The Epistle to the Hebrews is a profound theological work that emphasizes the supremacy of Christ over all things. In this context, Hebrews 1:7 provides an important insight into the nature and role of angels. The verse states:
"In speaking of the angels he says, 'He makes his angels spirits, and his servants flames of fire.'" (Hebrews 1:7, NIV)
This verse is a quotation from Psalm 104:4, which says, "He makes winds his messengers, flames of fire his servants." The author of Hebrews uses this Old Testament reference to illustrate the nature of angels in contrast to the Son, Jesus Christ.
The Nature of Angels
Hebrews 1:7 highlights two key aspects of angels: their identity as spirits and their role as servants. These characteristics are crucial for understanding the place of angels within the broader theological framework of the New Testament.
Angels as Spirits
The term "spirits" (Greek: πνεύματα, pneumata) underscores the non-corporeal, ethereal nature of angels. Unlike humans, who possess physical bodies, angels are spiritual beings. This aligns with other biblical descriptions of angels, such as in Psalm 104:4 and throughout various angelic appearances in the Old and New Testaments. Their spiritual nature allows them to operate in ways that transcend the physical limitations of human beings. For instance, angels can appear and disappear, travel swiftly, and execute God's will in the spiritual realm.
Angels as Servants
The phrase "his servants flames of fire" emphasizes the functional role of angels. They are depicted as ministers or servants (Greek: λειτουργοὺς, leitourgous) who execute God's commands. The imagery of "flames of fire" suggests both their purity and their power. Fire is often associated with divine presence and judgment in the Bible (e.g., Exodus 3:2, 1 Kings 18:38, Acts 2:3), indicating that angels are agents of God's holy will.
The Role of Angels in God's Plan
Understanding the nature of angels as spirits and servants helps us appreciate their role in God's overarching plan. Throughout the Bible, angels are depicted as messengers, protectors, and warriors who serve God's purposes.
Messengers
One of the primary roles of angels is to serve as messengers between God and humanity. The Greek word for angel, ἄγγελος (angelos), literally means "messenger." Angels deliver divine messages, as seen in the announcements of the births of John the Baptist (Luke 1:11-20) and Jesus (Luke 1:26-38). They also provide guidance and instruction, such as when an angel directed Philip to the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26).
Protectors
Angels also act as protectors of God's people. Psalm 91:11-12 promises, "For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone." This protective role is exemplified in the story of Daniel, where an angel shuts the mouths of lions to save Daniel's life (Daniel 6:22).
Warriors
In addition to being messengers and protectors, angels are also depicted as warriors who carry out God's judgments. The Book of Revelation is replete with images of angelic beings executing divine judgments upon the earth (Revelation 8:6-13). Michael, the archangel, is portrayed as a warrior who leads the heavenly host in battle against the forces of evil (Revelation 12:7-9).
The Supremacy of Christ Over Angels
While Hebrews 1:7 provides important insights into the nature and role of angels, it is crucial to understand this verse in its broader context. The primary purpose of the first chapter of Hebrews is to establish the supremacy of Christ over all creation, including angels.
Jesus as the Son
Hebrews 1:1-4 sets the stage by declaring that God has spoken to us through His Son, who is the "heir of all things" and the "radiance of God's glory." The Son is superior to the angels because He is the exact representation of God's being and sustains all things by His powerful word.
Jesus' Divine Kingship
In contrast to the angels, who are servants, Jesus is portrayed as the divine King. Hebrews 1:8-9 quotes Psalm 45:6-7, saying, "But about the Son he says, 'Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy.'" This passage underscores Jesus' eternal kingship and divine nature, setting Him apart from the angelic hosts.
Jesus' Role in Creation and Redemption
Hebrews 1:10-12 further emphasizes Jesus' role in creation and His eternal nature by quoting Psalm 102:25-27: "In the beginning, Lord, you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment. You will roll them up like a robe; like a garment they will be changed. But you remain the same, and your years will never end." Unlike the angels, Jesus is the Creator and Sustainer of all things, and His existence is eternal and unchanging.
Practical Implications for Believers
Understanding the nature and role of angels, as well as the supremacy of Christ, has several practical implications for believers.
Worship and Adoration
First and foremost, recognizing the supremacy of Christ over angels should lead us to worship and adore Him above all else. While angels are awe-inspiring beings who serve important roles in God's plan, they are not to be worshiped. Revelation 22:8-9 records the apostle John's attempt to worship an angel, only to be corrected: "But he said to me, 'Don't do that! I am a fellow servant with you and with your fellow prophets and with all who keep the words of this scroll. Worship God!'"
Assurance of Salvation
The supremacy of Christ also provides assurance of our salvation. Hebrews 1:3 states that Jesus "provided purification for sins" and "sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven." Jesus' completed work of redemption and His exalted position guarantee that our salvation is secure. Unlike angels, who are servants, Jesus is the Savior who has accomplished our redemption.
Encouragement in Spiritual Warfare
Understanding the role of angels as protectors and warriors can also provide encouragement in our spiritual battles. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that "our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Knowing that God commands His angels to guard and fight for us can strengthen our faith and resolve in the face of spiritual opposition.
Conclusion
Hebrews 1:7 offers a profound insight into the nature and role of angels, describing them as spirits and servants who execute God's will. However, this verse must be understood within the broader context of Hebrews 1, which emphasizes the supremacy of Christ over all creation, including angels. While angels are powerful and awe-inspiring beings, they are ultimately servants of God, whereas Jesus is the eternal Son, Creator, and Redeemer. This understanding should lead us to worship Christ above all, find assurance in His completed work of salvation, and be encouraged by the knowledge that God's angels are actively working to protect and aid us in our spiritual journey.
