Matthew 17:11

“And Jesus answered and said unto them, etc.] By way of concession, Elias truly shall first come: this is indeed a tenet of the Scribes, and it is also certain, that there is a prophecy in (<390405>Malachi 4:5) of the coming of Elias; of one that goes under that name, not of Elias the Tishbite, in person, but of one that was to come in his power and spirit, and restore all things. The Syriac and Persic versions render it, “shall perfect, or complete all things”, that are prophesied of him; and shall put a period to the law and the prophets, and close the Mosaic economy, and direct persons to Christ; in whom are the perfection of the law, and the fulfilling of the prophets. The Arabic version…”

“See also Mark 9:11-13. Why then say the scribes ... - The disciples appear to have been satisfied now that he was the Messiah. The transfiguration had taken away all their doubts, but they recollected that it was a common doctrine among the Jews that Elijah would appear before the Messiah came, and they did not then recollect that he had appeared. To this difficulty the word then refers. “We are satisfied that thou art the Christ, but Elijah has not yet come, as was expected; what, then, is the meaning of the common opinions of our learned men, the scribes? Were they right or wrong in their expectation of Elijah?” See the notes at Matthew 11:14. Matthew 17:11 Elias truly shall first come,…”

“Regulate all things - In order to the coming of Christ. Matthew 17:12”

“and restore: Mal 4:6; Luk 1:16, Luk 1:17, Luk 3:3-14; Act 3:21 Matthew 17:12”