What does Hebrews 1:4 mean?

Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. Hebrews 1:4

Explanation

The verse Hebrews 1:4 speaks to the exalted nature and status of Jesus in the Christian faith. Literally, the verse asserts that Jesus is “better than the angels” and that He has “obtained a more excellent name than they.” This suggests a superiority, not only in rank but also in essence and authority. The phrase “being made so much better” indicates that this superiority is a result of Jesus’ nature and the work He accomplished. The idea of Jesus obtaining a more excellent name “by inheritance” implies it is His right as the Son of God, emphasizing the belief in His divinity. The concept of a “name” in biblical terms often signifies authority and character. Therefore, this verse underscores the pre-eminence of Christ over spiritual beings and all creation.

Historical Context

Hebrews is a New Testament epistle written to a group of early Jewish Christians. The exact authorship remains unknown, but it was traditionally attributed to Paul the Apostle. The historical context includes mounting pressures to revert to Judaism due to persecution and hardships. The letter, therefore, emphasizes the supremacy of Christ as a means to encourage the audience to remain steadfast in their Christian faith. The comparison with angels reflects a common Jewish belief that angels were highly esteemed mediators of God’s Law (Torah). By elevating Jesus above the angels, the author of Hebrews makes a case for the superiority and finality of Christ’s ministry in comparison to the old covenant.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse touches on the doctrine of Christ’s deity and superiority. From a Trinitarian Christian perspective, it affirms the belief that Jesus is fully divine and coexists eternally with God the Father and the Holy Spirit. It also implies the incarnation: Jesus taking on human form and yet retaining his divine pre-eminence. Non-Trinitarian perspectives, such as that of Jehovah’s Witnesses, may interpret this passage differently, perhaps seeing it as indicating Jesus’ elevated status but not equating him in essence with God. The use of “better” signals the idea that the new covenant brought by Jesus supersedes the old covenant mediated by angels.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse invites believers to recognize and reflect on the majesty and authority of Jesus. It challenges Christians to prioritize their commitment and fidelity to Jesus above all other spiritual or religious systems. The verse can also encourage believers to draw on the power and authority of Jesus’ name in their personal faith and prayer life, trusting in His superiority to provide guidance, comfort, and protection.

Cross-References

• Philippians 2:9: “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name.”
• Ephesians 1:21: “Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come.”
• Colossians 1:16: “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him.”
• John 1:14: “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”
• Psalms 2:7: “I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.”

Language Study

The Greek word translated as “better” is “κρείττων” (kreittōn), which implies surpassing or being superior. The word “angels” is “ἀγγέλων” (angelōn), denoting messengers, particularly divine messengers. “Name” in Greek is “ὄνομα” (onoma), which, beyond referring to a designation or title, often represents authority, character, and reputation. The term “inheritance” is translated from “κληρονομίαν” (klēronomian), which signifies an heir’s right or possession, highlighting a legal and relational aspect of receiving a title.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures, including Jewish tradition, names were thought to contain power and represent the essence of a person’s character. The idea of deities or semi-divine beings having superiority over human affairs is common across various mythologies. However, the specific Christian claim that Jesus is superior to angels is unique and establishes a clear hierarchy within Christian cosmology as opposed to the more polytheistic structures seen in other religious beliefs, such as those of ancient Greece and Rome.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse Hebrews 1:4 does not have direct scientific implications as it speaks to theological and metaphysical concepts rather than empirical observations. The claims about Jesus’ superiority over angels and the possession of a more excellent name rely on faith-based beliefs inherent to Christian doctrine. Such spiritual assertions are not within the realm of scientific scrutiny, as they cannot be tested or measured by scientific methods.

commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians offer insights into Hebrews 1:4:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary suggests that this superiority of Christ is due to His divine nature and the dignity conferred upon Him after His suffering and resurrection.
• The ESV Study Bible notes that Jesus’ inheritance of a more excellent name is tied to His status as the Son, which is contrasted with the servant role of angels.
• John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible interprets the “more excellent name” as a reference to “Son of God,” which indicates true and proper deity and gives Jesus authority over all, including the angels.
• The NIV Zondervan Study Bible emphasizes that Jesus’ inheritance of the name demonstrates His identity as both divine and the unique mediator of the new covenant, which surpasses the old covenant administered by angels.