Why Is Jesus called the Son of David?
Jesus is called the Son of David in part because he is believed to be of Davidic decent from David the great king of ancient Israel. Christ is called the Only Begotten of the Father in the flesh. Therefore, in order for Jesus to be a literal descendant (and therefore a son) of David, Mary must have been of Davidic descent. Because David was king of Israel, his descendents, under the patriarchal order, were entitled to the throne. It is also significant that Jesus was born in Bethlehem, the City of David. In this sense Jesus shared a “geographical sonship” with the great King David.
The Gospel of Matthew and the Title “Son of David”
From the very first verse of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is called “the son of David.” Matthew uses this title almost as a preface to the genealogy he records—and perhaps even to his entire testimony of the Savior. This introduction signals to readers that Jesus fulfills the promises made to David: that from his lineage would come the long-awaited Messiah.
“Son of David” vs. “son of David”
Looking deeper, we can distinguish between “son of David” (lowercase) and “Son of David” (capitalized). The lowercase version refers to any physical descendant of David, such as Absalom, Amnon, or Solomon (see 2 Samuel 13:1; 2 Chronicles 1:1). However, the capitalized “Son of David” is reserved only for Jesus of Nazareth.
This sacred title appears most often when people appeal to Jesus for healing or miracles. By addressing “Jesus as Son of David,” one “demonstrates . . . belief that He was the Messiah of Israel” (Ibid. 335). Thus, the use of this title expresses both recognition and faith in His divine identity.
Anointed Like David: Prophet, Priest, and King
In the Old Testament, kings were anointed to their offices just as were priests, high priests, and prophets. (see 1 Samuel 10:1; Exodus 40:15; Leviticus 21:10; 1 Kings 19:16). Because of this, it is fitting that Jesus is called Messiah, which means “the Anointed One”. He fulfills every role—Prophet, Priest, and King—unifying the sacred offices in His divine mission.
David’s anointing marked him as Israel’s chosen ruler who delivered his people from political and spiritual oppression. In a far greater sense, Jesus Christ ,the Anointed One, came to deliver all humanity from sin and death, offering eternal freedom through His atonement.
The Messiah Israel Awaited
The Jewish people long awaited this promised Deliverer. The Old Testament overflows with prophecies, types, and shadows that point toward One who would unite Israel, restore divine law, and reign with righteousness. That promised Deliverer is Jesus Christ, the Son of David.
Related Articles:
● Why Are the Names in the Old Testament Different from Those in the New Testament?
