The Son of Man
Overview
The Son of Man is the heavenly figure in Daniel 7 who comes with the clouds, approaches the Ancient of Days, and receives everlasting dominion over all peoples and nations. The title becomes Jesus’ primary self-designation in the Gospels.
Biblical Development
In Daniel, “one like a son of man” contrasts with the beastly empires: human-like, heaven-associated, and given a kingdom that will not pass away. In Ezekiel, “son of man” also names prophetic human frailty before divine majesty, giving the phrase both humility and exaltation.
Jesus joins these strands when he calls himself the Son of Man: he suffers, serves, forgives sins, and will come on the clouds in glory.
Key Passages
- Daniel 7:13-14
- Ezekiel 2:1
- Mark 14:62
- Matthew 24:30
- Revelation 1:13
Related Notes
Notes
The title holds together suffering and sovereignty: the Son of Man is humbled among humans and exalted above the nations.