Hebrews 1:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Hebrews 1:3
3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;
Chapter Context
Hebrews 1 is a homiletical epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of salvation, prayer, creation. Written during before Jerusalem's destruction (c. 60-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Jewish Christians faced persecution pressure to return to Judaism's legal protections.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-14: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Hebrews and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Hebrews 1:3
3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;
Analysis
'Apaugasma' (brightness/radiance) and 'charakter' (exact representation) are technical terms indicating Christ's essential deity. He is not merely a reflection but the radiance itself, sharing the Father's divine essence. The three-fold work described—sustaining all things, purging sins, and enthronement—demonstrates Christ's cosmic authority, redemptive work, and exaltation, completing the argument for His supremacy.
Historical Context
The session at God's right hand fulfills Psalm 110:1, the most quoted OT passage in the NT. This enthronement imagery would resonate with Jewish readers familiar with messianic expectations and divine kingship.
Reflection
- How does Christ's sustaining power uphold your life moment by moment?
- What comfort do you find in knowing that the One who purged your sins now sits in the place of ultimate authority?
Word Studies
- Word: λόγος (Logos) G4487 - Word, reason, message
Cross-References
- Glory: John 1:14, 2 Corinthians 4:4, Jude 1:25, Revelation 4:11
- Sin: Hebrews 9:26, 10:12, 12:2, 1 John 1:7
- Parallel theme: Hebrews 4:14, John 1:4