Luke 9:31

Luke described Moses and Elijah as appearing "in glory" (NASB) or "glorious splendor" (NIV). They seemingly basked in the reflected glory of Jesus.

The disciples observed them speaking with Jesus about His upcoming departure (Gr. exodos). Luke alone mentioned the subject of their conversation. The use of exodos points to a larger significance of Jesus’ death. It was more than just His departure from the earth. It would be unusual, as Moses and Elijah’s departures had been. However, it would accomplish redemption as the Exodus from Egypt had done, but on a cosmic scale. [Note: See J. Manek, "The New Exodus in the Books of Luke," Novum Testamentum 2 (1955):8-23.] Jesus’ exodus would open up a whole new wilderness experience for the church to tread as Moses’ Exodus did for the Israelites (cf. Acts 13:24).

Luke also recorded that this exodus would happen at Jerusalem. This is the first of his several references to that city. It was the place to which Jesus now began to look as His city of destiny (cf. Luke 9:51; Luke 9:53; Luke 13:33; Luke 17:11; Luke 18:31). "Accomplish" (NASB) is "fulfillment" (NIV, Gr. pleroo) suggesting the fulfillment of Jesus’ destiny as the Suffering Servant that Scripture predicted.

"Much of Luke’s Gospel from here through chapter 19 concerns preparation of the disciples for ministry in light of his departure." [Note: Bock, Luke, p. 271.]