Bible Mysteries: Why Is Jesus Called Son of Man?

What Does the Term “Son of Man” Mean in the Bible?

The term “Son of Man” is a profound and multifaceted title used extensively in the Bible, appearing in both the Old and New Testaments. It carries rich theological significance and is integral to understanding the identity and mission of Jesus Christ.

In the Old Testament, “Son of Man” often appears in the book of Ezekiel, where God addresses the prophet Ezekiel as “son of man” more than 90 times (e.g., Ezekiel 2:1). In this context, it emphasizes Ezekiel’s humanity and his role as a representative of the people. It signifies human frailty and the distinction between the prophet and the divine.

A pivotal Old Testament reference is found in Daniel 7:13-14. Here, the term takes on a more exalted meaning: “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 depicts the “Son of Man” as a heavenly figure endowed with divine authority and an everlasting kingdom, pointing to a messianic role.

In the New Testament, Jesus frequently refers to Himself as the “Son of Man,” using the title over 80 times across the Gospels. This self-designation highlights several key aspects of His identity and mission. Firstly, it underscores His true humanity, emphasizing that He shares in the human condition. Secondly, it alludes to His role as the representative of humankind, embodying the ideal human life.

Moreover, Jesus’ use of “Son of Man” connects to His suffering and sacrificial death. In Mark 10:45, He says, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” This highlights His role as a suffering servant, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies of a Messiah who would suffer on behalf of others.

Finally, the “Son of Man” title also signifies Jesus’ divine authority and eschatological role. In Matthew 24:30, Jesus speaks of the end times, saying, “Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven. And then all the peoples of the earth will mourn when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory.” This echoes the imagery from Daniel, affirming Jesus as the divine judge and ruler in the final judgment.

Why Did Jesus Refer to Himself as the “Son of Man”?

Jesus’ choice to refer to Himself as the “Son of Man” is deliberate and layered with meaning. It serves several theological and practical purposes in His ministry.

Firstly, the title “Son of Man” emphasizes Jesus’ identification with humanity. By using this term, Jesus underscores His incarnation—God becoming fully human. This is central to the Christian understanding of the Incarnation, where Jesus, while fully divine, experienced all aspects of human life, including suffering and death. Hebrews 4:15 reflects this, stating, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.”

Secondly, “Son of Man” serves as a humble self-designation. Unlike titles such as “Messiah” or “Son of God,” which directly imply divinity and kingship and could have political implications that might lead to misunderstanding among His contemporaries, “Son of Man” is less politically charged. It allowed Jesus to reveal His identity progressively and avoid premature confrontation with authorities.

Thirdly, by using “Son of Man,” Jesus alludes to the messianic prophecy in Daniel 7:13-14, connecting His mission to this powerful vision of a divine figure who has authority over all nations. This would resonate with those familiar with Jewish Scriptures and help them understand His divine authority and eschatological role.

Additionally, the “Son of Man” title emphasizes Jesus’ role in suffering and redemption. In passages like Mark 8:31, Jesus predicts His suffering and death using this title, saying, “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and after three days rise again.” This reflects the suffering servant motif found in Isaiah and connects Jesus’ identity to the one who would bear the sins of many.

Finally, the title “Son of Man” highlights Jesus’ future return and role in final judgment. Jesus uses this term to describe His second coming and the ultimate establishment of God’s kingdom. In Matthew 25:31-32, He says, “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before him.”

What Is the Connection Between the “Son of Man” and the Prophecy in Daniel 7:13-14?

The connection between the “Son of Man” and the prophecy in Daniel 7:13-14 is pivotal in understanding the full significance of this title. In Daniel’s vision, the “Son of Man” is a heavenly figure who approaches the Ancient of Days (God) and is given eternal dominion, glory, and a kingdom.

This passage is critical for several reasons:

Messianic Expectation: Daniel 7:13-14 shaped Jewish messianic expectations, portraying the Messiah as a divine figure with an everlasting kingdom. This vision would have been familiar to Jesus’ contemporaries and provided a framework for understanding the Messiah’s divine authority and universal reign.

Divine Authority and Kingship: In this prophecy, the “Son of Man” is granted authority, glory, and sovereign power. All peoples and nations worship Him, indicating His divine status. By referring to Himself as the “Son of Man,” Jesus identifies with this prophecy, asserting His divine authority and His role as the eternal King.

Eschatological Role: The “Son of Man” in Daniel is central to eschatological (end times) events. Jesus’ use of the title connects Him to these eschatological expectations, highlighting His role in the final judgment and the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom. This is evident in passages like Matthew 24:30 and Matthew 25:31, where Jesus speaks of His return in glory.

Connection to Suffering and Redemption: While Daniel’s “Son of Man” vision emphasizes glory and dominion, Jesus expands this understanding by incorporating the theme of suffering. He ties the “Son of Man” title to His impending suffering and death, which are necessary for the redemption of humanity. This fusion of glory and suffering reshapes the messianic expectations of His followers.

How Did Early Church Fathers Interpret the Title “Son of Man”?

The early Church Fathers provided rich theological insights into the title “Son of Man,” emphasizing its importance in Christology and soteriology (the study of salvation).

Irenaeus: Irenaeus highlighted the “Son of Man” title to emphasize Jesus’ true humanity and divinity. In “Against Heresies,” he argued that Jesus, as the “Son of Man,” recapitulates (sums up) all humanity in Himself, restoring what was lost in Adam. This underscores the idea of Jesus as the second Adam, who reverses the fall’s effects.

Origen: Origen saw the “Son of Man” as a bridge between humanity and divinity. He believed that this title affirmed Jesus’ role in embodying human nature while simultaneously possessing divine authority. Origen also linked the “Son of Man” to Jesus’ role in judgment, drawing on the eschatological aspects of Daniel’s vision.

Athanasius: Athanasius, in his defense against Arianism, used the “Son of Man” to affirm Jesus’ full humanity, essential for the doctrine of the Incarnation. He argued that Jesus had to be truly human to redeem humanity. The “Son of Man” title, therefore, was crucial for understanding how Jesus could represent humanity in His life, death, and resurrection.

Augustine: Augustine interpreted the “Son of Man” as emphasizing both Jesus’ humility and His exalted role in redemption and judgment. He saw the title as highlighting Jesus’ ability to sympathize with human weakness while also possessing the authority to judge the world, as seen in his writings on the Psalms and the Gospels.

How Do Different Christian Denominations Understand the Title “Son of Man”?

Different Christian denominations, while united in their reverence for Jesus as the “Son of Man,” bring varied perspectives and emphases to this title based on their theological traditions.

Roman Catholicism: The Catholic Church views the “Son of Man” as central to understanding Jesus’ dual nature as fully God and fully man. Catholic theology emphasizes the sacrificial aspect of Jesus’ mission, highlighting how the “Son of Man” came to serve and give His life as a ransom for many. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) integrates this title into its teachings on the Incarnation, the Paschal Mystery, and the Last Judgment.

Eastern Orthodoxy: Eastern Orthodox theology also affirms Jesus as the “Son of Man,” emphasizing His role in theosis (divinization). The Orthodox Church sees Jesus as the “Son of Man” who bridges the gap between God and humanity, enabling humans to partake in the divine nature. This title is integral to the liturgical and sacramental life of the Orthodox tradition, underscoring Jesus’ humanity and divinity.

Protestantism: Protestant denominations

, including Lutheran, Reformed, and Evangelical traditions, highlight the “Son of Man” in the context of Jesus’ redemptive work and His role as the perfect mediator between God and humanity. This title is often discussed in relation to justification, sanctification, and eschatology, with a strong focus on scriptural exegesis and the prophetic fulfillment in Daniel.

Pentecostalism and Charismatic Movements: Pentecostal and Charismatic traditions emphasize the “Son of Man” in relation to the power and authority of Jesus, particularly in His ministry of healing, deliverance, and prophecy. These movements often focus on the miraculous aspects of Jesus’ life, viewing the “Son of Man” as embodying divine power accessible to believers through the Holy Spirit.

Summary:

• The term “Son of Man” emphasizes Jesus’ humanity and divinity, drawing from Old and New Testament references.
• Jesus used the title to connect to humanity, highlight His role in suffering and redemption, and emphasize His divine authority.
• The prophecy in Daniel 7:13-14 connects the “Son of Man” to messianic expectations and eschatological significance.
• Early Church Fathers like Irenaeus, Origen, Athanasius, and Augustine provided theological insights into this title.
• Different Christian denominations understand the “Son of Man” in ways that align with their theological traditions, emphasizing various aspects of Jesus’ mission and identity.

What Role Does the “Son of Man” Play in Eschatological (End Times) Theology?

The title “Son of Man” plays a significant role in eschatological (end times) theology, reflecting Jesus’ divine authority and His role in the final judgment and establishment of God’s eternal kingdom. This title, particularly in the context of Daniel 7:13-14 and the New Testament, underscores Jesus’ messianic and apocalyptic functions.

Eschatological Judge: In the Gospels, Jesus frequently uses the title “Son of Man” when speaking about His future role in judgment. Matthew 25:31-32 says, “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.” This passage highlights Jesus’ authority to judge the living and the dead, a central theme in eschatological expectations.

Return in Glory: The “Son of Man” is also associated with the Second Coming of Christ. In Matthew 24:30, Jesus describes His return: “Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven. And then all the peoples of the earth will mourn when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory.” This imagery echoes Daniel’s vision and emphasizes Jesus’ divine glory and the fulfillment of messianic prophecies at the end of the age.

Establishment of God’s Kingdom: The eschatological role of the “Son of Man” includes the establishment of God’s everlasting kingdom. Revelation 14:14 presents a vision of the “Son of Man” with a crown and a sickle, symbolizing the harvest of the earth, an image of divine judgment and the culmination of God’s redemptive plan.

Summary:

• The “Son of Man” is the eschatological judge, separating the righteous from the wicked (Matthew 25:31-32).
• The “Son of Man” will return in glory, fulfilling end times prophecies (Matthew 24:30).
• The “Son of Man” establishes God’s eternal kingdom, as depicted in Revelation.

What Did Jesus’ Contemporaries Understand by the Term “Son of Man”?

The understanding of the term “Son of Man” among Jesus’ contemporaries varied, influenced by Jewish apocalyptic literature, messianic expectations, and common linguistic usage.

Jewish Apocalyptic Literature: Many of Jesus’ contemporaries were familiar with the apocalyptic visions of Daniel, where the “Son of Man” is depicted as a heavenly figure given authority and dominion by God (Daniel 7:13-14). This association with divine authority and eschatological hope shaped their expectations of a messianic deliverer who would establish God’s kingdom.

Messianic Expectations: While some expected the “Son of Man” to be a powerful and victorious messianic figure who would liberate Israel from oppression, others had a more nuanced view influenced by various interpretations of the Hebrew Scriptures. The diversity of messianic expectations meant that the term could evoke different responses, ranging from anticipation of a political savior to a spiritual redeemer.

Common Linguistic Usage: In everyday language, “son of man” could simply mean “human being.” It emphasized the humanity and mortality of a person. When Jesus used this title, it might have been perceived as emphasizing His solidarity with humanity and His role as a representative human.

Jesus’ Unique Usage: Jesus’ application of “Son of Man” was distinctive. By combining themes of humanity, suffering, and divine authority, He both fulfilled and redefined contemporary expectations. His use of the title often perplexed His audience, leading them to deeper reflection on His identity and mission.

Summary:

• Familiarity with Daniel’s vision influenced the understanding of the “Son of Man” as a heavenly, authoritative figure.
• Messianic expectations varied, with some anticipating a political liberator and others a spiritual redeemer.
• Common usage of “son of man” highlighted human mortality and solidarity with humanity.
• Jesus uniquely combined humanity, suffering, and divine authority in His use of the title.

What Are Some Common Misconceptions About the Title “Son of Man”?

Misconception: It Only Emphasizes Jesus’ Humanity: One common misconception is that the title “Son of Man” solely emphasizes Jesus’ humanity, distinguishing Him from divine titles like “Son of God.” While it does highlight His humanity, it also encompasses His divine authority and eschatological role, as seen in Daniel 7:13-14 and Jesus’ own teachings.

Misconception: It Is Inferior to Other Titles: Some believe “Son of Man” is an inferior or less significant title compared to “Messiah” or “Son of God.” However, Jesus’ use of “Son of Man” is deliberate and rich in meaning, encompassing both His human experience and His divine mission. It is a comprehensive title that integrates His role as prophet, priest, and king.

Misconception: It Was Not a Messianic Title: Another misconception is that “Son of Man” was not a recognized messianic title in Jewish tradition. While it was not as commonly associated with messianic expectations as “Messiah,” the apocalyptic literature, particularly Daniel, provided a framework where the “Son of Man” had clear messianic and divine connotations.

Summary:

• “Son of Man” emphasizes both Jesus’ humanity and divine authority.
• The title is not inferior but encompasses Jesus’ comprehensive mission.
• “Son of Man” has messianic connotations rooted in Jewish apocalyptic literature.

What Is the Catholic Church’s Stance on the Title “Son of Man”?

The Catholic Church regards the title “Son of Man” as crucial for understanding the identity and mission of Jesus Christ. The Church’s teachings integrate this title into its Christology, emphasizing both the humanity and divinity of Jesus.

Humanity and Divinity: The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) explains that the title “Son of Man” highlights Jesus’ true humanity, essential for His role as the mediator between God and humanity (CCC 480). It underscores that Jesus, while fully divine, fully participated in human life and experience.

Suffering Servant: The Church also connects the “Son of Man” to the suffering servant motif in Isaiah. This title reflects Jesus’ mission to suffer and die for the salvation of humanity, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and demonstrating the depth of God’s love (CCC 601).

Eschatological Role: In Catholic eschatology, the “Son of Man” is seen as the judge of the living and the dead. The Church teaches that Jesus will return in glory to judge all people and establish His eternal kingdom, as highlighted in the Nicene Creed and various Church doctrines (CCC 668-677).

Summary:

• The Catholic Church sees the “Son of Man” as emphasizing Jesus’ humanity and divinity (CCC 480).
• It connects the title to Jesus’ role as the suffering servant and redeemer (CCC 601).
• The Church teaches that the “Son of Man” will return as the eschatological judge (CCC 668-677).

What Is the Psychological Interpretation of the Title “Son of Man”?

Psychologically, the title “Son of Man” can be interpreted in several ways, reflecting its impact on human identity, empathy, and spiritual understanding.

Identification with Humanity: The title “Son of Man” emphasizes Jesus’ solidarity with humanity, fostering a sense of identification and connection. Believers can relate to Jesus as one who fully understands human experiences, emotions, and struggles. This identification can provide comfort and assurance, knowing that Jesus shares in human suffering and joy.

Empathy and Compassion: By highlighting Jesus’ humanity, the title encourages believers to cultivate empathy and compassion. Understanding Jesus as the “Son of Man” who experienced human life deeply can inspire Christians to empathize with others, following His example of love and service.

Model for Humanity: The “Son of Man” serves as a model for ideal human behavior and spiritual growth. Jesus’ life as the “Son of Man” exemplifies virtues such as humility, obedience, and sacrificial love. Psychologically, this can motivate believers to aspire to these virtues in their own lives.

Integration of Human and Divine: The title also supports the integration of human and divine aspects of spirituality. Recognizing Jesus as both fully human and fully divine encourages a holistic approach to faith, where human experiences are valued and seen as integral to spiritual growth.

Summary:

• The title “Son of Man” fosters identification with Jesus’ humanity, providing comfort and assurance.
• It encourages empathy and compassion, inspiring believers to follow Jesus’ example.
• Jesus as the “Son of Man” serves as a model for ideal human behavior and spiritual growth.
• The title supports the integration of human and divine aspects of spirituality.

‘Son of Man’ vs. ‘Son of God’: What’s the Difference?

‘Son of Man’ and ‘Son of God’ are two titles that Jesus often uses to refer to himself in the New Testament. While they may seem similar, they have different connotations and emphasize different aspects of Jesus’ identity.

‘Son of Man’ emphasizes Jesus’ human nature. The title identifies him with humanity and underscores his role as the Suffering Servant. ‘Son of Man’ also echoes the usage in the Book of Daniel, which refers to a heavenly figure who God gives authority and dominion. The title: “Son of Man” was a reference to a prophecy found in Daniel 7:13-14: I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him.

‘Son of God,’ on the other hand, emphasizes Jesus’ divinity. It’s a title that identifies him as the divine Son of God, equal with God in nature and authority. ‘Son of God also underscores Jesus’ role as the world’s Savior, who has come to redeem humanity from sin and death.

the term ‘Son of Man’ is a rich and sophisticated title that Jesus uses to refer to himself in the New Testament. It underscores his humanity, divinity, authority, and role as the Suffering Servant. It is a term that invites us to ponder the mystery of Jesus, the one who is both fully human and fully divine.

Facts & Stats

• Occurrences in the Bible: The term “Son of Man” appears 107 times in the Old Testament and over 80 times in the New Testament.
• Usage by Jesus: Jesus uses the title “Son of Man” more than any other self-designation, emphasizing its importance in understanding His identity and mission.
• Old Testament References: The term “Son of Man” is used frequently in Ezekiel (over 90 times) and notably in Daniel 7:13-14.
• Eschatological Significance: The “Son of Man” is central to New Testament eschatology, particularly in the Gospels and Revelation, highlighting Jesus’ role in final judgment and the establishment of God’s kingdom.
• Historical Influence: The interpretation of “Son of Man” has significantly influenced Christian theology, Christology, and eschatology throughout church history, from early Church Fathers to contemporary theological debates.
• Art and Iconography: The “Son of Man” is a common theme in Christian art, often depicted in scenes of judgment and the Second Coming, reflecting its eschatological significance.

References

Matthew 26:64

Matthew 12:8

John 5:27

Mark 8:31

Mark 2:10

Mark 10:45

John 1:14

Luke 9:58

Daniel 7:13–14

Luke 7:34

Mark 2:24

Matthew 22:30

Matthew 8:20

Mark 13:26

John 12:34

Mark 8:38

Luke 17:24

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