Genesis Part 026
In Genesis 14:18 we are introduced to Melchizedek, King of Salem. Who is this referring to?
Strong’s commentary brings out that the name “Melchizedek” is formed from two Hebrew words. The first word is “King” which is used 2,521 times in the Old Testament. The second word is used 116 times and is most often translated “righteousness.” Putting these together we get the translation of Melchizedek to “King of Righteousness.”
He is then listed as “King of Salem.” The Hebrew word for Salem means “Peace.” He is the King of Righteousness and Peace. Not only can we break this down in the Hebrew, but it is also spelled out for us plainly in Hebrews 7:
"For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him, to whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all, first being translated ‘king of righteousness,’ and then also king of Salem, meaning ‘king of peace,’” (Hebrews 7:1-2).
He’s also listed as “Priest of God Most High.” He is listed as both a King and Priest. There is only one being who we would describe with such righteous words.
Hebrews 7:3 states
"without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life."
We understand that these titles, positions and descriptions fit one and only one Being, that of a preincarnate Jesus Christ.
We see this connection from David understood in Psalm 110. Psalm 110:1 says,
“The LORD said to my Lord, ‘Sit at My right hand, till I make Your enemies Your footstool.’”
Then in verse 4 of the same chapter it’s stated about David’s Lord,
“The LORD has sworn and will not relent, ‘You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.’”
Hebrews 7 confirms this connection again in verses 3 and 17 where it states “remains a priest continually” and “For He testifies: ‘You are a priest forever
according to the order of Melchizedek.’”
Notice also in Hebrews 7:3 we are told that this Being was “made like the Son of God.”
When Melchizedek was on the earth in Abraham’s time, there was not yet a “Son of God.” Later Jesus Christ would be begotten by the Father through the Holy Spirit and become the “Son of God.”
For more information on Melchizedek, give this 5-minute article a read: A Mystery Solved: The Identity of Melchizedek.
UYA Team | uya@ucg.org
United Young Adults (UYA) primarily serves the 18–32-year age group for the United Church of God. There are three main areas of contribution to the lives of the young adults: Promoting Spiritual Growth, Developing Meaningful Relationships and Making the Most of Your Talents. The Know Your Sword series is a daily expository message introducing God’s Word from a trusted perspective.
