He is the “Son of Man”
Because Jesus called Himself the “Son of Man” He reveals to us His dual nature. It underscores the humanity of Jesus while also showing us His messianic role and divine authority. Jesus the Son of Man is both human and divine in one person.
“Son of Man” was Jesus’ most preferred title for Himself, appearing 81 times in the Gospels, usually referring to His suffering and death.
Jesus used this title to remind His disciples He was as human as they were. He felt what we feel, faced life’s limitations and temptations, endured suffering, rejection and death. He knows what it is to live in a broken world.
In Matthew 8:20, Jesus uses the title “Son of Man” to highlight His humility and dependence on God. He knew what it was to be hungry, tired, and emotionally stretched. Though sinless, He was tempted just as we are, yet remained fully reliant on the Father.
Whilst Jesus undoubtedly used the title to emphasis His humanity He claimed a deeper meaning. The original phrase “one like unto a son of man” was used in Daniel 7:13 a prophetic vision very familiar to the Jews. In this passage the son of man receives authority and glory from God and is depicted as a very exalted figure. The Jews see the prophecy as giving glory and power to the Jewish nation with the son of man judging the wicked and establishing God’s kingdom.
By using the title “Son of Man” Jesus was claiming to be the one from Daniel’s vision. He is the one prophesied to establish God’s kingdom and that He intended to fulfill his role in this redemption. Given their complete failure to recognise who He is it's no wonder the Pharisees were so angry with Jesus for calling Himself by this title.
Why did Jesus need to take on humanity as well as being divine? Because our salvation depends on His humanity as much as His divinity. To redeem us Jesus first had to represent us and to do that He had to become fully human.
“Jesus replied, ‘Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head’.” Matthew 8:20
“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.”. Daniel 7:13-14
Application
Are you suffering, tempted, or broken? Struggling to explain what you feel? Jesus, the Son of Man, understands. He became human in every way (except sin), so He could stand with you. Now exalted, He sees your life clearly and knows what you need. Let His presence meet you where you are, surround you with peace, and lead you through.
- Lisa Roberts