Mark 9:5 – “Peter said to Jesus, ‘Rabbi, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.’”
Extended Explanation
In Mark 9:5, we see Peter’s impulsive response to witnessing the incredible sight of Jesus being transfigured alongside Moses and Elijah. Overwhelmed by the glory of the moment, Peter suggests building three shelters or tents—one for Jesus, one for Moses, and one for Elijah. This idea may seem odd to modern readers, but it reflects Peter’s genuine, though misguided, desire to honor what was happening and possibly preserve the moment.
Peter’s offer to build shelters likely came from a combination of awe, confusion, and perhaps fear. He didn’t fully understand the significance of what he was witnessing, but he knew it was holy. His suggestion, however, revealed that he still saw Moses and Elijah as nearly equal to Jesus, misunderstanding that Jesus is far greater. Peter’s reaction also showed his desire to stay on the mountain, possibly delaying the suffering and death that Jesus had recently spoken about.
Historical Context
In Jewish tradition, the idea of building shelters or tents had religious significance, especially during the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot). This feast commemorated Israel’s journey through the wilderness and celebrated God’s provision and presence. It’s possible that Peter, familiar with this tradition, thought it was appropriate to honor this miraculous encounter by building temporary dwellings.
Additionally, Peter had recently struggled with Jesus’ prediction of His suffering and death (Mark 8:31-33). The glory he saw on the mountain may have reassured him that Jesus was the Messiah, but it also confused him. Building shelters could have been Peter’s way of trying to hold onto that moment of glory instead of facing the reality of Jesus’ impending death.
Theological Implications
Peter’s response highlights an important theological truth: humans often try to hold onto spiritual experiences or seek to contain God’s glory. By suggesting shelters, Peter revealed that he wanted to stay on the mountain rather than continue down the path that would lead to the cross. This reflects a common human tendency to focus on moments of spiritual high while avoiding the hard, often painful journey of faith.
But God’s glory isn’t meant to be contained. The Transfiguration wasn’t an end in itself—it was meant to prepare the disciples for what was to come. Jesus didn’t stay on the mountain. He continued His journey to the cross, where His ultimate glory would be revealed through His death and resurrection. The theological lesson here is that God’s plan often involves both glory and suffering, and we must trust Him through both.
Literary Analysis
Mark’s account of Peter’s suggestion is brief but revealing. The structure of the verse shows Peter’s impulsiveness—he speaks without fully understanding the situation. The Greek word for “shelters” (skēnai) can be translated as “tents” or “tabernacles,” linking it to the idea of temporary dwellings. The fact that Peter addresses Jesus as “Rabbi” (teacher) also reflects his incomplete understanding of who Jesus truly is. While Peter respected Jesus as a great teacher, he hadn’t yet fully grasped that Jesus was the Son of God, far above Moses and Elijah.
Mark often presents the disciples as struggling to understand Jesus’ identity, and this moment is no exception. Peter’s suggestion is well-meaning but misguided, and it highlights the ongoing process of revelation that the disciples would experience.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 33:7-11 – Moses sets up a tent of meeting where he encounters God.
- Leviticus 23:42-43 – The Feast of Tabernacles, where the Israelites lived in temporary shelters to remember God’s provision.
- Mark 8:31-33 – Peter rebukes Jesus for predicting His suffering and death, showing his confusion about Jesus’ mission.
- 2 Peter 1:16-18 – Peter later reflects on the Transfiguration, recognizing its significance in affirming Jesus’ divine glory.
- John 1:14 – “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” This echoes the idea of God’s presence dwelling among His people.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For modern believers, Mark 9:5 is a reminder that following Jesus involves more than seeking spiritual experiences or moments of glory. While those moments can be powerful and meaningful, they are meant to strengthen us for the journey ahead, not replace it. Peter’s mistake was in thinking that he could preserve the glory of the moment without continuing down the path of obedience.
Christians today can learn from this by embracing both the highs and lows of their faith journey. God reveals His glory to encourage us, but we must be willing to follow Him through challenges, sacrifices, and even suffering, trusting that His ultimate glory will be revealed.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s response to Peter’s suggestion, which comes in the next verses (Mark 9:7), shows His love and patience. Instead of rebuking Peter harshly, God gently redirects him by declaring, “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!” God’s love is evident in how He patiently guides His followers, even when they misunderstand His plan.
God’s love is also reflected in the purpose of the Transfiguration itself. By giving the disciples a glimpse of Jesus’ glory, He was strengthening them for the difficult days ahead. This demonstrates that God doesn’t leave His people to face challenges alone—He provides encouragement and reassurance along the way.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus’ role as the fulfillment of the Old Testament and the one who brings God’s plan to completion. Peter’s offer to build shelters shows that he was still thinking of Jesus as one among many great figures of faith. But the Transfiguration reveals that Jesus isn’t on the same level as Moses and Elijah—He is far greater.
Peter’s misunderstanding is later corrected by God’s voice declaring Jesus as His Son. This correction points to Jesus’ unique role in salvation. Unlike Moses and Elijah, who were servants of God, Jesus is the Son who completes God’s plan by offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin (Hebrews 10:12-14). The glory the disciples saw on the mountain foreshadowed the even greater glory that would be revealed through Jesus’ death and resurrection.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think Peter suggested building shelters for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah?
- How does this verse challenge you to think about spiritual experiences in your own life?
- Have you ever tried to “stay on the mountain” instead of facing the challenges God is calling you to?
- What does Peter’s reaction teach you about trusting God’s plan, even when it’s confusing or difficult?
- How does the Transfiguration give you hope and encouragement in your faith journey?
Mark 9:5 is a reminder that while spiritual experiences are important, they aren’t the goal of our faith. God calls us to follow Him through both the mountains and the valleys, trusting that His glory will be fully revealed in His perfect time. Let this verse encourage you to keep moving forward, knowing that God’s plan is good and His promises are sure.