Why was Jesus Called the Son of Man?
The title “Son of Man” is one of the most frequently used self-designations of Jesus in the Gospels. While at first glance it may appear to be a simple reference to Jesus’ humanity, a closer examination of the Old and New Testament contexts reveals a rich tapestry of theological meaning. This article will explore the biblical roots, historical significance, and theological implications of Jesus’ use of the title “Son of Man,” drawing on relevant scriptures and scholarly perspectives.
Old Testament Background
The phrase “son of man” appears in the Old Testament in several contexts. Most commonly, it is used as a poetic synonym for “human being.” For example, in Psalm 8:4, the psalmist asks, “What is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?” Here, “son of man” simply emphasizes human frailty and dependence on God.
However, the most significant Old Testament background for Jesus’ use of the title is found in Daniel 7:13-14. In Daniel’s vision, he sees: “…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. And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.” (Daniel 7:13-14)
This passage presents the “son of man” as a heavenly figure who receives authority, glory, and an everlasting kingdom from God. Jewish interpreters in the Second Temple period often associated this figure with the coming Messiah, a deliverer who would establish God’s rule on earth.
Son of Man in the Gospels
Jesus refers to himself as the Son of Man over eighty times in the four Gospels, making it his most common self-designation. This usage is significant for several reasons.
First, by calling himself the Son of Man, Jesus identifies with humanity. In Mark 10:45, Jesus says, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Here, the title underscores Jesus’ solidarity with the human condition, including suffering and death.
Second, Jesus’ use of Son of Man alludes to the Daniel figure who will receive authority and establish God’s kingdom. In Mark 14:61-62, during his trial before the Sanhedrin, Jesus is asked if he is the Messiah. He replies, “I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” This is a direct reference to Daniel 7, indicating that Jesus claims to be the eschatological figure who will judge and rule.
Third, the title “Son of Man” allowed Jesus to reveal his identity progressively. Unlike the title “Messiah,” which was loaded with political expectations, “Son of Man” was ambiguous enough to avoid immediate misunderstanding, yet rich enough to convey profound truths to those with ears to hear.
Son of Man, Son of God - Fully Human, Fully God
Why was Jesus Called the Son of Man? The title “Son of Man” encapsulates both the humanity and divinity of Jesus. On one hand, it affirms that Jesus is truly human, sharing in the experiences, temptations, and sufferings of mankind (Hebrews 2:14-18). On the other hand, it points to his unique role as the heavenly figure who will judge the world and establish God’s eternal kingdom.
This dual significance is evident in passages such as Matthew 16:13-17, where Jesus asks his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” After Peter confesses, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God,” Jesus affirms that this revelation comes from God. Here, “Son of Man” and “Son of God” are brought together, highlighting the mystery of Jesus’ person.
Furthermore, Jesus’ use of the title challenges common misconceptions about the Messiah. Rather than coming as a conquering king, the Son of Man must first suffer and die. In Mark 8:31, Jesus teaches, “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes and be killed, and after three days rise again.” This suffering is not a contradiction of his messianic identity but its fulfillment, as Isaiah 53 also foretells of a suffering servant.
Some have argued that the title “Son of Man” merely emphasizes Jesus’ humanity and is incompatible with claims to divinity. However, the Gospel accounts and the Old Testament background demonstrate that the title is far more than a statement of human nature. In fact, Jesus’ claim to be the Son of Man was understood by his contemporaries as a claim to divine authority, as evidenced by the high priest’s reaction in Mark 14:63-64, where he accuses Jesus of blasphemy.
Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” And Jesus said, “I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” And the high priest tore his garments and said, “What further witnesses do we need? You have heard his blasphemy. What is your decision?” And they all condemned him as deserving death. (Mark 14:62-64)
Others point to passages such as Numbers 23:19, which states, “God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind.” This verse, however, is not a denial of the incarnation but a statement of God’s faithfulness and transcendence in contrast to human fickleness. The New Testament affirms that Jesus, while fully human, is also fully God (John 1:1, 14; Colossians 2:9). The incarnation is the unique event in which God the Son took on human nature without ceasing to be God.
Conclusion
So why is Jesus called the Son of Man? It is a designation that Jesus used to reveal his true identity and mission. Rooted in Old Testament prophecy, especially Daniel 7, it affirms both Jesus’ solidarity with humanity and his unique authority as the one who will judge and redeem. Far from being a mere statement of humanity, “Son of Man” is a messianic and divine title that encapsulates the mystery of the incarnation: that Jesus is both fully God and fully man, the Savior who came to serve, suffer, and reign forever. As the Gospel of John records, “These are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:31).