Journal: Emmaus Journal
Volume: EMJ 09:2 (Winter 2000)
Article: Jesus’ Use of the Title “Son Of Man” in Matthew 26:64
Author: Steven H. Sanchez

EmJ 9:2 (Win 00) p. 193

Jesus’ Use of the Title “Son Of Man” in Matthew 26:64

Steven H. Sanchez1

Introduction

In Matthew 26:63–64 we read one of the most dramatic scenes in the gospels. Interrogating Jesus, Caiaphas demands, “Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God!” Jesus’ response condemns him in the eyes of his accusers. “It is as you said,” he replied, “Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven.”2 When he heard his confession the High Priest tore his clothes, and the council pronounced its judgment: death. As dramatic as this scene is with Jesus’ life in the balance, it is easy to pass quickly over our Lord’s response. The careful reader will notice that though his initial statement answered Caiaphas’ question, Jesus’ subsequent response appears to contradict it. The question was, “Are you the Christ, the Son of God?” Jesus’ answer was, “Yes, and you will see the Son of Man….” The question asked about a claim to deity, and Jesus’ answer includes a claim to humanity. What was he trying to communicate? What did Jesus mean when he applied the phrase “Son of Man” to himself?” The following article will demonstrate that Jesus’ use of the phrase “Son of Man” meant more than is commonly understood. The Sanhedrin was justly indignant at these words coming from Jesus’ lips, because from the lips of a man that was blasphemy.

EmJ 9:2 (Win 00) p. 194

A Popular Understanding: Humanity vs. Deity

Many in our churches today understand the title Son of Man as a title which emphasizes Jesus’ humanity. When we speak of Christ’s deity, we call him the Son of God; but when we want to identify him as a human being, we call him the Son of Man. One describes his glory, the other his humility. One his divinity, the other his humanity. But is that all there is to this phrase? Is Christ referring to his humanity in contrast to his deity, or is there more to appreciate? If the title refers to his humanity, how is it that the Sanhedrin condemned him for applying it to himself? I would contend that Jesus was in fact declaring his deity in association with his humanity by employing an Old Testament stock image from Daniel 7:13–14. Interpretations which understand this phrase to exalt Jesus’ humanity as opposed to his deity fail to encompass all that is contained in the phrase “Son of Man” as Jesus used it. This title expresses Christ’s deity, authority, power, and judgment in association<...