Matthew 17:1 and Luke 9:28

Pacific Press Publishing Association · Mountain View, California · Sep 13, 1910

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 37, No. 36.

Matthew 17:1 and Luke 9:28

3242.— Matt. 17:1; Luke 9:28

Please explain the comparison of Matt. 17:1 with Luke 9:28. R. W. T.

There is no real difference between the two. The exact time is not stated in either of them. The one says, "And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John." The other, "And it came to pass about eight days after." The Bible is not always exact as regards time, because the time is not important. So we read regarding the trial, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus. Many times this is spoken of as "in three days," "within three days," "after three days," "the third day." All these expressions are used, between which there might be some difference if we were to hold technically to the exact wording.

The Lord gives us just such instances as this to show that we should not do that. After Jesus had told them that there were some standing there who should not taste of death until they saw the kingdom of God come, Matthew then says that after six days—not just six days—but "after six days" the transfiguration scene came, and Luke tells us "about eight days after." We may clearly see that there is no contradiction, but simply a little legitimate latitude in speech.