The Title Jesus Loved Most

Of all the titles Jesus used for Himself, "Son of Man" stands out as His favorite, appearing 81 times in the Gospels. What makes this title so significant? Why did Jesus choose it above others, and what does it reveal about Him?

The term "Son of Man" has its roots in the Old Testament, particularly in Daniel 7:13-14, where a heavenly figure is described as having authority, glory, and sovereign power. This figure is given dominion over all nations, a kingdom that will never be destroyed. By calling Himself the "Son of Man," Jesus connected His mission to this prophetic vision, declaring Himself the fulfillment of God's plan for redemption.

Yet, there’s another layer. While "Son of Man" points to Jesus’s divine authority, it also highlights His humanity. He wasn’t a distant, untouchable deity; He became one of us. In choosing this title, Jesus emphasized His role as a bridge between God and humanity—a Messiah who would save the world not through dominance, but through servanthood and sacrifice.

The Son of Man: Both Divine and Human

1. His Humanity:
   By calling Himself the Son of Man, Jesus affirmed His identity as fully human. He experienced hunger, thirst, weariness, joy, sorrow, and even death. He shared in our struggles and lived among us, showing us that God is not distant but intimately involved in our lives.

2. His Divinity:
   At the same time, the title "Son of Man" points to Jesus’s divine nature. In Daniel’s vision, the Son of Man is a heavenly figure, receiving glory and authority from God. Jesus embodied this divine authority, teaching with wisdom, performing miracles, and ultimately conquering sin and death.

A Mission of Service and Sacrifice

Mark 10:45 captures the heart of Jesus’s mission: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” This verse beautifully encapsulates His purpose.

• To Serve:
  Despite His divine authority, Jesus came as a servant. He washed His disciples' feet, fed the hungry, healed the sick, and cared for the outcasts. His life was marked by humility and compassion, demonstrating that true greatness lies in serving others.

• To Sacrifice:
  Jesus’s ultimate act of service was His sacrifice on the cross. He gave His life as a ransom, paying the price to free us from the bondage of sin. This act of love and obedience fulfilled the requirements of justice, bridging the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity.

True Greatness Redefined

In a world that often equates greatness with power and prestige, Jesus redefined it through servanthood and selflessness. His example challenges us to reconsider our priorities and to live in a way that reflects His values.

As followers of the Son of Man, we are called to serve others, love selflessly, and embrace humility. This doesn’t mean denying our worth but recognizing that our greatest fulfillment comes from living out God’s purpose in our lives.

A Personal Reflection

Take a moment to reflect on what it means that Jesus, the Son of Man, came to serve and give His life for you. How does His example inspire you to serve others? In what areas of your life can you embrace His humility and sacrificial love?

The title "Son of Man" reminds us that Jesus understands our struggles and meets us where we are. It is also a call to follow in His footsteps, living lives marked by love, service, and surrender.

A Call to Action

Today, let the title "Son of Man" shape your perspective and actions. Find one way to serve someone selflessly—whether through a kind word, an act of generosity, or simply being present for someone in need. In doing so, you reflect the heart of Jesus and draw closer to Him.

Let Us Pray:

Lord Jesus, thank You for coming as the Son of Man. Thank You for humbling Yourself to serve, even when You were worthy of all honor and glory. Help me to follow Your example of servanthood, to love others selflessly, and to recognize the depth of the sacrifice You made. May I live in gratitude for the ransom You paid for my life. I pray in Your precious name. Amen.

As we continue this journey of unwrapping the names of Jesus, let the title "Son of Man" remind you of His incredible love and sacrifice. Each name reveals another dimension of His character, inviting us into a deeper relationship with Him.