What does "Son of Man must suffer" teach about Jesus' mission? Understanding the Key Verse Luke 9:22 — “saying, ‘The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and He must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.’” Why the Suffering Was a “Must” • Divine necessity: the word “must” (Greek dei) signals God’s unalterable plan, not mere possibility. • Fulfillment of prophecy: Isaiah 53:3-5,10; Psalm 22 predict the Messiah’s suffering, rejection, death, and triumph. • Covenant faithfulness: God’s righteous requirement for sin demanded a perfect sacrifice (Hebrews 9:22, 26-28). • Redemptive love: John 3:16; Romans 5:8 show that suffering was the pathway for God to display sacrificial love. What the Title “Son of Man” Adds • Messianic identity (Daniel 7:13-14): One who receives everlasting dominion. • Solidarity with humanity (Hebrews 2:14-17): He shares our flesh and frailty. • Authority to suffer willingly: no external force dictated His fate (John 10:17-18). Four Dimensions of His Mission Revealed 1. Substitute: He suffers “for” us, bearing God’s wrath (1 Peter 2:24). 2. Scorn-Bearer: Rejected by religious leaders, showing worldly wisdom cannot save (1 Corinthians 1:22-24). 3. Sacrifice: “He must be killed,” underscoring a real, physical death that pays our debt (Colossians 1:20-22). 4. Sovereign Victor: “On the third day be raised,” proving death is defeated and guaranteeing our future resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20-22). Practical Takeaways • Expectation: Following Jesus involves a similar path of self-denial and possible suffering (Luke 9:23-24). • Assurance: Because the plan was certain, our salvation is certain (John 6:37-40). • Hope: Present pain is temporary; resurrection glory is assured (Romans 8:18, 28-30). • Witness: The message of a suffering yet victorious Messiah remains the power of God for salvation (Romans 1:16). Summary “Son of Man must suffer” teaches that Jesus’ mission was divinely planned, prophetically promised, substitutionary in purpose, and ultimately victorious, ensuring redemption and resurrection for all who believe. |
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