5 For to which of the angels did He ever say: “You are My Son, Today I have begotten You”? And again: “I will be to Him a Father, And He shall be to Me a Son”?
The assertion in verse 4 that the Son is “better than angels” is now documented in verses 5-14 by the Old Testament. There are seven citations from the Old Testament to prove to readers the superiority of the Son over angels.
Verse 5 shows that the Son is the Messiah. In this verse we have the first instance where Jesus is greater than angels—He has a greater relationship to God than angels because He is in the Trinity as a Son to the Father.
5 For
The word “for” indicates verse 4 provides the thesis for verses 5-13. Jesus’ having obtained a more excellent name than angels has certain implications. The “for” here will prove that the Son has a “more excellent name” than angels. He carries superiority of place in the order and hierarchy of things.
Beginning at this verse Hebrews marshals a series of Old Testament passages. The author quotes Old Testament and develops its meaning like no other New Testament book.
PRINCIPLE:
We draw evidence of what we believe from Scripture.
APPLICATION:
Christ is seen superior to angels by the unimpeachable witness of Scripture. The marshaling of a chain of Scripture is a valid approach to using Scripture. The rapid gunfire of Bible verses mounts the voice of God to its hearers.
The Word of God has abiding relevance. Its message was meant for more than those living in antiquity; it is for our generation as well. It is more than a historical book, as it sets forth the wonder of who Christ is for us today.
We live in an age where all people have their own “perspective” on what is true. Their principle is that truth is found in themselves (solipsism). The biblical writers declared that truth was discovered in what God said in Scripture. It is imperative that if we are to receive God’s “perspective” we must become well versed in what He has said.
