Pre-Incarnate Christ Theophany in Joshua 5:13-15

The passage in Joshua 5:13-15 describes a theophany, a direct and visible manifestation of God to human beings. The figure Joshua encounters is not merely an angelic messenger but a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus Christ, demonstrating divine authority and presence. When Joshua sees the man with a drawn sword, he asks whether this being is for Israel or their adversaries. The response, “No, but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come,” reveals a role of supreme divine leadership and authority ([11:29]).

Joshua’s immediate reaction is to fall on his face and worship. This act is significant because worship is reserved exclusively for God. The acceptance of worship by this being confirms that this is not an ordinary angel but a true theophany—an intense and tangible display of God’s presence. The term “theophany” itself means “God appearing,” referring to extraordinary visual manifestations of the divine.

This encounter is further understood as a Christophany, a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus Christ. The divine authority exhibited, coupled with the acceptance of worship, aligns with other biblical instances where Jesus Christ, in His divine nature, receives worship (cf. Revelation 19:10; 22:8-9). Only God, and specifically Jesus Christ, accepts worship without rebuke, distinguishing this figure from created angelic beings.

Joshua’s act of worship also symbolizes surrender—yielding control and acknowledging divine sovereignty. This surrender reflects a broader biblical principle of entrusting one’s life to God, recognizing His omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence. The encounter vividly illustrates the necessity of divine control and authority in the life of the believer.

This passage calls for recognition of divine appearances and a response of worship and surrender. It affirms Jesus Christ’s divine presence and authority, encouraging believers to acknowledge His sovereignty and to entrust their lives fully to Him.

This article was written by an AI tool for churches, based on a sermon from Harvest Alexandria, one of 301 churches in Alexandria, MN