The Son of Man
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The term "The Son of Man" is a significant title used in the Bible, primarily in reference to Jesus Christ. It appears in both the Old and New Testaments, carrying profound theological implications and serving as a key identifier of Jesus' mission and identity.

Old Testament Background

The phrase "son of man" is found in the Old Testament, notably in the book of Ezekiel, where it is used over 90 times to address the prophet Ezekiel himself. In this context, it emphasizes the humanity and frailty of the prophet in contrast to the divine majesty of God. However, the most significant Old Testament reference that foreshadows the New Testament usage is found in Daniel 7:13-14:

"I kept watching in the night visions, and I saw One like a Son of Man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into His presence. And He was given dominion, glory, and kingship, that the people of every nation and language should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and His kingdom is one that will never be destroyed."

In this passage, the "Son of Man" is depicted as a heavenly figure who is given authority, glory, and sovereign power, suggesting a messianic role that transcends mere humanity.

New Testament Usage

In the New Testament, "The Son of Man" is the title Jesus most frequently uses for Himself, appearing over 80 times across the Gospels. This self-designation highlights several aspects of His identity and mission:

1. Humanity and Identification with Mankind: By using this title, Jesus emphasizes His full humanity and His identification with the human race. It underscores His role as the representative of humanity, fulfilling the role of the second Adam.

2. Suffering Servant: Jesus uses the title to predict His suffering, death, and resurrection. For instance, in Mark 8:31, He states, "The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and He must be killed and after three days rise again."

3. Authority and Lordship: The title also conveys Jesus' divine authority. In Matthew 9:6, Jesus declares, "But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins..." This statement affirms His divine prerogative and His role as the one who exercises God's authority on earth.

4. Eschatological Judge: Jesus speaks of the Son of Man in the context of His future return and judgment. In Matthew 24:30, He describes His second coming: "At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and all the tribes of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory."

5. Fulfillment of Prophecy: By referring to Himself as the Son of Man, Jesus aligns Himself with the prophetic vision in Daniel 7, indicating that He is the one who fulfills the messianic expectations of a divine ruler who establishes an everlasting kingdom.

Theological Significance

The title "The Son of Man" encapsulates the mystery of the Incarnation, where Jesus is both fully God and fully man. It reflects His role as the mediator between God and humanity, His mission to redeem mankind through His suffering and death, and His ultimate authority as the eschatological judge and king. This title, therefore, is central to understanding the person and work of Jesus Christ as presented in the Scriptures.
Subtopics

Prodigal Son

Prodigal Son: General Scriptures Concerning

Son

Son of a Person's Relation to God

Son of God

Son of Man

Son of Sirach Wisdom of Jesus

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The Son of God
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