Hebrews 1:5 Commentary

Verse: "For to which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?" (Hebrews 1:5)

Introduction

This verse serves as a pivotal point in the argument of the Epistle to the Hebrews, emphasizing the supremacy of Christ over the angels. The author of Hebrews uses this quotation to affirm the unique sonship of Jesus, juxtaposing it against the role of angels. The insights from various public domain commentaries help illuminate the theological significance and depth behind this assertion.

The Divine Sonship of Christ

Matthew Henry notes that this verse highlights God's declaration as a Father to Christ, thereby establishing His divine Sonship. Unlike any other being, Jesus possesses a relationship with the Father that is unique and eternal. More than merely a title, 'Son' conveys an essence tied to His divinity, reaffirming that He is of the same substance as the Father.

Henry expands upon the phrase "this day have I begotten thee," positing that it should be understood in a spiritual and eternal context rather than a temporal one. The term “begotten” does not imply a beginning but reflects the unique nature of Christ's relationship with the Father, emphasizing His eternal generation.

The Contrast with Angels

In understanding the significance of this verse, a careful reader must pay attention to the contrast the author of Hebrews establishes between Christ and the angels. Albert Barnes points out that the phrase poses a rhetorical question: God never made such declarations to angels. This distinction signifies that angels, though powerful and revered, do not share in the divine sonship that belongs exclusively to Christ.

Barnes further elaborates that the original audience of Hebrews, likely composed of Jewish Christians, would have held angels in high esteem due to their role in the delivery of the Law. The author’s intention here is to elevate Christ above all heavenly beings, reinforcing His preeminence and the supremacy of the new covenant over the old.

Scriptural References

Psalm 2:7

The first part of Hebrews 1:5 references Psalm 2:7. Adam Clarke suggests that this psalm expresses the messianic expectation that was prevalent among the Jews. By quoting it, the author of Hebrews is affirming that Jesus fulfills this prophecy, thus establishing His credentials as the Messiah. Clarke emphasizes the imperative nature of this claim, illustrating that it places Jesus in a unique position in the economy of salvation.

2 Samuel 7:14

The second part of the verse cites 2 Samuel 7:14, where God promises David that He will be a father to his offspring. Clarke observes that while this promise directly pertains to David's descendants, it ultimately culminates in the ultimate Son, Jesus Christ. This genealogical and theological link serves to root Christ’s identity in the promises made to Israel, while simultaneously fulfilling them in a transcendent manner.

Theological Implications

This verse encapsulates several profound theological implications.

• Divine Authority: The declaration of sonship grants Christ an authority and status that angels do not possess.
• Revelation of God: The relationship between the Father and the Son illustrates the nature of God in relational terms, inviting believers into this divine fellowship.
• Salvation History: This relationship informs the understanding of salvation history, as centering on Jesus as the divine Son who mediates God's grace to humanity.

Conclusion

Hebrews 1:5 is a profound declaration of Christ's unique status as the Son of God, establishing a firm foundation for Christian faith and doctrine. The insights provided by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke collectively enhance the understanding of the text, underscoring the significance of Christ’s sonship in contrast to angels. This passage ultimately calls believers to recognize Christ not only as a figure of religious importance but as the divine Son from whom our understanding of God the Father derives. The supremacy of Christ is thus intricately woven into the fabric of Christian theology and must remain central to the believer's faith journey.