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Jesus the Son of God: A Christological Title Often Overlooked, Sometimes Misunderstood, and Currently Disputed
Although it is a foundational confession for all Christians, much of the theological significance of Jesus’s identity as “the Son of God” is often overlooked or misunderstood. Moreover, this Christological concept stands at the center of today’s Bible translation debates and increased ministry efforts to Muslims. New Testament scholar D. A. Carson sheds light on this important issue with his usual exegetical clarity and theological insight, first by broadly surveying Jesus’s biblical name as “the Son of God," and then by focusing on two key texts that speak of Christ’s sonship. The book concludes with the implications of Jesus’s divine sonship for how modern Christians think and speak about Christ, especially in relation to Bible translation and missionary engagement with Muslims across the globe.
128 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2012
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465 people want to read
About the author
D.A. Carson
339 books742 followersDonald A. Carson is research professor of New Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois. He has been at Trinity since 1978. Carson came to Trinity from the faculty of Northwest Baptist Theological Seminary in Vancouver, British Columbia, where he also served for two years as academic dean. He has served as assistant pastor and pastor and has done itinerant ministry in Canada and the United Kingdom. Carson received the Bachelor of Science in chemistry from McGill University, the Master of Divinity from Central Baptist Seminary in Toronto, and the Doctor of Philosophy in New Testament from the University of Cambridge. Carson is an active guest lecturer in academic and church settings around the world. He has written or edited about sixty books. He is a founding member and currently president of The Gospel Coalition. Carson and his wife, Joy, reside in Libertyville, Illinois. They have two adult children.
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March 30, 2019
Lecture here (with Q&A): https://youtu.be/apKXrnge7d0. Related, Stephen Wellum briefly talks about the differences between “Son of Man” & “Son of God”: https://youtu.be/VFr5FCIF9ek.
September 21, 2019
This slim volume originated as lectures that were delivered at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, WTS in Philadelphia, and in France. Carson’s main point is that the Christological title, “Son of God,” while it does have Davidic-messianic overtones, cannot be limited to that background since it involves something deeper and more ontological. To equate “Son of God” with “Messiah” would be an “unjustified reductionism” (p. 74). For Carson, an important motivating factor for these lectures and this book is the debate over Muslim Idiom Translations, some of which have in fact replaced “Son of God” with other terms, such as “Messiah” or “Beloved of God,” to avoid giving offense to Muslims who think that the Christian doctrine that Jesus is God’s Son is blasphemous because (they think) it implies that God had sex with Mary. Carson rightly concludes that Bible translators err if they change the translation because “some culture or other can or cannot accept this or that,” an argument which “becomes an excuse for unwittingly removing from the message itself things that are clearly taught in the Bible and are therefore simply nonnegotiable” (p. 104).
February 9, 2023
Concise and yet still excellent.
Particularly strong in demonstrating how the trajectory of the different threads of "son of God" culminates in Jesus.
Particularly strong in demonstrating how the trajectory of the different threads of "son of God" culminates in Jesus.
February 7, 2013
The past year saw a massive increase in theological conversation about Jesus’ divine Sonship for how Christians think and speak about Christ, especially in relation to Bible translation and missionary engagement with Muslims across the globe. Some may think that this whole discussion is unimportant, but they would be mistaken. Understanding the truth of Jesus as the Son of God is not only important, it is vital to a healthy and robust biblical Christianity as it seeks to make much of Jesus by spreading His fame to the nations. In his helpful new book Jesus The Son Of God: A Christological Title Often overlooked, Sometimes Misunderstood And Currently Disputed, D.A. Carson writes to help the Church and its leaders to think through Son of God as a Christological Title, examine Son of God in Select Passages and then concludes his book by examining Jesus The Son of God in Christian and Muslim contexts.
At the outset of this review it must be noted that in Dr. Carson’s own words he does not desire this book to be “primary a contribution to the current disputes, as important as those debates may be. It is meant to foster clear thinking among Christians who want to know what we mean when we join believers across the centuries in confession, “I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and in his only Son Jesus, our Lord” (12).
In the past century Christian preaching and writing have focused more attention on Jesus’s deity and Jesus’s lordship than on Jesus’s Sonship. Dr. Carson notes that in recent times, “When Christians have written and spoken about Jesus as the Son of God, they have tended to focus on one of three topics” (13). First, Carson notes that "many of these types of works are forged within the discipline of systematic theology discuss the Sonship of Jesus especially the title Son of God within their broader treatment of Trinitarian theology" (14). Secondly, a handful of works are specialist volumes focusing on the categories of systematic theology. For example these types of titles may focus on Psalm 2 or the social and political contexts of the Roman world. Third, in the past few years spirited discussions have occurred regarding Son or Son of God language applied to Jesus.
Chapter one is where Dr. Carson unpacks the following words from the Apostles Creed, “I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and in his only Son Jesus, our Lord.” As he does this, Carson examines what the Bible teaches about Jesus being the Son of God in the first two chapters in order to engage the current discussion about how the expression “Son of God” should be translated especially in Bible translations designed for the Muslim world” (16).
Chapter three, the final chapter of Carson’s book is where he seeks to organize his reflections around two questions, “What bearing does this study of Jesus as the Son of God have on the way Christians should think about Jesus?", and "What bearing does this study of Jesus as the Son of God have on current debates regarding the translation of the Title, especially in Muslim contexts?"
Under the first question Carson makes six points: First, not all uses of Son of God are the same; second, biblical trajectories are important if we are to understand how Son of God commonly works; third, the relationship between exegesis of the biblical Son of God passages and the categories of systematic theology is not a simple one, fourth, the eternal generation of the Son is especially convoluted territory, fifth, understanding Jesus as the Son of God ought to have a bearing on our evangelism, and finally under this heading, understanding Jesus as the Son of God ought to have a bearing in our worship.
Under the last question in the last chapter of this book, Carson seeks to engage the current missiological discussion regarding C5 communities. Often collectively C5 is referred to as IM (Insider Movements). Carson notes that, “Those who support IM feel they are tearing down unnecessary barriers to the conversion of Muslims those who reject IM feel that the movement is essentially syncretistic and thus a threat to the gospel itself, engendering many spurious conversions. Inevitably, there are numerous mediating positions” (88).
While this discussion is important, I agree with Dr. Carson when he notes that, “the spread of the gospel in the early church saw the dissemination of Scripture along with the provision of missionaries and pastors. One wonders if at least some of the tensions over Bible translation springs from commitment on the part of some to provide adequate translation without simultaneously providing missionaries and pastors” (109). Carson continues, “To be frank, it would be good to see less energy devoted to taking us away from the theological richness of the multifaceted biblical affirmations of Jesus’s Sonship, and much more energy expended on understanding and then learning how to teach all the Bible does and does not say about Jesus the Son of God. Then those who are genuinely converted will stand with Christians across centuries and cultures, and quietly and reverently affirm, “I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and in his only Son Jesus, our Lord” (109).
The reason the above by Dr. Carson is so important is because while the Church should be engaged in doctrinal and theological discussion, the Church also needs to combine zeal for the Word of God with mission for God. When the Church loses sight of this dual tension we disobey the Commission of Jesus to make disciples for His glory. Dr. Carson is right that we need to spend more energy on “all the Bible does and does not say about Jesus the Son of God”, as well as training leaders in the Gospel. As we seek to raise up leaders for the Gospel, the Church is to follow the pattern Paul gave Timothy in 2nd Timothy 1:13 to instruct Christian leaders of all stripes and types to, “Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.”
As an artist has his sketch so Timothy also had his model to go by. This sketch, model, or pattern consisted of the words which he had heard from Paul. This is important, for Paul’s teaching consisted of sound words. And it is exactly the necessity of remaining sound and of transmitting sound doctrine that is stressed throughout 2nd Timothy and all the Pastorals (1 Tim. 1:10; 6:3; 2 Tim. 4:3; Titus 1:9, 13; 2:1, 2, 8). As the Church combines passion for God and His Word with courageously engaging a lost and dying world with the gospel it will not only fulfill the mission of God, but also the Great Commission to make disciples to the glory of God.
In my opinion, Dr. Carson’s book Jesus The Son of God A Christiological Title Often overlooked, Sometimes Misunderstood, and Currently Disputed is an important contribution not only to the debates surrounds Bible translation, but also as it relates to the questions raised by this conversation on how Christians should engage Muslims with the Gospel. Whether you’re aware of this issue or not, I recommend you read this book to know Jesus and the Bible better and to walk through this issue with one of the preeminent Bible scholars and theologians of our day in Dr. Carson.
At the outset of this review it must be noted that in Dr. Carson’s own words he does not desire this book to be “primary a contribution to the current disputes, as important as those debates may be. It is meant to foster clear thinking among Christians who want to know what we mean when we join believers across the centuries in confession, “I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and in his only Son Jesus, our Lord” (12).
In the past century Christian preaching and writing have focused more attention on Jesus’s deity and Jesus’s lordship than on Jesus’s Sonship. Dr. Carson notes that in recent times, “When Christians have written and spoken about Jesus as the Son of God, they have tended to focus on one of three topics” (13). First, Carson notes that "many of these types of works are forged within the discipline of systematic theology discuss the Sonship of Jesus especially the title Son of God within their broader treatment of Trinitarian theology" (14). Secondly, a handful of works are specialist volumes focusing on the categories of systematic theology. For example these types of titles may focus on Psalm 2 or the social and political contexts of the Roman world. Third, in the past few years spirited discussions have occurred regarding Son or Son of God language applied to Jesus.
Chapter one is where Dr. Carson unpacks the following words from the Apostles Creed, “I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and in his only Son Jesus, our Lord.” As he does this, Carson examines what the Bible teaches about Jesus being the Son of God in the first two chapters in order to engage the current discussion about how the expression “Son of God” should be translated especially in Bible translations designed for the Muslim world” (16).
Chapter three, the final chapter of Carson’s book is where he seeks to organize his reflections around two questions, “What bearing does this study of Jesus as the Son of God have on the way Christians should think about Jesus?", and "What bearing does this study of Jesus as the Son of God have on current debates regarding the translation of the Title, especially in Muslim contexts?"
Under the first question Carson makes six points: First, not all uses of Son of God are the same; second, biblical trajectories are important if we are to understand how Son of God commonly works; third, the relationship between exegesis of the biblical Son of God passages and the categories of systematic theology is not a simple one, fourth, the eternal generation of the Son is especially convoluted territory, fifth, understanding Jesus as the Son of God ought to have a bearing on our evangelism, and finally under this heading, understanding Jesus as the Son of God ought to have a bearing in our worship.
Under the last question in the last chapter of this book, Carson seeks to engage the current missiological discussion regarding C5 communities. Often collectively C5 is referred to as IM (Insider Movements). Carson notes that, “Those who support IM feel they are tearing down unnecessary barriers to the conversion of Muslims those who reject IM feel that the movement is essentially syncretistic and thus a threat to the gospel itself, engendering many spurious conversions. Inevitably, there are numerous mediating positions” (88).
While this discussion is important, I agree with Dr. Carson when he notes that, “the spread of the gospel in the early church saw the dissemination of Scripture along with the provision of missionaries and pastors. One wonders if at least some of the tensions over Bible translation springs from commitment on the part of some to provide adequate translation without simultaneously providing missionaries and pastors” (109). Carson continues, “To be frank, it would be good to see less energy devoted to taking us away from the theological richness of the multifaceted biblical affirmations of Jesus’s Sonship, and much more energy expended on understanding and then learning how to teach all the Bible does and does not say about Jesus the Son of God. Then those who are genuinely converted will stand with Christians across centuries and cultures, and quietly and reverently affirm, “I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and in his only Son Jesus, our Lord” (109).
The reason the above by Dr. Carson is so important is because while the Church should be engaged in doctrinal and theological discussion, the Church also needs to combine zeal for the Word of God with mission for God. When the Church loses sight of this dual tension we disobey the Commission of Jesus to make disciples for His glory. Dr. Carson is right that we need to spend more energy on “all the Bible does and does not say about Jesus the Son of God”, as well as training leaders in the Gospel. As we seek to raise up leaders for the Gospel, the Church is to follow the pattern Paul gave Timothy in 2nd Timothy 1:13 to instruct Christian leaders of all stripes and types to, “Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.”
As an artist has his sketch so Timothy also had his model to go by. This sketch, model, or pattern consisted of the words which he had heard from Paul. This is important, for Paul’s teaching consisted of sound words. And it is exactly the necessity of remaining sound and of transmitting sound doctrine that is stressed throughout 2nd Timothy and all the Pastorals (1 Tim. 1:10; 6:3; 2 Tim. 4:3; Titus 1:9, 13; 2:1, 2, 8). As the Church combines passion for God and His Word with courageously engaging a lost and dying world with the gospel it will not only fulfill the mission of God, but also the Great Commission to make disciples to the glory of God.
In my opinion, Dr. Carson’s book Jesus The Son of God A Christiological Title Often overlooked, Sometimes Misunderstood, and Currently Disputed is an important contribution not only to the debates surrounds Bible translation, but also as it relates to the questions raised by this conversation on how Christians should engage Muslims with the Gospel. Whether you’re aware of this issue or not, I recommend you read this book to know Jesus and the Bible better and to walk through this issue with one of the preeminent Bible scholars and theologians of our day in Dr. Carson.
April 13, 2024
In Jesus, the Son of God: A Christological Title Often Overlooked, Sometimes Misunderstood, and Currently Debated, D.A. Carson scrutinizes the different meanings of the term “Son of God” in the biblical context. In the first part of the book, he examines the term when it does not refer to Jesus, next, when the term does refer to the second Person of the Trinity. Finally, Carson demonstrates how and why the expression should be interpreted to reach other people groups around the world with the Gospel, specifically Muslims. The text of this book is taken from a series of lectures given by Carson at Reformed Theological Seminary. They are meant to inform future pastors and others in the ministry of the theological battles they face. Furthermore, Carson explains why this issue must be defended if the true Gospel is to be preserved and communicated to people of different cultures.
Jesus, the Son of God, is not an extensive edition, but it is not to be rushed through if one wishes to understand the basis of Christological argument as Carson presents it. He is very precise when addressing the technical aspects of language within the biblical context. Moreover, his target audience is primarily academic, so the text is concerned with definitions and what they mean as the author presents his case. The narrative can be dry and pedantic, so the reader must be prepared to follow the implications closely. It is easy to get lost. For example, the Berkhof quote can be a challenge for non-Seminary students, though Carson found it necessary to include it in the text.
The author’s most persuasive point within the book occurs when he argues that the strongest translations of the Bible are those that stick to the original Hebrew and Greek languages when they define the term, “Son of God,” even at the risk of offending certain cultures. The message and meaning of the Gospel must not change, according to Carson, if the Gospel is to retain its power. Jesus, the Son of God, is a primer to understanding the Christological doctrine, although its academic overtones make Jesus, the Son of God a challenge to read.
Jesus, the Son of God, is not an extensive edition, but it is not to be rushed through if one wishes to understand the basis of Christological argument as Carson presents it. He is very precise when addressing the technical aspects of language within the biblical context. Moreover, his target audience is primarily academic, so the text is concerned with definitions and what they mean as the author presents his case. The narrative can be dry and pedantic, so the reader must be prepared to follow the implications closely. It is easy to get lost. For example, the Berkhof quote can be a challenge for non-Seminary students, though Carson found it necessary to include it in the text.
The author’s most persuasive point within the book occurs when he argues that the strongest translations of the Bible are those that stick to the original Hebrew and Greek languages when they define the term, “Son of God,” even at the risk of offending certain cultures. The message and meaning of the Gospel must not change, according to Carson, if the Gospel is to retain its power. Jesus, the Son of God, is a primer to understanding the Christological doctrine, although its academic overtones make Jesus, the Son of God a challenge to read.
July 26, 2022
A title so easily glossed over—Jesus the Son of God— and yet the theological dimensions of it are vast. Carson’s work is a helpful resource for further understanding the deep realities associated with who Jesus is considering this title given to Him and in relation to the Trinity. With the special attention given to the title as it appears throughout Scripture, I walk away from this reading with a deeper appreciation for not only Christ and his Sonship, but God’s Word as a whole. This is a short read, and so worth your time. It may not be a great starting point if you are only beginning to read more academic theological writing, but if you have studied Scripture for any length of time, this is a great resource. I encourage you read entire sections at a time in order to follow the Carson’s reasoning most effectively.
June 2, 2017
This was a particularly strong little exegesis of "Son of God." Quite helpful and encouraging, honestly!
April 13, 2023
Very good intro into some important issues in christology. Strong on historic doctrine and quick to shut down aberrant theology like kenotic theory and ESS.
March 10, 2024
An excellent book! Quite thorough for how concise it is
April 13, 2025
I just wish it was a little bit longer/more in depth. Otherwise great
January 12, 2025
Bang on.
May 8, 2023
It’s a small book, but I would say it’s comprehensive in explaining the title “Son of God”. Jesus is not the only one that scripture refers to as a son of God, but he is the Son of God. This little book helps make the case more fully and stronger that Jesus is God who became man. Woe to those that deny this truth.
February 7, 2015
In this brief book Carson surveys the meaning of the title "Son of God" in the Scripture. He notes that "son" language in the Bible can be used non-metaphorically of actual biological sons, generically in proverbial passages, and of more distant descendants. Son language can also be used metaphorically. Sometimes the metaphor indicates that the "son" was "begotten" by the Father. In other cases it indicates a similarity of type or class between "father" and "son."
Carson notes that the phrase son of God is sometimes used non-Christologically of angels, Adam, God's people, those who imitate God, and the Davidic king. It is used Christologically of Jesus as the Davidic king, of Jesus as true Israel, and of Jesus as the divine Son. After this initial survey Carson examines Hebrews 1 and John 5:16-30 as case studies.
The final chapter examines the issue of how to translate "son of God" in Bible translations targeted toward Muslims. Carson concludes that "son of God" should not be replaced with attempted alternatives.
Carson notes that the phrase son of God is sometimes used non-Christologically of angels, Adam, God's people, those who imitate God, and the Davidic king. It is used Christologically of Jesus as the Davidic king, of Jesus as true Israel, and of Jesus as the divine Son. After this initial survey Carson examines Hebrews 1 and John 5:16-30 as case studies.
The final chapter examines the issue of how to translate "son of God" in Bible translations targeted toward Muslims. Carson concludes that "son of God" should not be replaced with attempted alternatives.
April 20, 2013
When we say that Jesus is the son of God, what do we mean, what do we believe? In the muslim world and culture, when that is said, it is evil to them because of the sexuality involved. There are many references in the bible to the phrase "sons of God'. All of them point to Jesus and him being the Son of God. This study is very deep and to be truthful, I was lost in some of it, however, I did gleam some insight that will make my faith deeper than it was before.
My favorite is the adoption aspect. God sent his Son to that we might receive adoption to sonship and then sends the Spirit of his Son into our hearts so that we too may cry out Abba Father.
To summarize Jesus is the true Son of God and any reflection in scripture shows the completeness of Jesus' sonship to the Father. The trinity is expressed as it ought to be and it is refreshing to be challenged to think deeply in what means for us.
My favorite is the adoption aspect. God sent his Son to that we might receive adoption to sonship and then sends the Spirit of his Son into our hearts so that we too may cry out Abba Father.
To summarize Jesus is the true Son of God and any reflection in scripture shows the completeness of Jesus' sonship to the Father. The trinity is expressed as it ought to be and it is refreshing to be challenged to think deeply in what means for us.
March 16, 2015
An incredibly helpful, and very short book on the title "son of God" as it is used in Scripture. Carson surveys the various ways the title is used, and sets the discussion in a modern religious context as it pertains to various uses by Muslims in a theological context.
The book is insightful, and full of excellent exegesis. My one criticism is that, because the book is based on a series of lectures Carson delivered, it seems rather unfocused and disconnected from the reader at times. It seems to have been rendered into book format rather literally to the form of the lectures, and some of the points made lose a bit of relevance to the rather short nature of the book - in other words - leaving out a context for why one angle was taken on the approach to ideas rather than angles that may have more more sense for a rather short book on a rather large topic.
Overall a very helpful little book.
The book is insightful, and full of excellent exegesis. My one criticism is that, because the book is based on a series of lectures Carson delivered, it seems rather unfocused and disconnected from the reader at times. It seems to have been rendered into book format rather literally to the form of the lectures, and some of the points made lose a bit of relevance to the rather short nature of the book - in other words - leaving out a context for why one angle was taken on the approach to ideas rather than angles that may have more more sense for a rather short book on a rather large topic.
Overall a very helpful little book.
January 14, 2013
Brilliant discussion of a confusing title: Son of God. In this work, Carson forwards a broader understanding of the spectrum of meaning behind the title and the exegetical significance of the title in various passages. The concluding discussion of how the term could be translated in Muslim cultures is a spectacular example of cross-cultural engagement. This is a 'must-read' for anyone who is an expositor of the Word of God, has struggled with the meaning of "Son of God," or is engaged in Bible translation.
May 23, 2013
Anyone who is interested in the title “son of God”, and/or how it ought to be translated in Muslim contexts needs to pick this up.
More broadly, anyone interested in better knowing Christ and the Word should read Jesus the Son of God. Seriously, reading 128 pages by a solid Biblical scholar to better understand how the Bible speaks about Jesus? Do you really need me to try and convince you?
[Many thanks to Christine Bradley and IVP UK for providing a review copy of this book!]
See the full review
http://mydigitalseminary.com/jesus-th...
More broadly, anyone interested in better knowing Christ and the Word should read Jesus the Son of God. Seriously, reading 128 pages by a solid Biblical scholar to better understand how the Bible speaks about Jesus? Do you really need me to try and convince you?
[Many thanks to Christine Bradley and IVP UK for providing a review copy of this book!]
See the full review
http://mydigitalseminary.com/jesus-th...
June 3, 2016
Way more than I set out to learn or understand, but good foundational knowledge to have. I found Carson to be thick in the sense that I had to spend a lot if time rereading I order to make sense if things. Would have been much better in print than on my Kindle.
May 10, 2018
Hard to exaggerate the importance of the work done here by D.A Carson. Basically, "Son of God" has a variety of meanings throughout Scripture and is applied to a variety of folks (i.e. Adam, Israel, Angels, and Jesus). Thus, a single meaning of the term "Son of God" should not be imputed to the entirety of its usages, even when the referent is Christ. Often times, what is forefronted when it is applied to Jesus is his role as Messiah, the Davidic King. However, one must also understand Biblical trajectories. The Old Testament speaks in hyperbolic terms of a Divine Davidic King (Psa. 45; Psa. 110). Yet, when the "type" moves to the "antitype," the language is no longer hyperbolic but illustrative of the Divine Identity of the Son (Isa. 9; Ezek. 34; Heb 1.). Therefore, uses of the "Son of God" when referring to Christ does, indeed, refer to his role of Messiah (the long-awaited Davidic King), but it also refers to the Divine Identity of Jesus and his association as the Second Person of the Trinity (John 5; 20:28-31).
Carson ends with comments on Bible translation in the Muslim world. The Quran and many Muslims think by saying Jesus is the Son of God, the Bible teaches that God had physical intimacy with Mary, resulting in the generation of Jesus. The Bible, however, does not mean this in any of its usages; Jesus is born of a "virgin" (Matt. 1; Luke 1). He is generated eternally (John 5) and begotten in some sense at his inauguration in the resurrection (Psa 2.; cf. Acts 13). Some translators, in order to avoid this misunderstanding, have sought to substitute other words for Father and Son or to modify usages with "like." Carson argues that this is overly pragmatic and also misguided. By erasing or modifying usages of "Son" one loses the important Biblical trajectories as well as disconnects the future Church from the crucial confessional heritage, which will and does translate into cult-like Christianity due to their isolation from the rest of the Christian tradition. Carson suggests a few solutions. The two that resonate most with me is that we should publish Bibles with notes that explain concepts difficult for certain cultures as well as send missionary pastor-teachers alongside Bible translators. In other words, he questions the wisdom of sending Bible translators (esp. those with no exegetical training) on solo missions. We need to send both translators and pastors.
*By the way, I heard Carson deliver this material as a series of lectures at a Biblical theology conference at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, MS. I was still an undergrad student down the street at the time, and I hardly understood any part of his lofty lecture. Glad they published it in a book so I could go back and benefit from his great work on this!
Carson ends with comments on Bible translation in the Muslim world. The Quran and many Muslims think by saying Jesus is the Son of God, the Bible teaches that God had physical intimacy with Mary, resulting in the generation of Jesus. The Bible, however, does not mean this in any of its usages; Jesus is born of a "virgin" (Matt. 1; Luke 1). He is generated eternally (John 5) and begotten in some sense at his inauguration in the resurrection (Psa 2.; cf. Acts 13). Some translators, in order to avoid this misunderstanding, have sought to substitute other words for Father and Son or to modify usages with "like." Carson argues that this is overly pragmatic and also misguided. By erasing or modifying usages of "Son" one loses the important Biblical trajectories as well as disconnects the future Church from the crucial confessional heritage, which will and does translate into cult-like Christianity due to their isolation from the rest of the Christian tradition. Carson suggests a few solutions. The two that resonate most with me is that we should publish Bibles with notes that explain concepts difficult for certain cultures as well as send missionary pastor-teachers alongside Bible translators. In other words, he questions the wisdom of sending Bible translators (esp. those with no exegetical training) on solo missions. We need to send both translators and pastors.
*By the way, I heard Carson deliver this material as a series of lectures at a Biblical theology conference at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, MS. I was still an undergrad student down the street at the time, and I hardly understood any part of his lofty lecture. Glad they published it in a book so I could go back and benefit from his great work on this!
June 6, 2025
D.A. Carson is brilliant. He carefully walks through a biblical theology of the term "son of God." His conclusion is simply that Christ is described as the Son of God, but too often we define this term by the one definition that it has in many systematic theologies. However, this description can mean a variety of things, and we must carefully examine the NT author's context to determine the particular use. If he had left the book at this alone, with a list of the possible uses and then some basic examples of each, the book would have been an easy four stars. Unfortunately, Carson also attempts to plant his flag on the wrong side of too many controversial issues. Here I am not referring to his translation philosophy of "Son of God" in Muslim contexts. This was a helpful discussion at the end of the book. Rather I am talking about a number of exegetical issues that I take issue with. They are the following (Alongside these issues I have listed alternative resources that give an opposing answer to Carson. As I said, Carson is brilliant, and if you are going to disagree with him, you have to know your stuff.):
1. Whether Matthew 2:15's quotation of Hosea 11:1 portrays Jesus as the typological fulfillment of Israel. Carson answers in the affirmative, but for the negative see this blog series --> https://dbts.edu/2015/04/30/whatever-...
2. Whether Psalm 45:6 refers to the Davidic king as "Elohim." Carson answers in the affirmative, but for the negative see this commentary --> https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
3. Whether Jesus inaugurates the Kingdom of God at His first advent. Carson answers in the affirmative, but for the negative see this book --> https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
4. Whether John 5:26 teaches the eternal generation of the Son. Carson (cautiously) answers in the affirmative, but for the negative see this podcast --> https://open.spotify.com/episode/7kyq...
As I said Carson's overall biblical theology of "son of God" is excellent. However, too much of this helpful little book was taken up by exegetical errors for me to give it anything more than 3 stars.
MACROREAD
1. Whether Matthew 2:15's quotation of Hosea 11:1 portrays Jesus as the typological fulfillment of Israel. Carson answers in the affirmative, but for the negative see this blog series --> https://dbts.edu/2015/04/30/whatever-...
2. Whether Psalm 45:6 refers to the Davidic king as "Elohim." Carson answers in the affirmative, but for the negative see this commentary --> https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
3. Whether Jesus inaugurates the Kingdom of God at His first advent. Carson answers in the affirmative, but for the negative see this book --> https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
4. Whether John 5:26 teaches the eternal generation of the Son. Carson (cautiously) answers in the affirmative, but for the negative see this podcast --> https://open.spotify.com/episode/7kyq...
As I said Carson's overall biblical theology of "son of God" is excellent. However, too much of this helpful little book was taken up by exegetical errors for me to give it anything more than 3 stars.
MACROREAD
January 9, 2023
This is an "introduction" to fleshing out the meaning of the Messianic title "Son of God" in scripture. Don't let this category of introduction deceive you into thinking this is a beginners read. Carson's writing level is rather technical in this book, and proved difficult to comprehend entirely over audiobook. Toward the end of the book, he finally states his main purpose which is appealing to modern Bible translators who are working in mission fields to Muslim populations primarily, urging them to be more careful in their handling of this rich title of Jesus. I did not read this book because I'm translating the Bible, but it also helped me to have a better grasp of the difficulties in understanding this phrase. Carson convinced me there is a larger semantic range to this phrase than I thought before, yet what all he believes the phrase to mean in varying texts is rather obscure. It wasn't the most clear book. It more or less makes you aware that the phrase cannot be reduced to a singular meaning. Context determines what the author means by the Messianic title. Is he referring to Jesus as the true Israel, Son of God? Is he referring to Jesus as the Davidic King of prophecy? Is he referring to Jesus in connection to equality with God as Carson proposes is the case in John 5:16-30? Carson stresses the relationship of this title to Davidic Kingship persistently but not exclusively. It's only 3 chapters long, and his second chapter where he discussed Hebrews 1 and John 5 is a rather technical discussion. It's worth reading, but I would recommend actually reading and not listening to it.
October 8, 2024
I listened to this book - and I’ll be honest: it felt a bit over my head. But then again, audio is not my best format for reading, especially deep dives into theological matters. The narrator was good, but the content warrants reading it with an open Bible in hand and probably a lot of underlining and note taking. I likely will go back and read a physical copy in the future.
That said, I really did enjoy this book - not surprising, given that I pretty much love anything DA Carson writes and teaches. He’s just such an excellent thinker, not steering away from tough passages and weaving Scriptures together in ways that have changed the way I read Scripture myself.
I know that this book was published in part as a contribution to a debate I didn’t even know existed , ie, Bible translations that alter the way Son of God is understood for the sake of Muslim readers. The last section of the book is devoted to the specifics of that debate and Carson’s own response to it. I found that interesting, but what I most enjoyed were the first two sections which expounded on Hebrews 1 (among other passages) and explored what it means that Jesus is the Son of God, the OT references that are quoted in Hebrews 1 and how they can be understood, and the theology and significance of the Trinity - God as Father, Jesus the Messiah as Son, and the Spirit.
As I said, I will likely return to a physical copy of this book and study it more thoroughly at some point. But also, it is always a good use of my time to listen to or read the teachings of DA Carson on Christ and the New Testament.
That said, I really did enjoy this book - not surprising, given that I pretty much love anything DA Carson writes and teaches. He’s just such an excellent thinker, not steering away from tough passages and weaving Scriptures together in ways that have changed the way I read Scripture myself.
I know that this book was published in part as a contribution to a debate I didn’t even know existed , ie, Bible translations that alter the way Son of God is understood for the sake of Muslim readers. The last section of the book is devoted to the specifics of that debate and Carson’s own response to it. I found that interesting, but what I most enjoyed were the first two sections which expounded on Hebrews 1 (among other passages) and explored what it means that Jesus is the Son of God, the OT references that are quoted in Hebrews 1 and how they can be understood, and the theology and significance of the Trinity - God as Father, Jesus the Messiah as Son, and the Spirit.
As I said, I will likely return to a physical copy of this book and study it more thoroughly at some point. But also, it is always a good use of my time to listen to or read the teachings of DA Carson on Christ and the New Testament.
December 27, 2019
Carson's book was at times a bit more theological than exegetical than I was hoping for, although it does manage to cover the topic (somewhat too briefly and a bit scattered). The goal of the last section of the book was for translators, especially those translating for languages in Muslim contexts. Carson's thinking seems to prefer staying more literal in a translation to keep the continuity and follow the development between the OT and NT, which isn't a bad concept, but Carson seems to take for granted that people are going to enjoy reading notes which will explain difficulties in understanding, and that, of course, implies that they need to be literate, and that that they will "get over" the difficulties if given the chance. In other words, Carson is expecting those who have a difficulty undertstanding, or who experience misunderstanding to just to "get over it" (if they are at all serious seekers) and then move on to grow in their understanding. There is also an "insider" versus an "outsider" approach, meaning that there might not be an "in between seeker" approach for those who are possibly moving in the right direction. He doesn't take into consideration that there can be a "transitional" approach, allowing people to start with a less literal translation and then moving on to (or reading side by side) a more traditional translation. Anyway, it's an interesting read.
October 5, 2023
This collection of three lectures, originally delivered at seminaries in the USA and France, are marked by a penetrating analysis of exegetical and missiological issues surrounding the Sonship of Christ. The text is, at times, dense in its treatment of theological concepts. However, Carson displays his usual adeptness in bringing the conversation around to applicable conclusions.
I have always enjoyed the fact that Carson is a gifted writer, a first order theological mind and a global thinker. This giftedness is on display in the book's third unit as he delves into such thorny issues as the translation of "Son of God" for Bibles in Muslim contexts and the theological implications of the C1-C6 missiological model in reaching Muslims. His familiarity with Bible translation approaches is particularly insightful for extrapolating the implications of certain theological terms.
There is a need for practitioners to read texts such as these so that our strategies are guided by orthodox belief. Pragmatic proclamation is inherently problematic, especially when we avoid complicated theological issues in the pursuit of a more attractional model of engagement with those needing the good news of Jesus. Our oath to Christ's commission does impetrate a humble reflection on how we are conveying the saving truth concerning Jesus, the Son of God. For this reason, such works as this are incredibly strategic for gospel proclaimers.
I have always enjoyed the fact that Carson is a gifted writer, a first order theological mind and a global thinker. This giftedness is on display in the book's third unit as he delves into such thorny issues as the translation of "Son of God" for Bibles in Muslim contexts and the theological implications of the C1-C6 missiological model in reaching Muslims. His familiarity with Bible translation approaches is particularly insightful for extrapolating the implications of certain theological terms.
There is a need for practitioners to read texts such as these so that our strategies are guided by orthodox belief. Pragmatic proclamation is inherently problematic, especially when we avoid complicated theological issues in the pursuit of a more attractional model of engagement with those needing the good news of Jesus. Our oath to Christ's commission does impetrate a humble reflection on how we are conveying the saving truth concerning Jesus, the Son of God. For this reason, such works as this are incredibly strategic for gospel proclaimers.
Read
July 7, 2023This is not an easy read. I don't think it was meant to be.
The long and short of it (if I have understood the book correctly, which I very well may not have) is that Jesus is an individual who stands at the culmination of many historical ideas that run thread like through the old testament, but that we cannot pick and choose any individual thread for the purpose of our viewpoint, but must embrace the whole tapestry of who Jesus is.
This impacts our evangelism, as it reminds us that we must introduce people to the whole of who Jesus is, not just some pre-baked idea of who he is, and in particular has important implications for those who work in bible translation (in particular to the muslim world) reminding us that we cannot merely eschew any given biblical metaphor for fear it will be misunderstood culturally, especially and particularly if that biblical metaphor is one of such supreme importance as the idea of Jesus being the `begotten son of God'. One point I think he fails to make, and a much simpler one at that, is that we do our muslim brothers and sisters a disservice to their intellect if we fail to trust them to have such basic grasp of metaphor that we cannot possibly introduce them to the idea that Jesus is Gods son in a way more rich and refined than the idea that God the father somehow had sexual congress with Mary.
All in all a good read.
The long and short of it (if I have understood the book correctly, which I very well may not have) is that Jesus is an individual who stands at the culmination of many historical ideas that run thread like through the old testament, but that we cannot pick and choose any individual thread for the purpose of our viewpoint, but must embrace the whole tapestry of who Jesus is.
This impacts our evangelism, as it reminds us that we must introduce people to the whole of who Jesus is, not just some pre-baked idea of who he is, and in particular has important implications for those who work in bible translation (in particular to the muslim world) reminding us that we cannot merely eschew any given biblical metaphor for fear it will be misunderstood culturally, especially and particularly if that biblical metaphor is one of such supreme importance as the idea of Jesus being the `begotten son of God'. One point I think he fails to make, and a much simpler one at that, is that we do our muslim brothers and sisters a disservice to their intellect if we fail to trust them to have such basic grasp of metaphor that we cannot possibly introduce them to the idea that Jesus is Gods son in a way more rich and refined than the idea that God the father somehow had sexual congress with Mary.
All in all a good read.
October 27, 2019
I would have liked a more in-depth treatment of the subject, but that is not a criticism of the book but rather an acknowledgement that it made me want more of the same. Carson shows that we should neither assume that every use of "son of God" must mean what many Christians assume it means, nor, on the basis of the possible diversity of meaning, shy away from asserting that many times it does mean exactly that. He also uses this as an example of the importance of studying and understanding both Scriptural exegesis and systematic theology, and laments the fact that two students of one discipline also become very knowledgeable in the other. I was unaware, prior to reading this book, of the conflicts over how to translate "Son" and "Father" in Muslim contexts, but found the discussion very interesting, particularly as at one point I was interested in becoming a Bible translator (but ended up following God's call in a different direction).
October 17, 2025
In the three lectures constituting this book, Carson brings out the rich theological meaning encapsulated in the designation "Son of God" for Jesus. In particular, this phrase refers to Jesus as
(1) representative of God's son Israel;
(2) Davidic king and promised Messiah, based on 2 Sam 7 and Psalm 2;
(3) preexistent agent of creation and sustainer of the universe, as in Heb 1:1-4.
The first lecture looks at the use of metaphorical "son of" language in the Bible, particularly "son of God" language. The second lecture focuses on what we learn about Jesus as Son of God from Hebrews 1 and John 5. The third looks at the challenge of linking biblical exegesis and systematic theology, and at questions about how to translate "son of God" language in Bibles directed to the Muslim world. On this second issue, he argues that direct translations are best for preserving the full story of what it means for Jesus to be the Son of God. Much is packed into this short but helpful book.
(1) representative of God's son Israel;
(2) Davidic king and promised Messiah, based on 2 Sam 7 and Psalm 2;
(3) preexistent agent of creation and sustainer of the universe, as in Heb 1:1-4.
The first lecture looks at the use of metaphorical "son of" language in the Bible, particularly "son of God" language. The second lecture focuses on what we learn about Jesus as Son of God from Hebrews 1 and John 5. The third looks at the challenge of linking biblical exegesis and systematic theology, and at questions about how to translate "son of God" language in Bibles directed to the Muslim world. On this second issue, he argues that direct translations are best for preserving the full story of what it means for Jesus to be the Son of God. Much is packed into this short but helpful book.
March 27, 2021
A book flowing out of several lecture series. It's broken into three parts. The initial exegetical survey of the uses/meanings of "Son of God" is solid but not exhaustive (nor intended to be). Carson also spends a short time comparing/contrasting biblical v. systematic theology. The middle section is where my concerns primarily lie as Carson more or less opens to the door to ERAS/EFS/ESS, particularly based on his unpacking of John 5:26. The third focus is on translation issues related to "Son of God" in the Muslim world. It's a reminder of the impotence and danger of excessive hypersensitivity and accommodation to culture. There are reasonable debates to be held on the spectrum of formal and dynamic equivalence when translating, but we ought never to sacrifice the basic import of scripture's witness to Jesus as the Son of God. I'm grateful Carson stands firmly on this point.
September 16, 2016
"Rightly deployed confessional standards ought to guide, shape and enrich our exegesis. Wrongly deployed, they become cut off from the Biblical texts that nurtured and developed them."
- Carson
"In most seminaries there is not a clear educational tract that helps students move easily and intelligently from how the Bible uses Son of God to the trinitarian use of the title to which all of us are grateful heirs. The danger on the one hand is succumbing to the mindless biblicism that interprets texts and translates them without wrestling with the synthesis that actually preserved biblical fidelity, and on the other hand relying on confessional formulas while no longer being able to explain in some detail how they emerged from reflection on what the Bible actually says."
- Carson
I remain fond of Carson's approach to theological conversation and exposition, which always carries a good balance of intellectual and pastoral concern, along with utilizing a variety of biblical disciplines. In fact, Jesus the Son of God is based on a series of lectures (which can be recognized in the chapter divisions themselves) that desire to drive us towards finding synergy in these different disciplines as we consider our own theological dispositions.
In specific focus here is the title "son of God", which he argues remains a vastly understudied and overlooked theological phrase within the Christian confessional. The lectures themselves essentially argue this position by laying a foundation for understanding the title, exploring the title within biblical exposition, and finally exploring the function of the title from within an equal understanding of both the modern and ancient culture out of which it got its use.
The exposition itself is necessary and fairly exhaustive, but also (understandably so) the most sluggish component of the book. The fact that the lectures themselves, and the way they are put together in book form, come across as slightly disjointed might lend to this reality as well. For example, it is not until we arrive at the third chapter (lecture) that he outlines his motivation and approach for giving such attention to the Biblical material itself, thus filling in the full relevance (and perhaps his underlying predispositions) after the fact.
The more interesting section was the intro, in which he outlines why the title is disputed (which has much to do with its diverse usage as a literary term and its cultural/religious placement/development), but the section that really grabbed my attention was the third and final chapter, in which he makes a good and positive case for the dangers of biblical illiteracy (and the reality of it) as one of the core reasons the title remains misunderstood and overlooked today. Here he argues that when a term such as "son of God" becomes ingrained into our modern confessions (as it has in Christianity) we stand in danger of losing sight of the intricate history, cultural complexities and literary exposition that brought us to this confession in the first place. In Carson's eyes, while he certainly does affirm the place of the confession itself, to lose sight of the larger picture is to do it (and us and others) a disservice. In fact, embracing the larger discussion only serves to enrich it all the more.
In Carson's view, confessional Christians need not be afraid of exploring its use in the Jewish tradition and Old Testament scripture, which shows us both the difficulty of navigating its diversity in oral and linguistic representation (much of which moves back and forth from the descriptive and symbolic to the generational understanding of the title in its differing forms), and also helps shed light on exactly what the scripture itself is attempting to do with the term as it is applied to the New Testament Christological context. More so, it can bring us closer to Jesus' own use of the term as he looks to use it to describe Himself to the world around Him.
Also in Carson's view, confessional Christians need not resist or ignore the intense debate that surrounded the early Church development and the broad (and devoted) group of thinkers, philosophers, and theologians who attempted to flesh out the questions (and concerns and confusion) that surrounded the title "son of God" in what was increasingly becoming an incredibly politicized environment (which had a lot to do with what the title said about Christs' divine and earthly nature and the development of trinitarian theology). This, of course, can help afford us a degree of humility and grace not only in how we understand the title, but in what it means for us to declare it in the context of our confessions and our worship.
To become aware of the term is to become aware of what it means for our faith. Here it can become far more than simply a word or an idea to simply express and move on from, but a chance to stop and meditate on the power and rich history that the title actually holds, both as a truth (of who Christ is) and an expression of the faith we hold. To see the title from it's developing context is to begin to understand (more clearly) the familiar hope that had persisted in the people of God throughout their known history and that became realized in Christ Himself. This is the beauty of allowing the systematic and expositional disciplines to shed light on each other rather than standing against each other, that out of its complex and diverse history and usage we can then find a unified confessional vision. It is simply that the journey towards this confession is as important and relevant as the confession itself.
- Carson
"In most seminaries there is not a clear educational tract that helps students move easily and intelligently from how the Bible uses Son of God to the trinitarian use of the title to which all of us are grateful heirs. The danger on the one hand is succumbing to the mindless biblicism that interprets texts and translates them without wrestling with the synthesis that actually preserved biblical fidelity, and on the other hand relying on confessional formulas while no longer being able to explain in some detail how they emerged from reflection on what the Bible actually says."
- Carson
I remain fond of Carson's approach to theological conversation and exposition, which always carries a good balance of intellectual and pastoral concern, along with utilizing a variety of biblical disciplines. In fact, Jesus the Son of God is based on a series of lectures (which can be recognized in the chapter divisions themselves) that desire to drive us towards finding synergy in these different disciplines as we consider our own theological dispositions.
In specific focus here is the title "son of God", which he argues remains a vastly understudied and overlooked theological phrase within the Christian confessional. The lectures themselves essentially argue this position by laying a foundation for understanding the title, exploring the title within biblical exposition, and finally exploring the function of the title from within an equal understanding of both the modern and ancient culture out of which it got its use.
The exposition itself is necessary and fairly exhaustive, but also (understandably so) the most sluggish component of the book. The fact that the lectures themselves, and the way they are put together in book form, come across as slightly disjointed might lend to this reality as well. For example, it is not until we arrive at the third chapter (lecture) that he outlines his motivation and approach for giving such attention to the Biblical material itself, thus filling in the full relevance (and perhaps his underlying predispositions) after the fact.
The more interesting section was the intro, in which he outlines why the title is disputed (which has much to do with its diverse usage as a literary term and its cultural/religious placement/development), but the section that really grabbed my attention was the third and final chapter, in which he makes a good and positive case for the dangers of biblical illiteracy (and the reality of it) as one of the core reasons the title remains misunderstood and overlooked today. Here he argues that when a term such as "son of God" becomes ingrained into our modern confessions (as it has in Christianity) we stand in danger of losing sight of the intricate history, cultural complexities and literary exposition that brought us to this confession in the first place. In Carson's eyes, while he certainly does affirm the place of the confession itself, to lose sight of the larger picture is to do it (and us and others) a disservice. In fact, embracing the larger discussion only serves to enrich it all the more.
In Carson's view, confessional Christians need not be afraid of exploring its use in the Jewish tradition and Old Testament scripture, which shows us both the difficulty of navigating its diversity in oral and linguistic representation (much of which moves back and forth from the descriptive and symbolic to the generational understanding of the title in its differing forms), and also helps shed light on exactly what the scripture itself is attempting to do with the term as it is applied to the New Testament Christological context. More so, it can bring us closer to Jesus' own use of the term as he looks to use it to describe Himself to the world around Him.
Also in Carson's view, confessional Christians need not resist or ignore the intense debate that surrounded the early Church development and the broad (and devoted) group of thinkers, philosophers, and theologians who attempted to flesh out the questions (and concerns and confusion) that surrounded the title "son of God" in what was increasingly becoming an incredibly politicized environment (which had a lot to do with what the title said about Christs' divine and earthly nature and the development of trinitarian theology). This, of course, can help afford us a degree of humility and grace not only in how we understand the title, but in what it means for us to declare it in the context of our confessions and our worship.
To become aware of the term is to become aware of what it means for our faith. Here it can become far more than simply a word or an idea to simply express and move on from, but a chance to stop and meditate on the power and rich history that the title actually holds, both as a truth (of who Christ is) and an expression of the faith we hold. To see the title from it's developing context is to begin to understand (more clearly) the familiar hope that had persisted in the people of God throughout their known history and that became realized in Christ Himself. This is the beauty of allowing the systematic and expositional disciplines to shed light on each other rather than standing against each other, that out of its complex and diverse history and usage we can then find a unified confessional vision. It is simply that the journey towards this confession is as important and relevant as the confession itself.
May 23, 2021
Um livro pequeno em tamanho e grande em conteúdo. Uma maravilhosa introdução sobre o tema, onde Carson traz uma explicação bem clara a respeito da complexidade e variedade de significados do título "Filho de Deus" referente a Jesus, bem como sua aplicação em ambientes cristãos e na tradução da expressão para contextos mulçumanos.
É impressionante sua habilidade em tratar do tema com o equilíbrio entre uma exegese sólida e reflexões teológicas coerentes, mostrando que não é necessário existir uma "divisão" entre teólogos sistemáticos e os exegetas. Um livrinho muito importante para conhecermos mais quem é Jesus e a importância de adorá-lo como o Cristo, o Filho de Deus. Recomendadíssimo!!
É impressionante sua habilidade em tratar do tema com o equilíbrio entre uma exegese sólida e reflexões teológicas coerentes, mostrando que não é necessário existir uma "divisão" entre teólogos sistemáticos e os exegetas. Um livrinho muito importante para conhecermos mais quem é Jesus e a importância de adorá-lo como o Cristo, o Filho de Deus. Recomendadíssimo!!
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