Matthew 17:8

KJV

And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} when they had lifted up {G1869} their {G846} eyes {G3788}, they saw {G1492} no man {G3762}, save {G1508} Jesus {G2424} only {G3441}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So they opened their eyes, looked up and saw only Yeshua by himself.

Berean Standard Bible

And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus.

American Standard Version

And lifting up their eyes, they saw no one, save Jesus only.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 17:8 provides the climactic resolution to the Transfiguration narrative, depicting the disciples' return to a normal state of perception after a profound divine encounter. As they recover from their fear and look up, the extraordinary vision of Jesus glorified alongside Moses and Elijah, enveloped by the divine cloud and voice, has vanished. The verse powerfully states that they saw "no man, save Jesus only," thereby solidifying Jesus' singular authority, supremacy, and abiding presence as the sole focus of their faith and the culmination of God's revelation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the apex of the Transfiguration event, which begins in [Matthew 17:1](/matthew/17-1 "Matthew 17:1 - The Transfiguration"). Jesus had taken Peter, James, and John to a high mountain where His appearance was dramatically transformed, His face shining like the sun and His clothes becoming dazzling white. Moses and Elijah then appeared, conversing with Him. The scene intensified with a bright cloud overshadowing them, from which God the Father's voice declared, "[This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him](/matthew/17-5 "Matthew 17:5 - God's Declaration at the Transfiguration")!" Overwhelmed by this divine manifestation, the disciples had fallen on their faces in terror ([Matthew 17:6](/matthew/17-6 "Matthew 17:6 - Disciples' Fear")). Matthew 17:8 marks the abrupt cessation of this supernatural vision, signifying a pivotal shift from the awe-inspiring, temporary display of glory back to the enduring, singular reality of Jesus' presence. It serves as a narrative pivot, emphasizing the lasting theological truth revealed through the transient vision.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** For Jewish disciples, Moses represented the Law, the foundational covenant given through him at Mount Sinai, while Elijah embodied the Prophets, the voice of God's ongoing revelation and a figure expected to return before the Messiah ([Malachi 4:5-6](/malachi/4-5-6 "Malachi 4:5-6 - Elijah's Return")). Their appearance with Jesus on the mountain would have deeply resonated with the disciples' understanding of salvation history. The "high mountain" setting often served as a place of divine encounter in the Old Testament (e.g., Mount Sinai for Moses). The overshadowing cloud and the divine voice were classic elements of a theophany, a manifestation of God's presence and glory, reminiscent of the pillar of cloud in the wilderness or the cloud filling the tabernacle and temple. The disciples' prostration in fear was a common and appropriate response to such overwhelming divine encounters, reflecting reverence and awe in the presence of the holy.

* **Key Themes:** The central theme underscored by [Matthew 17:8](/matthew/17-8 "Matthew 17:8 - Jesus Only") is the **Uniqueness and Supremacy of Jesus Christ**. The disappearance of Moses and Elijah after God's explicit command to "[hear ye him](/matthew/17-5 "Matthew 17:5 - God's Command to Hear Jesus")" profoundly illustrates that the Law and the Prophets find their ultimate **Fulfillment** and culmination in Jesus. He is not merely another prophet or a continuation of previous dispensations; He is the very embodiment of God's final and complete revelation. This verse also highlights the theme of **Divine Authority**, as the Father's endorsement of Jesus is immediately followed by the removal of all other figures, leaving Jesus as the singular, authoritative voice. Furthermore, it speaks to the **Transition from Vision to Reality**, emphasizing that while extraordinary spiritual experiences can be transformative, the enduring walk of faith is centered on the person of Jesus, not on fleeting supernatural phenomena. The ultimate message is a call to **Singular Focus on Christ Alone**, reminding believers that Jesus is sufficient and central to all of God's redemptive plan.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **lifted up (Greek, _epaírō'_):** This verb (G1869) means "to raise up," implying an intentional act of looking upward. In this context, it signifies the disciples' recovery from their prostrate, fear-stricken state ([Matthew 17:6](/matthew/17-6 "Matthew 17:6 - Disciples' Fear")) and their conscious effort to observe their surroundings again. It marks a transition from overwhelming awe and terror to a renewed perception.
* **saw (Greek, _eídō'_):** Derived from G1492, this verb means "to see" or "to perceive." Here, it denotes a clear, direct, and conscious observation. The disciples' vision is no longer blurred by fear or the overwhelming glory of the Transfiguration; rather, they now clearly discern their immediate reality. This seeing is contrasted with the complex vision that preceded it, highlighting the simplicity and singularity of what remained.
* **only (Greek, _mónos'_):** This adjective (G3441) means "remaining, sole or single; by implication, mere." Its placement at the end of the phrase "save Jesus only" is highly emphatic. It underscores the exclusivity and unique presence of Jesus, making a powerful theological statement: after the departure of Moses and Elijah and the cloud, Jesus alone remained, signifying His unique and unparalleled position above all others.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when they had lifted up their eyes":** This opening clause describes the disciples' physical and emotional recovery. Having been overwhelmed by the divine presence and having fallen on their faces in fear ([Matthew 17:6](/matthew/17-6 "Matthew 17:6 - Disciples' Fear")), they now gather their composure and intentionally raise their gaze from the ground. This act signifies a return to conscious observation and an emergence from the immediate, paralyzing terror of the theophany.
* **"they saw no man":** This phrase marks a dramatic shift and the abrupt conclusion of the supernatural vision. It indicates that Moses and Elijah, who had just been conversing with Jesus, were no longer visible. The bright cloud, which had overshadowed them, had also dissipated. This immediate disappearance of all other figures and phenomena emphasizes the transient nature of the vision and prepares the reader for the verse's ultimate theological punchline.
* **"save Jesus only":** This is the climactic and most significant part of the verse. It asserts the singular and enduring presence of Jesus. Despite the grandeur of the Transfiguration and the presence of revered Old Testament figures, only Jesus remains. This declaration powerfully reinforces the Father's command from the cloud, "[hear ye him](/matthew/17-5 "Matthew 17:5 - God's Command to Hear Jesus")", underscoring Jesus' unique authority, His supremacy over the Law and the Prophets, and His abiding centrality in God's redemptive plan. He is the sole, sufficient focus of faith.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound theological message. **Contrast** is central, as the bustling, multi-faceted vision of the Transfiguration—involving Jesus, Moses, Elijah, the bright cloud, and the divine voice—is suddenly reduced to the singular presence of Jesus. This stark juxtaposition emphasizes the unique and enduring significance of Christ. The phrase "no man, save Jesus only" functions as a form of **Exclusivity**, highlighting that all other figures, however important in salvation history, recede in the light of Christ's ultimate authority and sufficiency. The word "only" (Greek, _mónos_) serves as a strong **Emphasis**, underscoring Jesus' unparalleled position. Furthermore, the entire scene carries profound **Symbolism**: Moses represents the Law, and Elijah the Prophets. Their disappearance signifies that the Old Covenant, while foundational, finds its **Fulfillment** and culmination in Jesus, who alone remains as the focus of God's new covenant and the ultimate revelation of God's will.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 17:8 stands as a profound theological statement, asserting the absolute supremacy and singular centrality of Jesus Christ in God's redemptive plan. The disappearance of Moses (representing the Law) and Elijah (representing the Prophets) immediately after God's declaration to "hear ye him" signifies that the Old Covenant, while divinely ordained, has reached its fulfillment and climax in Jesus. He is not merely a prophet among others, but the definitive revelation of God, the one to whom all previous dispensations pointed. This verse underscores that salvation, authority, and ultimate truth are found exclusively in Him, shifting the focus from the preparatory stages of God's work to its glorious culmination in the person and work of Christ. It is a powerful affirmation of Jesus' unique role as the mediator of the new covenant and the sole object of saving faith.

* [Mark 9:8](/mark/9-8 "Mark 9:8 - The Transfiguration in Mark's Gospel") and [Luke 9:36](/luke/9-36 "Luke 9:36 - The Transfiguration in Luke's Gospel") provide parallel accounts of the Transfiguration, confirming the unified testimony of the Synoptic Gospels regarding this pivotal event and the singular focus on Jesus.
* [Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law") illuminates Jesus' own declaration that He "came not to destroy, but to fulfil" the Law and the Prophets, a truth vividly demonstrated by the disappearance of Moses and Elijah in Matthew 17:8.
* [John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Only Way") powerfully articulates the exclusivity of Christ, stating, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me," echoing the "Jesus only" message of the Transfiguration.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 17:8 serves as an enduring spiritual anchor for believers across generations. In a world saturated with competing voices, ideologies, and even spiritual experiences, this verse calls us to simplify and re-center our faith on the singular person of Jesus Christ. It reminds us that while there may be many figures, teachings, or phenomena that capture our attention, ultimate truth, salvation, and the very essence of God's redemptive plan are found "in Christ alone." This means prioritizing His teachings, His character, His finished work on the cross, and His ongoing Lordship above all else. It challenges us to discern what truly matters and to strip away distractions, ensuring that our spiritual gaze remains fixed on the One who fulfills all prophecy, embodies all truth, and is the sole mediator between God and humanity. Our walk of faith is not about chasing fleeting experiences or revered figures of the past, but about a continuous, abiding relationship with the living Lord, Jesus.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "Moses and Elijahs" (i.e., distractions, past glories, or secondary spiritual pursuits) might be drawing your focus away from Jesus in your life today?**
* **How does the truth that "they saw no man, save Jesus only" impact your understanding of His unique authority and sufficiency for your salvation and daily walk?**
* **In what practical ways can you "lift up your eyes" to see Jesus more clearly and keep Him as the singular focus of your faith, hope, and love?**

### FAQ
**Why did Moses and Elijah disappear, leaving only Jesus?**

Answer: The disappearance of Moses (representing the Law) and Elijah (representing the Prophets) was a profound symbolic act. It signified that the Old Covenant, with its laws and prophetic pronouncements, had served its purpose and now found its ultimate fulfillment and culmination in Jesus Christ. God the Father's declaration just moments before, "[This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him](/matthew/17-5 "Matthew 17:5 - God's Command to Hear Jesus")", underscored Jesus' supreme authority. Their departure emphasized that while the Law and Prophets were crucial for pointing to the Messiah, the era of pointing was over; the Messiah Himself had arrived, and He alone was to be the focus of attention and obedience.

**What is the significance of the word "only" in "save Jesus only"?**

Answer: The word "only" (Greek, _mónos_) is highly emphatic and crucial to the theological message of [Matthew 17:8](/matthew/17-8 "Matthew 17:8 - Jesus Only"). It stresses the singularity and exclusivity of Jesus' presence and authority. It's not merely that Moses and Elijah left, but that Jesus alone remained, signifying His unique and unparalleled position above all other figures, past or present. This emphasizes His sufficiency as the sole mediator between God and humanity ([1 Timothy 2:5](/1_timothy/2-5 "1 Timothy 2:5 - One Mediator")), the complete revelation of God ([Hebrews 1:1-3](/hebrews/1-1-3 "Hebrews 1:1-3 - God Speaks Through His Son")), and the singular object of saving faith.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 17:8, with its climactic declaration "they saw no man, save Jesus only," stands as a powerful Christ-centered fulfillment of all Old Testament revelation. The Law, represented by Moses, and the Prophets, represented by Elijah, both pointed forward to the coming Messiah. Their presence with Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration affirmed that He was indeed the one to whom they testified. However, their subsequent disappearance, leaving only Jesus, dramatically illustrates that the preparatory stages of God's redemptive plan have reached their culmination. Jesus is not merely another prophet or a continuation of previous dispensations, but the very embodiment of God's final and complete word to humanity ([Hebrews 1:1-3](/hebrews/1-1-3 "Hebrews 1:1-3 - God Speaks Through His Son")). He is the true and living Law, fulfilling its every demand and bearing its curse ([Romans 10:4](/romans/10-4 "Romans 10:4 - Christ is the End of the Law")). He is the ultimate Prophet, delivering God's perfect message, and the King who reigns eternally. This verse powerfully foreshadows the New Covenant reality where Christ is the head of the church ([Colossians 1:18](/colossians/1-18 "Colossians 1:18 - Christ is the Head of the Church")), the one mediator between God and humanity ([1 Timothy 2:5](/1_timothy/2-5 "1 Timothy 2:5 - One Mediator")), and the sole object of our faith and worship. The vision on the mountain, therefore, serves as a divine endorsement, urging us to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus")), for in Him alone is salvation and the fullness of God's revelation.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Mark 9:8

And suddenly, when they had looked round about, they saw no man any more, save Jesus only with themselves.

Luke 9:36

And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept [it] close, and told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen.

Acts 12:10

When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him.

Acts 12:11

And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and [from] all the expectation of the people of the Jews.