Hebrews 2:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Hebrews 2:7
7 Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands:
Chapter Context
Hebrews 2 is a homiletical epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, hope, judgment. 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 13-18: 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 2:7
7 Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands:
Analysis
The phrase 'made him a little lower than the angels' can also be translated 'for a little while lower than the angels,' referring to Christ's incarnation. The crowning with 'glory and honor' (Greek 'doxē kai timē') points to Christ's exaltation after His humiliation. This demonstrates the Reformed principle that Christ's work involves both humiliation (incarnation, suffering, death) and exaltation (resurrection, ascension, session), securing full salvation.
Historical Context
The LXX translated the Hebrew 'elohim' (God/gods) as 'angels,' which the author adopts. This reading fits the argument that Christ temporarily took a position below angels to accomplish redemption, then was elevated above them.
Reflection
- How does Christ's voluntary humiliation inform your understanding of true greatness?
- What does Christ's exaltation after humiliation teach about the path of discipleship?
Word Studies
- Angel: ἄγγελος (Angelos) G32 - Angel, messenger
Cross-References
- Glory: Psalms 8:5