Is Jesus the Son of God? Responding to Common Muslim Arguments

In a compelling discussion, Muslim apologist Shaykh Uthman Ibn Farooq engages a young Christian man, attempting to argue that Jesus is not the Son of God.

Shaykh Uthman presents a series of Biblical references that, at first glance, seem to support his claim. But when examined in full context, they do the opposite—reinforcing the uniqueness of Jesus Christ.

This article will walk through the key Scriptures mentioned in the dialogue, offer Biblical responses, and help equip Christians to answer these kinds of objections with truth and grace.

Misunderstanding the Term “Son of God”

One of the main points Shaykh Uthman raises is that other figures in the Bible are called “sons of God,” so Jesus’ title cannot be unique. He cites passages like:

“The sons of God saw that the daughters of humans were beautiful, and they married any of them they chose.” – Genesis 6:2

In this context, most scholars understand “sons of God” to refer to angelic beings or, according to some traditions, the righteous descendants of Seth.

Regardless of the interpretation, the text clearly does not identify them as divine. These beings don’t claim oneness with God or receive worship.

Similarly, he quotes:

“Then say to Pharaoh, ‘This is what the Lord says: Israel is my firstborn son.’” – Exodus 4:22

And:

“…for I am Israel’s father, and Ephraim is my firstborn son.” – Jeremiah 31:9

These are metaphorical uses of “son” to describe God’s covenantal relationship with His people. The nation of Israel is called “God’s son” as an expression of special favor—not divine nature.

Jesus’ sonship, however, is categorically different.

“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
— John 1:14

Jesus is not a son of God—He is the only begotten Son, sharing in the divine nature of the Father from eternity. Share on X

Psalm 2:7 – A Messianic Prophecy

Shaykh Uthman also cites:

“I will proclaim the Lord’s decree: He said to me, ‘You are my son; today I have become your father.’” – Psalm 2:7

He argues this is about David, not Jesus. However, this verse has long been regarded by Jews and Christians as a messianic prophecy pointing forward to someone greater than David.

The New Testament affirms this interpretation:

“We tell you the good news: What God promised our ancestors he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus. As it is written in the second Psalm: ‘You are my son; today I have become your father.’”
— Acts 13:32–33

This verse finds fulfillment in the resurrection and exaltation of Jesus. It does not diminish His divine nature—it affirms His messianic role.

Context Is Everything

One of the most important takeaways from the conversation is the importance of context. The Christian man repeatedly emphasizes this point—and he’s right to do so.

The Bible doesn’t use the phrase “Son of God” the same way in every passage.

For example, it describes angels (Job 1:6), refers to Israel (Exodus 4:22), and even identifies faithful believers (Romans 8:14) with that term. But none of these uses match how Scripture applies the title to Jesus.

“In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets… but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son… The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being.” – Hebrews 1:1–3

The Bible reserves language for Jesus that it does not use for any other so-called “sons of God.” He is called the “only begotten,” the one through whom all things were created, and the exact imprint of God’s nature.

Another tactic used in the discussion is to question whether Jesus’ birth was truly unique. For example, Shaykh Uthman asks whether anyone else in Scripture lacked an earthly father, referencing Adam or Eve.

However, this is a red herring. Although Adam was created directly by God, he was not born—he was formed from dust.

Jesus, by contrast, was born of a woman, conceived by the Holy Spirit, and entered the world through natural birth, yet without sin.

“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” – Isaiah 7:14

Jesus' virgin birth is not just about miraculous origin—it’s about the fulfillment of prophecy and the beginning of God's redemptive mission. Share on X

While others may be called “sons” metaphorically or covenantally, Jesus Himself claimed divine sonship in a way no other figure did.

“I and the Father are one.” – John 10:30

“Before Abraham was born, I am.” – John 8:58

His Jewish contemporaries understood these statements as claims to deity and sought to stone Him for blasphemy.

Jesus accepted worship (Matthew 28:17), forgave sins (Mark 2:5–7), and claimed authority over the Sabbath (Mark 2:28)—all things reserved for God alone.

Don’t Fall for Strawman Arguments

Much of Shaykh Uthman’s argument hinges on a false assumption—namely, that Christians believe in a biological, literal sonship when they call Jesus the Son of God. However, that’s not Christian doctrine.

On the contrary, Christians affirm that Jesus is the eternal Son, begotten not made, and of one essence with the Father.His Sonship is relational and ontological—not physical.

Muslim critics often misrepresent this truth, turning complex theology into a caricature. For more on how to respond to such distortions, I recommend reading this article.

Let the Word be your foundation. Speak the truth. Do it in love. God bless.

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