The Thread: Part IISample

The King of Righteousness and Peace

During the time of Abram, kings were often the head of state and the spiritual leader of their people. We see an encounter with such a man in the reading today. When Lot (Abram's nephew) and his family were kidnapped, Abram assembled and led an army to free them. He was victorious and incidentally also freed some kings in his conquest. On his way home, Abram met the king of Salem, who had been freed in the conquest and was coming to thank Abram.

Salem (modern-day Jerusalem) was the city of peace, and the king's name was Melchizedek, which meant "King of Righteousness." His name and position, therefore, made him the king of righteousness and peace. Melchizedek offered food and wine to Abram and then blessed him. Melchizedek's blessing for Abram made it clear he knew Abram had defeated his enemies by the power of God. We don't know how, but Melchizedek worshipped the same God Abram did. He used the name "El Elyon," meaning "God the Highest" or "God Most High." This name let Abram know that God was in control and kings were never in charge of a situation. Only God gave the victory.

Abram received Melchizedek's blessing and then gave a tenth of all the spoils of the battle to Melchizedek. This is the first place in scripture that mentions tithing. Abram gave in response to what God had done. Dr. Tony Evans notes, "Since Jesus came in 'the order of Melchizedek,' the tithe is still valid today as believers respond to the goodness of God in their lives."

It’s peculiar that Melchizedek held the role of both king and priest, which was not traditional among the Jewish people. The interaction between Abram and Melchizedek foreshadows how King Jesus would operate in a priestly role with his people. Jesus is the great high priest who bridged the gap between God and humanity. He fulfills all types and shadows given before his arrival on Earth. We respond with praise, honor, and gifts just as Abram did because we recognize the greatness of our king and priest, Jesus.

Question: How are Melchizedek and Jesus similar? What are some ways you can respond to God for all that he has done for you?

Prayer: Take time to pray and thank God that Jesus fulfills the roles of king and priest for you. His rule is perfect and his salvation complete; nothing can or needs to be added!