“In the grand tapestry of creation, humanity holds a unique and elevated position that even surpasses that of angels in specific respects. This deeply established biblical concept provides substantial insights into the nature of man’s connection with God and the created world, particularly through the lens of the sovereignty of man and the biblical understanding of man.
In the Divine Hierarchy
Scripture highlights humanity’s unique place and purpose in comparison to angels. The Book of Hebrews has an important section that uses the Psalms to describe humanity’s favorable position in the spiritual hierarchy in Christianity:
“But one in a specific region testified, asking, What is man, that you are concerned about him? or is it the son of man that you are visiting? Thou madest man a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honor, and placed him over the works of thy hands: Thou hast subjugated all things beneath his feet.” (Hebrews 2:6-8 KJV)
Though this may seem to position humans lower than angels, the phrase “a little lower than the angels” is often taken to mean “for a little while lower than the angels,” implying a transient condition. Furthermore, the crowning of mankind with “glory and honour” and the subordination of all things to their feet denotes a sovereign function given by God, echoing the dominion mandate from Genesis.
The Role of Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ’s dual character as wholly divine and fully human sheds light on humanity’s exalted position. By taking on human form, Christ did not reduce Himself below angels; rather, He elevated human nature, fulfilling both His humanity and divinity:
“For the world to come, of which we speak, he has not subjected to the angels. But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the sake of death, crowned with glory and honor; that he, by the mercy of God, could experience death for everyone.” (Hebrews 2:5-9 KJV)
Christ’s death, resurrection, and ascension underscore redeemed humanity’s destiny, which is to achieve glory that transcends that of angels.
Humanity’s Sovereign Tasks.
The Bible clearly defines jobs and obligations for people that are not entrusted to angels. Genesis portrays man as the steward of the planet, a job emphasizing Christian stewardship of Earth not granted to heavenly beings:
“And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.” (Genesis 1:26, KJV)
This dominion mandate demonstrates humanity’s ability to control and manage the globe, expressing God’s sovereign will via direct administration of His creation.
The Limits and Liberties
Despite these advantages, humans have limits that angels do not, including bodily mortality and moral temptations. However, through Christ, Christians are given a portion in His eternal kingdom, which includes authority over angels.
“Do you not know that we will judge angels? How many more things in this life?” (1 Corinthians 6:3, KJV)
This future judging angels role indicates a higher comprehension and power over spiritual entities, hence elevating mankind in the eschatological order.
The Call for Sovereign Living
Understanding our position as beings above angels, along with the role of humans in creation, is more than just a theoretical exercise; it is a summons to act out the sovereignty bestowed by our Creator. We are to manage God’s creation properly, obey His commands, and prepare for our eternal roles in His kingdom. As we consider our higher position, let us endeavor to carry out our earthly responsibilities with humility and diligence, looking forward to the complete fulfillment of our destiny in Christ.
Prayer Points for Accepting Our Sovereign Role
- Thanksgiving and Humanity’s Role: Thank you, Heavenly Father, for entrusting us with the care of your creation. Help us handle it carefully and kindly.
- Wisdom in power: Lord, grant us the wisdom to use the power You have given us over the planet to reflect Your love and justice.
- Protection from Temptation: Almighty God, protect us from the temptations that surround us and help us utilize our free choice to choose what is good and right.
- Strength in difficulties: Lord Jesus, throughout our sorrows and difficulties, remind us of the grandeur that awaits us and help us to persevere.
- Guidance for the Future: Holy Spirit, lead us in all our choices so that we might honor You and spread Your love through our roles.
- Harmony with Creation: Father, please help us live in harmony with the natural world, conserving it for future generations as a witness to Your providence.”