Maybe it was getting married or having children. Soaking in the memory of what God revealed to us on the mountain will remind us of our purpose in the valley. God's benevolence stretches this description to the breaking point. For after the disciples fall in fear, the Divine Voice speaks again on the mountain. when we meet with Jesus, and he reveals himself to us. Then later, on the top of Mt. Mountaintop Definition & Meaning | Dictionary.com Jesus Christ, furthering His kingdom, and bringing glory to God through it all. As the transfiguration reveals, the voice of Majestic Glory in the Word is a fearful thing. We cant leave them behind us. What is Your Mountain Top Experience? - Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church Yes, I was on a literal mountaintop, but I am talking about a biblical mountaintop experience. Tag-along Tours run for past customers by the MTE club enable you to travel in your own 4WD vehicle, but with the confidence of knowing you are being looked after. Mountaintop experiences are moments where people experience a dramatic expression of faith. The Father speaks from the cloud (Matt. The Word communicated the fullness of the glory of God manifested to them. Im glad Joani could share today because I really needed a fresh illustration of a mountaintop experience for this sermon! Jesus is above all men, Jesus has no Equal! After clarifying among the three who the real hillbilly is (its the one who has If not, why not today? Mountaintop. Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mountaintop. Ironically, remaining on the summit for more than just a few minutes can be dangerous for climberseven life-threatening. Did we really experience change? Scripture gives us stories of literal mountain top experiences that color our expectations for what it means to encounter the divine - Abraham and Isaac climbing together in an act of extreme devotion to God and experiencing the mercy of God at its apex. Sinai again and again to commune with God and to better understand not just the essential laws for the life of the community, but the rhythms and cycles of what their covenantal life together will be like in the Promised Land. , and respond as he calls you to trust him for eternal life. If youve ever been to a mountaintop, then you are familiar with the feeling of dizziness. The High Mountain became the Holy Mountain because he saw the glory of Jesus there! It dishonored Jesus; it put Jesus on the same level with Moses and Elijah! Living Your Mountaintop Experience Everyday - Spiritually Hungry It is time to drop the negative connotation attached to valleys and embrace their true purpose. Granted, Jesus did some of his best work on and around water, but he was a mountain man, too. I'd love to go mountain - climbing. Why not begin to consider what stuff makes up your own mountain? It was a great privilege to see Moses and Elijah, but Jesus was the son of God! That could prove dangerous and manipulative. We see Him working and moving throughout the lives of the people there, and we come home with a new vigor to live life differently, more passionately. Heaven or Hell! That somebody is my wife, Joani, and Ive asked Joani to briefly describe her mountaintop experience with us today. This past week I attended a two day conference in Atlanta for facilitators of a program called Listen to Your Life. Those moments will hide themselves away, unsure as to their place in our routines. Maybe your mountain top experience was giving your life to Christ for the first time at that altar call. The valley is not what you may think. Finally, Jesus directed the three disciples not to tell others about their experience until after His resurrection. Well have a better understanding of how that intense moment can fit into our everyday. Both can be mountain top experiences, moments when we see God in a new way. Moses and Elijah were still alive and conscience though they had left the earth hundreds of years before this. He and his disciples went up this mountain to pray. The other gospel writers say his raiment was white as snow, as no washer on earth could make them. Waiting feels like a waste of my time. . Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church625 Montgomery AvenueBryn Mawr, PA 19010(610) 525-2821. When the Word is preached, the power and majesty of God are communicated to His people. 1:16), so the Word is as a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts (2 Pet. Still, nearly a thousand people everyyear train vigorously, pay steep fees, and make the trip to south Asia for the opportunityto enjoy an ultimate mountaintop experience. Mountains have a logical religious symbolism for Jewish and Christian cultures since they are "closer to God" who dwells in the heavens (as in the sky). You learn something new about who God is. MTE's 4WD tag-along tours throughout the Victorian High Country and passenger tours around Walhalla became very popular . Moses and company obeyed, hiking to the foot of the mountain where an astonishing thing happened: they saw the God of Israel, and they lived to talk about it! The Mountaintop Experience. The Danger of the Mountain Top Experience - Youth Ministry The speaker concludes talking with an invitation to come to the altar and lay your burdens down at the feet of Jesus. Have you ever witnessed an altar call? The "deeper something" comes when one takes the divine voice as a motivation to trust in God during the hardships on the journey. God met me in Atlanta and it seemed to me that He was saying, Lets do this together.. V:30-31-And behold, two men talked with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his decease, which he should accomplish at Jerusalem. Many people want special blessings, and mountain top experiences but they do not want to be dedicated to Jesus. To grow and restore the family of Christ on the foundation of His Word and His promises. I created a Chill Pill playlist on YouTube for some relaxing vibes. It is interesting to imagine what it would be like to staff other peoples mountain top experiences. Here is our startling recognition: the Christians mountaintop experience is to come in contact with the Word of God. Jesus was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. Yet over time we go back to normal life. But now Moses is getting to see the glory of God face-to-face, in the person of Jesus Christ. Stick with that original version of your mountain-top experience--the way you have experienced God. was the founder of Israels worship of God. Like the testing of Abraham ( Genesis 22:1-19 ), the receiving of the Ten Commandments ( Exodus 19-20:21) and, of course, the transfiguration ( Matthew 17:1-13 ). Jesus visage became as bright as the sun even as the long-dead Old Testament heroes Moses (representing the law) and Elijah (representing the prophets) appeared and talked with Jesus. Some experiences are more calm and rational moments. Both these men had talked with God on mountaintops before. Learn a new word every day. You can read my full article about the importance of the mountaintop experience HERE. Jesus wants them to know that he is the King of glory, and one day he will wear the crown; but the cross would come before the crown. Jesus is greater than Moses, and Elijah! A true Spiritual mountain-top experience always revolves around JESUS! Copyright www.personality-insights.com. When we read His Word, the Majestic Glory of God speaks through His Spirit. While such fear is proper, it may and must be accompanied by hearing the other mountain-voice of the transfiguration. Properly understood, it is something we receive just like our salvation. Thats why he wanted to build dwellings or booths on top of Mt. A variety of day trips, long weekends, and extended . In. Then, for another forty days he remained in the fiery cloud of Gods presence, receiving still more revelation from God. For six days Peter and the other 11 disciples have their heads spinning by the prediciton that Jesus, the Messiah, the Son of God, would die on a cross. V:31-Which he would accomplish at Jerusalem. The words of Psalm 121 came to my mind each afternoon gazing upon the mountains, and they are what I expect will be transporting me back there over the next several months. To save this word, you'll need to log in. It doesnt mean well have an answer to every question we faced on the mountain top. V:29-the fashion of his countenance was altered, a reflection of another light, but this was light, this glory was from within! But Jesus was not reflecting the glory of God; He was shining out the glory of God from within. They are solid and unmovable. You will recall that Moses had to return to Mt. It is always dangerous to say something when you dont know what to say! On one day, we drove to the top of the mountains on Trail Ridge Road that cuts right through Rocky Mountain National Park peaking at an elevation of 12,000 feet - a literal arctic tundra in northern Colorado. Salvation is not in a program, or a plan, but in a person-. The Mountaintop Experience | A Bold Christian And what does really matter in life? as he calls you to leave bitterness behind, and to forgive and find joy. Some people need to journal each moment while still on the mountain. The training notes 'Mountain-Top 4 Wheel Driving or reflections on over 40 years of mistakes in the Victorian high country' is a 44-page booklet covering 'Getting the Right Gear', 'Tackling Tough Trails' and 'Touring Tips'. When Jesus entered this world, he came as a man, he was born in a stable, wore peasant clothing, and worked as a carpenter in a small town. In later reflection, Peter described what he heard as the Majestic Glory (2 Pet. While we face the last couple of weeks of winter there are many things you need to do. Herod asked about Jesus, who is this I hear such things about? Don't be surprised if none of them want the spotl One goose, two geese. Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way. To answer this question, it seems wisest to evaluate the mountaintop experience par excellence of Scripture, the transfiguration of Jesus Christ (see Matthew 17:1-3, Mark 9:2-13, Luke 9:28-36, 2 Peter 1:16-21). David Briscoe is a content editor at Lifeway for Explore the Bible resources. Believe: What Secret Does It Hold For You Today. I recently heard a man say that he had worked all of his life to get to the top of his own personal mountain. Then in Matthew 17, Jesus is once again climbing a mountaintradition says it's Mt. Mountains are a symbol of steadfastness. Under his feet lay challenge after challenge that he had encountered along the way in his business and personal life. Living, Planning, Dying Well: Getting Your Affairs in Order, 2023 Youth Sunday & Souper Bowl of Caring, Interfaith Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, Advent Gift Market a yearlong commitment to mission. Horeb, which is described in the bible as the mountain of God. Later, Moses will climb Mt. Maybe the thinness of the air, the lack of oxygen, or the exhaustion when we finally reach the top? 1:18), so the believer does well to pay attention to the Words of the prophets (2 Pet. This is what all our experiences, all our theology, all our work should come to; bring is to the place to see Jesus! Perhaps it was getting our drivers license at the age of sixteen. Apart from Jesus they fail miserably in dealing with the demon. Their dedication and devotion to Jesus brought special blessings into their lives. God, unlike Peter knew exactly what he was talking about. My belief is the valley is as good as the mountaintop and just as important to our spiritual growth. We learned this word in school, a caterpillar goes through metamorphosis, that caterpillar wraps a cocoon around itself and goes through the process of change. Get our latest tips and leader helps with our free monthly e-newsletter. Became pastor of the church in Jerusalem, and was martyred for Preaching Jesus. Then in Matthew 17, Jesus is once again climbing a mountaintradition says its Mt. This will make any chill session that much more enjoyable. Reflection and resources at the intersection of faith and culture through an inclusive Christian lens. But the valley experience is just as important to our Christian walk. 1. a natural elevation of land rising more or less abruptly to a summit, and attaining an altitude greater than that of a hill. The problem .read more At first they were deathly afraid of what they had seenwho wouldnt be!? First off, there are a variety of flavors, from White Chocolate, Pumpkin Spice, Mint, Caramel and the list goes on. Despite this uncertainty, the definition of a mountain is a landform that rises significantly above the surrounding landscape. Here is our startling recognition: the Christian's mountaintop experience is to come in contact with the Word of God. while Peter is still talking; God interrupts Peters speech. The mountain top experience was a sanctuary, and a challenge. Our future includes a great change- corruption-incorruption; mortal- immortal. He will not let your foot be moved;he who keeps you will not slumber. And then there was Jesus. One of the authors of the book, Sharon Swing says, Listening is the art of creating space so God can do His work in the heart of another., This time in Atlanta was a follow-up to similar work I did in Dallas two years ago. Jesus dead on the Cross as the Lamb of God means Exodus, freedom from sins bondage to all who will apply the blood of Jesus to their heart in faith! Theres only one tabernacle where God dwells, Jesus Christ! We cant disqualify a mountain top experience as just an emotional reaction. This is the walk Jesus makes of his life. Now this isnt to say drop everything you are doing in life because it doesnt matter. But, before we get into the prophetic message, lets look at the importance of the mountaintop experience.The mountaintop experience is something many Christians seek after. I found myself late every afternoon sitting and simply meditating on the mountains, remembering what it was like to be on top of them and giving thanks for their ancient and imposing beauty. And appropriately enough, a bright cloud overshadows them, and from the cloud a voice said, This is my Son, the Beloved; with whom I am well pleased; listen to him! As great as Moses and Elijah were, Jesus was and is greater still. Thousands of people would say the answer is to stand on the roof of the world, the summit of Mount Everest. V:29-his arraignment was white and glistening. You respond in Worship, praise, awe, thanksgiving, tears, and joy!! , when Moses met with God on Mount Sinai he came down with the glory of God radiating off his face. those moments in the Bible when God revealed Himself to people on a mountain. However, the truth of the matter is simply this: the mountain really is made out of a lot of stuff (both good and bad). They witnessed Jesus transfigurationa majestic visualization of the Lords divine nature as well as His approaching death and resurrection. And the thought of spending an additional 40 days in the fog listening for the voice of God doesnt excite me either. 5. living, growing, or located in the mountains. This meditation allows us to digest the revelation so we can be more effective ambassadors for Christ. Baptism is NOT something we do. Moses who represents those who die; and Elijah who represent those who are caught up and never die; will both see Jesus in his glory! TheLordwill keep you from allevil;he will keep your life. For that reason, even people who follow God to the mountaintop will likely find themselves waiting patiently and praying for Gods guidance for their next move. Six days earlier Jesus had asked his disciples the question of the hour Who do you say that I am? WhenPeter answered, You are the Messiah, Son of the living God, Jesus was ecstatic, and on the spot named Peter the future head of the church. Sermons about Mountain Top Experience - SermonCentral.com Copyright 2023 Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church. Just zoom out and think about your problems in the large scheme of things. | Meaning, pronunciation, translations and examples There we can change the world and share Gods love and faithfulness that is as stolid as the mountains.We come down from the mountaintop because very few people are there. Heres another rhythm to add to the listcoming up the mountain to be with God; then going down the mountain to serve Gods people. IN THE BOREDOM AND PAIN OF IT NO LESS THAN IN THE EXCITEMENT, AND GLADNESS: TOUCH, TASTE, SMELL YOUR WAY TO THE HOLY, BECAUSE IN THE LAST ANALYSIS, ALL MOMENTS, ARE KEY MOMENTS AND ALL OF LIFE ITSELF IS GRACE. What matters most is that you end up standing on top of it all rather than being consumed by it! This is the walk all . Pastor James McDonald describes the biblical mountaintop experience as one that involves your mind, emotions, and will. - the law and the, Prophets; the son of God and the three great apostles of the church they are talking about the Cross! Everything is tiny and nothing seems to matter when you are that far away from people. Mountain top definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary Moses is a prime example of this. Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced searchad free! Define mountaintop. By now, its a Christian clich: the mountaintop experience. Mountain Top TV No monthly fee. The Apostle who once fell at Jesus knees upon a miracle of Christ (Luke 5:1-11) now offers His skill in tent-making to the transfigured Messiah (Matt. We experience gratitude most naturally and intensely when a giver (1) unpredictably and (2) at cost to him- or herself (3) transfers to our full possession (4) a benefit that pleases us. One of the principles of listening to God speak through scripture is that you should notice what causes you to resist as well as resonate. 2023. Horeb, Elijah stood in the mouth of a cave and heard God speak not in the wind, nor in the earthquake, nor in the fire, but in the sounds of silence. It is always a good to say nothing when you dont know what to say! That is what happens to Peter, James and John on that mountain. These men NEVER forgot what they saw that night. All Rights Reserved. A bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud. On one particular hike, the sun was setting, the warm air brushed against me, and the silence engulfed me. But as Jesus might say, We cant work effectively for God in the valley until we have been transformed spiritually with God on the mountain. When you looked at Jesus he was a common, ordinary Jew-, YET Jesus Christ was much more than a common man when he walked on this earth. The Israelites were deeply moved by what Moses reported, and promised to obey all that they had heard. I suddenly gained a perspective about life I had never had up until that moment. Sleeps up to 6 (one queen bed, one double bed, and two twin beds). Sign in to comment to your favorite stories, participate in your community and interact with your friends. 17:4). That is how we need to look at our daily issues. As Christians, we long for experiences of the transcendent that we believe will forever change our perspective on life. And we forget the promises we made to our Holy God in the midst of that mountain top experience. Recently, when I was complaining to a friend about waiting for God to do something, this spiritually wise person noted that God almost never hurries. They didn't last for years. The mountaintop transfiguration of Jesus Christ was certainly a transcendent visual experience for Peter, James, and John. 17:7)." In Exodus 24 God summoned Moses and a company of others to come back to the mountain. How to Use the Mountain Top Experience in the Valley They took my breath away from ground level and, when I climbed them, they whisked away any anxious thought Id ever have. Recommended ResourcesEasy Bible Study Method, Bold LivingFaithSpiritual GrowthDevotions, I am an author, blogger, Bible teacher, and preacher. He talked about the struggles and challenges he had faced both personally and professionally. The term "mountain top experience" comes from those moments in the Bible when God revealed Himself to people on a mountain. A Mountain-Top Experience - Faithlife Sermons Amen. Philippians 4:13. The term mountain top experience comes from those moments in the Bible when God revealed Himself to people on a mountain. But heaven will be a place of glory! Moses finally made it to the promise land! Don't start to rationalize it, no matter how unbelievable it may sound to some. Some only lasted for mere minutes. Barkley spent his final four seasons with the Rockets, but the team's big threecomprised of him, as well as Olajuwon and Clyde Drexlerwas never able to get them back to the NBA, Later that day in February, Ms. Dean visited the, The Tanners handed the Red & Black their first loss of the season and reminded everyone who sits atop the Middlesex, The duo in recent days flew back to Los Angeles from the snowy city of Aspen, Colorado, where they were huddled in deep planning, and now like holy figures coming down from the, The best team in the states largest classification reached the, In the film, Korean detective Hae-joon (Park Hae-il) is probing the death of a climber who fell from a, Post the Definition of mountaintop to Facebook, Share the Definition of mountaintop on Twitter, The businesss new computer system proved not to be a. The law and prophets all meet in Jesus, they point to Jesus, and they preach Jesus. Just as the disciples heard the Word on the mountain (2 Pet. Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with (Jesus). mountaintop [ moun-tn-top ] SHOW IPA noun the top or summit of a mountain. You come down from the mountaintop ready for a changed life. I would classify Atlanta as a mountaintop experience. If the bible is any guide, theres no better place to meet the divine than on or around a mountain. To hear the voice of God in His Word is to be led to the mountaintop of glory and grace. The first time we see Jesus on a high mountain is in Matthew 4 when he is being tempted by the Devil. Would you pray and ask God to give you a mountaintop experience; when he does you will see his glory and worship him, understand his work and trust him, hear his word and obey him. TheLordis your keeper;theLordis your shade at your right hand.
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