Which role does Jesus fulfill according to Daniel 7:13?

In Daniel 7:13, the role of Jesus is depicted as the "Son of Man with divine authority." This title carries significant theological weight, as it emphasizes the dual nature of Christ's identity. The "Son of Man" represents a messianic figure who emerges from humanity and yet possesses a divine prerogative. In this vision, Jesus is described as coming with the clouds of heaven, a clear indication of his exalted status and the authority granted to him by God.

The use of "divine authority" signifies that Jesus is not merely a human leader but is endowed with power and rule over all nations and peoples. This aligns with the overarching themes in the New Testament, where Jesus asserts his authority in various ways, including his ability to forgive sins, command nature, and declare himself the Messiah.

While the roles of teacher, shepherd, and servant leader are relevant to Jesus's ministry, they do not encapsulate the full scope of the divine authority aspect mentioned in Daniel. The emphasis in this passage on the cosmic and regal authority of the "Son of Man" distinguishes this role as one that goes beyond what is typically associated with earthly titles, pointing to a messianic fulfillment that Christians recognize in Jesus.