Young Adults' Group

Better Than The Angels

by Pastor Mark
November 15, 2015

Jesus is so much greater than the angels

During Christmas, we usually catch a glimpse of the powerful ministry of angels. There was the glorious angelic host who appeared before the shepherds and to announce the birth of the Messiah. The Angel Gabriel appeared to Zacharias, Mary and Joseph telling them about the Lord’s plan for them concerning Christ. These are indeed great scenes to behold as they give us a glimpse of the mighty work of angels.

Yet as we review the first chapter of Hebrews, we see the author’s comparison of the Lord Jesus to angels and how much greater our Lord Jesus is. “Sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.” (Heb 1:4) There are a number of ways in which we can appreciate Jesus being so much greater than the angels.

In terms of relationship, Jesus is Son

“For to which of the angels did He ever say: “You are My Son, today I have begotten You”?” (Heb 1:5)

Jesus has a unique relationship with God as His Father. It is a glorious relationship of much love and communion. It is a relationship that no angel had.

2. In terms of standing, Jesus is firstborn

“But when He again brings the firstborn into the world, He says: “Let all the angels of God worship Him.” (Heb 1:6)

Jesus has a standing of great honour as the firstborn. He was given special authority and power in being firstborn that none of the angels had. In fact, the angels seek to worship Him due to His standing.

3. In terms of rank, Jesus is King

“But to the Son He says: “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom.” (Heb 1:8)

Jesus has been given the divine throne to rule. He is both God and King – He has a throne unlike any other throne. He rules over His Kingdom with righteousness. On the other hand, the angels are God’s ministers…who are called to serve the Lord Jesus.

4. In terms of existence, Jesus is Creator

“And: “You, Lord, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands.” (Heb 1:10)

Jesus existed right from the beginning of time and was involved in the work of creation as co-creator with God. In contrast, the angels are seen as created beings. (Heb 1:7)

5. In terms of proximity, Jesus sits at the right hand of God

“But to which of the angels has He ever said: “Sit at My right hand, till I make Your enemies Your footstool”?” (Heb 1:13)

Jesus is given the privilege of sitting at the right hand of the throne of God. All angels are to bow before this throne and to worship Him. Indeed the Lord Jesus has become so much better than the angels and received a more excellent name.

Let us stand in awe of the greatness of the Lord. Let us behold the glory of the Lord and give Him special praise and worship this Christmas.

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