“…the radiance of His glory…” Hebrews 1:3

The writer to the first century Jews of Jerusalem, Samaria and beyond had one objective in mind: to reveal Jesus Christ as the promised Messiah. The letter is full of prophetic references fulfilled through the life of Jesus. The introduction closely resembles Paul’s letter to the Colossians when describing the pre-existent Christ and His being the Creator, reflecting the exact representation of God’s essence through His sustaining grace for all things (vv. 2-3, 10; Ps.102:25; Is.48:12-16; Col.1:15-20).

The author of Hebrews clearly identifies Jesus Christ as the one Who “…provided purification for sins…” (v.3), after which He rested from His work at the right hand of God The Father. He, being King of Kings, is superior to the angels and His name receives the highest honor and authority (vv.4-7). The angels recognize His authority, as they witnessed God’s proclamation from eternity past, and which God breathed into the mind of David when he prophetically wrote:

“You are my Son; today I have become Your Father.” (vv.5,13-14; Ps. 2:7; Mt.3:17; 17:5)

It is Christ Who has been coronated as King of Kings and Lord of Lords (vv.8-9; Is. 9:6-7). The author notes how creation will pass away, while His Kingdom will never end (vv. 11-12).

Many worshipped angels as an extension of God’s divinity. The writer to the Hebrews described their role as, “…ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation.” (v.14). The reason for repeatedly mentioning the purpose and status of angels was to take the focus off of angelic worship, placing the focus on Jesus, the Christ, the promised Messiah Who is the radiance of God’s glory!

God cares for you! He has dispatched angels to watch over you (Ps.91:11-12; 103:20; Mt.18:10); He did so for the nation Israel (read Ex.23:20), and continues to assign angels to those who walk by faith. They are there to offer help and protection. However, we are not to worship them; instead, we are to join with them in worshiping The King of Kings Who is the Lamb that was slain from the foundation of the world (read Rev.5:12; 13:8). Inspired by these words, let us worship Christ alone and look for His return, when He will claim His bride, the church.

Have a blessed day…