The Role of the Son in Hebrews 1:1-2: A Theological Reflection

Hebrews 1:1-2 opens a profound discussion on the relationship between the Father and the Son, a central theme in Christian theology. The passage introduces the reader to a momentous shift in communication, transitioning from the prophets of the Old Testament to a new way of speaking of God through His Son.

God's Communication with the Forefathers

Hebrews 1:1-2 begins by stating, "Long ago God spoke to our forefathers by means of the prophets on many occasions and in many ways. Now at the end of these days he has spoken to us by means of a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things and through whom he made the systems of things." This passage clearly acknowledges the historical communication between God and the people of Israel through the prophets. However, it introduces an entirely new channel of divine revelation through the Son.

It's important to note here that Hebrews does not use the name Jehovah, which is a specific name for the God of the Old Testament. Instead, it refers to God using his general title and the name of His Son.

The Divine Communication Through a Son

The title of the Old Testament is often "The Law and the Prophets," signifying the primary form of God's communication. In Hebrews, the focus is shifted to the Son, who is presented as the ultimate revelation of God.

The Context of Divine Revelation

While nearly every instance of communication with God that is explicitly attributed to the Old Testament is of the Father, there are exceptions. The Son also made appearances and contacted His people of the old covenant according to the Old Testament, but these instances usually reflect His subordination to the Father. It's important to recognize these nuances in the Old Testament texts.

Genesis 32:22-32: A Divine Encounter

Consider Genesis 32:22-32, where Jacob encounters what he believes to be a divine messenger. The text uses the Hebrew word for messenger, malak, which also refers to angels. In Hosea 12:3-5, the prophet uses different language, translating the encounter into terms of an angel: ángelos. This renaming reflects a shift in perception, indicating a lesser form of divine communication.

The text in Hosea, translated from the Greek Septuagint, uses the word ángelos, which translates to "angel." This linguistic shift is significant in understanding the nature of the divine encounters through the Son.

John 1:3-4: The Subordination of the Son

The book of Daniel also contains a passage that underscores the subordination of the Son to the Father (Daniel 3:24-25). Here, the Fourth Kingdom, a divine figure, is described as walking in the fire unharmed, indicating a form of divine protection. The Fourth Kingdom is often interpreted as a symbol of the Son, underscoring the idea that the Son is acting under the direction and will of the Father.

A Theological Shift in Revelation

Another significant text is Revelation 14:14-16, where the Son appears before God's judgment. Jesus is again called a son of the gods, emphasizing His divine but subordinate role. Similarly, Revelation 1:12-16 and Daniel 7:9defg10ab describe the appearance of the Son in a heavenly context, which is often linked to the description of the Ancient of Days, the Most High.

The Unity of the Father and the Son

These texts suggest a deep unity between the Father and the Son. At Jesus' baptism, the Father declared Him the Beloved Son, confirming His role in the Godhead. The unity of the Father and the Son is a core aspect of Christian theology, indicating a shared divine essence while maintaining distinct roles.

The role of the Son in Hebrews 1:1-2, and throughout Scripture, demonstrates a complex interplay between the Father and the Son. While the Son communicates and interacts with humanity, His communication and actions are consistently subordinated to the will and plan of the Father. This relationship underscores the divine nature of both the Father and the Son, while highlighting the unique position and role of the Son in the Godhead.

Understanding these nuances is essential for a comprehensive grasp of Christian theology and the work of the Son in redemption and revelation.