Day 28 - The King & Priest
- Pastor b.Side
- May 27
- 3 min read
For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him, to whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all, first being translated "king of righteousness," and then also king of Salem, meaning “king of peace…” - Hebrews 7:1-2
Melchizedek is not often mentioned in Scripture, but when He is, the lessons are profound. He is a mysterious figure who appears to emerge from nowhere, yet also seems familiar to the people of that era. When Abraham sought to thank God and offer sacrifices, he understood that he needed to visit Melchizedek. The few things written about Melchizedek suggest that, although little is written about Him, the people of the time understood a great deal.
“For this Melchizedek, king of Salem…”
When Melchizedek is mentioned in Hebrews 7:1-2, the context begins in Chapter 6, where the scriptures compare the work of Jesus to the ministry of Melchizedek. Chapter 7 starts by explaining who Melchizedek was, leaving many to believe that this was an Old Testament appearance of Jesus. The description of Melchizedek begins by referring to Him as “the king of Salem.” Salem is an ancient reference to the city of Jerusalem, the city where God dwells, according to Psalm 135:21. Melchizedek was the king of this city long before the time of Israel’s kings.
“Priest of the Most High God…”
Though the ancient world had many individuals who acted as “priests,” claiming to mediate between the gods and the people, Melchizedek is the only one ever referred to as the Priest of the Most High God, long before God began appointing priests through the Law given to Moses. Abraham wanted to thank God for the victory that God provided and understood that he needed an intercessor to reach Him. The Most High God was beyond Abraham's reach. Melchizedek was the Anointed One to bridge that gap. No other man has ever been granted authority from God to govern the people as king while offering sacrifices on their behalf as a priest. Only Melchizedek.
“First being translated ‘king of righteousness’…”
Melchizedek’s name holds significance as well. His name consists of two Hebrew words. The word “melek” translates to “king,” and the word “tsedeq” translates to “righteousness.” When combining these two terms, we derive the name “Melchizedek.” He was the King of God’s city, uniquely appointed to connect God’s people to Him for worship and praise. This man is referred to as “The King of Righteousness,” the chief administrator of God’s righteousness. However, as the King of Salem, He is also the King of Peace. There is only one other person whom the Bible describes this way, possessing these attributes – Jesus Christ. He is our Mediator, bridging the gap to God, making our gifts and sacrifices acceptable to the Father. He is the LORD our Righteousness and the Prince of Peace. The works started by Melchizedek during the days of Abraham were completed on the cross of Jesus Christ. Jesus’ work on the cross not only transcends temptation, corruption, and death, but also time and space as the God Most High! This is what makes Him so good!
Prayer for today
Our heavenly Father, thank You for the testimony of Your Word, which teaches us how Your righteousness, peace, and goodness transcend time and space. Thank You for making a way for us to have peace and fellowship with You. Help us to follow the example of Abraham by seeking You through Your Anointed One to worship and thank You for the victory You provide, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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