EPIPHANY
Definition
Epiphany is a Christian feast day that celebrates the manifestation of Jesus Christ to the world, particularly to the Gentiles, as represented by the visit of the Magi (wise men) from the East.
The word epiphaneia means “appearance,” “manifestation,” or “revelation.”
It highlights Christ’s divine nature revealed beyond Israel, showing that Jesus came as Saviour for all nations.
1. Biblical Foundation
A. Visit of the Magi
Matthew 2:1–2, 9–11 “Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem… Magi from the east came to Jerusalem, asking, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.’”
• The Magi recognize Jesus’ kingship and divinity.
• They offer gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, symbolizing kingship, priesthood, and sacrifice.
B. Manifestation to the World
Epiphany underscores that God’s salvation is not limited to Israel, but extends to all peoples and nations.
Isaiah 60:3 “Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.”
2. Theological Significance
A. Christ Revealed as King
• Gold symbolizes His kingship.
• The homage of Gentiles demonstrates that Christ’s reign is universal.
B. Christ Revealed as Priest and Sacrifice
• Frankincense points to Jesus as the eternal priest.
• Myrrh foreshadows His suffering and death.
C. Epiphany as God’s Light to the Nations
• Jesus is the Light of the World.
• Epiphany celebrates God revealing Himself to all humanity.
D. Fulfilment of Prophecy
• The visit of the Magi fulfils Old Testament prophecies:
Psalm 72:10–11
Isaiah 49:6
3. Liturgical and Historical Observance
• Date: January 6
• Western Churches: End of Christmas season
• Eastern Churches: Often emphasizes Christ’s baptism or first miracle
• Traditions:
Blessing of homes
Processions
Hymns celebrating Christ’s revelation
4. Practical Implications for Believers
Recognize Christ as Universal Savior
Offer Gifts and Service
Seek God’s Guidance
Celebrate Light in Darkness
5. Short Definition
EPIPHANY: The Christian feast celebrating the manifestation of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, exemplified by the visit of the Magi, highlighting Christ’s kingship, priesthood, and sacrificial role, and emphasizing God’s revelation to all nations.
Definition: Epiphany commemorates the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles, represented by the visit of the Magi.
Biblical Imagery & Metaphors:
• Star leading the way
• Gifts offered in worship
• Light shining for all nations
In Daily Faith: Recognize Christ’s universal kingship and reveal Him through your life.
IN DAILY LIFE
Epiphany calls believers not only to celebrate Christ’s revelation but to embody it daily.
1. Recognize Christ as the Universal Savior
Epiphany reminds us that Christ is not only “King of the Jews” (Matthew 2:2) but Saviour for all peoples.
Scripture for Daily Living
• Galatians 3:28
• Acts 10:34–35
Practical Application
• Practice inclusiveness.
• Reject partiality.
• Pray for the nations.
Daily Prayer
“Lord, help me see others as You see them—with dignity, value, and the potential to know You.”
Why It Matters
Seeing Christ as Savior of all reshapes how we treat every person.
It breaks prejudice, widens compassion, and aligns our hearts with God’s global mission.
Encouragement
God delights to use ordinary believers to reveal His love to every tribe, tongue, and nation.
2. Offer Gifts and Service to Christ
Like the Magi, believers are called to offer their lives in worship.
Scripture for Daily Living
• Romans 12:1
• Colossians 3:23
Practical Application
• Offer your time, resources, and talents.
• Serve others as an act of worship.
Challenge for the Week
Choose one specific area where you will “offer a gift” to Christ.
Why It Matters
Your gifts reflect your devotion.
Offering yourself to Christ transforms ordinary actions into holy worship.
Encouragement
God receives even the smallest offering when it is given with love.
3. Seek God’s Guidance Continually
Just as the Magi followed the star, Christians follow God’s leading.
Scripture for Daily Living
• Proverbs 3:5–6
• Psalm 119:105
Practical Application
• Read Scripture daily.
• Ask God for wisdom.
• Follow the Spirit’s nudges.
Daily Discipline
“Lord, lead me where You want me to go today.”
Why It Matters
God’s guidance protects you from confusion and directs you into His purpose.
Following His lead brings clarity, peace, and confidence.
Encouragement
God never stops guiding those who seek Him with an open heart.
4. Be a Light in Darkness
Epiphany celebrates Christ as Light for all nations.
Scripture for Daily Living
• Matthew 5:14–16
• Philippians 2:15
Practical Application
• Speak life-giving words.
• Live with integrity.
• Show compassion.
Practical Challenge
Do one intentional act of kindness each day this week.
Why It Matters
Your light may be the only glimpse of Jesus someone sees today.
Light brings hope, clarity, and warmth to those in darkness.
Encouragement
Even a small light shines brightly in a dark place — your life matters more than you know.
5. Worship Jesus with Joy and Reverence
The Magi rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.
Scripture for Daily Living
• Psalm 95:6
• John 4:24
Practical Application
• Cultivate worship daily.
• Honor Christ in your celebrations.
• Participate in corporate worship.
Daily Practice
List three things each morning that you thank God for.
Why It Matters
Worship reorients your heart toward God’s greatness. It fills your life with joy, reverence, and spiritual strength.
Encouragement
God meets you with joy when you draw near to Him in worship.
6. Reflect Christ to Others Through Your Life
Epiphany is about Christ being revealed — now through His people.
Scripture for Daily Living
• 2 Corinthians 4:6 • Colossians 1:27
Practical Application
• Live transparently. • Speak graciously. • Pursue holiness. • Share your testimony.
Daily Prayer
“Jesus, reveal Yourself through me today.”
Why It Matters
Your life is a living epiphany — a revelation of Christ to the world. People encounter Jesus through your character, compassion, and witness.
Encouragement
Christ shines through you more than you realize — keep reflecting His glory.
In Daily Faith (Summary)
Epiphany calls Christians to:
• Follow God’s guidance like the Magi • Offer their gifts in joyful worship • Shine Christ’s light in a dark world • Live inclusively and lovingly • Reveal Jesus through their daily lives
Let your life become a living epiphany — a continual revelation of Christ to the world around you.
Scripture References
Matthew 2:1–12 Isaiah 60:1–6