The question was raised as to why Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called the synoptic gospels. They present the life of Christ in a form of synopsis. As per Wikipedia, The gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are referred to as the synoptic Gospels because they include many of the same stories, often in a similar sequence and in similar or sometimes identical wording. They stand in contrast to John, whose content is largely distinct.
Reading through the four accounts of the Mount of Transfiguration gives us clarification as to what occurred in that moment when the Lord Jesus Christ was revealed in all his glory. Matthew 16:28-17:13, Mark 9:1-3, Luke 9:27-36, and 2 Peter 1:16-18
Moses and Elijah met with Jesus to discuss his journey to Jerusalem, and the events that will befall him culminating in his glorious resurrection. The three disciples who were privileged to join him were Peter, James, and John. They were all commanded to speak nothing of what they had seen until after his resurrection. Of course, they were confused about this resurrection Jesus was speaking, because they had not processed that their beloved leader was going to be crucified.
Moses and Elijah play a prominent role in the meeting. They represent the two aspects of Jewish religion – the Law and the Prophets. Not just anyone could meet with Jesus on that mountain. They play a prominent role in prophecy both before Jesus arrives, and after his passion.
Many say that the two witnesses of Revelation 11:3-19 are Enoch and Elijah because they have not yet tasted death, and Hebrews 9:27 states it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment. That is true, but the entire body of Christ that is living at the rapture will not taste death either. Also, Enoch lived before Noah's flood. He was a Gentile who was many generations before Abraham arrived on the scene.
The two witnesses must be such a strong influence on the nation of Israel, that they could only come from within the nation. Israel is symbolized by two trees:
The Olive tree which symbolizes Israel's spiritual life which is rooted in the Messiah Jesus Christ. He is the root and offspring of Jesse. The olive tree of Israel has always existed.
The Fig Tree which symbolizes the national life of Israel. Jesus cursed the fig tree in Matthew 21:19, and withered away, demonstrating that the national life of Israel would soon be gone. Matthew 24:32-34 states that national Israel would be rejuvenated in the last days.
Hebrews 11:4: These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.
Malachi 4:4-6 and Zechariah 4:1-4, 11-14 speak of the two olive trees and their significance as the two anointed ones who stand by the Lord. Moses and Elijah stand by the Lord on the Mount of Transfiguration. Moses and Elijah are the two anointed ones who prophesy against the Antichrist for three and a half years while performing many of the miracles that made them famous when they were living several thousand years ago, as recorded in scripture.
We will draw our discussion of Moses and Elijah and their prophetic position as the two witnesses in the tribulation to a close this coming Sunday!
