TODAY IN THE WORD
Few Old Testament figures are more mysterious than Melchizedek, the “king of Salem and priest of God Most High” (v. 1). Melchizedek only appears twice in the entire Old Testament, once in Genesis 14:18–20 and again in Psalm 110:4. Yet, these brief comments contain some amazing statements. Our text in Hebrews today not only draws our attention to this ancient and enigmatic figure, it also takes the time to help us see why he is so important.

Just prior to his meeting with Melchizedek, Abraham (still called Abram at that time) had fought a battle in order to rescue his nephew Lot who had been taken captive when a band of kings raided his hometown of Sodom. Abraham was successful, even rescuing several other people. In addition, he recovered all the goods that the conquering kings had stolen. Melchizedek came out to meet him when he returned the people and their possessions to Sodom (Gen. 14:11-18).

Earlier we saw the exalted place Moses had among God’s Old Testament servants. Abraham, too, was a great and highly regarded figure who was called God’s “beloved” or “friend” (cf. 2 Chron. 20:7, James 2:23). However, an amazing thing

happens in the account of this meeting between Melchizedek and Abraham. Not only does Melchizedek bless Abraham, Abraham also gives Melchizedek a tenth (or a tithe) from all the plunder!

Our writer points these details out in order to show that Melchizedek was a greater priest than anyone from the line of Levi (Heb. 7:4-10). Abraham tithed to Melchizedek long before Aaron and Levi were even born. Therefore, Melchi-zedek represents a priestly line that’s far superior to the one established by the Mosaic Law. Indeed, even in the time of David--long after the establishment of the Mosaic Law--the priestly order represented by Melchizedek was understood as something distinct and everlasting (Ps. 110:4).

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TODAY ALONG THE WAY
The story of Melchizedek is difficult to understand, as even the writer of Hebrews acknowledges!

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