A mediator in Matthew: an analysis of the Son of Man’s function in the first Gospel

The function of the Son of Man in the Gospel of Matthew is not settled. The majority of the research on the Son of Man in Matthew has been focused on the latter part of the Gospel, that is, Matt 21‒25. A gap still needs to be filled in the research—a consistent, theological understanding of the role of the Son of Man throughout the entire Gospel. This thesis argues that Jesus the Son of Man serves as the mediator of God’s will to his genuine disciples. The primary research method used is new redaction criticism, together with literary and social-scientific emphases. All thirty Son of Man logia are studied in their respective literary contexts and in relationship to the entire Gospel. In chapter one, a general review of Son of Man research is provided along with a sketch of representative literature on the Son of Man in Matthew. In chapter two, the Son of Man logia that relate to Jesus’ earthly life are studied (Matt 8‒12). In these passages, the Son of Man mediates God’s revealed will to his genuine disciples through his message and works. In chapter three, the Son of Man logia that relate to the Son of Man’s suffering, death, and resurrection are analyzed. The Son of Man’s journey to the cross demonstrates his obedient response to his Father’s will, which mediates for his disciples the self-denial and sacrificial allegiance to God’s plan necessary in genuine followership. In chapter four, the Son of Man logia that relate to Jesus’ parousia are investigated. The purpose of the Son of Man’s parousia will be to mediate promised vindication and reward disciples who have proven their fidelity to Jesus and God’s will. In chapter five a conclusion of research findings are addressed.