«Having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they» (Hebrews 1:4).
THE WORD «HIGHER» or «better» that Hebrews applies to Christ is used thirteen times. Christ is higher than the prophets, as well as the angels. Pastor Mario Veloso said that Paul used seven Old Testament references arranged in three groups to show Christ’s superiority over angels.
- The Son is unique. The Son is different from the angels and far above each and every one of them.
- Angels are efficient, the Son is the righteous God. Angels are beings that were created by God. He makes them efficient servers, beings of transferable presence and quick action. They are assigned specific tasks for which they are accountable. The Son is God, righteous and Redeemer, and is seated at the right hand of God’s throne.
- The Son is Lord, Creator, and Eternal. Angels are not God. The Father refers to Christ as Lord with power, attributes, and authority over all. Christ is the Creator of the universe. He is eternal: He has no beginning or end because He is God. Angels are not God. They are servants; they have neither His power nor His majesty. They are of a lesser nature than God; they are ministering spirits.
The Bible and life show us how God sent angels to protect His children. The lives of Ellen G. White and the pioneers are full of exciting experiences. One time when Ellen was already a widow and was working in Australia to carry God’s work forward, she had to preach at a camp meeting. The five hundred attendees would be housed in about one hundred tents.
Then, a group of wicked young men decided to tear down Ellen’s tent while she was inside. Ellen was calm because she knew an angel was protecting her. Even so, the police sent one of their men to guard her tent. When they saw him, the attackers gave up their plans. But actually, the policeman was not alone. He himself said that he saw a powerful light in the form of an angel beside him. He was so impressed that he knelt down right then and there. As a result, the policeman attended all the meetings, and later, went to church. He accepted Jesus as his Savior and was baptized.
How comforting it is to know that One who is Higher, Christ, is available to help us live today, as well as His angels, His efficient servants.
