Scripture – “This is my beloved son in whom I AM well pleased (Matthew 3:17).”
Denial – “My identity is not based on any title, position or possession.”
Affirmation – “I and my Father are one (John 10:30).”
During biblical times, sexism was prevalent. Having a daughter did not have the same impact on a couple as having a son. Women who did not bare sons were considered cursed. If a man did not have a son, he would marry different women until one gave him a son. Daughters were raised to get married, have children and to live with another family. Daughters were often seen as property and fathers received a dowry when daughters were married.
In Judaism, the concept of son had many implications. Sons carried on the family name and often the family business. Depending on birth order, sons also received an inheritance, birthright (double portion) and became leaders of the family, clan or tribe. Being a son also meant that the young man had the ability to be everything that the father was. Fathers often desired that their sons were greater and more successful than they were.
Jesus had the audacity to call God his Father. He was completely comfortable saying about himself what God had already stated about him at his baptism (Matthew 3:17). Although it is not recorded where Jesus explicitly stated that I AM the son of God, it was implied through his claiming God, Jehovah, the I AM that I AM as his Father and his many references to his father-son relationship with God.
Jesus’ paternity declaration made many people uncomfortable and angry. That’s why they stoned him and planned to kill him (John 5:18). Today, we are can decree our divine lineage. We are the children of God whether sons or daughters and we all have equal access, rights and benefits.
