This Sunday we open a new chapter in our study of Hebrews, and for the next several weeks we will be looking at an important aspect of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ: His role as our eternal High Priest, according to the order of Melchizedek.
Melchizedek is a mysterious and interesting character in scripture. First referenced in Genesis 14, Melchizedek was unique in that he was both a King and a Priest. He reigned at Salem, which is held to be the early city of Jerusalem. His name means “king of righteousness” and “king of peace.
Jewish tradition holds that Melchizedek is actually Shem, one of Noah’s three sons. This is quite possible, since Shem lived to be 602 years old, and was still alive during Abraham’s time. Shem was also related to Abraham (Gen 11), so there is good reason to believe that they knew each other. But the writer also states that Melchizedek was “without father or mother, without genealogy” (Heb 7:3), therefore many scholars hold that Melchizedek could not have been Shem.
Regardless, one thing is certain: Melchizedek is a presented in scripture as a type of Christ. Psalm 110:4 declares:
The LORD has sworn and will not change his mind: “You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.” (Ps 110:4)
..and the writer of Hebrews will develop this theme further as we look at Jesus Christ, our eternal High Priest!
Join us Sunday as we delve further into the book of Hebrews!
...till the whole world hears,
Pastor Clay
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