While compiling The One, a chronological blending of the four Gospels, I had to decide which of the words from the Father at the baptism of Jesus should be included. Mark 1:11 says, “You’re my beloved Son, in You I’m well pleased.” Matthew 3:17 says, “This is My beloved Son, who brings me great joy.” An earlier blended Gospel I compiled, The Jesus Story (originally created by M. Cheney and Stanley Ellisen) included only Mark 1:11. Cheney and Ellisen thought only one declaration occurred.

The Father Said Both

As I studied the two statements, I concluded the Father said both. Mark’s quote served as a personal blessing from the Father to the Son. This took place prior to the temptation in the wilderness and the launching of His ministry. Near the end of His ministry the Father would again bless Jesus. This time Jesus prayed, “‘Father, glorify Your name.’ Then a voice from heaven said, ‘I have both glorified it and will glorify it again'” (John 12:28).

After His baptism and before Jesus entered the wilderness to be tempted by the devil, the Father expressed His affection and approval.

At the end of His ministry, before He entered the wilderness of suffering and death, the Father declared His approval of what Jesus had and would accomplish.

And what of Matthew’s quote? It served as a public declaration from the Father to those in attendance, that as Jesus launched his public ministry, He had God’s blessing.

A Deeper Meaning

Michael S. Heiser, in his excellent book, The Unseen Realm, added depth to my understanding. I had always viewed the Father calling Jesus, “My beloved Son” as a statement of affection.  While true, the Jewish people who heard the Father call Jesus “My beloved Son,” would have heard more. Much more. And here’s what I never knew that blows my mind. It reminds me that  no matter how many times I read the gospels, I always gain a fresh insight. Something that takes me deeper into Jesus.

The term “beloved” was used of Solomon, the original heir to David’s throne. The proper name, “David,” means “beloved.” Used of Solomon, the term serves as a title that marked Solomon as the legitimate heir to the Davidic covenantal throne. Heiser notes “that the same message is telegraphed with respect to Jesus.” When God calls Jesus “My beloved Son,” in His own voice He announces, This is the king, the legitimate heir to David’s throne. (Heiser p 274).

Did you know that about Jesus?