Journal: Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society
Volume: JETS 59:4 (Dec 2016)
Article: Christology In Hebrews 1:5–14: The Three Stages Of Christ’s Existence
Author: Victor (Sung-Yul) Rhee

JETS 59:4 (December 2016) p. 717

Christology In Hebrews 1:5–14:
The Three Stages Of Christ’s Existence

Victor (Sung Yul) Rhee*

* Victor (Sung Yul) Rhee is professor of NT language and literature at Biola University/Talbot School of Theology, 13800 Biola Ave., La Mirada, CA 90639. He can be contacted at [email protected].

Abstract: George B. Caird argues for the exegetical method that the quotation of Psalm 8 in Heb 2:6–8 should control the argument in Hebrews 1. The implication is that one cannot find the literal preexistence of Christ in 1:1–14. Likewise, L. D. Hurst interprets Hebrews 1 in light of the humanity of Christ in Hebrews 2. Hurst’s conclusion about the Son in Hebrews 1 is not about a uniquely privileged, divine being who became a man, but a human figure who attains to an exalted status. In this article I set forth the exegetical method that 1:5–14 and the rest of the book of Hebrews is to be understood in light of 1:1–4, instead of reading chapter 1 with the background of humanity of Jesus in chapter 2. This essay will make evident that the author of Hebrews presents the three stages of Christ’s existence in 1:1–4 (i.e. preexistence, incarnation, exaltation), and elaborates them further in 1:5–14. I will also argue that the description of Christ’s preexistence in 1:5–14 is not metaphorical but literal.

Key Words: Christology; preexistence of Christ; incarnation; exaltation; wisdom; firstborn; Son; angels; world

George Caird, in his article “The Exegetical Method of the Epistle to the Hebrews,” argues that the quotation of Psalm 8 in Heb 2:6–8 should control the argument in the preceding chapter (i.e. Hebrews 1).1 The application of his exegetical method is reflected in some of his writings on the interpretation of Hebrews 1. For example, he argues that the message of what God has spoken in his Son clearly echoes the port...