Jesus: Our Eternal High Priest of Righteousness and Peace

The Superior Melchizedek Priesthood Hebrews 7:1-10

 

Summary

The book of Hebrews reveals Jesus as our supreme Messiah, the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises and the anchor of our hope. The passage explored today centers on the dramatic shift from the old Levitical priesthood to a new, superior priesthood—one after the order of Melchizedek. For the original Jewish Christian audience, this was a seismic change, as their entire spiritual system and history were built on the Levitical priesthood. Yet, the writer of Hebrews shows that Jesus, as our high priest, is not only a replacement but a fulfillment and surpassing of all that came before.

Melchizedek, though a mysterious and rarely mentioned figure in the Old Testament, serves as a powerful archetype of Christ. He is both king and priest, his name meaning “king of righteousness” and “king of peace.” These two qualities—righteousness and peace—are not just titles but the very gifts Jesus brings to those who trust in him. Unlike the Levitical priests, whose ministry was limited by mortality and genealogy, Jesus’ priesthood is eternal, unbound by human lineage or time. He is the priest who lives forever, interceding for us at the right hand of God.

Abraham’s encounter with Melchizedek, where he offers a tenth of his spoils, is a profound act of worship and humility. It predates the law and the Levitical system, showing that true worship and giving flow from the heart, not compulsion. This act also demonstrates the principle that the lesser is blessed by the greater—Abraham, the patriarch, receives a blessing from Melchizedek, pointing forward to the greater blessing we receive from Christ.

Jesus, as our eternal high priest, calls us to a life marked by humility, heartfelt worship, and a deep experience of his righteousness and peace. He expects us to approach him not with pride, but with open hands and hearts, ready to receive his blessing. The Lord’s Supper, instituted by Jesus, is a vivid reminder of this new covenant—a celebration of his body and blood, given for us, and a foretaste of the ultimate communion we will share with him in his kingdom.

Key Takeaways

- Jesus is the eternal high priest who brings true righteousness and peace. Unlike the temporary and limited Levitical priesthood, his ministry is unending and perfect, offering us a right standing with God and a deep, abiding peace that surpasses circumstances. This righteousness is both our position before God and the practical outworking of our lives, while his peace is a wholeness that touches every part of our being. Have you received and are you living in this righteousness and peace? [22:58]

- True worship flows from a heart of gratitude and humility, not obligation. Abraham’s tithe to Melchizedek was not required by law but was a spontaneous act of worship, recognizing the greatness of the priest-king. In the same way, our worship of Jesus should be wholehearted and sincere, encompassing not just our songs but our entire lives—how we live, give, and serve. Worship is a lifestyle, not just a moment. [28:15]

- The principle that the lesser is blessed by the greater reminds us of our need for humility before God. We cannot bless God in the sense of adding to him; rather, we receive blessing from him when we acknowledge our dependence and submit ourselves to his authority. Humility opens the door for God’s blessing, while pride closes it. Consider where you might need to humble yourself to receive more of Christ’s blessing. [36:08]

- Jesus’ priesthood is rooted in God’s unchangeable promise and oath. God swore that Jesus would be a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek, and this divine guarantee means our salvation and access to God are absolutely secure. Our hope is anchored not in our performance, but in the unbreakable word and character of God. This assurance should produce both confidence and patience as we walk by faith. [32:39]

- The Lord’s Supper is a celebration of Christ’s victory and a foretaste of the coming kingdom. When we partake of the bread and cup, we remember the body and blood of Jesus, given for our forgiveness and reconciliation. This act is not just a ritual, but a powerful reminder of our union with Christ and with one another, and a call to live in humble gratitude and hope until he returns. [45:52]


Bible Study Discussion Guide: Jesus, Our Eternal High Priest (Hebrews 7 & Melchizedek)

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### Bible Reading

Hebrews 7:1-10 (ESV)
For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him, and to him Abraham apportioned a tenth part of everything. He is first, by translation of his name, king of righteousness, and then he is also king of Salem, that is, king of peace. He is without father or mother or genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but resembling the Son of God he continues a priest forever.

 See how great this man was to whom Abraham the patriarch gave a tenth of the spoils! And those descendants of Levi who receive the priestly office have a commandment in the law to take tithes from the people, that is, from their brothers, though these also are descended from Abraham. But this man who does not have his descent from them received tithes from Abraham and blessed him who had the promises. It is beyond dispute that the inferior is blessed by the superior. In the one case tithes are received by mortal men, but in the other case, by one of whom it is testified that he lives. One might even say that Levi himself, who receives tithes, paid tithes through Abraham, for he was still in the loins of his ancestor when Melchizedek met him.

Genesis 14:18-20 (ESV)
And Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. (He was priest of God Most High.) And he blessed him and said,

 “Blessed be Abram by God Most High,
 Possessor of heaven and earth;
and blessed be God Most High,
 who has delivered your enemies into your hand!”
 And Abram gave him a tenth of everything.

Psalm 110:4 (ESV)
The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind,
“You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.”

 Observation Questions

1. According to Hebrews 7, what are the two titles given to Melchizedek, and what do they mean? ([04:31])
2. In Genesis 14, what does Melchizedek bring out to Abraham, and what is the significance of these items? ([14:33])
3. What act does Abraham perform in response to Melchizedek’s blessing, and how does the author of Hebrews interpret this act? ([16:30])
4. According to Psalm 110:4, what does God declare about the priesthood of the Messiah?

Interpretation Questions

1. Why does the author of Hebrews emphasize that Melchizedek is “without father or mother or genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life”? What point is being made about Jesus through this? ([11:10])
2. The sermon mentions that Abraham’s tithe to Melchizedek happened long before the law required tithing. What does this suggest about the nature of true worship and giving? ([16:30])
3. The principle that “the lesser is blessed by the greater” is highlighted in Hebrews 7. What does this teach about our relationship to Jesus as our high priest? ([29:25])
4. How does the eternal nature of Jesus’ priesthood give believers assurance and hope, according to the sermon? ([32:39])

 Application Questions

1. The sermon asks, “Have you received by faith the righteousness and peace God offers?” If you are a believer, are you experiencing this righteousness and peace in your daily life? If not, what might be hindering you? ([22:58])
2. Abraham’s act of giving a tenth to Melchizedek was not out of obligation but from a grateful heart. When you give—whether time, resources, or worship—do you do it out of gratitude or out of duty? Can you think of a recent example? ([16:30])
3. The sermon says, “Worship is a lifestyle, not just a moment.” What are some practical ways you can make worship a part of your everyday life this week, beyond singing on Sunday? ([28:15])
4. The principle that “the lesser is blessed by the greater” reminds us of our need for humility. Is there an area in your life where pride is keeping you from receiving God’s blessing? What would it look like to humble yourself in that area? ([36:08])
5. Jesus’ priesthood is based on God’s unchangeable promise and oath. How does knowing your relationship with God is secure in Christ affect the way you handle doubts or struggles? ([32:39])
6. The Lord’s Supper is described as a celebration of Christ’s victory and a reminder of our union with him. How can you approach communion with a deeper sense of gratitude and hope the next time you participate? ([45:52])
7. The sermon encourages us to “stay in a humble and grateful state where the Holy Spirit can fill you and use you and bless you.” What is one specific step you can take this week to cultivate humility and gratitude in your walk with Jesus? ([38:26])

Devotional

Day 1: Jesus, Our Priest-King, Brings Righteousness and Peace
Jesus is the fulfillment of the priesthood, bringing a new way of relating to God that is marked by both righteousness and peace. Through Him, we are offered not only a right standing before God but also a deep, abiding peace that surpasses circumstances. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a wholeness and harmony with God, ourselves, and others. The righteousness Jesus brings is both positional—our standing before God—and practical, shaping how we live each day. Have you received by faith the righteousness and peace that God offers through Jesus? This is the anchor of our hope and the foundation of our relationship with God. [22:58]

Romans 5:1 (ESV)
Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Reflection: In what area of your life do you most need to experience the peace and righteousness Jesus offers today, and how can you invite Him into that area right now?


Day 2: Jesus Is Worthy of Our Heartfelt Worship
Jesus, as our superior priest-king, is worthy of worship that goes beyond mere ritual or song; He desires worship that flows from a grateful and surrendered heart. Abraham’s act of giving a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek was a heartfelt gesture, not out of compulsion but from a place of reverence and gratitude. True worship is a lifestyle—living with righteousness and peace, offering our lives as a response to God’s goodness. Jesus blesses us and intercedes for us, inviting us to respond with genuine devotion and praise. [28:15]

John 17:20 (ESV)
“I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word.”

Reflection: What is one specific way you can express heartfelt worship to Jesus today—beyond singing—through your actions, words, or attitude?


Day 3: Jesus Expects Our Humility So He Might Bless Us
The principle that the inferior is blessed by the superior reminds us that humility is essential in our relationship with Jesus. We cannot bless God in the sense of adding to Him, but we can humble ourselves before Him, recognizing His eternal priesthood and our need for His grace. Jesus, our eternal high priest, desires to bless us, but pride can stand in the way. When we confess our need and humble ourselves, we open the door for His blessing and presence in our lives. [36:08]

Psalm 110:4 (ESV)
The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind, “You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.”

Reflection: Is there an area of pride or self-reliance you need to surrender to Jesus today so that you can receive His blessing?


Day 4: The Lord’s Supper—Celebrating the Victory of Our Eternal High Priest
The bread and wine that Melchizedek brought to Abraham foreshadowed the Lord’s Supper, where we remember Jesus’ body and blood given for us. This celebration is a victory meal, a reminder that Jesus’ sacrifice has secured our forgiveness and new life. As we partake, we do so with humility and gratitude, reflecting on the eternal priesthood of Jesus who intercedes for us and has made a way for us to be reconciled to God. The Lord’s Supper is a gift to the church, a tangible expression of our hope and communion with Christ. [46:43]

Matthew 26:26-28 (ESV)
Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”

Reflection: As you remember Jesus’ sacrifice, what victory or freedom do you need to celebrate or claim in your life today because of what He has done?


Day 5: Jesus Intercedes for Us—Our Hope and Assurance
Jesus, our eternal high priest, sits at the right hand of the Father and intercedes for us even now. This means we are never alone in our struggles or prayers; He is actively advocating for us, offering hope and assurance that our salvation is secure. No matter our past or present, Jesus’ priesthood is unchanging and perfect, and He desires for us to approach Him with confidence, knowing that He loves us and wants to bless us. Let this truth anchor your soul and encourage you to draw near to Him daily. [49:21]

Hebrews 7:25 (ESV)
Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.

Reflection: What is one specific burden or prayer you need to bring to Jesus today, trusting that He is interceding for you right now?

Quotes

Our priest, king, Jesus, brings us righteousness and peace. He brings us righteousness and peace. Let's look at the first three verses again. This, for this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him. And to him, Abraham apportioned a tenth part of everything. He is first, by translation of his name, king of righteousness. And then, he is also king of Salem, that is, king of peace. [00:14:29] (30 seconds)  #HeartfeltGiving Edit Clip

He's also the king of peace or the beautiful word in the Hebrew, shalom. It's so much more than the absence of war, right? It really has to do with wholeness and completeness and this well -being and being in harmony with God and harmony with self and harmony with others. It's a beautiful greeting. And if you were in the Jewish culture so many times, even today, ascetic Jews will use that word, shalom, as a greeting. And it means all those things. It's so important to them. [00:20:44] (32 seconds)  #ConnectedInFaith Edit Clip

Our King, Priest, Jesus, brings us both righteousness and peace. So when I think about that, here's an application maybe to think about. Have you received by faith the righteousness and peace God offers? Do you have that relationship? Do you have that peace? And if you've never had that peace, we're going to give you an opportunity to respond to that and to understand what that means to have that peace and that righteousness. [00:22:45] (34 seconds)  #WorshipAsLifestyle Edit Clip

Worship is not just up here singing. That's just a part of it. Worship really is a lifestyle of how we live, maybe how we live with righteousness and peace in our life. That's worship. [00:28:44] (16 seconds)  #HumbleToReceive Edit Clip

So real fast, let me just review real quick the three ways Jesus is our superior Melchizedek high priest. Number one, our priest, King Jesus brings righteousness and peace. Righteousness and peace. This comes by way of our salvation. Our priest, King Jesus is worthy of our heartfelt worship. We see how Abraham worshiped him by giving the tithe. And then our high priest, Jesus expects our humility so that he might bless us. [00:36:42] (34 seconds) Edit Clip

So if you want to be in that system, if you want to have Jesus as your high priest and king, the first thing you need to do is help understand that you need a high priest because you're sinful. Right? That you're separated and not one thing that you can do, not one good deed is going to get you into this right relationship with him. What is going to do that is if you humble yourself before God, you humble yourself before Jesus and you confess your sins and trust that his death and his burial and his resurrection is, is, is, was done for you on your behalf and entrusting in that. Your sins then are covered. And yes, God does love you that much. He truly does. [00:37:39] (53 seconds) Edit Clip

Because we're celebrating a victory in Jesus. And so if you're here today and you do not yet have this relationship with Jesus, he's not your savior, this celebration, this victory celebration is for those who have a relationship with Jesus. [00:40:11] (16 seconds) Edit Clip

Sermon Clips

Our priest, king, Jesus, brings us righteousness and peace. He brings us righteousness and peace. Let's look at the first three verses again. This, for this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him. And to him, Abraham apportioned a tenth part of everything. He is first, by translation of his name, king of righteousness. And then, he is also king of Salem, that is, king of peace. [00:14:29] (30 seconds)  #HeartfeltGiving

He's also the king of peace or the beautiful word in the Hebrew, shalom. It's so much more than the absence of war, right? It really has to do with wholeness and completeness and this well -being and being in harmony with God and harmony with self and harmony with others. It's a beautiful greeting. And if you were in the Jewish culture so many times, even today, ascetic Jews will use that word, shalom, as a greeting. And it means all those things. It's so important to them. [00:20:44] (32 seconds)  #ConnectedInFaith

Our King, Priest, Jesus, brings us both righteousness and peace. So when I think about that, here's an application maybe to think about. Have you received by faith the righteousness and peace God offers? Do you have that relationship? Do you have that peace? And if you've never had that peace, we're going to give you an opportunity to respond to that and to understand what that means to have that peace and that righteousness. [00:22:45] (34 seconds)  #WorshipAsLifestyle

Worship is not just up here singing. That's just a part of it. Worship really is a lifestyle of how we live, maybe how we live with righteousness and peace in our life. That's worship. [00:28:44] (16 seconds)  #HumbleToReceive

So real fast, let me just review real quick the three ways Jesus is our superior Melchizedek high priest. Number one, our priest, King Jesus brings righteousness and peace. Righteousness and peace. This comes by way of our salvation. Our priest, King Jesus is worthy of our heartfelt worship. We see how Abraham worshiped him by giving the tithe. And then our high priest, Jesus expects our humility so that he might bless us. [00:36:42] (34 seconds)

So if you want to be in that system, if you want to have Jesus as your high priest and king, the first thing you need to do is help understand that you need a high priest because you're sinful. Right? That you're separated and not one thing that you can do, not one good deed is going to get you into this right relationship with him. What is going to do that is if you humble yourself before God, you humble yourself before Jesus and you confess your sins and trust that his death and his burial and his resurrection is, is, is, was done for you on your behalf and entrusting in that. Your sins then are covered. And yes, God does love you that much. He truly does. [00:37:39] (53 seconds)

Because we're celebrating a victory in Jesus. And so if you're here today and you do not yet have this relationship with Jesus, he's not your savior, this celebration, this victory celebration is for those who have a relationship with Jesus. [00:40:11] (16 seconds)

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