The Bible mentions a mysterious figure, a priest named Melchizedek who foreshadows Jesus as our High Priest and king.
Talking Points:
- Melchizedek was a mysterious priest-king of God. He spoke a blessing over Abraham, affirming the earlier promises of God. Genesis 14:17-20, Hebrews 7:4,6-7
- Melchizedek represented a higher priesthood than Aaron. This came as a shock to those who thought the way to God was through the Law. Hebrews 7:8-9,11
- The mysterious Melchizedek foreshadows Jesus himself. He shows the way to God has always been based on a promise- not the law.
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Read Genesis 12:2-3. What were the promises God made to Abraham? How were those fulfilled throughout the pages of the Bible?
- Read Genesis 14:17-20 and Hebrews 7:4,6-7. If God already made promises to Abram, why do you think Abram responded to Melchizedek’s blessing by giving him a tenth of the plunder?
- Read Hebrews 7:8-9,11. Aaron was considered the first priest (Exodus 28:1-3). What was the role of priests according to the Law? What does the author of Hebrews seem to be saying about the role of the levitical priesthood in these verses?
- Read Hebrews 7:19-22 and Psalm 110:4-5. Why was there no hope in the old system of priests and sacrifices? What does it mean that the new system is based on a solemn oath?
- Read Hebrews 8:1-2. How is Jesus our ultimate High Priest and what was he able to do that the Levitical priests couldn’t?
- Read Hebrews 4:14-16. How does this passage describe Jesus? What does it mean to you that you can come boldly before the throne of God because of Jesus?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
