J. Barton Payne
Payne #43 — Dan 7:13–14
Son of Man coming on clouds; Payne connects this to the Olivet Discourse and Christ's self-identification throughout the Gospels
Son of Man
Daniel saw 'one like a son of man' approaching God's throne with the clouds of heaven.
Old Testament
Daniel 7:13
In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence.
New Testament
Matthew 26:64
"You have said so," Jesus replied. "But I say to all of you: From now on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven."
Why This Matters
Daniel saw 'one like a son of man' approaching God's throne with the clouds of heaven. At his trial before the high priest, Jesus applied this vision to himself, declaring that they would see the Son of Man seated in power and coming on the clouds. In that moment of apparent defeat, Jesus claimed the highest possible authority—the cosmic sovereignty Daniel had glimpsed in his vision.
Reflection
Son of God, form my heart around Your truth. Through Son of Man, help me live as one who belongs to You.
Scholar Credits
📘 Payne ✓📚 Edersheim ✓
Alfred Edersheim
The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah • Appendix IX
Son of Man on clouds applied to Messiah in Talmud (Sanh. 98a) and Targum on Daniel
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