JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

May 1987

Dear Friend:

Thank you for your recent inquiry concerning Jesus' being called the "Son of man."

Christ was not referred to as God the Father's SON (except in prophecy -- see Psalm 2:7 and II Samuel 7:14) until His human birth (Heb. 5:5-8; Luke 1:32). Likewise, God the Father was not referred to as the Father before that time. In fact, the Father's existence was not clearly revealed until after Christ's coming (Luke 10:22; Matt. 11:27).

Not until He was born of a human mother, Mary, was Christ given the title "Son of man." Christ's divesting Himself of His glory in order to become our sacrifice was a vital part of God's plan, and was necessary in order for Jesus to become a fully understanding and compassionate High Priest (Heb. 4:15).

So, this title designates a very important attribute of Christ. In the Old Testament, Christ had many different titles. Since that time, the title and attributes of "Son of man" have been added to them.

If there is some additional way we can be of service, we hope you will let us know. It is a pleasure to help you with your study of God's Word.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT