I was asked that question by a dear brother. The following is my response:
“The meaning of the word ‘Christophany’ comes from two Greek words: ‘Christos’ = Christ and ‘phaino’ = appear. Thus, it means ‘appearance of Christ.’
It's used interchangeably with the word ‘theophany,’ meaning ‘appearance of God.’ Besides those terms, the most popular reference is ‘preincarnate Christ,’ referring to Christ's Old Testament appearances before His conception in Mary's womb at which time He became ‘in the flesh’ (see
1 John 4:2). I have given thought to the often-used term 'preincarnate' (before entering flesh) which seems technically inaccurate. It’s a reference to appearances of Christ in the Old Testament. However, when Christ/Messiah appeared to Abraham, Jacob, and Joshua (Genesis 18; 32:22-30; Joshua 5:13-15), it seems that He appeared in flesh long before being conceived in Mary’s womb. If so, the word 'preconceived,' rather than 'preincarnate,' seems a more accurate term." None of those terms is in the Bible, but they accurately refer to the idea of Christ's Old Testament appearances. That's how they should be understood. I hope this helps.”
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