1:5 1:5

Hebrews 1:6

1:7 1:7

Bible Versions

And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.
And {G1161} again {G3825}, when {G3752} he bringeth in {G1521} the firstbegotten {G4416} into {G1519} the world {G3625}, he saith {G3004}, And {G2532} let {G4352} all {G3956} the angels {G32} of God {G2316} worship {G4352} him {G846}.
And again, when God brings his Firstborn into the world, he says,

“Let all God’s angels worship him.”
And again, when God brings His firstborn into the world, He says: “Let all God’s angels worship Him.”
And when he again bringeth in the firstborn into the world he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.

Commentary on Hebrews 1:6

Hebrews 1:6 is a pivotal verse within the book of Hebrews, continuing the author's profound argument for the absolute superiority of Jesus Christ over all created beings, especially angels. This verse highlights Christ's divine nature and His unique position as the Son of God.

Context

The book of Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians who were perhaps wavering in their faith and considering a return to Judaism, which emphasized the law, prophets, and angels. The author systematically demonstrates that Jesus is greater than the prophets, greater than the angels, greater than Moses, and that His priesthood is superior to the Levitical priesthood. Chapter 1 specifically focuses on Christ's unparalleled glory and authority compared to angels, who were highly revered in Jewish tradition as messengers of God and mediators of the Law (Acts 7:53).

In the preceding verses, the author establishes Christ as the heir of all things, the one through whom God made the worlds, the brightness of God's glory, and the express image of His person, upholding all things by His powerful word (Hebrews 1:3). Verse 6 then introduces a divine command for all angels to worship Him, solidifying His supreme status.

Key Themes

  • The Deity of Christ: The command for angels to worship Jesus is a direct affirmation of His divine nature. Worship is reserved for God alone, and the fact that angels—heavenly beings of immense power and purity—are commanded to worship Christ underscores His identity as God.
  • Superiority of Christ over Angels: This verse serves as a climactic statement in the argument that Jesus is far above angels. While angels are servants and messengers, Christ is the object of divine worship. This theme is further explored throughout Hebrews 1, contrasting Christ’s eternal throne with angels as ministering spirits (Hebrews 1:14).
  • The Incarnation: "When he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world" refers to the incarnation of Jesus Christ—His coming into the human realm. This phrase emphasizes that even in His humanity, He retains His divine prerogative to receive worship from all creation, including the angels.
  • Divine Command for Worship: The phrase "let all the angels of God worship him" is an allusion to Old Testament passages like Psalm 97:7 (specifically from the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament) and possibly Deuteronomy 32:43. It is God the Father who commands the angels to worship His Son, thereby endorsing His Son's deity.

Linguistic Insights

The term "firstbegotten" (Greek: prototokos - πρωτότοκος) is crucial here. In this context, it does not imply that Christ was the first created being, but rather signifies His preeminence, unique status, and supreme authority as the heir and ruler over all creation. It speaks to His singular position as the Son of God, who holds priority and sovereignty over all things, including angels, as seen in Colossians 1:15.

The word "worship" (Greek: proskyneo - προσκυνέω) means to bow down, to prostrate oneself in adoration, or to do homage. It's an act of profound reverence and submission, typically reserved for God. The command for angels to perform this act towards Jesus unequivocally places Him in a divine category.

Practical Application

Hebrews 1:6 calls all believers to a deeper understanding and appreciation of who Jesus Christ truly is. If even the angels of God are commanded to worship Him, how much more should we, who have been redeemed by His sacrifice, offer Him our adoration and obedience? This verse reinforces:

  • The Worthiness of Christ: Jesus is not merely a good teacher or prophet; He is the divine Son of God, worthy of all praise and worship.
  • Confidence in Christ's Authority: Knowing that Christ is superior to all heavenly hosts provides immense reassurance. He is sovereign over all circumstances and powers, including spiritual forces.
  • Our Call to Worship: This verse serves as an invitation and a command for us to join the heavenly hosts in worshipping the Lord Jesus Christ with all our hearts, minds, and strength. Our worship is not just an emotional response but a rightful acknowledgment of His supreme identity and authority.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Deuteronomy 32:43

    Rejoice, O ye nations, [with] his people: for he will avenge the blood of his servants, and will render vengeance to his adversaries, and will be merciful unto his land, [and] to his people.

  • Colossians 1:18

    And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all [things] he might have the preeminence.

  • Psalms 97:7

    Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all [ye] gods.

  • Colossians 1:15

    Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:

  • 1 Peter 3:22

    Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.

  • John 1:14

    And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

  • Revelation 5:9

    And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
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