The answer is: He had made himself the Son of God

John 19:7 - The Jews considered the adoption of this title as blasphemy.

In the time of Jesus, titles like "Son of God" carried immense weight, posing a significant contrast between divine authority and the perception of deception. When the Jewish leaders accused Jesus of blasphemy, they were not just contesting a title; they were challenging the very foundations of their religious framework. To pluck such a label from the Scriptures and claim it for oneself was seen as a radical, possibly perilous act.

Interestingly, throughout history, the understanding of Jesus' identity has sparked debates not just amongst the Jewish authorities but within broader society and across religions. For example, in Greek culture, divine lineage was less scandalous; heroes often had titles hinting at vengeance or ‘godlike’ traits without hubristic implications. This contrast shows how cultural understanding can influence interpretation and create tension.

Invitation to deeper consideration lies with Psalm 2:7, wherein God speaks of somewhat celebrating the one described as His Son. Would these ancient words prefigure the Jesus the Jewish leaders faced? That echoes a remarkable sense of continuity, begging the question: How do we inherit or share these divine titles in our lives today?

The vibrant conversations surrounding Jesus' declaration as the Son of God remind us that interpretations and reactions are multifaceted, nurturing spiritual dialogues that echo in both sacred texts and contemporary understanding. In the rich tapestry of biblical narrative, this moment leads us to reflect on identity, authority, and their implications in human faith journeys.