1:4 superior to angels. This is proved by the series of Old Testament quotations that follow (vv. 5–14).

inherited . . . more excellent. The eternal Son took on a human nature to rescue us from sin and death (2:14, 15). Now, having for a time voluntarily taken a position “lower than the angels” (2:7), as the resurrected and ascended Messiah He is “declared to be the Son of God in power” (Rom. 1:4) to save His people (v. 5 note). Christ’s exaltation thus inaugurates a new phase of His messianic and redemptive Sonship, and gives Him a dignity far above that of angels.