We can draw a connection between the events that took place on the mountain and this question. Indeed, Peter, James and John saw Moses and Elijah (passage PER193 : The transfiguration) on this mountain, identified as Mount Hermon.
The vision of the prophet Elijah reminds them of the passage of Scripture (Malachi 4.5-6) that speaks of his coming before that of the Messiah. It is therefore likely that it was Peter, James or John who asked this question, with a strong probability for Peter according to our analyses.
The Master’s answer is understood by the disciples as referring to John the Baptist.
As is his habit, Matthew makes the link between Elijah and John the Baptist, thereby confirming the fulfillment of the prophecy of Malachi 4.5-6. Mark corroborates Matthew’s statements.
This brief conversation takes place as they are coming down from the mountain. They have not yet rejoined the bustle of the crowd.
The identification of John the Baptist as the prophet foretold in Malachi 4.5-6 takes place gradually in the Gospels. Several passages shed light on this revelation:
- Luke 1.17, announces that John the Baptist will come “in the spirit and power of Elijah” to prepare the people for the coming of the Lord.
- Matthew 11.13-14, where Jesus himself declares that John is the Elijah who was to come, if one accepts this interpretation.
- Matthew 17.10-13, after the transfiguration, where Jesus explains to his disciples that Elijah has already come in the person of John the Baptist, but was not recognized.
- Mark 9.13, here repeats what Matthew 17.10-13. says.
These passages show that the recognition of John the Baptist as the prophet foretold came about through the words of Jesus and the events of his ministry.