A High and Noble Calling Purchased By Christ

Although the angels hold an exalted position, dominion has not been given to them but to Church, God’s “many son’s” (Vs. 10), children of God (2:13-14) and referred to previous as those who should inherit salvation (1:14).

The problem is, however, that these “many son’s” were created lower than the angels, and since the fall have been living under the curse of sin and suffering and destined to eternal death. The promise of dominion in this present order, therefore, has all of the appearances of a sadistic prank—we do not see (experience) in this present age all things under the dominion of man (Vs. 8). If the Church has been given dominion as is promised in Scripture, where is that dominion?

The answer to this dilemma is found in a proper understanding of the person and work of Christ (Vs. 9-18). The answer is not to try to understand our circumstances, “but” says the apostle “we see Jesus… crowned with glory and honour.”

To become the founder and pioneer of salvation (Vs. 10), a merciful and faithful high priest to his people (Vs. 17), Christ must first enter into humanity and as representative of His people He must destroy him who has the power of death (Vs. 14-15), and take the crown.

Having conquered death and the devil Christ was “crowned with glory and honour” (Vs. 9) and he has authority, therefore, to give that “honour and glory to His people (Vs. 7), and help us in this world while we wait for the eternal state (Vs. 18 cf. Romans 8:18). In Christ we have been given a high and noble office; we are “kings” (Revelation 1:6; 5:10).