Made “A Little Lower” For a Time (Hebrews 2:5-18)

"But we do see Jesus, who was made lower than the angels for a little while, now crowned with glory and honor because he suffered death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone." Hebrews 2:9 (NIV)

Context

In today’s video, “Jesus Made Perfect Through Suffering?”, we examined how the original Greek and Old Testament background can help us understand why “it was fitting” for Jesus “to be made perfect” through suffering.

Observation

The author uses Psalm 8 to testify that the whole world has been made subject to Jesus, the Son of Man who was made “a little lower than the angels” when he became human (2:5-9). In this state of humility, he suffered, died, and was able to become the perfect high priest for the sake of humanity (2:10-18).

Interpretation

Consider how this passage might have impacted the first readers. It was a powerful reminder of how far Christ was willing to go to become their fitting representative before God (their high priest), set them free from fear of death, and to offer them help when they faced temptation.

In what ways is this message about Jesus empowering them to persevere through any suffering they experience for his sake?

Application

Because Jesus took on humanity, he was able to become our perfect high priest, destroy the devil through death, and sympathize with us when we are tempted.

Are these realities you have taken to heart? Identify one way you can use these truths to strengthen you the next time you experience temptation.