Topic(s): Bible Study, Old Testament

Todd Clippard

There are numerous sources of extra-biblical information concerning Melchisedec, but they are at best only the studied opinions of men. Melchisedec was obviously a very important Bible character. He must have been a very great man, because Melchisedec met Abraham as he returned from war and blessed him (Heb 7:1). Also, Abraham gave a tenth of his spoils of war to him (Heb 7:2). Hebrews 7:7 says without any contradiction, the less is blessed by the greater. Therefore, the Bible identifies Melchisedec as a greater man than Abraham.

What made Melchisedec unique was the fact that he, like Jesus, served as both a king and high priest. Jesus is our high priest (Hebrews 4:14-16) and He is our King (1 Timothy 6:15).

Also, both Melchisedec and Jesus served as high priests without the benefit of inheritance. The high priest was not only a Levite, but also a direct descendant of Aaron. Neither Jesus nor Melchisedec inherited their position as high priest. This is why Jesus was called a priest after the order of Melchisedec.