Hebrews 2:5 – “It is not to angels that he has subjected the world to come, about which we are speaking.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse marks a turning point in the chapter. After warning the readers not to drift from the gospel, the writer shifts focus back to Jesus and His role in God’s future plan. The “world to come” refers to the future kingdom God will fully establish-a restored, redeemed creation where God’s rule is complete. The writer says plainly: it’s not angels who will rule over this coming world.
This might seem like an odd point unless we understand that some people in that time had a very high view of angels. They believed angels had a big role in delivering God’s law and helping carry out His will. But here, the writer is saying that in God’s future plan, rulership is not handed over to angels. Instead, that role belongs to someone greater-Jesus, and by extension, those who belong to Him.
So, this verse begins to build the idea that humanity-restored through Christ-has a special place in God’s future. The focus is shifting to show how Jesus, though once lower than the angels in His humanity, is now exalted above them.
Historical Context
During the time this letter was written, Jewish teachings often emphasized the greatness of angels. Some even believed angels were involved in ruling aspects of the world under God’s direction. The writer of Hebrews is pushing back against that idea-not by dishonoring angels, but by making clear that Jesus is far greater and has a unique role in God’s plan.
This verse also sets the stage for the following verses, which quote Psalm 8-a passage about the role of mankind and how it fits into God’s purpose. The first readers, likely Jewish believers, would have understood the psalm and how it points forward to something bigger than just human status-it ultimately points to Jesus.
Theological Implications
This verse tells us that God’s final plan for the world is centered on His Son, not on heavenly beings. Angels have their place, but they are not the ones who will reign in the age to come. That honor belongs to Jesus-and those who are united with Him.
It also highlights a major theme in Scripture: God’s intention for redeemed humanity to have a meaningful place in His eternal kingdom. Through Christ, God is restoring what was lost at the fall. He’s not putting angels in charge of the world to come-He’s including people who have been made new in Christ.
This teaches us that God’s plan is not just about saving souls, but about bringing full restoration to the world and establishing a future kingdom ruled by Jesus.
Literary Analysis
This verse functions as a transition. The structure of Hebrews 2 up to this point has been a warning about neglecting salvation, backed by evidence of its truth and power. Now, the tone shifts to explain more deeply who Jesus is and why He matters in the big picture of God’s plan.
The phrase “the world to come” is intentionally forward-looking. It stirs up expectation and points to fulfillment. The use of contrast-“not to angels”-sets the stage for emphasizing someone else (Jesus) as the true ruler. The writing style is careful and layered, preparing the reader for the unfolding argument based on Scripture in the next few verses.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 8:4–6 – “What is mankind that you are mindful of them… You made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor.”
- Hebrews 1:13–14 – Angels are ministering spirits, not rulers.
- 1 Corinthians 6:2–3 – Believers will judge the world and even angels.
- Revelation 22:5 – In the new creation, God’s servants will reign forever and ever.
- Ephesians 1:20–22 – Jesus is exalted above all rule and authority.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds believers that our future is secure and meaningful. We aren’t just waiting for heaven as a place of rest-we’re looking forward to a world where Jesus reigns and we reign with Him. That gives our lives purpose now. It also lifts our eyes beyond the struggles of this world to the hope of what’s coming.
It also helps us avoid the trap of putting spiritual beings-like angels-on too high a pedestal. Yes, angels are real and serve God, but Jesus is the one who rules. And He invites us, as His people, to share in that future.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in the way He includes people in His plan for the future. Even though we’re weak and broken, God doesn’t leave us out-He redeems us and gives us a role in His coming kingdom. He doesn’t delegate His future rule to angels, even though they’re powerful and holy. He chooses to lift up those who trust in His Son.
This verse shows a loving God who doesn’t just save people from judgment-He gives them honor and purpose.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the one who inherits and reigns over the “world to come.” Though He became lower than the angels by taking on human form and suffering death, He has now been exalted above all (Philippians 2:9–11). He is the ruler of the coming kingdom.
- Hebrews 1:2 – Jesus was appointed heir of all things.
- Hebrews 2:9 – Jesus was made lower than the angels for a little while, now crowned with glory.
- Luke 1:32–33 – Jesus will reign forever; His kingdom will never end.
- Revelation 11:15 – “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Messiah.”
Jesus is the central figure in God’s plan for the future, and everything is moving toward His reign.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What comes to mind when you think of “the world to come”? Does it give you hope?
- Why is it important that Jesus-not angels-is the one who rules in God’s future kingdom?
- How does knowing you have a role in God’s plan for the future affect how you live today?
- In what ways do you see God restoring dignity and purpose to humanity through Jesus?
- How can you keep your eyes fixed on the future hope promised in Christ, even in hard times?