The concept of a "first visit" in the Bible often signifies a moment of divine encounter, revelation, or the beginning of a significant relationship or mission. These initial visits can be seen throughout both the Old and New Testaments, marking pivotal moments in biblical history.

Old Testament Examples

1. Abraham's Call (Genesis 12:1-3): The first visit of God to Abram (later Abraham) is a foundational moment in the biblical narrative. God calls Abram to leave his country and promises to make him a great nation. This visit marks the beginning of the Abrahamic Covenant, a central theme in the Bible. "The LORD said to Abram, 'Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.'" (Genesis 12:1-2).

2. Moses and the Burning Bush (Exodus 3:1-6): Moses' first encounter with God at the burning bush is a critical moment in the Exodus narrative. God reveals Himself to Moses and commissions him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. This visit is marked by the revelation of God's name, "I AM WHO I AM" (Exodus 3:14), and sets the stage for the liberation of the Israelites.

3. Samuel's Call (1 Samuel 3:1-10): The first visit of God to Samuel occurs when he is a young boy serving in the temple under Eli. God calls Samuel by name, and after some initial confusion, Samuel responds, "Speak, for Your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:10). This visit marks the beginning of Samuel's prophetic ministry in Israel.

New Testament Examples

1. The Annunciation to Mary (Luke 1:26-38): The angel Gabriel's first visit to Mary is a momentous event in the New Testament. Gabriel announces that Mary will conceive and bear a son, Jesus, who will be called the Son of the Most High. This visit signifies the incarnation of Christ and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. "The angel went to her and said, 'Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.'" (Luke 1:28).

2. Jesus Calls His First Disciples (John 1:35-51): Jesus' first visit to His future disciples marks the beginning of His public ministry. In this passage, Jesus calls Andrew, Peter, Philip, and Nathanael, inviting them to follow Him. This initial encounter sets the stage for the formation of the group that will carry forward His teachings. "The next day Jesus decided to set out for Galilee. Finding Philip, He told him, 'Follow Me.'" (John 1:43).

3. Paul's Conversion (Acts 9:1-19): Saul's (later Paul) first encounter with the risen Christ on the road to Damascus is a transformative moment in the New Testament. This visit results in Saul's conversion from a persecutor of Christians to a devoted apostle of Christ. "As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?'" (Acts 9:3-4).

Significance

The "first visit" in biblical narratives often serves as a catalyst for change, marking the beginning of a new phase in God's redemptive plan. These encounters are characterized by divine revelation, the establishment of covenants, and the commissioning of individuals for God's purposes. They underscore the theme of God's initiative in reaching out to humanity, calling individuals into a relationship with Him, and setting them on a path of obedience and service.