Page 170 - Prophet Jesus (Pbuh): A Prophet Not A Son, Of God

168 Prophet Jesus (pbuh): A Prophet, Not A Son, of God

son of God. Clearly the concept of "Father" and "Son" in these ex-
pressions does not express a literal relationship, but symbolizes
only a metaphorical expression of God-human relationship. Let us
immediately add that seeking to interpret these expressions literally
is considered a major sin in Judaism. Metaphorical expressions of
this kind were, in any case, in existence in the time of Prophet Jesus.
The metaphorical description of any human being as the "son of
God" dedicated to any deity can be regarded as a part of the general
religious symbolism at that time. In short, the expression "son" is a
symbolic reference to closeness to God. As far as I know, it is the lit-
eral interpretation of this term that disturbs Muslims. Similarly, I
must say that as a Christian I, too, will feel uneasy at such a literal
interpretation. 63
Many other New Testament passages need to be understood in a
figurative sense, such as God's Children: (Surely God is beyond all the ex-
pressions in the extracts that follow.)
They are God's children, since they are children of the resurrection. (Luke
20:36)

Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave
the right to become children of God. (John 1:12)

He did not say this on his own, but as high priest that year he prophesied
that Jesus would die for the Jewish nation, and not only for that nation but
also for the scattered children of God, to bring them together and make
them one. (John 11:51-52)
The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now
if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with the
Messiah, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also
share in his glory. (Romans 8:16-17)
The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed.
(Romans, 8:19)