6/7/10 Hebrews 1-3
Superior
(Heb 1:3-4)3And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 4having become as much better than the angels, as He has inherited a more excellent name than they.
The author of Hebrews who is unknown was well versed in Old Testament theology. In the first three chapters we find the author quoting many different Old Testament texts mostly from the Psalms. The author completely understands who Jesus is and how the new covenant replaces the old covenant. The author begins the book stressing the superiority of Jesus in every way over the old covenant and the Law.
Jesus is superior in the first chapter over the angels. The author uses several Old Testament texts as authoritative of stress to his readers that Jesus is superior to the angels. In chapter 3 the author introduces Jesus as the High Priest. There was no higher rank in the priesthood. Jesus is also superior to Moses who the Jews regarded as the greatest prophet.
Why is Jesus superior in so many way? As the above verses mention it is because he is God. Jesus is the exact representation of the Father. (Col 1:15)15He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. The idea of firstborn of all creation here or in Heb 1:6 not suggesting being born first in chronological order, but rather have first place, preeminence, or highest rank, thus superior.
The mentioning of Jesus being begotten in Heb 1:5 or John 3:16 means Jesus has a unique position and relationship with the Father. This does not mean that Jesus in eternity past did not exist or that he was created. If you look at verse 5 closely you will see that the Son is already living “you are my son” and “today” I have begotten you indicating there is a point in time when the Father and Son relationship entered into a new phase. Jesus is superior.
Jesus is superior because he is the God-man. He is the exact image of God in the flesh. He is superior because he enjoys a relationship with he Father which no one else has including the angels. Jesus is superior because he has made possible purification from sins, something no animal could do. Jesus is superior because his power is sufficient enough to hold all things together. Jesus is superior because he has accomplished his work and is seated at the right hand of the Majesty on high. Jesus is superior because his name is greater than any other name.
Prayer: Father I rejoice because Jesus is superior. I humbly bow before the LORD of all the earth and the KING of every kingdom. Jesus thank you for make possible for me purification of my sins. Thank you for being the superior sacrifice on my behalf. You deserve all worship and praise from all the inhabitants of the earth. It is my prayer that more hearts of men will turn toward you in reverent worship. You are superior to everything seen and unseen. May the name of Jesus be glorified forever and ever. Amen.