Week 17: April 27
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CORE 52 - Chapter 17: "Son of Man"
In Chapter 17 of CORE 52, titled "Son of Man," Mark Moore explores the significance of the title "Son of Man," one of the most frequently used self-designations by Jesus in the Gospels. Moore explains that this title is rich with meaning, combining both human and divine aspects of Jesus' identity. While it highlights Jesus' humanity, linking Him to the prophecy in Daniel 7:13-14, it also speaks to His role in fulfilling God's redemptive plan. In Daniel, the "Son of Man" is portrayed as a divine figure who will establish God’s eternal kingdom, and Jesus uses this title to reveal that He is the fulfillment of that prophecy.
Moore delves into the ways Jesus' use of the title "Son of Man" reflects His mission to serve, suffer, and bring salvation to humanity. Unlike the Jewish expectation of a political or military Messiah, Jesus redefines what it means to be the "Son of Man" by emphasizing His role as a servant who would suffer and die for the sins of the world. Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection reveal that His mission as the Son of Man is not about worldly power but about spiritual restoration and eternal life for all who believe in Him.
The chapter also highlights how the "Son of Man" is central to understanding Jesus’ work in the world, His role as a mediator between God and humanity, and His ultimate victory over sin and death. Moore invites readers to reflect on the multifaceted nature of Jesus' identity, acknowledging both His humanity and divinity, and to appreciate the depth of His love and sacrifice for humanity.
Application:
Reflect on the significance of Jesus as the "Son of Man" and what this title reveals about His mission to serve and save. Consider how you can model Jesus’ humility, service, and sacrificial love in your own life.
Understand that the title "Son of Man" connects Jesus to both divine prophecy and His earthly mission. How does this deepen your relationship with Him and enhance your understanding of His work for your salvation?
Five Daily Spiritual Challenges:
Day 1: Reflect on Jesus’ Humanity Spend time today reflecting on Jesus' humanity as the "Son of Man." Consider how He experienced life as we do—yet without sin—and how this makes Him a relatable and compassionate Savior. Thank God for sending Jesus to fully identify with your human experience.
Day 2: Embrace the Servant Heart of Jesus Jesus, as the Son of Man, came to serve, not to be served (Mark 10:45). Reflect on areas of your life where you can embody this servant heart. Consider practical ways you can serve others today, whether in your family, at work, or within your community.
Day 3: Meditate on Jesus' Mission Reflect on the mission of the Son of Man: to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). Spend time today considering how this mission has impacted your life. How can you be part of this mission to bring others to Christ through your actions and words?
Day 4: Appreciate the Suffering of Jesus Reflect on the suffering of Jesus as the Son of Man, who came to give His life as a ransom for many (Matthew 20:28). Take time today to meditate on the cost of your salvation. How does understanding the depth of His sacrifice increase your gratitude for His love?
Day 5: Live in Light of the Son of Man’s Kingdom The "Son of Man" will return to establish an eternal kingdom. Reflect on how this truth impacts your present life. How does living with the hope of Christ’s return influence your priorities, actions, and perspective on earthly challenges?
Daily Thought-Provoking Questions:
Day 1: How does Jesus’ humanity as the "Son of Man" impact your understanding of His ability to relate to you and your struggles? In what ways does His empathy for your human experience deepen your trust in Him?
Day 2: What does it mean for you personally that Jesus came to serve rather than to be served? How can you cultivate a servant heart in your own life, following Jesus’ example?
Day 3: How has Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost impacted your life? In what ways can you join Him in this mission, bringing others closer to God through your life and testimony?
Day 4: How does reflecting on the suffering of Jesus as the "Son of Man" deepen your understanding of the cost of your salvation? What does this lead you to do in response to His love and sacrifice?
Day 5: How does the truth of Jesus’ eventual return and the establishment of His kingdom shape your perspective on life today? How can you live in light of the eternal hope He offers?
Chapter 17 of CORE 52 helps readers understand the profound significance of Jesus’ title as the "Son of Man." This title reflects His humanity, His role as a servant, and His divine mission to redeem humanity through His sacrifice. The chapter challenges us to embrace Jesus’ example of humility, service, and sacrificial love while living with the hope of His return and eternal kingdom. Through this understanding, we are invited to deepen our relationship with Jesus and live out His mission in our own lives.