Hebrews 1:2-3
1:2 a These final days refers to the historical era inaugurated at Christ’s coming (see Isa 2:2 b; Acts 2:17 c). Whereas the revelation of the Old Testament era came in a wide variety of forms over time, God’s ultimate revelation was given through his Son, Jesus (see Heb 2:3-4 d).• as an inheritance: Christ is God’s royal heir; the author probably had Ps 2:8 e in mind.
1:3 f The word translated radiates, found only here in the New Testament, includes an idea of intense brightness. God’s own glory is the glorious manifestation of his presence (Exod 16:7 g; 33:18 h; Isa 40:5 i). The Son’s glory is an expression of God’s glory—the Son of God manifests the person and presence of God (Luke 9:32 j; John 1:14 k; 2:11 l; 17:5 m; Rom 8:17 n).
• The term translated expresses, used only here in the New Testament, was used of a distinguishing mark imprinted on an object such as a coin. The Son gives a clear picture of the very character of God (John 1:18 o; Phil 2:6 p; Col 1:15 q).
• the mighty power of his command (literally his powerful word): God’s word is the powerful, dynamic force that created and governs the world (Heb 11:3 r; Ps 33:6-11 s). Elsewhere the Son is called “the Word of God” (Rev 19:13 t; see also John 1:1-18 u).
• cleansed us from our sins: See Heb 9:11–10:18 v.
• he sat down: This clause is an allusion to Ps 110:1 w (see also Heb 1:13 x; 8:1 y; 10:12 z; 12:2 aa), which foretold the exaltation of Christ after his suffering (see Matt 22:44 ab; Acts 2:33 ac; 1 Cor 15:25 ad). The right hand of God indicates high honor, rank, and position (see 1 Kgs 2:19 ae; Pss 16:11 af; 45:4 ag, 9 ah; 80:17 ai).
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