Hebrews 1:4 (KJV) – “Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.”
Introduction
Hebrews 1:4 builds on the preceding verses to emphasize the supremacy of Jesus Christ over all creation, particularly the angels. In the Jewish tradition, angels were highly revered as powerful, divine messengers who executed God’s will. However, the writer of Hebrews clarifies that Jesus is far superior to them in nature, authority, and inheritance.
This verse is rich with theological significance, affirming Christ’s deity, His unique position as the Son of God, and the eternal authority of His name. It also sets the stage for the argument in the rest of Hebrews 1, where Old Testament scripture is used to substantiate Christ’s superiority. This article explores the three key aspects of Hebrews 1:4: Christ’s superiority to the angels, the inheritance of His excellent name, and the practical implications for believers.
“Being Made So Much Better Than the Angels”
1. Christ’s Superiority Over Angels
The phrase “being made so much better than the angels” refers to Christ’s exaltation after His work of redemption. While some interpret “being made” as implying creation, it is better understood as His appointment or recognition in His exalted role following His resurrection and ascension.
Jesus’ superiority to angels is rooted in several key truths:
- He is the Creator: Colossians 1:16 states that “by him were all things created…whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers.” Angels, as part of creation, owe their existence to Him.
- He is Eternal: Unlike angels, who are created beings, Jesus is eternal and unchanging (Hebrews 13:8). He is the “I AM” (John 8:58), existing before all things.
- He is Worshipped by Angels: In Hebrews 1:6, the writer explicitly states, “Let all the angels of God worship him.” This divine worship further underscores His supremacy.
2. Understanding the Role of Angels
Angels are powerful and holy beings who serve as God’s messengers and ministers (Hebrews 1:7, 1:14). In the Old Testament, they played significant roles in delivering messages, executing judgment, and protecting God’s people. However, their role is always subordinate to Christ, who is the ultimate revelation of God’s will and the mediator of the new covenant.
Application
Recognizing Christ’s superiority over angels helps guard against the tendency to elevate created beings or spiritual intermediaries above their proper place. It calls believers to direct their worship, trust, and allegiance solely to Jesus, the one who is far above all heavenly and earthly powers.
“As He Hath by Inheritance Obtained a More Excellent Name Than They”
1. The Inheritance of Christ
The phrase “by inheritance” emphasizes Christ’s unique position as the Son of God. In the ancient world, inheritance signified authority, ownership, and privilege. As the Son, Jesus inherits all things (Hebrews 1:2), including a name that surpasses every other name. This inheritance is not something He earned but something inherent to His identity as the eternal Son of God.
2. The More Excellent Name
The “more excellent name” that Jesus possesses is often understood to be “Son.” While angels are occasionally referred to as “sons of God” in a collective sense (Job 1:6), only Jesus is the Son of God in the fullest, eternal sense. This title signifies His unique relationship with the Father, His divine nature, and His supreme authority.
Philippians 2:9-11 also highlights the excellence of Christ’s name: “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow.”
Application
The excellence of Christ’s name calls believers to worship and honor Him as Lord. It also reminds us of the privilege and responsibility of bearing His name as Christians. We are called to live in a way that reflects His character and glorifies His name before the world (Colossians 3:17).
Christ’s Exaltation Through His Work
The superiority of Jesus to the angels is not only inherent but also affirmed through His redemptive work. After He “purged our sins” (Hebrews 1:3), Jesus was exalted to the right hand of the Father. His name, exalted above all, reflects both His divine nature and His victorious mission to redeem humanity.
1. The Humility and Exaltation of Christ
Hebrews 2:9 reveals that Jesus was “made a little lower than the angels” during His earthly ministry, taking on human nature to accomplish salvation. However, through His obedience, suffering, and resurrection, He was exalted far above them. This humility and exaltation echo the truths found in Philippians 2:5-11.
2. Christ as the Mediator
As the exalted Son, Jesus is the mediator of a better covenant (Hebrews 8:6). Unlike angels, who served as messengers of the old covenant (Galatians 3:19), Jesus is both the message and the messenger of God’s ultimate plan for salvation. His exaltation affirms the sufficiency of His work and the finality of His revelation.
Application
Christ’s exaltation through His redemptive work assures believers of the completeness of their salvation. It calls us to respond with gratitude, trust, and a commitment to share the gospel with others, proclaiming the supremacy of His name.
Practical Implications of Christ’s Supremacy
1. A Proper Understanding of Worship
Hebrews 1:4 warns against the tendency to elevate angels or any other beings to a level of worship or adoration that belongs to Christ alone. This is relevant today as people are often drawn to spiritual intermediaries, rituals, or ideologies that detract from Christ’s centrality. True worship is Christ-focused, recognizing His unparalleled authority and glory.
2. Confidence in Christ’s Authority
The excellence of Christ’s name assures believers that He has ultimate authority over all things, including spiritual forces. This provides confidence in spiritual battles, as we rely on the name of Jesus, which is above every name.
3. Assurance of Our Identity in Christ
As heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17), believers share in His inheritance. This means that His victory, authority, and promises are ours through faith. Understanding this truth empowers us to live with boldness and purpose, knowing that we are part of His eternal kingdom.
Conclusion
Hebrews 1:4 is a powerful declaration of Jesus Christ’s superiority over angels, emphasizing His divine nature, exalted position, and unparalleled authority. By obtaining a more excellent name through His inherent Sonship and redemptive work, Christ stands as the ultimate revelation of God’s glory and the mediator of salvation.
This verse calls us to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). It challenges us to worship Him alone, trust in His power, and live lives that honor His name. As we reflect on His supremacy, may our hearts be filled with awe and our lives marked by faithful devotion to the one who is greater than all.