What does Hebrews 1:5 mean?

For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son? Hebrews 1:5

Explanation

Hebrews 1:5 addresses the unique relationship between God and Jesus, distinguishing Jesus from the angels. In this verse, the author quotes Old Testament passages, Psalm 2:7 and 2 Samuel 7:14, to emphasize that Jesus holds a special sonship with God which was never offered to any angel. The phrase “Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee” suggests a coronation or an acknowledgment of the Messiah as being directly related to God in a way that is distinct from other beings. The latter part, “I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son,” signifies a profound, intimate relationship, implying that Jesus is the heir to God’s authority and kingdom, thus establishing his superiority over angelic beings.

Historical Context

The epistle to the Hebrews was written for Jewish Christians who were familiar with Old Testament scripture and who may have faced temptation to revert to Judaism or doubted the supremacy of Christ over the angels. At the time, angels were highly regarded in Jewish religious thought, and it was important for the author of Hebrews to affirm Christ’s divine status. The use of Old Testament scripture would have been persuasive to the original audience, providing authoritative grounding to the declaration of Jesus’ divine sonship.

Theological Insights

Hebrews 1:5 offers several theological insights:

1. Christological Superiority: The verse contributes to a Christological doctrine that affirms the superiority of Christ over angels, anchoring the belief in both his divinity and humanity.
2. Sonship of Christ: It expounds on the concept of begotten sonship, indicating that Jesus has a unique and eternal relationship with the Father that is different from created beings.
3. Trinitarian Relationship: From a Trinitarian perspective, it underlines the relational dynamics within the Godhead, emphasizing the Father-Son relationship.
4. Messianic Fulfillment: The verse is seen as a fulfillment of Messianic prophecy, positioning Jesus not just as a messenger but as the anointed king and son of God.

Practical Applications

Christians may apply the teachings of Hebrews 1:5 in daily life by:

1. Affirming Christ’s Authority: Recognizing the authority of Jesus Christ over all creation and, therefore, submitting to his lordship in personal conduct and decision-making.
2. Understanding Adoption into God’s Family: Realizing that through faith in Jesus, individuals are adopted into God’s family and can partake in the intimate Father-Child relationship.
3. Discerning Religious Priorities: Prioritizing Christ over all spiritual beings and practices, focusing on his teachings and commands.
4. Encouraging Worship: Inspiring worship and respect for Christ due to his unique sonship and divine nature.

Cross-References

• Psalm 2:7: “I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.”
• 2 Samuel 7:14: “I will be his father, and he shall be my son. If he commit iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men, and with the stripes of the children of men:”
• 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.”
• Colossians 1:15-16: “Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 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:”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word “begotten” (γεγέννηκά) refers to being born or brought forth. It is used here metaphorically to signify the special generative relationship between God and Jesus. The term “Son” (υἱός) indicates a familial bond, denoting Jesus’ intimate relationship with the Father and his unique status.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The notion of gods having children was not unprecedented in ancient cultures. Many mythologies contain stories of deities begetting offspring, often with extraordinary attributes. However, the Christian understanding of Jesus as the Son of God differs significantly from these myths, emphasizing a monotheistic framework and the unique, non-sexual divine begetting that is beyond human comprehension.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse carries a theological and metaphysical message, it does not directly intersect with scientific understandings. It speaks to matters of faith and spiritual truths rather than empirical evidence or scientific inquiry.

Commentaries

Commentators offer diverse perspectives:

1. Traditional: Many traditional Christian commentators view this verse as a clear expression of Jesus’ divinity and his preeminent position over all angelic beings, affirming the doctrine of the Trinity.
2. Historical: Historical critics may examine how this verse reflects early Christian interpretations of Jesus’ relationship with God and how it was used to confront contemporary challenges within the church.
3. Literary: Some literary analysts may focus on how the author of Hebrews utilizes Old Testament quotations to support their argument, demonstrating an artful integration of scripture for theological purposes.