ectypal.net

...he appeared unto Abraham in the shape of a man, Gen. 18:1, 2; because he came to give the promise of the blessing Seed, and to give a representation of the future incarnation. In the like shape he appeared unto Jacob, Gen. 32:24; which was also a representation of the Son of God as incarnate, blessing the church. Unto Moses he appeared as a fire in a bush which was not consumed, Exod. 3:2-6; because he would let him know that the fire of affliction in the church should not consume it, because of his presence in it. “He dwelt in the bush.” Unto Joshua he appeared as an armed man, with his sword drawn in his hand, Josh. 5:13; to assure him of victory over all his enemies.