Throughout Scripture, God has revealed Himself in extraordinary ways-through angelic messengers and dramatic divine appearances. This groundbreaking volume provides a comprehensive biblical theology of divine self-disclosure.
From Eden's garden, where God walked in the cool of the day, to the risen Christ appearing to his disciples, the Bible presents a God who actively enters human experience. Divine Manifestations offers a carefully researched examination of how angels and theophanies function across the biblical narrative, demonstrating both remarkable continuity and profound development in these encounters.
Drawing on the latest scholarship while remaining accessible to both clergy and laypeople, this volume:
-Traces the development of angelology from the Hebrew Bible through the New
Testament
-Examines key theophanic moments-from patriarchal encounters to prophetic visions
to Christ's incarnation
-Analyzes distinctive patterns in divine self-revelation across different biblical periods
and genres
-Explores the theological significance of divine manifestations for understanding God's
character and relationship with humanity
-Bridges ancient Near Eastern context with contemporary theological implications
Through meticulous attention to textual details and broader theological frameworks, this study reveals how divine appearances establish covenant relationships, commission prophetic voices, guide Israel's journey, and ultimately find their fulfillment in Christ's incarnation-the supreme theophany where "the Word became flesh."
Essential reading for biblical scholars, theologians, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how God makes Himself known, Divine Manifestations illuminates the remarkable ways the biblical God refuses to remain distant but instead enters into genuine encounters with those created in His image.