MELCHIZEDEK AND JESUS
Melchizedek is a fascinating character found in both Genesis and the book of Hebrews in the Bible.
Melchizedek appears in Genesis 14:18-20, where he meets Abram (later known as Abraham) after Abraham’s victory in battle. Melchizedek is described as the king of Salem (ancient Jerusalem) and a priest of God Most High. He blesses Abram and receives a tithe from him, indicating his spiritual authority and significance.
Melchizedek is referenced in Psalm 110:4, where David prophesies about a future priest-king who would be “a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.” This verse hints at the eternal nature of this priestly figure, distinct from the Levitical priesthood established later in Israelite history.
The New Testament book of Hebrews elaborates on the significance of Melchizedek, drawing parallels between him and Jesus Christ. Hebrews 7 highlights Melchizedek’s priesthood as a type or foreshadowing of Christ’s priesthood. Melchizedek is portrayed as a superior figure to Abraham, receiving tithes from him and blessing him. Furthermore, Melchizedek’s lack of genealogy and mention of his beginning or end of days make him resemble the Son of God, indicating his eternal priesthood. The author of Hebrews uses Melchizedek to demonstrate the superiority of Christ’s priesthood over the Levitical priesthood, emphasizing its eternal and unchanging nature.
In summary, Melchizedek is a mysterious and significant figure in the Bible, serving as a prototype or foreshadowing of Jesus Christ. His appearance in Genesis, his mention in Psalm 110, and his elaboration in Hebrews all contribute to his theological importance as a priest-king with an eternal priesthood, prefiguring the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ.
PARALLELISM BETWEEN MELCHIZEDEK AND JESUS
Melchizedek offered bread and wine to God. He was the king and priest of Salem, which is Jerusalem (Gen 14:18). Jesus became the High Priest after the order of Melchizedek (Ps 110:4) because Jesus was born in the royal tribe of David and not a Levite like John the Baptist. Jesus revived Melchizedek’s offering and replaced the animal sacrifice in the Temple with the Holy Eucharist.
Melchizedek is a unique king-priest in every way. He’s not just the king of Salem, believed to be ancient Jerusalem, but also the priest of “El Elyon,” which translates to “Most High God.” This dual role of king and priest is a departure from the norm in the biblical narrative. Kings typically focused on military and political matters, while priests served as intermediaries between God and the people. Melchizedek, however, bridged this gap, foreshadowing the future Messiah who would embody both kingly and priestly authority.
Melchizedek’s encounter with Abraham after a military victory is a scene rich with symbolism. Emerging from an unidentified location, he offers bread and wine to Abraham and his weary troops. This act of hospitality and refreshment resonates with the Christian concept of communion, where bread and wine represent the body and blood of Christ. Furthermore, Abraham, a man highly favored by God, tithes (gives a tenth of) his spoils to Melchizedek, acknowledging the king-priest’s superior spiritual authority. This act further underscores the significance of the Melchizedekian priesthood.
The very name Melchizedek, which translates to “king of righteousness” or “my king is righteousness,” is a powerful connection to Jesus, who embodies righteousness perfectly. Adding to the intrigue, there’s no mention of Melchizedek’s ancestry or descendants. This lack of a recorded lineage makes him appear almost eternal, mirroring the eternal nature of Christ, the Son of God.
The Book of Hebrews in the New Testament takes the concept of Melchizedek even further. Here, the author establishes a clear parallel between Melchizedek’s unique priesthood and that of Jesus Christ. Jesus is identified as the ultimate High Priest, fulfilling the order established by Melchizedek. This new priesthood, unlike the Aaronic priesthood of the Old Testament, is considered superior and everlasting.
REFLECTION
Understanding the significance of Melchizedek helps Christians appreciate the depth of Jesus’ role as our High Priest. Unlike the temporary and imperfect priesthood of the Old Testament, Jesus’ priesthood is eternal and perfect. He intercedes for us continually, offering not just temporary atonement but eternal salvation.
Just as Melchizedek was both a king and a priest, Jesus holds both roles. As Christians, we should submit to Jesus as our sovereign King, trusting in His righteous rule and seeking to live according to His will. Simultaneously, we should approach Him with confidence as our High Priest, knowing that He understands our weaknesses and offers mercy and grace in our time of need.
Melchizedek’s attributes of righteousness and peace find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus. As followers of Christ, we are called to pursue righteousness and peace in our lives. We should strive to live in a manner that reflects Jesus’ righteousness and to be peacemakers in our communities, demonstrating the transformative power of His peace.
Hebrews emphasizes that because Jesus is our eternal High Priest, we can approach God with confidence. In times of trial and suffering, Christians can find solace in the fact that Jesus continuously intercedes for us. This assurance should inspire us to persevere in faith, knowing that our High Priest is both sympathetic to our struggles and powerful to aid us.
In summary, Melchizedek serves as a profound type of Christ, pointing us to the eternal, kingly, and priestly nature of Jesus. By understanding and embracing these truths, Christians can deepen their faith and live out their calling with greater confidence and commitment.