Matthew 17:5

A bright cloud. Reminiscent, perhaps, of the pillar of cloud in the wilderness (see on Ex. 13:21, 22), which was illuminated by the glory of God (see Num. 9:15, 16; see on Ex. 40:34). Compare the experience of Moses in the mount with God (see on Ex. 24:15-18), when he “went into the midst of the cloud” that shrouded the glory of God. This scene may have flashed into the minds of the disciples, as perhaps also the experience of Elijah upon Mt. Carmel (see on 1 Kings 18:38; Luke 2:48; John 1:14).

Overshadowed. Gr. episkiazo, “to cast a shadow over” (cf. Luke 1:35; Ps. 91:1). Matthew and Mark do not make clear whether the cloud “overshadowed” Christ and the two heavenly visitors, or the disciples, or both; however, it seems apparent from Luke that primary reference is to the disciples (Luke 9:34).

A voice. The same voice heard at the time of Christ’s baptism (see ch. 3:17) and later, at the very close of His ministry (see John 12:28). Upon these three occasions the Father personally attested the divine Sonship of Jesus.

My beloved Son. Concerning Christ as the Son of God see on Luke 1:35; John 1:1-3; see Additional Note on John 1.

Well pleased. Because in His life on earth Jesus had carried out to perfection His assigned task (see John 17:4) and presented men with a perfect example of obedience to the Father’s will (see John 15:10). If we place our trust in our Saviour, it will be our privilege also to “do those things that are pleasing in his sight” (1 John 3:22).

Hear ye him. Probably with particular reference to the instruction He was now giving concerning His imminent sufferings and death (see on ch. 16:21).