The phrase "appearance of a man" is used in the Bible to describe instances where divine or heavenly beings manifest in a form recognizable to humans. This concept is significant in understanding how God and His messengers interact with humanity throughout biblical history.

Old Testament Instances

1. Ezekiel's Vision: In the book of Ezekiel, the prophet describes a vision where he sees a figure with the "appearance of a man." Ezekiel 1:26-28 states, "Above the expanse over their heads was the likeness of a throne, with the appearance of sapphire. And on the throne high above was a figure like that of a man. From what seemed to be His waist up, I saw a gleam like amber, with what looked like fire within it all around. And from what seemed to be His waist down, I saw what looked like fire, and brilliant light surrounded Him." This vision is often interpreted as a theophany, a visible manifestation of God to a human.

2. Daniel's Encounters: The book of Daniel contains several references to figures with the appearance of a man. In Daniel 10:5-6 , Daniel describes a heavenly being: "I lifted up my eyes and looked, and behold, there was a man dressed in linen, with a belt of fine gold from Uphaz around his waist. His body was like beryl, his face like the brilliance of lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of polished bronze, and his voice like the sound of a multitude." This description is often associated with angelic beings or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ.

3. Genesis and the Angel of the Lord: In Genesis 18, the Lord appears to Abraham by the oaks of Mamre in the form of three men. Genesis 18:2 states, "And Abraham looked up and saw three men standing nearby. When he saw them, he ran from the entrance of his tent to meet them and bowed low to the ground." This passage is significant as it suggests a physical manifestation of God and His messengers.

New Testament Instances

1. Jesus Christ: The ultimate "appearance of a man" in the New Testament is the incarnation of Jesus Christ. Philippians 2:7-8 states, "but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." This passage highlights the mystery of the incarnation, where God took on human form to fulfill His redemptive plan.

2. Angelic Appearances: In the New Testament, angels often appear in human form to deliver messages from God. For example, in Acts 1:10 , after Jesus' ascension, "they were gazing intently into the sky as He was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them." These men are understood to be angels, appearing in a form recognizable to the disciples.

Theological Significance

The "appearance of a man" in the Bible underscores the accessibility and relational nature of God. By appearing in human form, God bridges the gap between the divine and the human, allowing for direct communication and interaction. This concept is central to the Christian understanding of God's desire to be known and to engage with His creation. The ultimate expression of this is found in the person of Jesus Christ, who embodies the fullness of God in human form, providing a model for believers and a means of salvation.