Hebrews 1:6 – “And again, when God brings his firstborn into the world, he says, ‘Let all God’s angels worship him.’”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse adds another strong point about who Jesus is. It says that when God brings His “firstborn” into the world, He commands all the angels to worship Him. The term “firstborn” here doesn’t mean Jesus was created first-it’s a title that points to His rank, authority, and inheritance. In ancient times, the firstborn son had the highest status in the family. In this case, Jesus is the one who holds the highest position in all creation.
And notice what God says: “Let all God’s angels worship him.” Angels are powerful beings, but even they bow before Jesus. God is the one telling them to worship His Son. That tells us everything we need to know about Jesus’ worth-He is worshiped in heaven by the very ones others sometimes wrongly elevate.
Historical Context
At the time this was written, some Jewish believers were still very focused on angels. Some traditions even believed that angels had a role in giving the law at Mount Sinai (see Acts 7:53 and Galatians 3:19). There was a risk that people could start to give angels too much honor-even bordering on worship.
The writer of Hebrews is correcting that. He’s not putting angels down-he’s lifting Jesus up. He’s saying, “Don’t be impressed with angels more than you should. Even they worship Jesus.” This would have been a powerful reminder for early Christians, especially those from a Jewish background, that Jesus is far greater than anything or anyone else in the spiritual world.
The quote in this verse is likely drawn from Deuteronomy 32:43 in some ancient versions, or Psalm 97:7, both of which include a call for heavenly beings to worship the Lord.
Theological Implications
This verse shows us clearly that Jesus is worthy of worship. And not just human worship-angelic worship. That means Jesus is not a created being like the angels. He is divine. Only God deserves worship, and here God commands that Jesus be worshiped. That tells us Jesus shares God’s nature.
It also confirms that worshiping Jesus is not optional. It’s the right and proper response to who He is. Even heaven knows it. If the angels fall before Him, we should too.
This verse also touches on Jesus being “brought into the world.” That could refer to His birth, His resurrection, or even His return at the end of time. Whichever event is in view, the point remains: Jesus is the focus of heaven’s praise.
Literary Analysis
The structure of the verse starts with “And again,” which links it to the previous arguments about Jesus being greater than the angels. The phrase “when God brings his firstborn into the world” carries a sense of authority and purpose-God is the one doing this. Then the quote comes like a divine command: “Let all God’s angels worship him.” Short, direct, and powerful.
The term “firstborn” is used not to show order of birth, but status and inheritance. It’s a title of honor and preeminence. The verb “worship” is central here-this is about giving Jesus the highest honor.
Biblical Cross-References
- Colossians 1:15 – “The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.”
- Psalm 97:7 – “All who worship images are put to shame… worship him, all you gods!” (used to point toward angelic beings)
- Philippians 2:10-11 – “At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…”
- Revelation 5:11-12 – Angels surround the throne and worship the Lamb.
- Luke 2:13-14 – At Jesus’ birth, a multitude of angels praise God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s believer, this verse reminds us that Jesus is not just a good man or a wise teacher. He is the one all of heaven worships. That should shape how we see Him and how we live for Him. Our response should be reverence, love, and worship-just like the angels.
It also reminds us not to get caught up in spiritual distractions. Whether it’s fascination with angels, religious experiences, or anything else-we need to keep Jesus at the center. He’s the one who truly deserves our worship and attention.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse shows us that God doesn’t just keep Jesus hidden in heaven. He brings His Son into the world-into our world. Whether that’s in the manger, the empty tomb, or the sky when He returns, God is not distant. He’s involved. He brings salvation to us through His Son.
And He doesn’t just love Jesus-He loves us enough to make His Son known to us, and to invite us into the worship that even angels join in. That’s what a loving Father does: He shares the greatest treasure-His Son-with the world.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the center of this verse. He is the “firstborn,” the one in the highest place. He is the object of angelic worship. That means He is not one of them-He is above them. This is another clear declaration that Jesus is divine.
- Revelation 1:5 – Jesus is called “the firstborn from the dead,” pointing to His resurrection and rule.
- Romans 8:29 – Jesus is the firstborn among many brothers and sisters-those who trust in Him.
- John 1:14 – “We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son…”
This verse paints a picture of a powerful, worthy Savior who is praised by heaven and offered to the world.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does it mean that even angels are commanded to worship Jesus?
- Why is the title “firstborn” important when referring to Jesus?
- How does this verse shape the way you approach worship?
- Are there things in your life that may be distracting you from giving Jesus the honor He deserves?
- How does this verse encourage you to think about the greatness of Christ in everyday life?