Hebrews 2:5

KJV

¶ For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak.

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For it was not to angels that God subjected the ‘olam haba — which is what we are talking about.

Berean Standard Bible

For it is not to angels that He has subjected the world to come, about which we are speaking.

American Standard Version

For not unto angels did he subject the world to come, whereof we speak.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 2:5 serves as a foundational declaration in the author's Christological argument, asserting that God has not appointed angels to govern the future eschatological age, often referred to as "the world to come." This verse subtly but powerfully contrasts the Old Covenant era, where angels played significant roles, with the New Covenant and the coming Messianic kingdom, emphasizing that ultimate dominion and headship over this future reality belong exclusively to Jesus Christ, not to any created angelic being.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Hebrews 2:5 immediately follows a robust exposition in [Hebrews 1](/hebrews/1 "Hebrews 1 - The Superiority of Christ") detailing the unparalleled supremacy of Jesus Christ over all angels. Chapter 1 establishes Christ's divine nature, His role as Creator and Sustainer, and His exalted position as God's Son and heir. The author uses a series of Old Testament citations to prove that Christ is superior in His person and work. Verse 5 then transitions from Christ's inherent glory to His appointed dominion, specifically addressing the future "world to come." This sets the stage for the subsequent argument in [Hebrews 2:6-9](/hebrews/2-6-9 "Hebrews 2:6-9 - Humanity's Appointed Dominion Through Christ"), which quotes [Psalm 8](/psalms/8 "Psalm 8 - The Glory of God and Humanity's Place") to demonstrate that humanity, in Christ, is indeed destined for dominion, a role never granted to angels. The flow of argument moves from Christ's divine superiority to His unique human experience and ultimate exaltation, which enables Him to bring many sons to glory.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The audience of the Book of Hebrews was likely Jewish Christians, possibly facing persecution and tempted to revert to aspects of Judaism, which held angels in high regard. In Jewish thought, angels were seen as powerful intermediaries, even mediating the Law at Sinai (as referenced in [Acts 7:53](/acts/7-53 "Acts 7:53 - Stephen's Speech on the Law and Angels") and [Galatians 3:19](/galatians/3-19 "Galatians 3:19 - The Law Given Through Angels")). There was a risk that these believers might elevate angels to a position of undue reverence or authority, perhaps even seeing them as co-rulers with God or as the ultimate administrators of God's future plans. The author's strong emphasis on Christ's superiority over angels directly counters any such misconceptions, reaffirming Christ as the sole mediator of the New Covenant and the ultimate ruler of God's kingdom. The concept of "the world" (οἰκουμένη) in the Greco-Roman context often referred to the inhabited Roman Empire, but here it takes on an eschatological meaning, pointing to a future, renewed order.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major themes in Hebrews. Primarily, it reinforces the **Supremacy of Christ**, not just in His divine nature but also in His appointed role as the ultimate ruler of God's future kingdom. It introduces the crucial theme of the **"World to Come,"** an eschatological concept referring to the new age or Messianic era, distinct from the present fallen world. By explicitly stating that angels are not given dominion over this future reality, the verse highlights the **Subordinate Role of Angels** in God's redemptive plan; they are ministering spirits ([Hebrews 1:14](/hebrews/1-14 "Hebrews 1:14 - Angels as Ministering Spirits")), not rulers. Furthermore, it implicitly sets the stage for the theme of **Humanity's Appointed Dominion**, which, though lost in Adam ([Genesis 3](/genesis/3 "Genesis 3 - The Fall")), is perfectly restored and realized in Christ, who shares this future rule with His redeemed people ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Co-heirs with Christ")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **For (Greek, _gár_):** This particle introduces a reason or explanation for the preceding statements. In this context, it connects the assertion of Christ's superiority over angels in [Hebrews 1](/hebrews/1 "Hebrews 1 - The Superiority of Christ") to the specific point about His unique dominion over the "world to come." It signals that the argument about Christ's preeminence is not merely theoretical but has profound implications for the future governance of creation.
* **put in subjection (Greek, _hypotássō_):** Derived from _hypó_ (under) and _tássō_ (to arrange, to order), this verb means "to subordinate," "to place under authority," or "to obey." In the passive voice, as used here, it signifies being placed under the rule or dominion of another. The author's use of _hypotássō_ emphatically states that God has not placed the "world to come" under the authority or governance of angels, thereby reserving this ultimate ruling power for another, namely Christ.
* **world (Greek, _oikouménē_):** This term, often referring to the "inhabited earth" or "the Roman Empire," takes on a specific eschatological meaning when combined with "to come." Here, it signifies not merely the physical globe but the future, renewed order of creation—the sphere of God's ultimate reign and kingdom. It points to a tangible, historical reality, albeit one that is yet to be fully realized, where God's will is perfectly executed.
* **to come (Greek, _méllō_):** This verb denotes something "about to be," "future," or "intended." When paired with _oikouménē_, it specifies that the "world" in question is not the present, fallen world order, but a future, divinely appointed reality. It emphasizes the eschatological nature of the dominion being discussed, highlighting that God's ultimate plan for creation is still unfolding and will culminate in a new age.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection":** This opening clause immediately establishes the negative premise of the verse, directly refuting any notion that angels hold ultimate authority over God's future plans. The "he" implicitly refers to God the Father, who is the ultimate ordainer of all things. The use of "put in subjection" (hypotássō) is critical, indicating a divinely appointed placement of authority. The clear denial of this authority to angels sets up the implicit contrast with the one to whom this authority *has* been given: Jesus Christ.
* **"the world to come, whereof we speak":** This phrase identifies the specific domain over which angels lack authority. "The world to come" (ἡ οἰκουμένη ἡ μέλλουσα, _hē oikouménē hē méllousa_) is a significant eschatological expression, referring to the Messianic age, the new creation, or the future kingdom of God that will be fully established. It is the renewed and perfected order of creation, free from the curse of sin, where God's will is perfectly executed. The concluding phrase "whereof we speak" (περὶ ἧς λαλοῦμεν, _perì hēs laloúmen_) serves as a rhetorical device, drawing the audience's attention to the central theme of the author's discourse—the nature and implications of this future reality, which is intrinsically linked to Christ's dominion.

#### Literary Devices
The author of Hebrews masterfully employs several literary devices in this concise verse. Primarily, there is a strong use of **Contrast** and **Antithesis**. By explicitly stating what God has *not* done ("unto the angels hath he not put in subjection"), the author implicitly but powerfully highlights what God *has* done and to whom He *has* given this authority—namely, to Christ, as the subsequent verses will elaborate. This creates a clear distinction between the roles of angels and Christ in God's redemptive plan. The phrase "whereof we speak" functions as a **Rhetorical Device**, drawing the audience into the ongoing theological discussion and emphasizing the importance of the "world to come" as a central theme of the epistle. This direct address creates a sense of shared understanding and underscores the relevance of the topic to the readers' faith and future hope.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 2:5 is profoundly significant for understanding the nature of Christ's kingship and the ultimate trajectory of God's redemptive plan. It underscores that the future, perfected creation—the "world to come"—will not be administered by angelic beings, but by Jesus Christ alone. This truth elevates Christ's unique role as the sovereign Lord over all things, both present and future, and positions Him as the central figure in God's eschatological purposes. It challenges any tendency to diminish Christ's authority or to elevate created beings to a position of ultimate dominion. The verse also implicitly points to the restoration of humanity's original dominion, which, though lost in Adam, is perfectly fulfilled and regained in Christ, who will share His reign with His redeemed people.

* [Psalm 8:6](/psalms/8-6 "Psalm 8:6 - Humanity's Dominion Over Creation")
* [1 Corinthians 15:27](/1_corinthians/15-27 "1 Corinthians 15:27 - All Things Subjected to Christ")
* [Ephesians 1:22](/ephesians/1-22 "Ephesians 1:22 - Christ Head Over All Things")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 2:5 offers believers profound assurance and a clear perspective on God's sovereign plan for the future. Knowing that the "world to come" is not under the dominion of angels, but firmly in the hands of the exalted Christ, provides immense hope and stability amidst the uncertainties of the present age. This truth calls us to fix our gaze on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, recognizing that He alone holds the keys to the future and the ultimate authority over all creation. Our worship, trust, and ultimate hope must be centered on Him, not on any created being, however powerful. Furthermore, this verse reminds us of our incredible destiny as co-heirs with Christ; as He is appointed ruler of the coming age, so too will we, united with Him, participate in His glorious reign. This understanding should inspire us to live with purpose, recognizing the eternal significance of our present faith and obedience, knowing that our future is secure and glorious in Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the truth that Christ, not angels, rules the "world to come" impact your sense of security and hope for the future?**
* **In what ways might we, even subtly, place our hope or trust in things other than Christ for our ultimate future?**
* **Considering that believers will share in Christ's dominion over the "world to come," how should this influence our present discipleship and stewardship?**

### FAQ
**What exactly is "the world to come" that the author is referring to?**

Answer: "The world to come" (Greek: _hē oikouménē hē méllousa_) refers to the eschatological age, the future Messianic kingdom, or the new creation that God will establish. It is not merely a spiritual realm but a renewed, perfected physical world (the "new heavens and new earth" as described in [Revelation 21:1](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1 - The New Heaven and New Earth")) where God's will is perfectly executed, and His reign is fully manifest. It stands in contrast to the present, fallen world order. This future reality is central to the hope of believers and the ultimate culmination of God's redemptive plan.

**If angels are not given dominion over the "world to come," what is their role according to the Book of Hebrews?**

Answer: While angels are not given ultimate dominion over the "world to come," the Book of Hebrews clearly states they have significant roles. In [Hebrews 1:14](/hebrews/1-14 "Hebrews 1:14 - Angels as Ministering Spirits"), they are described as "ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation." This means they serve God by ministering to believers. They were also instrumental in mediating the Old Covenant Law ([Acts 7:53](/acts/7-53 "Acts 7:53 - Stephen's Speech on the Law and Angels")). However, their role is always subordinate to Christ, who is superior to them in every way and is the ultimate ruler and heir of all things, including the future age.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 2:5 finds its Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who alone is appointed by God to rule the "world to come." While angels served as intermediaries in the Old Covenant, Christ's incarnation, atoning death, resurrection, and ascension establish Him as the supreme and ultimate authority over all creation, both now and in the age to come. The "world to come" is not merely a future event but a reality inaugurated by Christ's first advent and fully consummated at His return. He is the one "whom God raised from the dead and seated at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come" ([Ephesians 1:20-21](/ephesians/1-20-21 "Ephesians 1:20-21 - Christ's Exaltation and Authority")). This verse in Hebrews foreshadows the ultimate triumph of the "kingdom of the world" becoming "the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ" ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes Christ's")), where every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Supreme Name")). Thus, the denial of angelic dominion in Hebrews 2:5 is a powerful affirmation of Christ's exclusive and eternal reign as the sovereign Lord over the new creation.

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.

Cross-References

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,