Hebrews 2:7

Thou madest him a little lower then the Angels, thou crownedst him with glory and honor, and didst set him ouer the workes of thy hands. Hebrews 2:7 (KJV)

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” The opening verse of Genesis establishes the foundational truth that God is the ultimate creator of everything that exists. It affirms His sovereignty, power, and authority over all creation and sets the stage for understanding God’s relationship with the world and humanity. The verse reminds us that all things have a divine origin and that God is actively involved in the world He created. He is not a distant or indifferent deity but a personal, relational being who desires relationship with His creation. This foundational truth also underscores the biblical theme of covenant and redemption throughout Scripture, pointing to God as the One who restores both creation and people.

In the New Testament Hebrews 2:7 quotes the psalmist and applies the passage to Jesus Christ, the incarnate Son of God, who became “a little lower than the angels.” This phrase highlights Jesus’ temporary state of humanity, when He took on human flesh and was subject to human limitations and experiences. By voluntarily limiting Himself without compromising His divine nature, He became the perfect mediator between God and humanity. Though He humbled Himself, He was not stripped of divine glory and honor. After His resurrection and ascension, Jesus was exalted to the highest place of authority and honor at the right hand of God the Father (Hebrews 1:3), restoring and surpassing the original glory intended for humanity.

The passage also affirms that Jesus, as the exalted Son of God, has been given dominion over the works of God’s hands. Through His sacrificial death and victorious resurrection, He secured victory over sin, death, and the powers of darkness and now reigns over creation (see Psalm 8:6; Colossians 1:16). Believers who are united with Christ share in this dominion.

Practical application follows. First, our identity in Christ: as believers we are united with Him and share in His exalted position, calling us to live in the reality of our restored relationship with God. Second, embracing humility: just as Jesus humbled Himself to become a servant, we are called to humility and self‑lessness in our relationships. Third, responsible stewardship: as recipients of God’s dominion, we are entrusted with caring for His creation and must exercise wise stewardship over the resources and responsibilities given to us. Finally, confidence in God’s plan: Hebrews 2:7 reminds us that God’s redemptive plan, fulfilled in Christ, will ultimately triumph over all opposition, giving us comfort and assurance in times of persecution or hardship.

In conclusion, the Genesis opening verse provides a profound foundation for understanding God’s creative power, His relational nature, and the overarching narrative of redemption that culminates in Christ’s incarnation, exaltation, and the believer’s call to share in His glory and stewardship.