Charles Ellicott Commentary Matthew 17:6

"And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid." — Matthew 17:6 (ASV)

When the disciples heard it — At this point, Saint Matthew’s narrative is the fullest. The three disciples shrink in fear, like that of the Israelites at the brightness of Moses’ face (Exodus 34:30), or like that of the priests in the Temple who could not stand to minister because of the cloud (1 Kings 8:11), and lie prostrate on the ground in speechless terror. They have seen the glory of the Lord; can they hear His voice and live?