Christ Is Better Than Angels

Preface

Hebrews 1:1 – 2:18

Many opinions abound about who Jesus is. List some common ideas about the identity of Jesus that you've heard.

Who do you believe Jesus is? Why?

Introduction

The overarching theme of Hebrews is the supremacy or the preeminence of Christ. He is higher than any Old Testament character. He is superior to any Old Testament institution. He is greater than any Old Testament ritual. He is better than any Old Testament sacrifice. His life, death and resurrection make Him preeminent.

In this Bible Study, the author shows how Jesus Christ is superior to angels, which are held in high regard by the Jews as highest beings next to God.

Questions

Read Hebrews 1 (Refer to Hebrews 1:1-4)

1. Consider the ways Jesus is described here. How would you summarize the ways Jesus is described here in a sentence?

a. What does it mean that God “has in these last days spoken to us by His Son”? (John 1:1-14)

b. What does it mean that Christ has been appointed heir of all things? (Psalm 2:8-9, 89:27, Romans 11:36, Colossians 1:15-18)

Refer Hebrews 1:4-14

3a. Discuss why God made angels. What are they for? (Deuteronomy 33:1-1, Psalm 68:17, 97:7, 104:4, Acts 7:38, 53, Galatians 3:19)

b. How does the passage contrast Jesus from the angels?

Read Hebrews 2 (Refer to Hebrews 2:1-4)

4. What warning does the writer issue?

5. What does it mean when it says, 'Jesus was perfected through suffering' (Hebrews 2:10), bearing in mind that He never sinned?

Read Colossians 1:13-20

6. In what ways does this passage echo the themes expressed in Hebrews 1 and 2? What new truths are mentioned?

7. How has your views of Jesus Christ changed as a result of these chapters? Explain.

8. Given the excellency and supremacy of Christ, why do you think human beings still tend to trust other things more?

9. In what areas of your life do you need to recognize that Christ is far better than everyone and everything else you might put your faith and trust in?

Conclusion

Through this Bible study, we have gotten a better understanding of Christ. We learn about His glorious nature and the cause for which He suffered and died on earth, that is, the purification of sins and reconciliation with God.

There is no better promise than that in Jesus Christ. Not only has He atoned for our sins, but He continues to help us in our times of testing. Angels may minister to us as God's servants; Jesus ministers to us as His own kith and kin.

May we truly worship Jesus Christ as the One who humbled Himself, died for our sins, and who is now risen and glorified.