Throughout the New Testament, Jesus often referred to himself as the “Son of Man.” This title appears frequently in the Gospels, particularly in the synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. While Jesus used various titles to describe himself, such as the Son of God, Messiah, and Savior, the significance of his choice to identify as the Son of Man is profound and multifaceted. In this article, we will explore the origins, implications, and theological significance of Jesus’ use of the title “Son of Man.”
The Origins of the Title
The phrase “Son of Man” has its roots in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Daniel. In Daniel 7:13-14, the prophet Daniel has a vision of a divine figure coming on the clouds of heaven:
“In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.”
This passage describes a figure who is granted authority and dominion by God Himself. This figure, referred to as the “Son of Man,” is portrayed as a divine being with a universal and eternal kingdom. The use of this title in Daniel was likely understood by Jesus’ contemporaries as a Messianic reference, associated with the hope for a future deliverer and ruler sent by God.
Jesus’ Identification as the Son of Man
Jesus’ choice to refer to himself as the Son of Man is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrates his humility and identification with humanity. Unlike other titles such as “Son of God” which emphasize his divine nature, “Son of Man” highlights Jesus’ humanity and his solidarity with ordinary people. By using this title, Jesus emphasizes his role as the ultimate representative of humanity before God.
Secondly, Jesus’ use of the title “Son of Man” points to his Messianic identity. By invoking the imagery from Daniel, Jesus is making a bold claim about his authority and mission. He is declaring himself to be the fulfillment of the Messianic hope expressed in the Old Testament. Through his words and actions, Jesus embodies the qualities of the divine figure described in Daniel – a ruler with authority over all nations and a kingdom that will never be destroyed.
Theological Significance
The title “Son of Man” carries deep theological significance within Christian doctrine. It emphasizes the dual nature of Jesus as both fully human and fully divine. As the Son of Man, Jesus shares in the human experience, experiencing joy, sorrow, temptation, and ultimately death. Yet, at the same time, he is also the divine Son of God, possessing authority and power beyond human comprehension.
Furthermore, Jesus’ identification as the Son of Man underscores his role as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity. In the person of Jesus Christ, God becomes accessible to humanity, bridging the gap caused by sin and offering reconciliation and redemption to all who believe in him. Through his sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus provides the way for humanity to be restored to a right relationship with God.
Moreover, Jesus’ use of the title “Son of Man” highlights his eschatological role as the judge of all humanity. In several passages, Jesus speaks of the Son of Man coming in glory to judge the living and the dead (Matthew 25:31-46, Mark 13:26-27). This imagery echoes the portrayal of the Son of Man in Daniel as the divine ruler who will establish God’s kingdom and judge the nations. Thus, Jesus’ identification as the Son of Man points to the culmination of history and the fulfillment of God’s purposes for creation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the title “Son of Man” holds profound significance in understanding the identity and mission of Jesus Christ. By using this title, Jesus emphasizes his humanity, his Messianic role, and his divine authority. Through his words and actions, Jesus fulfills the hope expressed in the Old Testament for a deliverer and ruler sent by God. As the Son of Man, Jesus embodies the perfect union of divinity and humanity, offering salvation and reconciliation to all who believe in him. His identification as the Son of Man points to his central role in God’s plan for redemption and the establishment of his kingdom.