New Testament
Matthew 17:5
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While Peter was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to him."
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While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.
What Matthew 17:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a significant moment during the Transfiguration of Jesus. Peter, one of Jesus' closest disciples, is speaking when a bright cloud envelops them. This cloud symbolizes God's presence. From the cloud, God speaks, affirming Jesus as His beloved Son and instructing the disciples to listen to Him. This declaration emphasizes Jesus' divine authority and the importance of His teachings. The phrase 'in whom I am well pleased' highlights Jesus' obedience and His role as the Messiah. The command to 'listen to him' serves as a reminder for the disciples—and for us today—to pay attention to Jesus' words and teachings, as they are central to our faith and understanding of God’s will. This moment reinforces the connection between the Old Testament prophecies and the New Testament fulfillment in Christ, showcasing His unique relationship with God the Father.
How to apply Matthew 17:5 to your life
This verse encourages us to prioritize listening to Jesus in our daily lives. By studying His teachings and applying them, we can grow in our faith and understanding of God's will. It reminds us that Jesus is central to our relationship with God.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1–9)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 17:5 mean?
Matthew 17:5 describes a moment during the Transfiguration of Jesus, where God affirms Jesus as His beloved Son and instructs the disciples to listen to Him. This emphasizes Jesus' divine authority and the importance of His teachings.
What is the significance of the bright cloud in Matthew 17:5?
The bright cloud in Matthew 17:5 symbolizes God's presence and glory. It serves as a divine confirmation of Jesus' identity and mission, highlighting the importance of the moment.
What does 'This is my beloved Son' mean in Matthew 17:5?
The phrase 'This is my beloved Son' in Matthew 17:5 signifies God's approval and love for Jesus. It underscores Jesus' unique relationship with God the Father and His role as the Messiah.
Why does God tell the disciples to listen to Jesus in Matthew 17:5?
God instructs the disciples to listen to Jesus in Matthew 17:5 to emphasize the importance of His teachings. This command highlights that Jesus' words are central to understanding God's will.
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