2:4 2:4

Hebrews 2:5

2:6 2:6

Bible Versions

¶ For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak.
For {G1063} unto the angels {G32} hath he {G5293} not {G3756} put in subjection {G5293} the world {G3625} to come {G3195}, whereof {G4012}{G3739} we speak {G2980}.
For it was not to angels that God subjected the ‘olam haba — which is what we are talking about.
For it is not to angels that He has subjected the world to come, about which we are speaking.
For not unto angels did he subject the world to come, whereof we speak.

Hebrews 2:5 serves as a pivotal statement in the author's argument for the unparalleled supremacy of Jesus Christ. Following a detailed exposition in Hebrews chapter 1 about Christ's divine nature and His exalted position far above all angels, this verse directly addresses the future dominion of the world.

Context

The Book of Hebrews is written to a Jewish Christian audience, likely experiencing persecution and tempted to revert to aspects of Judaism. The author consistently presents Jesus as superior to anything in the Old Covenant: superior to prophets, superior to angels, superior to Moses, superior to the Aaronic priesthood, and superior to the Old Covenant itself. Chapter 1 establishes Christ's inherent superiority over angels, portraying Him as God's Son, heir of all things, and the one through whom the universe was made. Verse 5 sets the stage for the crucial point that while angels serve God, they are not appointed to rule the coming age; that role is reserved for Christ, and by extension, for humanity in Him.

Meaning of the Verse

The verse "For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak" makes a definitive declaration about the future. It asserts that the eschatological age—the new creation, the future reign of God, or the Messianic Kingdom—will not be under the authority or dominion of angels. This directly contrasts with the previous age, where angels played significant roles in mediating the Law (Acts 7:53) and interacting with humanity. The author is emphasizing that the ultimate governance of God's future plan, which is the subject of the entire book, rests solely with Jesus Christ, not with any angelic being.

Key Themes

  • Christ's Supreme Authority: This verse further solidifies Jesus' unique and unparalleled authority, specifically over the future and God's ultimate plan for creation. He is the rightful heir and ruler of the "world to come."
  • The "World to Come": This phrase refers to the new age, the Messianic era, or the new heavens and new earth that will be established after Christ's return. It signifies a renewed order, free from the curse of sin, where God's will is perfectly executed.
  • Angels' Subordinate Role: While angels are powerful spiritual beings who serve God and minister to believers (Hebrews 1:14), this verse clarifies their status as servants, not ultimate rulers. They are not granted dominion over humanity's ultimate destiny or the future kingdom.
  • Dominion and Inheritance: The verse implicitly points to the theme of dominion, which was initially given to humanity in creation (Genesis 1:28) and is now perfectly realized in Christ, who will share this dominion with His redeemed people.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "the world to come" translates the Greek oikoumene mellousan (οἰκουμένην μέλλουσαν). Oikoumene typically refers to the "inhabited earth" or "the world" (as in the Roman Empire's inhabited world). Mellousan signifies something "about to be" or "future." Therefore, it speaks not merely of a spiritual realm, but specifically of the future, renewed physical world where God's kingdom will be fully manifest. The term "subjection" (Greek: hypotasso) implies being placed under authority or rule, clearly indicating that angels are not given this ultimate governing power over the coming age.

Practical Application

For believers today, Hebrews 2:5 offers profound assurance and a clear perspective on God's sovereign plan. It reminds us that:

  1. Our Future is Secure in Christ: The ultimate destiny of creation and of humanity is not left to chance or to the influence of lesser beings, but is firmly in the hands of the all-sufficient Son of God. This provides immense hope and peace.
  2. Focus on Christ, Not Angels: While angels are part of God's creation, our worship and ultimate hope should be fixed on Jesus, who alone holds the keys to the future and the true dominion.
  3. Our Destiny with Christ: As Christ's co-heirs, believers are destined to participate in this future dominion with Him (Romans 8:17). This elevates the significance of our present faith and obedience.

The verse emphasizes that Christ is not only superior in His divine nature but also in His appointed role as the one who will bring in and rule the glorious "world to come," a world where believers will share in His triumph.

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.
  • 2 Peter 3:13

    Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
  • Revelation 11:15

    And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become [the kingdoms] of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.
  • Hebrews 6:5

    And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,
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