Albert Barnes Commentary Hebrews 1:4

"having become by so much better than the angels, as he hath inherited a more excellent name than they." — Hebrews 1:4 (ASV)

Being made so much better. This means being exalted so much above the angels. The word "better" here does not refer to moral character, but to exaltation of rank. As Mediator, as the Son of God in our human nature, He is exalted far above the angels.

Than the angels. That is, than all angels of every rank. (See the notes on Ephesians 1:21; compare to 1 Peter 3:22: Angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.) He is exalted to His mediatorial throne, and all things are placed beneath His feet.

As he hath by inheritance. This refers to an exaltation He possesses in virtue of His name—the Son of God—an exaltation such as is implied in that name. Just as a son has a rank in a family above servants, and has control over the property that servants do not, so it is with the Mediator.

He is the Son of God; angels are the servants of God and the servants of the church. They occupy a place in the universe, compared with the place He occupies, similar to the position servants in a family hold compared with that of a son. To illustrate and prove this is the purpose of the remainder of this chapter.

The argument the apostle insists on is that the title "THE Son of God" is to be given to Him alone. It has been conferred on no others. Although angels and saints are called in general "sons of God," the title "THE Son of God" has been given to Him only. Since the apostle was writing to Hebrews, he appeals to the Hebrew Scriptures alone for the confirmation of this view.

A more excellent name. Namely, the name Son. It is a more honorable and exalted name than has ever been bestowed on them. It involves more exalted privileges and entitles Him on whom it is bestowed to higher respect and honor than any name ever bestowed on them.