MYSTERIOUS MELCHIZEDEK

MYSTERIOUS MELCHIZEDEK
Heb 7:1-17
"You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek." (v.17).

MELCHIZEDEK IS ONE OF THE MOST mysterious figures of the Bible. He appears on the scene from nowhere, and we have nothing on his birth, descent, life or death. In Gen 14.18-20, v.3 have a glimpse of him in his brief encounter with Abraham. He offers Abraham bread and wine, and blesses him. Abraham in turns gives him a tenth of what he has. Then he disappears from the stage of the Old Testament to surface again only in Psalm 110.4 and here in Hebrews.

Nevertheless, it is quite clear he is superior to Abraham. Only the greater can bless the lesser (v.7). Only the greater can receive tithe from the lesser (v.4). No wonder our author identifies Melchizedek as a pre-figure of Jesus. The priesthood of Jesus comes, not from the order of Aaron, but of Melchizedek. For Melchizedek's credentials lie not in his genealogy (see Neh 7.63-65), but in himself. So also is Jesus' authorisation found, not in anyone or anything outside Himself, but in Himself alone. In that sense, Melchizedek points to Jesus.

In another two senses, Melchizedek pre-figures Christ. He was a priest, and so is Christ. He was a king, and so is Christ. The two-fold role of a priest-king fits Christ admirably. As king, He rules with justice; as priest, He mediates for mercy. Further more, Melchizedek (meaning "king of righteousness") and Salem where he reigns (meaning "peace") tell us that in him both righteousness and peace reside. Similarly, in Christ, we find peace with God based upon the righteousness of God.

The example of the mysterious, apparently unknown Melchizedek may have something to say to us in an age when we are often measured by our connections and important names. Some people have exploited the art of "name-dropping" to impress their acquaintances or clients. Others build around themselves all the trappings of power and wealth, real or imagined. These could be designer clothes, posh homes or offices, exquisite stationery, and other luxury items.

Of course, none of such things is wrong in itself. How we present ourselves to people is important - for our self-esteem, our work performance and for our own sense of identity. But let us be very careful that we do not become slaves to what is external, superficial and temporal. There is a danger if we live for what people think of us. Ultimately, it is how God assesses us that is important. Melchizedek had none of the connections or trappings, yet he is greatly honoured.

Do I look on or beyond the surface?