Hebrews 1:14
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Are they not all ministering spirits - That is, They are all ministering spirits; for the Hebrews often express the strongest affirmative by an interrogation. All the angels, even those of the highest order, are employed by their Creator to serve those who believe in Christ Jesus. What these services are, and how performed, it would be impossible to state. Much has been written on the subject, partly founded on Scripture, and partly on conjecture. They are, no doubt, constantly employed in averting evil and procuring good. If God help man by man, we need not wonder that he helps man by angels. We know that he needs none of those helps, for he can do all things himself; yet it seems agreeable to his infinite wisdom and goodness to use them. This is part of the economy of God in the government of the world and of the Church; and a part, no doubt, essential to the harmony and perfection of the whole. The reader may see a very sensible discourse on this text in vol. ii., page 133, of the Rev. John Wesley's works, American edition. Dr. Owen treats the subject at large in his comment on this verse, vol. iii., page 141, edit. 8vo., which is just now brought to my hand, and which appears to be a very learned, judicious, and important work, but by far too diffuse. In it the words of God are drowned in the sayings of man. The Godhead of Christ is a subject of such great importance, both to the faith and hope of a Christian, that I feel it necessary to bring it full into view, wherever it is referred to in the sacred writings. It is a prominent article in the apostle's creed, and should be so in ours. That this doctrine cannot be established on Heb 1:8 has been the assertion of many. To what I have already said on this verse, I beg leave to subjoin the following criticisms of a learned friend, who has made this subject his particular study.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
ministering spirits--referring to Heb 1:7, "spirits . . . ministers." They are incorporeal spirits, as God is, but ministering to Him as inferiors. sent forth--present participle: "being sent forth" continually, as their regular service in all ages. to minister--Greek, "unto (that is, 'for') ministry." for them--Greek, "on account of the." Angels are sent forth on ministrations to God and Christ, not primarily to men, though for the good of "those who are about to inherit salvation" (so the Greek): the elect, who believe, or shall believe, for whom all things, angels included, work together for good (Rom 8:28). Angels' ministrations are not properly rendered to men, since the latter have no power of commanding them, though their ministrations to God are often directed to the good of men. So the superiority of the Son of God to angels is shown. They "all," how ever various their ranks, "minister"; He is ministered to. They "stand" (Luk 1:19) before God, or are "sent forth" to execute the divine commands on behalf of them whom He pleases to save; He "sits on the right hand of the Majesty on high" (Heb 1:3, Heb 1:13). He rules; they serve. Next: Hebrews Chapter 2
John Gill Bible Commentary
Are they not all ministering spirits,.... Servants to God, to Christ, and to his people, and therefore must be inferior to the Son of God. The phrase is Rabbinical; frequent mention is made in Jewish writings (a) of , "the angels of ministry", or "the ministering angels"; this is their common appellation with the Jews; and the apostle writing to such, uses a like phrase, well known to them, and appeals to them, if the angels were not such spirits. Sent forth to minister for them who shall be the heirs of salvation? the persons they minister to, and for, are those, who shall be the heirs of salvation; that is, of eternal glory, which will be possessed by the saints, as an inheritance: hence it belongs to children, being bequeathed to them by their Father, and comes to them through the death of Christ, of which the Spirit is the earnest; and this shows that it is not of works, and that it is of an eternal duration, and takes in all kind of happiness: and of this the saints are heirs now; and so the Ethiopic version renders it, "who are heirs of salvation"; nor should it be rendered, "who shall be heirs", but rather, "who shall inherit salvation"; for this character respects not their heirship, but their actual inheriting of salvation: and the ministry of angels to, and for them, lies in things temporal and spiritual, or what concern both their bodies and their souls; in things temporal, in which they have often been assisting, as in providing food for their bodies, in curing their diseases, in directing and preserving them in journeys, in saving and delivering them from outward calamities, in restraining things hurtful from hurting them, and in destroying their enemies; in things spiritual, as in making known the mind and will of God to them, in comforting them, and suggesting good things to them, and in helping and assisting them against Satan's temptations; and they are present with their departing souls at death, and carry them to heaven, and will gather the elect together at the last day. And they are "sent forth" to minister to them in such a way; they are sent forth by Christ, the Lord and Creator of them, who therefore must be superior to them; they do not take this office upon themselves, though, being put into they faithfully and diligently execute it, according to the will of Christ: and this shows the care of Christ over his people, and his kindness to them, and the great honour he puts upon them, to appoint such to minister to them; and since they are of so much use and service, they ought to be respected and esteemed, though not worshipped. (a) T. Bab. Chagiga, fol. 12. 2. & 14. 1, 2. & 16. 1. Taanith, fol. 11. 1. & Megilia, fol. 15. 2. & in Zohar passim. Next: Hebrews Chapter 2
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:14 Therefore, angels are only servants: The author restates his conclusion. God sends out the angels to care for his people, who will inherit salvation at the end of the age (see 9:28).
Hebrews 1:14
The Supremacy of the Son
13Yet to which of the angels did God ever say: “Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet” ? 14Are not the angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Hebrews 1:4-14
By Don McClure1.2K47:40ACT 7:53GAL 3:19HEB 1:10HEB 1:14REV 19:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the fulfillment of God's plan through Jesus Christ. He compares the fulfillment to someone going on a journey and finally appearing in person, making the previous descriptions and pictures unnecessary. The speaker also highlights the role of angels as servants to the heirs of salvation, emphasizing that they are not to be worshipped but rather seen as ambassadors carrying out God's authority and power. The main focus of the sermon is to establish that Jesus Christ is superior to all beings, including angels, and that the writer of Hebrews aims to show this superiority throughout the book.
(2 Samuel) the Kindness of God
By David Guzik1.1K33:572SA 9:12SA 9:9MAT 6:33HEB 1:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that comparing ourselves to others does not determine our righteousness before God. Instead, we are judged by God's holy standard, such as the Ten Commandments. The speaker highlights the commandment of not bearing false witness, stating that even telling a single lie makes us guilty before God. The sermon then shifts to the story of Mephibosheth, a descendant of Saul who is lame in his feet. Despite his fear and feelings of worthlessness, King David shows him kindness and love, demonstrating the forgiveness and grace of God.
Angels Are Real
By Basilea Schlink87404:35Radio Show2KI 6:17PSA 91:11DAN 6:22MAT 18:10LUK 4:10ACT 12:7HEB 1:14In this sermon, Basilia Schlink shares a story of a little boy who miraculously survives being run over by a truck. The boy claims that there were two angels protecting him during the accident. Basilia emphasizes that God commands his angels to guard and protect his beloved children, especially in times of trouble and catastrophe. She encourages listeners to recognize and rely on the power and assistance of angels in their lives, as they are real and continue to work in the lives of believers today. The sermon is based on Psalm 91, which speaks of God giving his angels charge over us to guard us in all our ways.
The Supernatural Today
By A.C. Valdez Sr.461:05:41Supernatural ManifestationsLast Days RevivalDAN 11:32MAT 1:20MAT 2:9JHN 1:48ACT 2:3HEB 1:14A.C. Valdez Sr. emphasizes the relevance of supernatural occurrences in today's world, drawing parallels between biblical events and modern manifestations of God's power. He shares personal experiences of divine encounters, including angelic visitations and miraculous healings, asserting that the same Holy Spirit active in the New Testament is present today. Valdez encourages believers to deepen their relationship with God through prayer and the Holy Spirit to withstand the increasing pressures of the Antichrist in these last days. He believes that as the world faces greater challenges, the Church will witness even more significant manifestations of God's power and the ministry of angels. Ultimately, he calls for a revival of Pentecostal power to equip believers for the trials ahead.
Angelic Assistance and Gazing Upon the Son
By Brian Guerin737:58Angelic AssistanceIntimacy with ChristLUK 22:43ACT 12:7HEB 1:14Brian Guerin shares a powerful sermon on the significance of angelic assistance and the importance of gazing upon Jesus, the Son. He recounts a transformative experience in India where he witnessed the power of God in delivering a young girl from demonic possession, emphasizing the reality of spiritual warfare and the role of angels in ministering to believers. Guerin encourages the congregation to cultivate intimacy with Christ, as this connection opens the heavens and allows for angelic intervention in their lives. He highlights the necessity of seeking God diligently and the profound impact of prayer and stillness in the presence of the Lord. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper relationship with Jesus, which leads to empowerment and freedom in the believer's life.
Fire 21 Conference
By Brian Guerin613:01Flow of the Holy SpiritProphetic VisionJDG 7:13PSA 45:7PSA 46:4MAT 7:25JHN 1:51JHN 7:38ACT 10:11PHP 3:8HEB 1:9HEB 1:14Brian Guerin shares a prophetic message at the Fire 21 Conference, emphasizing the need to break barriers that hinder the flow of the Holy Spirit, likening them to a beaver dam that stops water. He encourages attendees to embrace the symbols and visions God provides, referencing biblical examples of prophetic dreams and their meanings. Guerin highlights the importance of intimacy with Christ, urging the congregation to seek a deeper relationship with Him as they prepare for a move of the Spirit. He also shares prophetic insights about individuals being called to Australia and Cairo, Egypt, emphasizing the role of angelic assistance in their journeys. The sermon culminates in a call for prayer and worship, inviting the Holy Spirit to flow freely among the attendees.
The Mantle
By Brian Guerin454:13Supernatural EncountersIntimacy With God2KI 2:14PSA 46:10ISA 40:31MAT 7:22MAT 25:1JHN 15:15ACT 13:3PHP 3:8HEB 1:14JAS 4:8Brian Guerin emphasizes the significance of intimacy with God in his sermon 'The Mantle,' drawing parallels between the prophetic acts of Elijah and Elisha. He highlights the importance of waiting on the Lord and being open to the supernatural, as well as the need for believers to cultivate a deep, personal relationship with God. Guerin encourages the congregation to seek the God of Elijah for breakthroughs in their lives, suggesting that a striking of the mantle can lead to divine encounters and transformations. He also reflects on the urgency of the hour, urging the church to be prepared for the return of the Lord and to maintain their spiritual oil through intimacy with Him.
Reclaiming Authentic Christianity
By Brian Guerin329:34The Power of the Holy SpiritAuthentic ChristianityPSA 16:11JOL 2:28MAT 11:28JHN 14:12ACT 10:38ROM 8:191CO 12:42CO 3:6EPH 5:18HEB 1:14Brian Guerin emphasizes the need for authentic Christianity, urging believers to embrace the fullness of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit. He shares personal experiences of divine encounters and miracles, encouraging the congregation to seek intimacy with God and to be open to the Holy Spirit's movement. Guerin highlights the importance of character in the manifestation of spiritual gifts and the necessity of being a light in a world filled with fear. He calls for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit, believing that God desires to heal and liberate His people from oppression and despair.
The Celebration in Heaven of the Most High God
By Erlo Stegen0Virgin BirthPurity and Favor with GodPSA 51:5MAT 1:23LUK 1:26ROM 3:23HEB 1:14Erlo Stegen emphasizes the significance of the virgin birth of Jesus, highlighting that while all humans are born in sin, Jesus was born without sin, making Him the only one capable of defeating Satan. He reflects on Mary's unique character, her purity, and her acceptance of God's plan, contrasting her life with the moral decline seen in many today. The sermon calls for self-examination, urging listeners to consider if they, like Mary, are living a life that is pleasing to God and whether they are highly favored in His eyes. Stegen also points out the role of angels as ministering spirits and encourages young women to aspire to the virtues exemplified by Mary.
Jacob's Ladder
By David Wilkerson0God's FaithfulnessDivine ProtectionGEN 25:29GEN 27:18GEN 28:12GEN 28:14PSA 91:11MAT 18:10JHN 1:51ROM 8:31HEB 1:14David Wilkerson explores the life of Jacob, a flawed yet beloved figure in the Old Testament, who deceived his brother Esau to obtain his birthright and blessing. Despite Jacob's manipulative actions, God revealed His unwavering love and purpose for him through a vision of a ladder connecting heaven and earth, symbolizing divine activity and angelic ministry. This vision reassured Jacob of God's presence and promise, emphasizing that God's guidance and protection are still active in our lives today. Wilkerson highlights that the same angels who served Jacob continue to minister to us, reminding us of God's faithfulness and commitment to His people.
Epistle 260
By George Fox0Truth and FreedomWorship in Spirit and TruthJHN 4:24JHN 8:36JHN 14:61CO 6:191CO 7:22GAL 4:26GAL 5:1HEB 1:14HEB 7:162PE 1:4George Fox emphasizes that true freedom comes from the truth, which is found in Christ. He explains that those who are made free by the truth are God's freemen, liberated from sin, false worship, and the control of the devil. Fox encourages believers to worship God in spirit and truth, highlighting that the way of holiness is through Christ, who is the ultimate truth. He warns against the dangers of false prophets and the bondage of traditional worship that is not rooted in the truth. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the true worship of God, which is found within each individual through the Holy Spirit.
Ii Kings 6:17
By Chuck Smith0Spiritual WarfareDivine Protection2KI 6:17PSA 34:7DAN 10:12LUK 10:19JHN 16:33ROM 8:312CO 10:3EPH 6:12HEB 1:141JN 4:4Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of spiritual awareness through the story of Elisha and his servant, who initially sees only the physical threat of the Syrian army. Elisha prays for his servant's eyes to be opened, revealing the greater spiritual reality of God's angelic protection surrounding them. The sermon highlights the existence of the spirit world, the ongoing spiritual warfare, and the need for believers to shift their perspective from the physical to the spiritual. By recognizing that those who are with us are greater than those against us, we can find hope and victory in Christ. Ultimately, the message encourages believers to seek a deeper understanding of their spiritual surroundings and the power of God.
2 Peter 2:11
By John Gill0Respect for AuthorityThe Role of AngelsDAN 10:20MAT 5:11ROM 13:1EPH 6:12COL 1:161TI 2:1HEB 1:141PE 2:132PE 2:11JUD 1:9John Gill expounds on 2 Peter 2:11, emphasizing the superiority of good angels over earthly authorities and their restraint in not bringing accusations against them, despite their higher power and might. He contrasts this behavior with that of false teachers and men who often slander and disrespect those in positions of authority. Gill highlights that angels, who serve as guardians and protectors, do not rail against even the flawed magistrates, thus illustrating the importance of respecting authority. This serves as a reminder for believers to honor and uphold the dignity of those in power, reflecting the humility and respect shown by the angels.
The Doctrine of the Wheels, in the Visions of Ezekiel, Opened and Explained.
By John Gill0Church UnityThe Role of MinistersECC 1:4ISA 32:15EZK 10:13MAT 24:31ACT 20:24ROM 11:331CO 12:212TH 3:1HEB 1:14REV 4:2John Gill expounds on the significance of the wheels in Ezekiel's visions, interpreting them as representations of the churches of Christ under the Gospel dispensation. He emphasizes the dynamic relationship between the wheels (churches) and the cherubim (ministers), highlighting their interdependence and the necessity for harmony in their functions. Gill discusses various interpretations of the wheels, including their symbolism of the world and God's providence, and he stresses the importance of the Spirit's presence in both ministers and churches for effective ministry. He concludes with a call for prayer for the outpouring of the Spirit to ensure the vitality and unity of the church.
Rev. 14:6. the Everlasting Gospel
By Horatius Bonar0The Everlasting GospelUrgency of ProclamationMAT 4:23MAT 28:19MRK 16:15JHN 3:16ROM 3:252CO 5:21HEB 1:14HEB 13:81PE 1:25REV 14:6Horatius Bonar emphasizes the urgency and universality of the everlasting gospel as proclaimed in Revelation 14:6, highlighting that this glad message is to be shared widely as the end approaches. He explains that angels play a significant role in the dissemination of the gospel, acting as invisible agents that stir human hearts to spread the good news. The gospel is characterized by God's free love, the sacrificial gift of His Son, and the promise of righteousness and access to His kingdom. Bonar reassures that this everlasting gospel is unchanging and relevant for all ages and nations, urging listeners to respond as the hour of judgment draws near. He calls for a renewed commitment to proclaiming this message with urgency and clarity.
Behold, an Angel Touched Him.
By F.B. Meyer0Angelic MinistryComfort in Despair1KI 19:5PSA 34:7ISA 40:29HEB 1:14F.B. Meyer reflects on the comforting presence of angels in times of despair, using the story of Elijah to illustrate how God gently restores those who feel alone and defeated. He emphasizes that, rather than rebuke, God offers loving support, recognizing the inner strength and devotion within us even during our lowest moments. Meyer encourages believers to acknowledge the ministry of angels, who provide sustenance and hope when we are weary, reminding us that God's care is always present, especially in our struggles. The sermon concludes with the promise that, like Elijah, we will awaken to the blessings prepared for us by God, both in this life and beyond.
Our Infinite Worth in Christ
By A.W. Tozer0Identity in GodSignificance in ChristPSA 139:14ISA 43:1MAT 10:30LUK 12:7JHN 10:3ROM 8:171CO 12:27EPH 2:10HEB 1:141PE 2:9A.W. Tozer emphasizes that every individual gains infinite worth and significance upon encountering Christ. He illustrates that no one is insignificant in God's eyes; each person is known by name and has a unique role in God's grand design. The transformation from ordinary to extraordinary occurs when the Lord touches a life, making it meaningful and noticed by the heavenly hosts. Tozer also highlights that there are no small churches or unknown Christians, as each believer is a vital part of God's plan.
Angel Workers
By Andrew Bonar0Angelic MinistryService to GodGEN 32:21CH 21:16MAT 28:2LUK 22:43JHN 5:25ACT 8:26ACT 12:51TH 4:16HEB 1:14HEB 11:28Andrew Bonar shares a profound allegory of a gathering of angels who discuss their divine missions and the importance of their service to God and humanity. Each angel recounts their experiences, emphasizing themes of justice, faith, and the significance of even the smallest acts of service. Bonar is reminded to convey to his congregation the power of the blood of Christ, the importance of prayer, and the joy of serving God, culminating in the anticipation of Christ's return. The angels express their admiration for those who proclaim the Gospel and encourage believers to remain steadfast in their work for the Lord. Ultimately, the message is one of hope, urging the church to look forward to the glory of the coming Kingdom.
The Angels
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0GEN 16:1JOB 38:7PSA 8:5MAT 4:11MAT 25:31MAT 25:41MAT 28:2MRK 5:9LUK 2:13LUK 7:24LUK 8:30LUK 22:43ACT 1:101CO 6:3GAL 3:191TI 4:11TI 5:21HEB 1:14HEB 2:7JAS 2:252PE 2:4JUD 1:6REV 1:20REV 5:11REV 20:10Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the intricate details of angels as depicted in the Scriptures, emphasizing their distinct order of creation, heavenly position above man, and the various classes of angelic beings, including the unfallen angels and the fallen angels. The sermon explores the nature, ministry, and significance of angels in pivotal events such as creation, the giving of the law, the birth and resurrection of Christ, and their future role in the second coming of Christ.
Watch
By Tom Macartney0ISA 62:6MAT 24:10MAT 26:38MRK 13:33LUK 21:34ACT 20:171CO 16:13EPH 6:13HEB 1:14REV 3:1Tom Macartney preaches on the importance of watchfulness in the scriptures, emphasizing the need for vigilance, wakefulness, and spiritual alertness in our devotion to the Lord. He explores various contexts where the concept of 'watch' is mentioned, such as the second coming of Jesus, the connection between watching and praying, standing firm in the faith, and the dangers of having a reputation without true spiritual life. The sermon delves into the role of spiritual responsibility and service in the church, the significance of unseen angelic allies, and the necessity of watching in times of testing and evil days.
Epistle 277
By George Fox0MAT 18:20LUK 1:33JHN 8:44JHN 17:3ACT 4:12GAL 4:28EPH 3:21EPH 6:6COL 3:21TI 4:12TIT 2:7HEB 1:14HEB 3:1JAS 3:171PE 2:6George Fox preaches about the importance of living out the truth of God in our daily lives, emphasizing the need to bring our families along to worship and guide them in the wisdom and understanding of God. He urges believers to be diligent in serving the Lord and to set their minds on heavenly things, so that they may be heirs of salvation and children of the promise. Fox encourages families to be good examples to one another, glorifying God in all aspects of their lives.
Luke 15:1-10. Parables of the Lost Sheep, and of the Lost Piece of Silver.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0PSA 30:5LUK 15:1JHN 3:16ROM 5:8HEB 1:141PE 1:8REV 21:3Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the tenderness and compassion of Jesus towards sinners, contrasting the reactions of the Pharisees with the joy of the angels over repentant souls. The parables shared by Jesus reveal the depth of God's love and the immense value He places on each individual's repentance and return to Him. The angels, who witnessed Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection, rejoice over every sinner who repents, knowing the infinite love and joy of the Son of God. The future gathering of all the redeemed into the celestial city will bring unimaginable rapture and joy to the heavenly hosts, emphasizing the importance of our response to the salvation of sinners in the present.
Matthew 18:10-14. Christ Declares How Precious the Little Ones Are in the Father's Sight.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0MAT 18:10LUK 15:4JHN 6:39HEB 1:14REV 14:3Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the tender love and care that God has for His little ones, even the weakest believers, who are served by angels and are the objects of Christ's saving grace. Believers are compared to infant princes with angels as their nurses, who will one day rise above angels in glory. Each saint is a precious purchase of Christ's blood, sought after and brought into the fold of grace by the Son of God, who will not allow His little ones to perish.
God Uses Men as His Servants
By Francis Dixon0MAT 28:19ACT 16:17EPH 2:8HEB 1:141PE 3:15Francis Dixon emphasizes the role of men and women, rather than angels, as God's chosen servants for spreading His kingdom and leading souls to salvation. While angels serve God in His presence and protect His children, the responsibility of sharing the message of redemption through Jesus Christ is entrusted to humanity. Saved sinners are uniquely qualified to proclaim God's grace from personal experience, unlike angels who have not experienced a fallen world. Dixon challenges believers to fulfill God's plan by sharing the gospel with loved ones, friends, neighbors, and all those around them.
help... We're Surrounded
By Denis Lyle02KI 6:16PSA 34:7ROM 12:20EPH 6:11HEB 1:14HEB 13:5Denis Lyle preaches on the story of Elisha and his servant being surrounded by the Syrian army, highlighting the unseen angelic forces that protect God's people. He emphasizes the need for believers to discern the hostility, strategy, and tendency of the enemy, recognizing the spiritual battle we are in. Lyle encourages dispelling fear by trusting in God's Word and the presence of guardian angels, showcasing Elisha's calmness and faith in the face of danger. The sermon concludes with a call to display God's favor by showing kindness and grace even to enemies, reflecting the ethic of love and overcoming evil with good.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Are they not all ministering spirits - That is, They are all ministering spirits; for the Hebrews often express the strongest affirmative by an interrogation. All the angels, even those of the highest order, are employed by their Creator to serve those who believe in Christ Jesus. What these services are, and how performed, it would be impossible to state. Much has been written on the subject, partly founded on Scripture, and partly on conjecture. They are, no doubt, constantly employed in averting evil and procuring good. If God help man by man, we need not wonder that he helps man by angels. We know that he needs none of those helps, for he can do all things himself; yet it seems agreeable to his infinite wisdom and goodness to use them. This is part of the economy of God in the government of the world and of the Church; and a part, no doubt, essential to the harmony and perfection of the whole. The reader may see a very sensible discourse on this text in vol. ii., page 133, of the Rev. John Wesley's works, American edition. Dr. Owen treats the subject at large in his comment on this verse, vol. iii., page 141, edit. 8vo., which is just now brought to my hand, and which appears to be a very learned, judicious, and important work, but by far too diffuse. In it the words of God are drowned in the sayings of man. The Godhead of Christ is a subject of such great importance, both to the faith and hope of a Christian, that I feel it necessary to bring it full into view, wherever it is referred to in the sacred writings. It is a prominent article in the apostle's creed, and should be so in ours. That this doctrine cannot be established on Heb 1:8 has been the assertion of many. To what I have already said on this verse, I beg leave to subjoin the following criticisms of a learned friend, who has made this subject his particular study.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
ministering spirits--referring to Heb 1:7, "spirits . . . ministers." They are incorporeal spirits, as God is, but ministering to Him as inferiors. sent forth--present participle: "being sent forth" continually, as their regular service in all ages. to minister--Greek, "unto (that is, 'for') ministry." for them--Greek, "on account of the." Angels are sent forth on ministrations to God and Christ, not primarily to men, though for the good of "those who are about to inherit salvation" (so the Greek): the elect, who believe, or shall believe, for whom all things, angels included, work together for good (Rom 8:28). Angels' ministrations are not properly rendered to men, since the latter have no power of commanding them, though their ministrations to God are often directed to the good of men. So the superiority of the Son of God to angels is shown. They "all," how ever various their ranks, "minister"; He is ministered to. They "stand" (Luk 1:19) before God, or are "sent forth" to execute the divine commands on behalf of them whom He pleases to save; He "sits on the right hand of the Majesty on high" (Heb 1:3, Heb 1:13). He rules; they serve. Next: Hebrews Chapter 2
John Gill Bible Commentary
Are they not all ministering spirits,.... Servants to God, to Christ, and to his people, and therefore must be inferior to the Son of God. The phrase is Rabbinical; frequent mention is made in Jewish writings (a) of , "the angels of ministry", or "the ministering angels"; this is their common appellation with the Jews; and the apostle writing to such, uses a like phrase, well known to them, and appeals to them, if the angels were not such spirits. Sent forth to minister for them who shall be the heirs of salvation? the persons they minister to, and for, are those, who shall be the heirs of salvation; that is, of eternal glory, which will be possessed by the saints, as an inheritance: hence it belongs to children, being bequeathed to them by their Father, and comes to them through the death of Christ, of which the Spirit is the earnest; and this shows that it is not of works, and that it is of an eternal duration, and takes in all kind of happiness: and of this the saints are heirs now; and so the Ethiopic version renders it, "who are heirs of salvation"; nor should it be rendered, "who shall be heirs", but rather, "who shall inherit salvation"; for this character respects not their heirship, but their actual inheriting of salvation: and the ministry of angels to, and for them, lies in things temporal and spiritual, or what concern both their bodies and their souls; in things temporal, in which they have often been assisting, as in providing food for their bodies, in curing their diseases, in directing and preserving them in journeys, in saving and delivering them from outward calamities, in restraining things hurtful from hurting them, and in destroying their enemies; in things spiritual, as in making known the mind and will of God to them, in comforting them, and suggesting good things to them, and in helping and assisting them against Satan's temptations; and they are present with their departing souls at death, and carry them to heaven, and will gather the elect together at the last day. And they are "sent forth" to minister to them in such a way; they are sent forth by Christ, the Lord and Creator of them, who therefore must be superior to them; they do not take this office upon themselves, though, being put into they faithfully and diligently execute it, according to the will of Christ: and this shows the care of Christ over his people, and his kindness to them, and the great honour he puts upon them, to appoint such to minister to them; and since they are of so much use and service, they ought to be respected and esteemed, though not worshipped. (a) T. Bab. Chagiga, fol. 12. 2. & 14. 1, 2. & 16. 1. Taanith, fol. 11. 1. & Megilia, fol. 15. 2. & in Zohar passim. Next: Hebrews Chapter 2
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:14 Therefore, angels are only servants: The author restates his conclusion. God sends out the angels to care for his people, who will inherit salvation at the end of the age (see 9:28).