207 Bonus Episode: Theophanies and Christophanies

Have you ever wondered how God made his presence known in the Old Testament?

In this bonus episode, Pastor Jeff Cranston delves into the concepts of theophanies and Christophanies, exploring their significance in biblical theology. He explains that a theophany is an appearance of God to human beings, primarily in the Old Testament, while a Christophany is a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. Pastor Jeff shares various biblical examples of these divine appearances, highlighting their roles in revealing God's character and foreshadowing the incarnation of Jesus Christ.

[00:00 - 02:29] Introduction to Theophanies

• Pastor Jeff Cranston introduces the episode topic and defines theophany.
• He explained that as an appearance of God to humans, theophanies play a crucial role in theology.
• The importance of understanding theophanies in a biblical context is highlighted.

[02:30 - 05:21] Christology and Pre-Existence of Christ

• Pastor Jeff delves into Christ's role in creation pre-existence.
• References to Apostle John’s and Paul’s affirmations about Christ's pre-existence are made.
• Christophanies, appearances of the pre-incarnate Christ, are introduced.

[05:22 - 09:28] Examples of Theophanies in the Old Testament

• Pastor Jeff explains various types of theophanies, such as thunderstorms, fire, and clouds.
• He provides biblical examples: Genesis 12 (Abraham), Genesis 18 (Abraham's visitors), 

Genesis 32 (Jacob wrestles with God), and Exodus 3-4 (burning bush).

[09:29 - 12:29] Christophanies in the Old Testament

• The term "angel of the Lord" and its possible connections to Christophanies are discussed.
• Pastor Jeff provides examples from Genesis 16, Judges 5, and 2 Kings 19.
• Clarification on the distinction between angelic appearances and Christophanies is offered.

[12:30 - 14:37] Significance and Foreshadowing of Theophanies

• Jeff explains how theophanies foreshadow the incarnation of Christ.
• What are the unique roles of theophanies in biblical history and their impact on believers?
• Pastor Jeff reflects on the future appearance of Christ and the ultimate theophany to conclude.

Direct Quote:

"Christ's existence didn’t begin when he showed up in Bethlehem; he was present at the beginning of creation." - Pastor Jeff Cranston

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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!