Introduction
Hebrews 1 establishes the supremacy of Jesus Christ over all creation, including angels. The author begins by contrasting how God spoke in the past through the prophets with His ultimate revelation through His Son. This chapter emphasizes the deity, authority, and eternal nature of Jesus, underscoring His role in creation and redemption. Through a series of Old Testament quotations, the author demonstrates the superiority of Christ, making a compelling case for His divine nature and preeminence.
God’s Final Word Through His Son
God’s Revelation Through the Prophets
The author of Hebrews begins by acknowledging that in the past, God spoke to the ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways (Hebrews 1:1). This statement highlights the diverse and progressive nature of God’s revelation throughout the Old Testament.
God’s Ultimate Revelation in His Son
In contrast, the author asserts that in these last days, God has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, and through whom also He made the universe (Hebrews 1:2). This declaration emphasizes the finality and completeness of God’s revelation in Jesus Christ. The Son is portrayed as the ultimate and superior communication of God’s will and nature.
The Supremacy of the Son
The Radiance of God’s Glory
The author describes the Son as the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful word (Hebrews 1:3a). This profound description asserts the deity of Christ, affirming that He embodies the very essence and glory of God.
Purification for Sins
The author continues by stating that after providing purification for sins, the Son sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven (Hebrews 1:3b). This highlights Jesus’ redemptive work and His exalted position, signifying the completion and sufficiency of His sacrifice.
Superior to Angels
The author declares that the Son became as much superior to the angels as the name He has inherited is superior to theirs (Hebrews 1:4). This introduces the theme of Christ’s superiority over angels, which is further elaborated through a series of Old Testament quotations.
Old Testament Testimonies to the Son’s Supremacy
“You are my Son; today I have become your Father.”
Quoting Psalm 2:7, the author emphasizes the unique sonship of Christ, a status not attributed to any angel (Hebrews 1:5a).
“I will be his Father, and he will be my Son.”
This quote from 2 Samuel 7:14 underscores the special relationship between God the Father and the Son, further distinguishing Jesus from angels (Hebrews 1:5b).
“Let all God’s angels worship him.”
Quoting Deuteronomy 32:43 (in the Septuagint), the author highlights that even angels are commanded to worship the Son, underscoring His divine status (Hebrews 1:6).
“He makes his angels spirits, and his servants flames of fire.”
Quoting Psalm 104:4, the author contrasts the transient and servant nature of angels with the eternal and sovereign nature of the Son (Hebrews 1:7).
“Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever.”
Quoting Psalm 45:6-7, the author explicitly affirms the deity of the Son, whose throne and righteous rule are eternal. This passage declares the Son’s divine kingship and love of righteousness (Hebrews 1:8-9).
“In the beginning, Lord, you laid the foundations of the earth.”
Quoting Psalm 102:25-27, the author attributes the work of creation and the permanence of the Son to Christ, contrasting the creation’s perishability with the unchanging nature of the Son (Hebrews 1:10-12).
“Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.”
Quoting Psalm 110:1, the author concludes by emphasizing the exalted position of the Son at the right hand of God, awaiting the subjugation of His enemies (Hebrews 1:13).
The Role of Angels
The author clarifies the role of angels as ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation (Hebrews 1:14). This final statement reinforces the superiority of the Son over angels, highlighting their servant role in contrast to Christ’s sovereign authority.
Conclusion: Significance and Relevance
Connection to Jesus Christ
Hebrews 1 is profoundly connected to Jesus Christ as it centers on His divine nature, redemptive work, and exalted position. The chapter affirms that Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God, superior to all previous revelations through prophets and angels. His deity, eternal kingship, and role in creation and redemption are clearly articulated, emphasizing His preeminence and sufficiency.
God’s Love for the World
This chapter demonstrates God’s love by revealing the depths of His provision for humanity’s salvation through His Son. By sending Jesus, God provided the ultimate means of purification for sins, highlighting His desire for a restored relationship with humanity. The exaltation of Jesus to the right hand of the Father assures believers of the completed work of redemption and the ongoing intercession of Christ on their behalf.
Contemporary Relevance
Hebrews 1 remains profoundly relevant today as it addresses the core of Christian faith: the identity and work of Jesus Christ. In a world where many seek spiritual truth and guidance from various sources, this chapter asserts the supremacy and finality of God’s revelation in Christ. It calls believers to recognize and worship Jesus as the ultimate and sufficient revelation of God, superior to all others.
The chapter’s emphasis on the deity and eternal nature of Christ provides a foundation for understanding His authority and the reliability of His promises. It encourages believers to trust in the completed work of Christ for salvation and to find assurance in His unchanging nature.
Through its focus on the supremacy of Christ, Hebrews 1 equips believers to uphold the centrality of Jesus in their faith, fostering a deeper understanding of His divine nature and redemptive mission. It calls for a response of worship, trust, and recognition of Jesus as the ultimate revelation of God’s love and purpose for the world.