What does Hebrews 2:5 mean?

For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak. Hebrews 2:5

Explanation

Hebrews 2:5 states, “For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak.” This verse from the New Testament highlights the belief that angels will not govern the future world that is often interpreted as the coming Kingdom of God or the eschatological reality. The “world to come” signifies a new era or order that is distinct from the current world. The verse emphasizes that it is not angels but rather, implicitly, Jesus Christ, who will rule in the forthcoming divine plan.

Historical Context

Hebrews was written to a community that may have been experiencing persecution or hardship, and there is a strong emphasis on Jesus’ superiority over angels which could be in response to an existing belief system that highly regarded angels. Given that it was written prior to 70 CE, it reflects a time when the early Christian community was still formulating its doctrines and trying to understand the role of Christ in relation to Jewish traditions and celestial beings like angels.

Theological Insights

Different Christian denominations might focus on varying aspects of this verse. Traditional Protestant theology might emphasize the sovereignty of Christ in the world to come, while a Catholic perspective might discuss the role of angels as messengers and servants, but not rulers, of the future kingdom. Eastern Orthodoxy might incorporate this verse into their theology regarding theosis and human participation in divine life, underscoring that it is humans, not angels, who are destined to rule in Christ’s likeness.

Practical Applications

This verse reinforces the Christian belief that ultimate authority rests with Christ rather than any other beings, including angels. In practical terms, this can encourage believers to prioritize their relationship with Christ and their anticipation for His rule. It also calls Christians to be wary of placing too much emphasis on beings other than God, even spiritual ones, thus promoting a Christocentric spirituality and life orientation.

Cross-References

• Hebrews 1:13 – “But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool?”
• 1 Corinthians 6:3 – “Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?”
• Revelation 5:10 – “And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.”

Language Study

The phrase “put in subjection” translates from the Greek word “ὑποτάσσω” (hypotassō), which means to arrange under, to subordinate, or to subject to. The term “world” here is from the Greek “οἰκουμένη” (oikoumenē), which can mean the inhabited earth or the world. “To come” reflects an eschatological future; it is associated with the idea of something approaching or imminent.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

This concept of divinely appointed rulers as compared to lesser spiritual beings can be found in different mythologies and religions. For instance, in Roman and Greek mythology, the gods had hierarchy, with supreme gods ruling over lesser deities and beings. Comparatively, in Zoroastrianism, there is a clear distinction between the sovereign Lord, Ahura Mazda, and the various other spiritual entities.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse in question speaks to a spiritual and eschatological claim rather than a scientific one. However, in an age of increasing interest in extraterrestrial life, the role of angels or celestial beings might be metaphorically compared to humanity’s speculation about intelligent life beyond Earth. Though not directly related to the scientific method, such discussions may foster dialogue on existential matters, inclusivity of life forms, and the role of humanity in the cosmos.

Commentaries

William Barclay, in his Daily Study Bible series, suggests that the author of Hebrews is emphasizing the temporary nature of angels’ authority and the permanence of Christ’s reign. Matthew Henry agrees, noting that Hebrews establishes the superiority of Christ over angels. He reflects on the implications of Christ’s reign for salvation and the destiny of mankind. These commentaries generally agree that the verse seeks to affirm Christ’s ultimate authority in the world to come, diminishing any perceived role or power that angels might have in the eschatological future.