Elijah has come already
Recognition of Elijah
In Matthew 17:9-13, the narrative notably shifts focus as Jesus instructs His disciples specifically not to speak of the Transfiguration event until after His resurrection, subtly hinting at the deeper, more profound truths of His mission and true identity. Here, Jesus alludes to the coming of Elijah, skillfully linking it to the prophetic understanding of restoration and preparation for the Messiah. The scribes and Pharisees had unfortunately missed this significant sign, failing to recognize that Elijah had already come in the form of John the Baptist, who had been sent to prepare the way for the Lord and His ministry. Their inability to see the fulfillment of prophecy right in their midst reflects a broader spiritual blindness to the truth of Christ’s work and purpose. This passage serves as a poignant reminder that spiritual insight is not merely beneficial but essential for recognizing the movement of God in their lives and circumstances, highlighting the critical importance of awareness and openness to the divine unfolding around us.
(ai summarized)
“As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus instructed them, “Don’t tell anyone what you have seen, until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”
The disciples asked him, “Why then do the teachers of the law say that Elijah must come first?”
Jesus replied, “To be sure, Elijah comes and will restore all things. But I tell you, Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but have done to him everything they wished. In the same way the Son of Man is going to suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples understood that he was talking to them about John the Baptist.”