What role do angels play in worship according to Hebrews 1:6? Setting the Scene in Hebrews - Hebrews opens by contrasting the Son with the prophets and with angels (Hebrews 1:1-5). - Verse 6 climaxes that contrast: “And again, when He brings His firstborn into the world, He says: ‘Let all God’s angels worship Him.’”. - The command comes from God the Father; the worship is directed to the Son. The Command: Angels Worship the Son - This is an explicit, divine order: every angelic being must bow before Jesus. - It identifies Jesus as worthy of the same honor given to God (cf. Deuteronomy 32:43 in the Septuagint, from which Hebrews quotes). - The role of angels in worship, therefore, is clear: they are worshipers, not the worshiped. Angels as Worshipers, Not Objects - Angels refuse human worship (Revelation 19:10; 22:8-9). - Scripture warns against “worship of angels” (Colossians 2:18). - Their posture is always directed upward toward God and specifically, in Hebrews 1, toward the Son. Angels Lead by Example Consider other passages that show their worship: • Luke 2:13-14—A multitude of the heavenly host praises God at Jesus’ birth. • Isaiah 6:2-3—Seraphim cry, “Holy, holy, holy,” centering all glory on the Lord. • Psalm 148:2—“Praise Him, all His angels…” • Revelation 5:11-12—Myriads of angels encircle the throne, declaring the Lamb’s worthiness. Collectively these scenes reinforce Hebrews 1:6: angels consistently acclaim God’s glory and the Lamb’s supremacy. Implications for Our Worship - If sinless, powerful angels devote themselves to honoring Jesus, so must we. - Their worship underscores Christ’s deity and affirms that our own worship is rightly focused on Him alone. - Their example encourages reverence, awe, and joyful praise every time we gather. |
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