What Old Testament passages are referenced in Hebrews 1:5, and why? Setting the Scene in Hebrews 1 Hebrews opens by contrasting the greatness of the Son with every created being, especially angels. Verse 5 begins the proof by citing two Old Testament declarations God never made to angels—but did make, prophetically, to His Messianic Son. The Two Old Testament Passages Quoted 1. Psalm 2 : 7 • “I will proclaim the decree spoken to Me by the LORD: ‘You are My Son; today I have become Your Father.’” 2. 2 Samuel 7 : 14 (echoed in 1 Chronicles 17 : 13) • “I will be a Father to him, and he will be a son to Me.” Why Psalm 2 : 7? • A royal, Messianic psalm: David’s greater heir is enthroned despite opposition (Psalm 2 : 1-6). • “You are My Son” declares unique, eternal sonship—far above any angel (cf. Hebrews 1 : 4). • “Today I have become Your Father” points to the enthronement of the Messiah—fulfilled in Jesus’ resurrection and exaltation (Acts 13 : 33; Romans 1 : 4). • The psalm ends with the nations commanded to “kiss the Son” (Psalm 2 : 12), underscoring universal authority given to Christ (Matthew 28 : 18). Why 2 Samuel 7 : 14? • Part of God’s covenant with David: an eternal throne through David’s offspring (2 Samuel 7 : 12-16). • Immediate application to Solomon, but ultimate fulfillment in the Messiah whose kingdom never ends (Isaiah 9 : 6-7; Luke 1 : 32-33). • Highlights a relational promise—“I will be his Father.” Angels are servants; the Son is heir (Hebrews 1 : 2). • Ties the Messiah to the historic, literal line of David, confirming Jesus as the promised King (Matthew 1 : 1; Revelation 22 : 16). Why These Two Together? • Psalm 2 stresses the Son’s divine decree and authority; 2 Samuel 7 stresses covenantal sonship and kingship. • Together they seal both heavenly and earthly credentials: Jesus is God’s eternal Son and David’s legal heir. • They form a legal “two-witness” testimony (Deuteronomy 19 : 15), establishing Christ’s supremacy beyond dispute. How the Early Church Applied These Texts • Acts 4 : 25-28—believers quote Psalm 2 when facing persecution, recognizing Jesus as the enthroned Son. • Acts 13 : 32-33—Paul uses Psalm 2 : 7 to preach the resurrection. • Revelation 2 : 26-27 echoes Psalm 2 : 9, promising believers share in Christ’s rule. • Luke 1 : 32-35 cites the Davidic covenant theme: “He will be called the Son of the Most High… the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David.” Practical Takeaways for Us • Jesus’ identity rests on God’s unbreakable Word—our faith is anchored in Scripture’s literal promises. • The same decree that enthroned Christ secures our salvation; His triumph guarantees ours (Hebrews 2 : 10). • Worship flows from recognizing His unique Sonship: angels serve Him; we gladly join their praise (Hebrews 1 : 6; Revelation 5 : 11-13). |
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