This paper by Stiven Peter, submitted to Dr. Michael J. Kruger for NT5200 – Gospels at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, presents an in-depth analysis of the descent and ascent of the Son of Man in the Gospel of John as the foundation of a New Exodus theology.
Peter builds upon the work of Meeks and Ashton but moves beyond their symbolic frameworks to argue that John intentionally portrays Jesus as the Danielic Son of Man who descends from heaven to lead His people out of sin and death into the light of God’s glory. Through detailed exegesis, the paper connects the Johannine descent-ascent motif to Old Testament typologies, such as Moses’ tabernacle, Jacob’s ladder, and Isaiah’s servant, demonstrating how each reveals Jesus as the new locus of divine presence.
The study concludes that John’s Gospel does not depict an exclusive sectarian revelation, but a universal invitation: the crucified and risen Christ—lifted up as the true ladder between heaven and earth—draws all who believe into the new creation.
Course and semester: NT5200 Gospels — Spring 2022
