THE MYSTERY OF CHRIST’S IDENTITY
(Daniel 7:13–14; Matthew; John; Romans 1:2–4)
Biblical Identity and Primary References
The titles “Son of Man” and “Son of God” are central Christological titles used in Sacred Scripture to reveal the identity and mission of Jesus Christ. “Son of Man” is the title Jesus most frequently applies to Himself in the Gospels, while “Son of God” is used by the Father, the apostles, demons, and early Christian confession to affirm His divine sonship.
Historical and Cultural Background
In Jewish thought, titles carried theological weight rather than merely biological meaning. “Son of Man” had roots in Hebrew idiom and apocalyptic literature, while “Son of God” was used in the Old Testament for Israel, kings, and angels. In first-century Judaism, these titles were charged with messianic expectation, political sensitivity, and divine implication, especially under Roman occupation.
Detailed Biblical Biography
Jesus consistently referred to Himself as the “Son of Man,” a title that allowed Him to reveal His mission progressively. He used it to speak of His authority to forgive sins (Mk 2:10), His suffering and death (Mk 8:31), His resurrection (Mk 9:9), and His future return in glory (Mt 26:64). This title expresses His full participation in human history while also pointing to His heavenly authority.
The title “Son of God” is revealed explicitly at key moments: at Jesus’ baptism and Transfiguration, where the Father declares, “This is my beloved Son” (Mt 3:17; 17:5), and in apostolic preaching, especially after the Resurrection. Jesus accepts this title and reveals its meaning through His intimate relationship with the Father, His authority over nature, sin, and death, and His claim to divine unity with the Father (Jn 10:30).
References in Other Parts of the Bible
The prophet Daniel presents a vision of “one like a son of man” receiving eternal dominion from God (Dan 7:13–14). The Psalms speak of God’s Son enthroned as king (Ps 2). Saint Paul proclaims Jesus as “Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead” (Rom 1:4). The Letter to the Hebrews emphasizes the Son’s divine nature and eternal priesthood (Heb 1–2).
Jewish Tradition and Understanding
In Jewish Scripture, “son of man” could simply mean a human being, yet in Daniel it takes on an exalted, heavenly meaning. “Son of God” was used for Israel or the Davidic king, never implying divinity in the later Christian sense. Jesus’ application of these titles exceeded traditional categories, provoking both fascination and opposition among Jewish leaders.
Catholic Interpretation and Teaching
The Catholic Church teaches that Jesus Christ is one divine Person with two natures, fully human and fully divine. “Son of Man” expresses the reality of the Incarnation, while “Son of God” affirms His eternal generation from the Father. Together, these titles safeguard the truth defined at the Councils of Nicaea and Chalcedon that Jesus is true God and true man (CCC 464–469).
Connection to Jesus, Mary, and Salvation History
As Son of Man, Jesus is born of the Virgin Mary and enters fully into human history. As Son of God, He is eternally begotten of the Father. Mary’s motherhood bridges these titles: she is Mother of the Son of Man according to the flesh and Mother of the Son of God according to the mystery of the Incarnation. Salvation history reaches its fulfillment in this union of humanity and divinity.
Typology and New Testament Fulfillment
The “Son of Man” of Daniel finds fulfillment in Jesus’ Passion, Resurrection, and Ascension, where He receives eternal dominion. The Davidic “Son of God” promised in the Psalms is fulfilled in Christ, whose kingship is not political but eternal. These titles converge at the Cross, where the suffering Son of Man reveals the glory of the Son of God.
What Makes This Person / Theme Unique
No other figure in history unites humanity and divinity in one person. These titles together reveal the unique mystery of the Incarnation: God truly becomes man without ceasing to be God.
Strengths and Virtues
These titles reveal Christ’s humility, obedience, compassion, authority, truth, and redemptive love. As Son of Man, He shares human weakness without sin. As Son of God, He exercises divine authority with mercy.
Weaknesses, Failures, or Sins
None. Jesus Christ is sinless and perfectly obedient to the Father in both His humanity and divinity.
Lessons for Christian Leadership and Witnessing
Christians are called to imitate the Son of Man in humility, service, and suffering love, while proclaiming the Son of God with confidence and faith. Authentic Christian witness must hold together compassion and truth, sacrifice and authority.
Reflection
The titles “Son of Man” and “Son of God” invite us into the heart of Christian faith. Jesus is close enough to suffer with us and powerful enough to save us. He walks with humanity while reigning in divine glory. To follow Him is to embrace both the Cross and the Resurrection, trusting fully in who He is.
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of Man and Son of God, You humbled Yourself to share our humanity and revealed Your divine glory for our salvation. Grant us the grace to follow You in faith, to carry our crosses in hope, and to worship You with hearts fully surrendered to Your truth. Amen.