Why is Jesus referred to as "Son of Man" in Mark 2:28? Old Testament Foundations Humanity Emphasized—Psalm 8 & Ezekiel • Psalm 8:4: “What is man that You are mindful of him, or the son of man that You care for him?” . The idiom underscores frailty and creatureliness. • Ezekiel (over 90 occurrences): God calls the prophet “son of man,” stressing his mortal status in contrast to Yahweh’s majesty. Messianic Authority—Daniel 7:13-14 “I continued watching in the night visions, and behold, One like a Son of Man was coming with the clouds of heaven… To Him was given dominion, glory, and a kingdom… His dominion is an everlasting dominion.” . Here, “Son of Man” is an exalted heavenly figure to whom God grants universal rule. Second-Temple literature (e.g., 1 Enoch 46–48) echoes Daniel’s depiction, so first-century Jews would hear “Son of Man” with apocalyptic resonance. Christological Significance In Mark Authority to Forgive and Rule Earlier in the same chapter Jesus says, “The Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” (Mark 2:10). Mark uses the title 14 times, linking it with authority to heal (2:10-12), lordship over Sabbath (2:28), suffering (8:31), resurrection (9:31), and eschatological glory (13:26). Paradox of Humility and Majesty By calling Himself “Son of Man,” Jesus simultaneously identifies with humanity and claims Danielic sovereignty. The juxtaposition—common humanity yet cosmic authority—directly addresses the Sabbath dispute: the Davidic-Messianic Son of Man outranks Pharisaic tradition because He instituted the Sabbath at creation (cf. Genesis 2:2-3; John 1:3). Title And Mission Incarnation and Solidarity The term underscores Jesus’ genuine humanity (John 1:14). As perfect man He fulfills the Sabbath’s intent—restful communion with God—inviting believers into that rest (Matthew 11:28-30; Hebrews 4:9-10). Deity and Preexistence Only God can be “Lord of the Sabbath,” for the Sabbath commemorates His creative rest (Exodus 20:11). Jesus’ claim therefore implies co-equality with Yahweh while preserving distinct personhood within the Godhead (cf. Colossians 2:9). Mediator and Judge Daniel 7’s Son of Man receives authority to judge the nations. Mark’s Gospel moves toward 14:62 where Jesus, before the Sanhedrin, applies Daniel 7:13 to Himself, sealing His identity and provoking the charge of blasphemy. Theological Ramifications Sabbath Lordship Jesus reframes Sabbath from legalistic burden to Messianic gift. Post-resurrection practice (Acts 20:7; Revelation 1:10) shifts worship focus to the Lord’s Day, yet the principle of rest and worship finds fulfillment in Christ Himself (Hebrews 4). Kingdom Outlook Recognition of Jesus as Son of Man aligns believers with His everlasting dominion (Daniel 7:27; Matthew 25:31-34). Refusal leaves one subject to His eschatological judgment (Mark 8:38). Redemptive Necessity The Son of Man “came to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). His authority over Sabbath foreshadows His authority over death, confirmed by the empty tomb—historically attested by enemy admission of an empty grave (Matthew 28:11-15) and early creedal testimony (1 Corinthians 15:3-8). Practical Application Rest in Relationship Believers find rest not in ritual precision but in union with the Lord of the Sabbath. Weekly rhythms thus become celebration, not servitude. Call to Acknowledge His Authority As Jesus rebuked religious gatekeeping then, He challenges modern self-reliance. Acceptance of His lordship entails surrender of personal and cultural traditions that obscure His grace. Conclusion Jesus calls Himself “Son of Man” in Mark 2:28 to affirm His full humanity, invoke Daniel’s divine-Messianic authority, and legitimize His prerogative to redefine Sabbath practice. The title encapsulates His incarnate solidarity, sovereign rule, redemptive mission, and final judgment—summoning every hearer to acknowledge Him as Lord. |
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