CLAIM: Jesus said, “There are some of those standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God” (Lk. 9:27). Critics argue that Jesus was incompetent, and he believed that he would return before the disciples died. Peterists argue that this predicts Jesus’ hidden coming during the destruction of the Temple. Is this the case?

RESPONSE: This passage should be read in light of its immediate context. In the very next verse, Jesus was transfigured in front of Peter, James, and John (v.28). Since Jesus is the King, he himself was ushering in the Kingdom. By being transfigured in front of the disciples, he was showing that he was bringing in the kingdom of God on Earth. For more on the disciples’ view of the return of Christ, see comments on 1 Peter 4:7 and 1 Thessalonians 4:15.