The Book of Hebrews reminds me of a recent painting project. Tiny speckles of paint slowly covered the lenses of my glasses so that, over time, my vision was partially obscured. After a quick washing, I was able to see the small details I had missed. The Book of Hebrews is written to people with a deep understanding of the Torah (First 5 Books of Moses, the Prophets. Psalms and Proverbs), by a Jewish convert to Christianity. The author is not identified, but it was written prior to the destruction of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem (70 AD). The author uses Hebrew logic and style to persuade the reader that Jesus is the Messiah. Chapter 1 begins, “In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways”. The time span from Moses to Malachi is just over 1,000 years and identifies at least 24 authors. He continues, “but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son… through Whom also He made the universe”. This designation of “Son” is a unique individual, that is “heir of all things”. He is everlasting and Creator, completely apart from creation. The author calls Him “the exact representation of [God’s] being”. He continues, “After He had provided purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty”. He did not overlook sin, but personally purged sin. Romans 5:17 explains that sin entered the world through one man (Adam) therefore sin could be defeated by one Man (Jesus Christ). Only a sinless sacrifice could atone for sin, and only God is sinless. Jesus is fully God and fully Man.
The author’s first proposition is that though born into a simple Hebrew family, “He became as much superior to the angels as the name He has inherited”. The Hebrew esteem for angels relates to access to God. An angel is not a chubby cherub, but a mighty messenger and ferocious warrior. The author quotes from Psalm 2, referencing the Anointed One ruling in Zion. “For to which of the angels did God ever say, ‘You are my Son; today I have become your Father’?” He adds a covenant promise God made to King David that his heir will be Messiah, “I will be His Father, and He will be my Son” (2 Sam 7:14). He adds a quote about God’s judgment on the rebellious nations. The sword of God’s vengeance will be held by Messiah. Both man and “God’s angels worship Him”. He contrasts angles as created beings to the Son who is the righteous, eternal King; “Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of Your kingdom” (Ps 45:7). This title of “Son” is the fulfilment of God’s promise. He is the redeemer of Israel, and the defender of the nation.
In a few short verses, the writer establishes the Anointed One as King, as Prophet, and as Priest. It is forbidden for any man to hold all three offices. He concludes by reaffirming Jesus is God by using multiple quotes from the Psalms. He is a just and merciful king that brings joy to those in His kingdom, “You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness… anointing You with the oil of joy” (Ps 45). Finally, the writer addresses Jesus using the term “Yahweh”, the Holy Name of God, “In the beginning, LORD, you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands”. All of His creation will pass away. “They will perish, but You remain”. And he includes a verse that offers us hope, “like a garment they will be changed”. The children of God are not discarded, but renewed, or transformed. “But You remain the same, and Your years will never end” (Ps 102). The Redeemer will regather His own. He asks a final question, meant to create a perfect line of distinction, “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” Lucifer wanted to be worshipped and was judged for his pride. Angels were created to serve those who have been rescued from sin. Friend, is pride obscuring your vision of the Son?