Jesus’ transfiguration was a unique occasion (Matthew 17:1-3).  Physically, Jesus was changed; His face and clothing were brilliantly white.  Relationally, Moses and Elijah were there too ... recognisable and talking with Jesus (Matthew 17:3).  It was a foretaste of heaven in which Jesus affirmed the previous ministry of the Law and the Prophets.  Moses had died, but Elijah was taken up to heaven alive in a whirlwind: they represented the church who would die before the Second Coming, and those who would still be alive at Christ’s return (1 Thessalonians 4:15).
 
And most significantly, Father God personally validated Jesus as His most loved Son.  An audible voice from the cloud which covered them repeated the words the Father spoke at Jesus’ baptism, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17); but now added the instruction, “Listen to Him”.  It was the moment when the divinely granted authority of Moses, and every Prophet, were declared to be under the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ.  God’s Law and Prophets had always been pointing to Jesus (Romans 3:21); but now Peter, James and John were told that they, the church they would lead, and even the Old Testament spiritual heroes, must all listen to Jesus.  And the Old Testament law and prophecies should be interpreted as speaking about Jesus (John 5:39-40).

It was a wonderful experience and Peter wanted it to last longer.  He suggested making shelters.  But there was no time for that.  The three trainee apostles were privileged to see a glimpse of heaven to encourage them in the hard and dangerous ministries which lay ahead of them (2 Peter 1:17-18).  But heaven had not yet come to earth.  It would come, with the glorified Jesus reigning with the glorified church (BC and AD), but not yet.  Peter was right to want the glory to stay, but he had the wrong timing.  He had not understood that the cross of shame must come before the crown of glory (Luke 24:26).  Until Christ’s glorious return the only thing which matters is that we listen to Jesus and learn to obey Him.
 
Many times since then the church has been tempted to desire 'heaven on earth now'.  Promises of freedom from physical ills and poverty have seduced many into following 'big name speakers' whose personal riches increase with their popularity.  Some delude themselves that they are now perfect or that no trouble can touch them.  It sounds nice but it is not true.  The only thing which matters is that we listen to Jesus, repent of not listening previously, welcome Him and learn to serve Him.  He will then give us the courage to take up our cross ... before we share His crown.