 17:20 - 26

C. Jesus Prays for the Church (Verses 20-26)

1. For Future Believers: Jesus’ prayer for those who will come to faith through the testimony of His disciples is a powerful reminder of our role in evangelism. We are called to share the gospel, knowing that Jesus has already prayed for those who will believe. This encourages us to be bold in our witness, trusting in the power of prayer and God’s plan for salvation.
2. Unity Among Believers: Jesus’ prayer for unity within the church is a call for us to cultivate a spirit of harmony and cooperation. Our unity and love for one another are meant to be a testament to the world of our belonging to Jesus. By working together and supporting each other, we reflect the unity of the Father and the Son.
3. Complete Joy in Jesus: Jesus’ desire for us to live in His joy challenges us to embrace a life filled with His presence and purpose. By seeking and experiencing the complete joy of Jesus, we demonstrate the transformative power of His love and grace in our lives.
4. Protection from the Evil One: Jesus’ ongoing intercession, as noted in Hebrews 7:25, assures us of our victory over Satan’s accusations. This confidence allows us to live victorious Christian lives, knowing that we are protected and empowered by Jesus’ advocacy before the Father.
5. The Love of Jesus in Us: Jesus’ prayer for His love to be present in us calls us to embody His love in our interactions with others. By living out His love, we reinforce His petitions for unity, joy, and protection, becoming living examples of His grace and truth in the world.

The Comfort of Being Prayed For
Isn’t it wonderful to know we are prayed for? In moments of spiritual dryness, I am comforted by the knowledge that I am not alone in this spiritual desert. Jesus Himself is praying for me. This reality brings immense joy and reassurance, countering Satan’s attempts to divide, steal our joy, and sow fear and doubt. We are reminded that we are overcomers in Christ, secure in our salvation, and sustained by Jesus’ intercession.

It’s crucial for us, as believers, to live in unity, embrace a joy that cannot be taken away, and have unwavering confidence in our salvation. Knowing that Jesus prays for us, we too must be people of prayer. Jesus didn’t merely instruct His disciples to pray; He modeled it, emphasizing its importance. Here at Southside, let us become passionate pray-ers, striving for perfect unity within our body. Let’s not just talk about prayer—let’s live it.
​
In conclusion, prayer is a powerful, transformative practice. It connects us with God, strengthens our faith, and unites us as a community. May we be inspired by Jesus’ example and His High Priestly Prayer to deepen our commitment to prayer, both individually and corporately. Let us pray with fervor and faith, trusting in God’s power to work through our prayers for His glory and our good.
 
​

INTRODUCTION
Mount Zion, situated in Jerusalem, holds significant biblical and historical importance as a physical landmark and a symbol of God's presence and protection over His people. Initially a Jebusite stronghold, it evolved into the Temple Mount, signifying Jerusalem as a whole and ultimately representing the entire people of Israel. The Bible portrays Zion as a sacred sphere where God and His people interact, especially in the end-time scenario, reflecting the ultimate hope of divine dwelling.
​
King David's establishment of his kingdom on this sacred mountain and the later construction of the Temple emphasize Mt. Zion's essential role in Israel's history. Today, we will look at Psalm 46, a "Zion Song," as it celebrates this spiritual significance by proclaiming God as the refuge and strength of His city, offering security and peace in tumultuous times. This Psalm, cherished in Lutheran and Reformed traditions, inspired Martin Luther's hymn, "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God," as it highlights Mount Zion's enduring role in embodying God's faithfulness and provision for His people. 

Psalm 46 resembles Psalms 48, 76, 87, and 122 in content and structure. They are called "Zion Songs."  The songs are divided into three sections.

1. God is our security and might
2. God protects with His presence
3.  Peace comes from God

 
This Psalm was written by the choirmaster for the Temple's chief musicians (Sons of Korah).  "According to Alamoth" is most likely a musical term intended for the female or soprano voice.  We are unsure what the occasion for writing this Psalm is. Still, some believe it was written after Jerusalem was spared from imminent destruction by the Assyrians under the leadership of Sennacherib.  You can read the account in 1 Chronicles 32. A summary is about God sending an angel to destroy all the warriors, commanders, and officers of the Assyrian army, thus saving the city of Jerusalem.
 
PSALM 46
Verse 1a – "God is our refuge and strength" = YHWH is Israel's source of power and security.  Over the centuries, they had witnessed God's hand and favor for them in battle and had absolute faith in God.  They were secure because He would keep Israel safe and be their source of victory in battle.
 
Verse 1b – "A very present help in trouble" – When times were tumultuous, tense, and dangerous, God was present and made his presence known among the nation.  He was the help that could be found when He was sought after.
God is a refuge and strength for Israel and our source of security and power for all believers today.  In this world, we need a place of safety and a source of strength to live, and God is that place and source.  As believers, we must have absolute trust and faith in God to be our strength, provider, and deliverer.  Do you trust God?  Is He your source of strength?  Is He your place of solace?
 
Verse 2 – 3: "Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way..."  God was Israel's refuge and strength; his presence was with them in hard times, so they did not need to be afraid.  Their confidence was rooted in God and Him alone.  Their confidence remained in Him when they faced attacks from their enemies, their trust was unshaken when natural disasters hit them, and they were even secure in their faith when faced with what seemed to be impending death.

Christians should have faith to say, "We have nothing to fear because God is our refuge, strength, and security."  I John 4:18 says, " Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love."  Jesus Christ is our perfect love, and there is no fear in him.  His death, resurrection, and ascension have set us free from fear.
 
God Protects with His Presence
Israel's confidence and lack of fear are rooted in the reality that the Temple or Tabernacle, "the holy habitation," was present in Jerusalem. The Temple was a reminder of God's presence among the people.  Since Jerusalem was God's special city, He was expected to protect her.   As the Israelites looked to the Temple, they felt secure because they were reminded that God was among them, dwelling in their midst.  A wall around the city was built for protection, but the people of Jerusalem didn't put their complete trust and faith in the wall; instead, they put their absolute faith and trust in God. 

However, the Temple was not always the reminder of God's presence because, as the years passed, people began to put their faith in its physical structure.  They began to view the Temple structure as their source of power and favor and placed it above God.  They worshiped the created thing, the temple, and not the Creator.  The Bible tells us that God will not take the back seat to anything or anyone, including the Temple.  The irony here is that the people began to worship the Temple and not the God of the Temple.  This tower became the god, and soon, it went from being a Holy dwelling of God to a place of appalling evil and idolatry.  If you read Ezekiel 8 and 10, you will see how God viewed the Temple at this time.  The evil practices and idolatry that were going on in the Temple resulted in God's presence "leaving the building," and eventually, the Israelites were led into captivity. 
 
Verses 4 – 7: "There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High.  God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns. The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress."  These verses refer to Jerusalem, specifically the New Jerusalem of Revelation.  We know this because no river flows through Jerusalem today, but Revelation 22:1 speaks of a river that runs from the throne of God, that is, the abundant life-giving water that flows through the streets.  Plus, Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians, and the New Jerusalem will never fall, and the presence of God will never leave.

We would understand that God is still a protector of His people.  However, His favored nation is not in one specific location.  His favor lies in His people, the Church, the body of Christ.  As Western Christians, we sometimes place our future and current security in having a mighty army, a strong nation, and, at times, a decent and stable economy; thus, we can begin to have a false sense of security in these things.  We must realize that our protection and security come from God and God alone.  He is here among us.  We do not have a physical Temple made with hands where God dwells on this earth, but Jesus tells us that the physical dwelling place for God has passed; we are His temple. I Corinthians 6:19 – 20 says, " Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body."
 
God is present in us, and we are protected from any powers, principalities, and eternal death.  We can take great strength and comfort in this.
 
Unfortunately, too many churches have put all their resources and attention on the church building and program (the creation) and lost focus on the Creator.  I have talked to people who say they can't worship God at a church because the building is smelly or ugly, the service is boring, or the music is uninspiring.  This is unfortunate because the focus on worshiping God depends on the service's location or structure. 
 
My family and I went on a three-week mission trip to the Philippines many years ago.  I remember vividly worshiping at the "church" with our missionary friends.  The church had a tin roof, no walls, no air conditioning, plastic chairs, high and humid temperatures, a sound system that didn't work most of the time, and the church had no clue if there would be electricity that day.  But guess what?  We worshiped God in Spirit and in truth.  Yes, it was hot and uncomfortable.  Yes, I didn't hear or understand half of the pastor's words.  And yes, I was a bit worried when a torrential downpour hit in the middle of the service.  But this did not hinder us from worshiping God as a body of Christ.
 
Let me also note (as a side note) that since God is present in His children, let us not fall under the false precepts of the church building as the Holy place of God.  The church building serves as a reminder that God is present with us, but it is not where you go to be in God's presence.  It is where you come to be with others who have Christ in them.  Indeed, his presence is here because we are here.  This building is just a shell.  It is a shelter from the terrain.  It's a place of memories and history, but it is not the dwelling place of God. 
 
I need to make myself very clear right here and right now.  Attending this place Sunday after Sunday (or even on occasion) does not save you.  I don't care if you have come here or another church your whole life… church attendance is not your salvation.  It is not the place where God is, and you do not need to go to church to meet him.  A personal relationship with Jesus Christ is the only way to be assured of an abundant life here and in eternity.  You will get no brownie points from God for being present at church.  Then why attend?  I will leave that for another sermon, but let me tell you this: it is good when God's people assemble to worship in one place in one mind and body.
 
Verses 8 – 11: "Be still, and know that I am God." God is a God of peace.  The song invites the people to see that God is the God of peace.  He brings peace by destroying the tools of destruction… "he breaks the bow and shatters the spear…"  The Jews sought peace in all areas of their lives.  They knew, with all the death, destruction, and war around them, that peace was only able to come if God was the initiator of it. 
 
The Psalmist then writes, "Be still and know that I am God."  This is a very familiar and well-known verse that I have quoted or has been mentioned numerous times.  Many of us take this verse to mean, "Calm down, relax, and trust God," which it does in the English rendition.  However, the original Hebrew language suggests this is synonymous with "Cease!" or "STOP what you are doing"; it is like a referee whistle that ends the turmoil and pays attention.  Only when we do this can we realize that God is God and will be exalted or lifted among the nations and in all the earth.  True peace cannot happen until we stop, listen, and acknowledge God as God. 
 
We are no different than the ancient Israelites; we still want peace and to see wars end.  This cannot happen without God initiating it.  We want peace and tranquility in our lives.  None of us desire to be in constant turmoil and conflict. So often, we can get caught up in righting wrongs, seeking justice, or accusing someone of hurting us, and we try to mend things and create peace in our power.  We can learn a great deal from looking at the context of Psalm 46:10 and stop trying to do things in our strength.  This verse means, "Stop meddling, trust God, and allow Him to do his work." 
 
When faced with turmoil, anxiety, despair, worry, etc., let us take refuge in these words. "Be still and know I am God."  Do not let fear, anxiety, or worry paralyze you. Jesus tells us in the gospels that worry and anxiety do nothing to help us. He reminds us to "relax (this is really what the words "be still" literally means), stop doing what you are doing, and trust me to take care of this." 
 
CONCLUSION
As we close today, may this be a Psalm of celebration for us believers?  Let us celebrate and rejoice in the fact that God is our source of power and security; God is our protector from all evil, and He is our peace.  Let us take great comfort and security in this Psalm and know that God is worthy of all our praise.  So let us trust Him as our God to be all these things to us daily.

​Introduction
The Bible frequently mentions mountains, often serving as settings for divine encounters and major events. In Jesus' ministry, mountains played an important role. He delivered the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1), often withdrew to mountains to pray (Luke 6:12), and was transfigured on a mountain.
Today, we will explore the Mountain of Transfiguration as described in Luke 9. While the New Testament does not specify the exact location of the transfiguration, Matthew 17:1 and Mark 9:2 refer to a "high mountain." And Luke just calls it a “mountain.” Traditionally, Mount Tabor is considered the site of the transfiguration. Other suggestions include Carmel, and Mount Hermon; according to many scholars, Mount Hermon is the preferred location because it is geographically closer to Caesarea Philippi, where the preceding events occurred. However, the mountain in which the transfiguration took place is unimportant, but the fact that it was on a mountain is because mountains are places where God often meets with people and conducts his business, so to speak.

Luke 9:28 - 36

The Inner Circle and the Purpose of the Transfiguration
Jesus selected Peter, James, and John, his inner circle of disciples, to accompany him up the mountain for the transfiguration. According to Luke, the purpose was to pray (Luke 9:28). However, it seems that Jesus intended for his disciples to witness this transfiguration, thus preparing them for their future leadership roles in establishing the early church. During the transfiguration, they witnessed Jesus' divine glory, offering them a preview of his coming and, according to Philippians 2:6-7 “Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form.” it is a reminder of his pre-incarnate glory.
 
The Appearance of Moses and Elijah
The presence of Moses and Elijah during the transfiguration is deeply symbolic, representing the Law and the Prophets. Moses, who received the Law from God on Mount Sinai, represents the Law or Torah, and Elijah represents the prophets.  The presence of both prophets signifies the entirety of the Old Testament revelation. According to Luke 9:31, they were talking to him about his departure or Exodus, which refers to his departure from the earth. Both figures had significant encounters with God's glory on mountains: Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 24:15) and Elijah on Mount Horeb (1 Kings 19:8-16). According to Matthew 5:17, “Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose.” Their appearance with Jesus underscores his fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies and laws. Furthermore, their presence highlights Jesus' superiority as the Son of God, greater than the Law and the Prophets.

The Radiance of Jesus and the Disciples' Reaction
During the transfiguration, Jesus' face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white, signifying his divine glory. This radiance is a blatant contrast to the reflected glory on Moses' face, which eventually faded according to 2 Corinthians 3:7, “The old way, with laws etched in stone, led to death, though it began with such glory that the people of Israel could not bear to look at Moses’ face. For his face shone with the glory of God, even though the brightness was already fading away.” The disciples, overwhelmed by the event, fell facedown to the ground in fear. This reaction is consistent with the Old Testament accounts of people encountering the awesome reality of God's presence, whether through a cloud or hearing his voice.

The Voice from the Cloud
A bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud declared, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!" reflecting the words of the Father at Jesus’ baptism in Matthew 17:5. This divine declaration affirms Jesus' identity and mission, emphasizing his divine sonship and the necessity for the disciples to heed his teachings. The command “Listen to him!” is believed to be a direct reference to Deuteronomy 18:18, where Moses addresses the people of Israel by telling them, “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your fellow Israelites. You must listen to him.” The cloud's presence recalls the Shekinah glory of God that filled the tabernacle and guided the Israelites during their desert wanderings found in Exodus 13:21-22; 40:34-38.
 
Theological Truths About the Transfiguration
The transfiguration reveals several theological truths:

1. Divine Sonship: The transfiguration confirms Jesus as the Son of God. He is not merely a heavenly-appointed savior but is divine in his very being.
2. Fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets: Jesus' presence with Moses and Elijah signifies the fulfillment of the Old Testament laws and prophecies, indicating that all Old Testament revelations point to him.

Give Me Shelter
Peter’s suggestion to build three shelters for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah has puzzled many scholars. It might reflect his desire to honor the moment or misunderstanding its temporary nature. Building shelters, or booths, could be seen as an attempt to commemorate the event, akin to the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles. However, Jesus' flesh is the true tabernacle of God's presence, and his mission necessitates moving beyond this moment to fulfill his purpose in Jerusalem. Peter's impulse to capture the moment is human and relatable, yet it also underscores the disciples' incomplete understanding of Jesus' mission and divine nature.

The Disciples' Fear and Misunderstanding
The disciples' reaction to the transfiguration—falling facedown in fear—mirrors the common Old Testament response to divine encounters. Despite witnessing the most explicit revelation of Jesus' identity, the disciples still struggle to comprehend the experience fully. This fear and misunderstanding highlight the gap between human perception and divine reality, emphasizing the need for spiritual insight and revelation.

The Transfiguration and the Christian Life
The transfiguration has great effects on Christians today. It calls for a transformation of our worldview, challenging us to see Jesus as the central figure in our lives. When we recognize Jesus as the Son of God, we transform our perspective on every aspect of reality, including religious, scientific, economic, political, and social realms.

1. The Centrality of Jesus in Our Identity: As Christians, our identity is rooted in Christ. Galatians 2:20 states, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." Jesus redefines us as his children, making him central to our identity and self-view.
   
   
2. The Centrality of Jesus in Our Actions: If Jesus is the Lord of our lives, he becomes central to everything we do. He provides a new perspective and puts everything else in its proper place. This means surrendering control to God and allowing him to guide our actions and decisions.

Transformation of Worldview
The transfiguration also calls for a radical shift in our worldview. Seeing Jesus for who he truly is—the Son of God incarnate—promises a completely new way of looking at reality. This transformation impacts how we view and interact with the world in every domain.

1. Religious Perspective: Recognizing Jesus' divine nature transforms our approach to faith and worship. It deepens our devotion and commitment to following him.
2. Scientific Perspective: Understanding Jesus as the Creator (John 1:3) influences our approach to science, encouraging us to see the natural world as a reflection of divine order and wisdom.
3. Economic Perspective: Jesus' teachings on generosity, stewardship, and justice challenge us to rethink our economic practices and priorities, emphasizing compassion and fairness.
4. Political Perspective: Jesus' kingship transcends earthly politics, calling us to advocate for justice, peace, and the common good in alignment with his kingdom values.
5. Social Perspective: Jesus' example of love, humility, and service inspires us to engage with society in ways that reflect his compassion and inclusivity.
   
   

The Call to Discipleship
The transfiguration also underscores the call to discipleship. Jesus invites us to follow him and be transformed by him. This involves recognizing him as both Savior and Lord of our lives.

1. Savior: Jesus' sacrificial death and resurrection provide salvation, offering us forgiveness and reconciliation with God.
2. Lord: Embracing Jesus as Lord means surrendering our lives to his authority and guidance. It requires a willingness to let go of control and allow God to lead us in every aspect of life.

​Practical Implications for Christians

1. Personal Transformation: The transfiguration challenges us to undergo personal transformation. Romans 12:2 urges us not to conform to the pattern of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. This transformation involves aligning our thoughts, attitudes, and actions with Jesus' teachings and example.
2. Mission and Evangelism: The revelation of Jesus' divine nature compels us to share the good news with others. The transfiguration motivates us to engage in mission and evangelism, proclaiming Jesus' identity and mission to the world.

Conclusion
The transfiguration of Jesus is an event that reveals his divine nature and mission. It confirms his identity as the Son of God and the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. For Christians, it calls for a transformation of our worldview and a recognition of Jesus as the central figure in our lives. As we embrace this truth, we are challenged to live in a way that reflects his lordship, surrendering control to God and allowing Jesus to be both Savior and Lord of our lives. This transformation is essential for a deep, meaningful, and growing relationship with our Lord and Savior. Through the transfiguration, we are reminded that our view of reality will never be the same once we allow Jesus to transform our worldview, impacting every aspect of our lives and leading us to a closer, more committed walk with him.

Mountains have a spiritual significance in the Bible; they serve as settings for divine encounters, revelations, and critical moments in the ongoing story of God's relationship with humanity. The scriptures depict mountains as sacred spaces where the heavenly and the earthly meet, symbolizing physical and spiritual ascents toward God. From the majestic peaks of Mount Sinai, where Moses received the Ten Commandments, to the serene heights of the Mount of Olives, where Jesus often retreated for prayer, mountains are imbued with awe and reverence. These elevated landscapes represent God's omnipotence and perfection and serve as places of refuge, transformation, and covenant.
​
Mount Carmel, a prominent mountain range in modern-day Israel, holds significant historical and spiritual importance. Mount Carmel is most renowned for its association with the prophet Elijah. In 1 Kings 18, it is the site of the famous confrontation between Elijah and the prophets of Baal, where God's power is vividly displayed through the miraculous fire from heaven. This event signifies God's supremacy and marks Mount Carmel as a symbol of spiritual victory and divine intervention.

King Ahab's reign over Israel is detailed in I Kings 16:29-34, and details how the kingdom fell deeply into idolatry and moral decay under his reign. Ahab's marriage to Jezebel, a worshiper of Baal, marked a significant turning point in Israel's history, leading to the widespread promotion of Baal worship and a departure from the worship of Yahweh. Today, we will delve into the reign of Ahab, the wicked influence of Jezebel, and the courageous stand of the prophet Elijah against the backdrop of a nation in spiritual turmoil.

Ahab: Israel's Worst King
Ahab, the son of Omri, ascended to the throne of Israel and reigned for twenty-two years. The biblical record marks his reign as the most sinful king before him. 1 Kings 16:33 states, "He did more to provoke the anger of the Lord, the God of Israel, than any of the other kings of Israel before him." Ahab's offenses were many, but his marriage to Jezebel and the eventual introduction of Baal worship was particularly disgraceful.

Jezebel, a Phoenician princess, was passionately devoted to Baal and an enthusiastic promoter of this foreign god within Israel. She brought a group of Baal's prophets and ordered the construction of temples dedicated to Baal, thus establishing Baal worship in the kingdom of Israel. Her zeal for Baal worship was matched only by her hatred for the God of Israel and His prophets. Jezebel's influence over Ahab and her active role in turning the hearts of the Israelites away from Yahweh cannot be overstated.

Elijah: A Prophet of Passion and Courage
Amid this spiritual decline, God raised Elijah, a prophet from Gilead, to challenge Ahab and Jezebel's sinful actions. Elijah's initial confrontation with Ahab is recorded in I Kings 17, where he declares a severe drought that would last until he commanded rain to fall. This prophecy set the stage for an intense showdown between the prophets of Baal and the power of the God of Israel.

Elijah's role as a prophet was not to predict the future but to call the people back to their covenant relationship with God. After three years of drought, Elijah and Ahab met again, and Ahab called Elijah the "troublemaker of Israel." Elijah boldly responded that it was Ahab and his family who had brought trouble upon Israel by forsaking God's commandments and worshiping Baal.

The Contest on Mount Carmel
Elijah proposed a dramatic contest to reveal the true God to the people of Israel. He challenged Ahab to gather all Israel, along with the 450 prophets of Baal and the 400 prophets of Asherah, at Mount Carmel. Elijah's challenge was straightforward: "How much longer will you waver, hobbling between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him! But if Baal is God, then follow him!" (I Kings 18:21). This challenge set the stage for a confrontation that would demonstrate the weakness of Baal and the omnipotence of Yahweh.

The terms of the contest were simple. Two bulls would be prepared for sacrifice, one for Baal's prophets and one for Elijah. The prophets of Baal would call upon their god, and Elijah would call upon the God of Israel. The one who answered by sending fire to consume the sacrifice would be acknowledged as the true God.

The prophets of Baal went first, calling out to their god from morning until noon without any response. They intensified their efforts, shouting louder and even cutting themselves, but to no avail. Elijah mocked them, suggesting that perhaps Baal was asleep or otherwise indisposed. Despite their fervent cries and self-mutilation, no fire came down from Baal.

When it was Elijah's turn, he rebuilt the torn-down altar of the LORD and prepared his sacrifice. To further demonstrate God's power, he had the people drench the sacrifice and the wood with water until the trench around the altar was filled. Elijah then prayed a simple yet powerful prayer, asking God to reveal Himself to the people and confirm that Elijah was His servant acting at His command.

Divine Intervention and Victory
Elijah's prayer was answered. Fire from the LORD fell from heaven, consuming the sacrifice, the wood, the stones, and even the water in the trench. The people, witnessing this undeniable display of divine power, fell on their faces and proclaimed, "The LORD—he is God! Yes, the LORD—he is God!" (I Kings 18:39). This powerful demonstration not only vindicated Elijah but also exposed the pointlessness of Baal worship.

Following this victory, Elijah ordered the people to seize the prophets of Baal and executed them at the Kishon Valley. This act of judgment was the first step in purging the land of idolatry. Afterward, Elijah prayed for rain and the drought that had plagued Israel for three years ended.

Elijah's Flight and God's Provision
Despite his triumph on Mount Carmel, Elijah soon fled for his life. Jezebel, enraged by the slaughter of her prophets, vowed to kill Elijah. Fearful and discouraged, Elijah fled to Beersheba and then into the wilderness. There, in his deep despair, he prayed for God to take his life. This period of depression and isolation is often referred to as a "valley experience," contrasting sharply with the spiritual high of his victory over the prophets of Baal.

In his darkest hour, God did not abandon Elijah. An angel visited him twice, providing food and water and urging him to continue his journey. Strengthened by this divine provision, Elijah traveled forty days and nights to Mount Horeb, where he sought refuge in a cave. There, the word of the LORD came to him, asking, "What are you doing here, Elijah?" In his honest response, Elijah expressed his loneliness and failure, believing he was the only faithful prophet in Israel.

God's response to Elijah was both compassionate and corrective. He revealed that there were still seven thousand in Israel who had not bowed to Baal. Furthermore, God gave Elijah new instructions: to anoint Hazael as king over Aram, Jehu as king over Israel, and Elisha as his successor. This revelation reassured Elijah that God's work was far from finished and that he was not alone.

Elijah's Legacy and the Continuation of God's Work
Elijah's obedience to God's command set in motion a series of events that would eventually exterminate Baal worship in Israel. The anointing of Hazael, Jehu, and Elisha ensured the continuity of God's plan and the eventual fulfillment of His judgment against Ahab and Jezebel's house.

His story concludes with a dramatic and supernatural departure from this world. As he and Elisha traveled together, Elijah was taken up into heaven by a whirlwind, accompanied by a chariot and horses of fire. This miraculous event signified God's approval of Elijah's ministry and was a powerful testament to his faithful service.

Conclusion
The story of Ahab, Jezebel, and Elijah represents turning away from God, divine judgment, and the relentless pursuit of God's covenant people. Ahab's reign represents the depths of Israel's spiritual decline, while Elijah's ministry embodies the steadfast commitment to God's truth and the power of divine intervention. Through Elijah, God demonstrated His supremacy over false gods and called His people back to Himself.

Elijah's life and actions teach us that passion for God involves more than enthusiastic declarations or dramatic confrontations. It is a deep, steadfast commitment to follow God's call, to stand for His truth, and to seek His glory above all else. Elijah's journey from the heights of Mount Carmel to the depths of despair in the wilderness reminds us that even the most faithful servants of God can experience moments of weakness. Yet, God's provision, encouragement, and continued purpose for their lives remain steadfast.

Reflecting on Elijah's story reminds us of the importance of faithfulness, courage, and reliance on God's power. Elijah's legacy encourages us to stand firm in our convictions, trust God's provision, and be ever-watchful in our devotion to Him. Through Elijah's example, we see that God's truth will ultimately prevail despite overwhelming odds, and His purposes will be accomplished.