Genesis 14:18-24

We must, of course, stop a little longer in this passage that we might consider Melchizedek, the priest of God Most High.  He is referred to later in Scripture in Psalm 110 and then frequently in Hebrews, always closely identified with Christ.

There is some disagreement concerning His identity in one regard.  Some consider Melchizedek to be Christ Himself in what theologians call a theophany, a God-appearance.  This did happen on occasion in Old Testament times.  Abram would have such an occasion to speak with God in this way in Gen. 18.  Others refer to Melchizedek as a type of Christ.  In other words, he is considered a real historical figure, king of the city of Salem, who is identified with Christ in many important ways (Heb. 7:1-4).  Both views adequately honor the Biblical account and acknowledge that this priest is critical in the story of Abram and the story of redemption.

If Melchizedek is an historical figure, a type of Christ, he is an example of one city-state that still held to the worship of the true God that had been handed down from Noah to succeeding generations.  And most importantly, he speaks to us of Christ.  Like Christ he joins:

·       the offices of King and Priest;

·       the perfections of Righteousness and Peace;

·       the greatness of a sinless and endless life;

·       and the refreshment of bread and the cup.

Thus Christ is said to be a Priest after the order of Melchizedek (Psalm 110:4; Heb. 6:20; 7:11).

Let us marvel and yet not be surprised at such a magnificent reference to Christ in the story of Abram, the man of faith.  Christ is ever to be the object of saving faith.  He alone fulfills God’s promise to the sinners in Eden (Gen. 3:15).  He alone can be God’s blessing to the nations through Abram (Gen. 12:3).  He alone can be Jesus and Emmanuel (Matt. 1:21,23).  He alone can be the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

Faith that saves must be faith in Jesus Christ.  There is no other way for mankind to come to God (John 14:6).  Abram has worshiped before Melchizedek; have you?