Melchizedek, king and priest
by Dianne Eckermann
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
If perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood … why was there still need for another priest to come, one in the order of Melchizedek, not in the order of Aaron? (Hebrews 7:11).
Read Hebrews 7:1-17
Almost two thousand years ago a letter was written to Jewish followers of Jesus who were coming under pressure, even persecution, to return to their Jewish faith. The reading for today assumes their knowledge of the Old Testament and specifically their knowledge of Melchizedek, both king and priest. Traditionally, Jewish priests are descendants of Levi but Melchizedek preceded this tradition and was both king and priest.
The writer of Hebrews encourages the persecuted Jews, who are wavering in their faith to see that Melchizedek, the king of righteousness and king of peace, is clearly linked with Jesus, a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek (verse 17). The resemblance between Jesus and Melchizedek was highlighted for the followers of Jesus who were then able to see how Jesus was part of their ongoing tradition.
The important question asked by the writer of Hebrews and relevant for Christians today is why was there a need for another priest? The writer begins his question with asking, ‘If perfection could be attained …’, implying that perfection cannot be attained, even by priests in the Leviticus priesthood, because, like all of humanity, they are flawed. Salvation also does not come through the law – which does nothing but condemn us – but through Jesus. While this letter to the Hebrews had a a very clear purpose in demonstrating the identity of Jesus for those who knew the Old Testament, it also speaks to Christians throughout time as it shows that Jesus embodies a new tradition, not based on law ‘but on the power of an indestructible life’ (verse 16).
Jesus as a high priest breaks tradition – he is not a descendant of Levi, but is another priest ‘in the likeness of Melchizedek’, a priest forever. Jesus is a new kind of priest, not flawed, but perfect and therefore our perfect Saviour.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for our salvation through your son who has freed us from the bonds of law and shown us the wonderful extent of your grace. Amen.
Dianne has served in Lutheran education as a teacher, school leader and system leader at Lutheran Education Australia. Now retired from full-time work, she continues to volunteer on several committees and as a school board member. She lives in the Adelaide Hills with her husband, Robert, and is in strong demand as a babysitter for her three grandchildren.
- Click here to read previous devotions.
- We are also posting them on LCA Facebook, making it easy for you to share them with family and friends.
- Sign up to receive Daily Devotion in your inbox every morning. If you’re already doing that, please encourage others to sign up. Click here for the link.
