Hebrews 2:5
For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak.
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 11
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ἀγγέλοις
unto the angels
G32
ἀγγέλοις
unto the angels
Strong's:
G32
Word #:
3 of 11
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
οἰκουμένην
the world
G3625
οἰκουμένην
the world
Strong's:
G3625
Word #:
6 of 11
land, i.e., the (terrene part of the) globe; specially, the roman empire
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
μέλλουσαν
to come
G3195
μέλλουσαν
to come
Strong's:
G3195
Word #:
8 of 11
to intend, i.e., be about to be, do, or suffer something (of persons or things, especially events; in the sense of purpose, duty, necessity, probabili
περὶ
whereof
G4012
περὶ
whereof
Strong's:
G4012
Word #:
9 of 11
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
Cross References
2 Peter 3:13Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.Revelation 11:15And 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 6:5And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,
Historical Context
Jewish apocalyptic literature spoke of angels ruling the present evil age, with God's direct reign coming in the future. The author subverts this by declaring that the coming age is under human (specifically Christ's) authority, already inaugurated.
Questions for Reflection
- How does your future authority with Christ in the new creation inform your stewardship responsibilities now?
- What does it mean that the age to come has already begun in Christ?
Analysis & Commentary
The 'world to come' (Greek 'oikoumenēn tēn mellousan') refers to the age inaugurated by Christ's first coming and consummated at His return. Angels do not rule this new order - humanity does, through Christ the second Adam. Reformed eschatology sees this as the restoration of humanity's original dominion mandate (Genesis 1:28), fulfilled in Christ and extended to believers through union with Him.