Problem: The author’s audience knew that Jesus had become human (Heb. 1:1-3; 2:3-4). Therefore, he was less than the angels—at least for a short time. This Jewish audience must have been arguing that Jesus was, therefore, less than the angels. Of course, in chapter 1, the author argues that the Messiah was greater than the angels (Heb. 1:6-14). Here he argues that even humans are greater than the angels. How does he make his case?
Solution: The author appeals to Psalm 8 to show that humans are the ones who will rule the earth—not angels. Even though humans are less powerful than angels, we are more valuable and given more responsibility. Thus, even though Jesus became a human, he was still greater than the angels—even according to the OT Scripture. To conclude, the author’s logic could be explained in this way.
1. Humans are rulers over all creation (Ps. 8).
2. Angels are part of creation (“all things”).
3. Therefore, humans are rulers over angels.
4. Jesus was human; therefore, Jesus rules over the angels.
“But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man that thou visitest him? 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: Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him. (Heb 2:6-8)”
