The curtain is pulled back in Mark 9 to reveal that Jesus isn’t a wizard of smoke and mirrors, but the resplendent Son of God.

Our text in this study is: Mark 9:1-13

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It is the most famous reveal in cinema history: the curtain is pulled back, and the great wizard is exposed as a fraud. But when the curtain is pulled back on Jesus of Nazareth in Mark 9, the opposite happens. He isn’t a sham; He is the radiant King of glory. In this study, titled “You’ve Changed, GodMan!”, we continue our verse-by-verse study through the Gospel of Mark, arriving at the pivotal moment of the Transfiguration.

Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain—likely Mount Hermon rather than the traditional Mount Tabor—to give them a glimpse of His divine nature. This isn’t just a light show; it is a theological statement that Jesus is the greater Moses and the final Deliverer. While Moses’ face merely reflected God’s glory, Jesus is the glory. He is the GodMan who bridges the gap between heaven and earth.

However, the disciples are still confused. They are expecting a political messiah to bring immediate liberation from Rome. When Peter suggests building shelters, he wants the Kingdom without the Cross. This Bible study unpacks why the Messiah had to suffer and die before He could reign, and how the disciples struggled to reconcile their religious traditions with the reality of a suffering Savior. We also look at the appearance of Moses and Elijah, discussing how Jesus fulfills both the Law and the Prophets.

We also tackle the tricky questions about prophecy that arise in this text. The disciples ask about the scribes’ teaching regarding Elijah coming first. Jesus points to the tragic end of John the Baptist to show that while the forerunner has come, the world’s rejection of God leads to a postponement of the Kingdom. We examine the connection to Malachi 4 and the Day of the Lord, clarifying the difference between the first and second coming of Christ.

Ultimately, this passage calls us to listen. God the Father speaks from the cloud, commanding us to “Listen to Him!” Listening isn’t just hearing; it is submitting and obeying. The Transfiguration reminds us that true change—true metamorphosis—doesn’t come from within us, like in the movies. It comes from beholding the glory of Jesus. As we study the New Testament together, we invite the Holy Spirit to transform us into His image.

If you are searching for a Calvary Chapel perspective that values clear, expository teaching, this video is for you. Whether you are interested in the Jewish roots of the faith, the geography of Israel, or simply want to know Jesus better, we hope this message encourages your walk with God.