The “son of man” was a rather common phrase in the early 1st century and could be used as a way of self-identifying or simply used equivalently as the first person pronoun, “I.”

However, the term was also associated with Messianic expectations in the Old Testament and Jewish rabbinic tradition. In Daniel 7 “one like a son of man” approached on clouds the “Ancient of Days” (God) and to him was given an unconquerable and eternal kingdom that would have dominion over all other kingdoms.

It is clear from Daniel’s prophecy that he is foretelling of a Messiah (“anointed one“) who will eternally rule God’s kingdom. But there is great debate as to whether or not the phrase “son of man” has divine implications in and of itself or if “son of man” is simply a human Messiah.

However, the phrase, “like a son of man,” seems to make a distinction between someone who is a man and someone who appears to be a man. It is to God alone that eternal subservience is due, not a man. And, it is clear throughout the Old Testament that it is God’s kingdom that will be eternal (Psalm 145.13; Exodus 15.18; Psalm 9.7; Lamentations 5.19; et al).

It seems that Jesus’ use of the phrase clearly saw Himself as the fulfillment of Daniel’s prophecy (Matthew 26.64) as did other New Testament writers (Revelation 14.14, et al). We see throughout the New Testament the eternality of Jesus’ kingdom and His reign proclaimed (2 Peter 1.11; et al).

But the term “son of man” is not only used to refer to the Messianic figure of Daniel 7. It is often seen as a term that speaks to the humanity of Jesus. It is one of Jesus’ most frequent titles he uses for Himself. In so using, Jesus self-identifies with all of humanity. He simultaneously lays claim to the divine, Messianic title of Daniel 7, yet also lays claim to His humanity. He is the God-man, come to dwell among His creation so that He might redeem all of creation in His righteous rule.