The word “better” appears 34 times in the New King James’ New Testament. A dozen of these occurrences are found in the book of Hebrews. Used in the sense of “superior to”, this epistle makes four audacious declarations.
Christ is greater in authority than angels, the highest order of heavenly beings created by God. Jesus has a better/more excellent name than they (Hebrews 1:4).
Christ is greater in rank than Moses, the revered redeemer of Israel and human recipient of God’s Law at Mount Sinai. Just as a son over a house has greater authority than a servant within the household, Jesus is worthy of more glory than Moses (Hebrews 3:3-6).
Christ is greater in rank and atoning capabilities than the Old Testament high priests. Jesus is a great high priest who has passed through the heavens (Hebrews 4:14) and is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a minister in heaven’s Holy of Holies (Hebrews 8:1-2). In a myriad of ways, Jesus has a superior high priesthood.
Christ’s sacrifice is greater in quality and efficacy than the multitude of sacrifices made in the Old Testament. By one offering Jesus has perfected forever those who are being sanctified (Hebrews 10:14). He does not make daily, repeated sacrifices which could never take away sins; He made one sacrifice for sins and sat down at the right hand of God (Hebrews 10:11-12).
These “betters” are distinctive doctrines of the new covenant.
BEWARE of anyone who seeks to tamper with any of them.
