Priesthood of Melchizedek
Priesthood of Melchizedek Excerpt The priesthood of Melchizedek is the main theme of Hebrews 7–10 , so we need not enter into the details now. You will want to read Gen. 14:17–20 for the background. The whole argument of Heb. 7–10 is that Christ is a greater high priest because His priesthood is of a greater order—it belongs to Melchizedek, not Aaron. The name “Melchizedek” means “king of righteousness” ; he was also priest of Salem, which means “peace.” Aaron was never a priest-king; but Jesus is both Priest and King . He is a Priest seated on a throne! And His ministry is of peace, the “rest” that was discussed in chapters 3–4 . Christ came from Judah, the kingly tribe, and not from Levi, the priestly tribe. Melchizedek suddenly appears in Gen. 14 and then drops out of the story; there is no listing of his beginning or ending. Thus, he is compared to Christ’s eternal Sonship , for He too is “without beginning and ending.” Aaron died and had to be replaced; Christ ...