What Is a Theophany?

In the beginning was Jesus—and He shows up throughout Scripture, not just the New Testament. Many believers are surprised to learn that Jesus appears in bodily form multiple times in the Old Testament. These appearances are known as Theophanies, or more specifically Christophanies when referring to Jesus. The Bible—from Genesis to Revelation—is the story of Jesus.

“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created… all things have been created through Him and for Him.”
(Colossians 1:15–16)

Jesus Appears in the Old Testament

The phrase “No one has ever seen God” (John 1:18) might seem confusing—until you understand that Jesus, the second Person of the Trinity, is often the visible expression of God in the Old Testament.

Here are some examples of Theophanies (bodily appearances of God, pre-incarnate Christ):

  • Abraham
    • Genesis 12:7–9 — The LORD appeared to Abraham.
    • Genesis 18:1–33 — Three visitors, one identified as the LORD.
  • Jacob
    • Genesis 32:22–30 — Jacob wrestles with “a man” and says, “I have seen God face to face.”
  • Moses
    • Exodus 3:2–4:17 — The burning bush; “I AM” sends Moses.
    • Exodus 24:9–11 — Moses and others see God and eat in His presence.
    • Deuteronomy 31:14–15 — The LORD appears in the tent in a pillar of cloud.
  • Job
    • Job 38–42 — God speaks directly to Job, answering out of the whirlwind.

These were not dreams or visions—these were real, physical encounters with God. And since “no one has ever seen God,” the One being seen is Jesus Christ before His incarnation.

“He who has seen Me has seen the Father.”
(John 14:9)

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing Yourself to us throughout all of Scripture. Help us to see You from Genesis to Revelation and to worship You as the eternal Son of God. Amen.

Two Songs to Reflect and Worship

1. There Was Jesus – Zach Williams & Dolly Parton
“In the waiting, in the searching, in the healing and the hurting… there was Jesus.”
Watch on YouTube

2. Give Me Jesus – Fernando Ortega
A simple, powerful longing: “In the morning when I rise, give me Jesus.”
Watch on YouTube

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