What does Matthew 17:7 mean?
Peter, James, and John have fallen on their faces in reverence. They have been overshadowed by the presence of God the Father in a cloud, hearing His voice command them to listen to His Son, Jesus (Matthew 17:1–6). They apparently remained in that position as the scene dissolved. The presence of God in the cloud departed. Moses and Elijah disappeared from view. Jesus, "transfigured" into a radiant image, has returned to His familiar earthly state.Jesus now approaches the three of them and touches them. He tells them to rise and not to be afraid—a common reassurance given to those who see God's messengers (Matthew 28:5; Luke 2:10). Jesus treats them with gentleness and kindness following their terrifying glimpse of the glory and power of heaven. He surely understands how deeply terrified they have been. He comforts them by showing that He remains with them as they have known Him.