Chapter 7: The Superiority of Melchizedek

Introduction

Hebrews Chapter 7 delves into the mysterious figure of Melchizedek and emphasizes the superiority of his priesthood, which serves as a foreshadowing of the ultimate priesthood of Jesus Christ. This chapter highlights the insufficiency of the Levitical priesthood and the necessity of a new covenant through Jesus.

Overview of Hebrews 7

Hebrews 7 can be divided into four main sections:

1. Introduction to Melchizedek (verses 1-3)
2. The superiority of Melchizedek's priesthood (verses 4-10)
3. The insufficiency of the Levitical priesthood (verses 11-19)
4. The priesthood of Jesus Christ (verses 20-28)

Introduction to Melchizedek (verses 7:1-3)

Verses 1-3: Melchizedek appears in Genesis 14 as a king and priest who blesses Abraham. His name means "king of righteousness," and he is also king of Salem, meaning "peace." Unlike other priests, Melchizedek's genealogy is not recorded, which foreshadows the eternal priesthood of Jesus.

Superiority of Melchizedek's Priesthood (verses 7:4-10)

Verses 4-10: The greatness of Melchizedek is highlighted by Abraham's act of giving him a tithe. This act signifies Melchizedek's superiority over Abraham and, by extension, the Levitical priests who descended from Abraham, because Levi was, in effect, still in the body of Abraham at the time (see Traducianism). The absence of Melchizedek's genealogy and the fact that he received tithes from Abraham point to a priesthood that transcends the Levitical order.

Insufficiency of the Levitical Priesthood (verses 7:11-19)

Verses 11-19: The Levitical priesthood and the Law were unable to bring perfection, necessitating a new priesthood in the order of Melchizedek. The change in priesthood implies a change in the law. The new priesthood, which Jesus embodies, offers a better hope and a new covenant.

The Priesthood of Jesus Christ (verses 7:20-28)

Verses 20-28: Jesus' priesthood is established by an oath from God, making it superior to the Levitical priesthood, which was based on ancestry. Jesus' priesthood is eternal, and His sinless nature and perfect sacrifice make Him the ultimate High Priest. This new covenant through Jesus is superior and offers complete salvation.

Discussion Questions

1. How does Melchizedek's priesthood foreshadow the priesthood of Jesus Christ?
2. Why is it significant that Melchizedek has no recorded genealogy?
3. What are the limitations of the Levitical priesthood, and how does Jesus' priesthood address these limitations?
4. How does the oath made by God in appointing Jesus as High Priest underscore the permanence and superiority of His priesthood?

OT Verses Quoted in Hebrews Chapter 7

• Hebrews 7:17 & Hebrews 7:21 - Psalm 110:4

  The LORD has taken an oath and will not break his vow:
  “You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.”

Key Themes and Takeaways

1. Melchizedek’s Unique Priesthood: Melchizedek’s priesthood, without genealogy or end, foreshadows the eternal and superior priesthood of Jesus Christ, highlighting the limitations of the Levitical system.
2. The Superiority of Jesus’ Priesthood: Jesus’ priesthood is superior to the Levitical priesthood because it is established by God’s oath and is eternal, unlike the earthly and temporary Levitical order.
3. The Insufficiency of the Levitical Priesthood: The Levitical priesthood, based on the law, could not bring perfection. This inadequacy points to the necessity of a new and better covenant, fulfilled in Christ.
4. Christ’s Eternal Priesthood: Jesus, as the eternal High Priest, provides a perfect and once-for-all sacrifice. His sinless nature and permanent priesthood guarantee complete salvation for all who trust in Him.
5. The New Covenant through Christ: With the establishment of Jesus’ priesthood comes a new covenant, offering a better hope, forgiveness, and direct access to God, which the old covenant could not fully provide.

Conclusion

Hebrews 7 emphasizes the superiority of Melchizedek's priesthood and how it foreshadows the ultimate priesthood of Jesus Christ. The chapter underscores the need for a new covenant and the eternal, perfect priesthood of Jesus, which offers a better hope and complete salvation for believers.