As we grapple with the global impact of recent events, like the ongoing socio-political upheavals and the persisting effects of the global pandemic, it reminds us of the inherent complexity of human existence. We are reminded of the dualities we embody: strength and fragility, fear and courage, despair and hope. This intricate dichotomy echoes the theological concept of Christ’s dual nature as divine and human, captured so powerfully in his title, ‘The Son of Man’. As quoted in John 12:34, “The people answered him, We have heard out of the law that Christ abideth forever: and how sayest thou, The Son of Man must be lifted up? Who is this Son of Man?”

In an earlier exploration, we considered the title ‘The Son of God,’ pondering Christ’s special relationship with God and His divinity. The title ‘The Son of Man,’ recurring 82 times in the New Testament and once in Acts 7:56, as uttered by Stephen, leads us further into Christ’s human ties. It is fascinating to note that the expression ‘The Son of Man’ primarily came from the lips of Christ Himself. This brings us to the intriguing question: “Who is this Son of Man?”

The scripture tells us that the Son of God is now also the Son of Man (John 1:14; Heb. 2:14-16). The title ‘Son of God’ establishes His divine connection, whereas the ‘Son of Man’ ties Him forever to humanity. This bond makes Him divine and human simultaneously (John 1:1-3, 14; Gal. 4:4), a union where divinity is clothed with humanity. In His divinity, Christ claims the throne of God, and in His humanity, He links the human race with God. He is a man, and He is God!

From the lens of humanity, Christ shares our experiences and obeys the laws governing mankind. At the heart of the title ‘Son of Man’ is the redemption plan. Christ had to be as truly human as Adam to reclaim the first dominion and redeem man. This bestowed no advantage over Adam (Mi. 4:8; Rom. 5:12-19; Heb. 2:14-16).

Partaking of the nature of the seed of Abraham was necessary for Christ to qualify as man’s representative in heaven (Heb. 4:15). The Son of God had to experience humanity to serve as our High priest in the heavenly sanctuary (Heb. 2:14-16; 4:15; 5:1-5). His human experiences brought Him empathy (Heb. 7:26; Isa. 53:1-12).

As the Son of Man, Christ proved that God’s law is just and can be obeyed by man (Isa. 42:19-21; Ps. 40:6-8; Matt. 5:17-20; John 12:49). In doing so, He refuted Satan’s claim that God’s law is arbitrary and unachievable. Through his teachings and life, he showed that God’s law is just and within man’s reach.

Moreover, as the Son of Man, Christ reconnected the family in heaven and on earth (Eph. 1:9-11; Heb. 12:22-28). He demolished man-made partitions and unified men once again (Eph. 2:11-16). He used the title ‘Son of Man’ to emphasize His deeds and the majesty in which He shall reappear (Matt. 26:64; Luke 21:36; John 5:22).

So, who, then, is this Son of Man? As defined in John 1:14, He is the only begotten of the Father, filled with glory and truth. He is the embodiment of two natures – divine and human. Most importantly, He is the Saviour for all.

Understanding ‘The Son of Man’ helps us make sense of the complex relationship between divinity and humanity, guiding us towards a deeper appreciation of the universal human condition. In grappling with our human dualities – those of strength and weakness, joy and sorrow, confidence and fear, we can find comfort and inspiration in the dual nature of Christ. His divine-human journey offers a profound testament to the resilience, adaptability, and enduring spirit inherent in all of us.

In conclusion, the title ‘The Son of Man’ is a testament to Christ’s dual nature and a reminder of our capacity for transformation and growth. It underscores our interconnectedness and shared experiences as humans, encouraging us to strive for a higher understanding of the world and our role within it. As we navigate through our complexities, let’s take solace in the divine-human narrative of ‘The Son of Man,’ fostering empathy and unity as we journey together.

References:

1. John 12:34
2. Acts 7:56
3. John 1:14; Heb. 2:14-16
4. John 1:1-3, 14; Gal. 4:4
5. Mi. 4:8; Rom. 5:12-19; Heb. 2:14-16
6. Heb. 4:15; Heb. 2:14-16; 4:15; 5:1-5
7. Heb. 7:26; Isa. 53:1-12
8. Isa. 42:19-21; Ps. 40:6-8; Matt. 5:17-20; John 12:49
9. Eph. 1:9-11; Heb. 12:22-28
10. Eph. 2:11-16
11. Matt. 26:64; Luke 21:36; John 5:22
12. John 1:14