The Greatness of Melchizedek - Hebrews 7:1-3

*Chapter 7 represents the heart of the this epistle to the Hebrews, showing Christ as King and Priest. The writer emphasizes the importance of chapter 7, as he begins chapter 8 (8:1).

Zechariah made this clear statement showing the relationship between the Messiah’s priesthood and kingship.

“And speak unto him, saying, Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name is The BRANCH; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the LORD: Even he shall build the temple of the LORD; and he shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne: and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.” Zech 6:12-13

This passage combines the two offices of Priest and King to emphasize their importance. Remember that the Lord Jesus holds a three-fold office of Prophet (preaching on the earth), Priest (His intercessory work in heaven), and King (His coming as the Lord of glory).

Melchizedek is mentioned in two Old Testament passages:

Genesis 14:17-20 - After Abraham and Lot parted company during the reign of Amraphel king of Shinar, a war broke out between various kings in the area. Bera and other confederate kings defeated the other warring kings, and took Lot, his family, and all his possessions to Hobah, north of Damascus.

Abraham took 318 trained servants and recovered Lot and all his family and possessions. After returning from that battle, Abraham met the Priest of the Most High God, Melchizedek, who blessed Abraham, and then Abraham subsequently paid tithes to Melchizedek.

Psalm 104:4 - The LORD, through king David taught that Messiah was to be a Priest after the order of Melchizedek. I believe that Melchizedek was Christ, revealing Himself in the Old Testament.

REASONS FOR CHRIST BEING MELCHIZEDEK

*The priesthood of Melchizedek was absolute, final, permanent, and eternal in quality and character. Hebrews 10:12 indicates that Christ’s priesthood is extended, uninterrupted, perpetual, unbroken. Heb. 5:6; 6:20; 7:17,21,25

*His name is synonymous with King of Righteousness: Jer. 23:6 describes the Messiah

*His name is synonymous with King of Salem and King of Peace: Christ is our King and Peace. Isaiah 9:6

*He was without human parentage: John 8:58

*He had no beginning of days nor end of life: eternal priesthood, Alpha and Omega,, the beginning and the end, which was, which is, and which is to come the Almighty.”

*He was like unto the Son of God: Rev. 1:13