Summary: Descending the mountain, the disciples queried Jesus about Elijah's prophesied return. Jesus confirmed Elijah's role in restoring all things but revealed that Elijah, in the form of John the Baptist, had come unnoticed and suffered mistreatment. This clarified that the Son of Man would similarly endure suffering.
Gospel Acclamation: Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths: All flesh shall see the salvation of God. (Luke 3:4, 6)
As they were coming down from the mountain, the disciples asked Jesus, “Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?”
He said in reply, “Elijah will indeed come and restore all things; but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him but did to him whatever they pleased. So also will the Son of Man suffer at their hands.”
Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them of John the Baptist.