Hebrews 7  This chapter helps us to understand the High Priesthood of Jesus Christ.  The writer begins by reminding us who Melchizedek was.. "king of Salem, priest of the Most High God.. "  He is a unique character who we first learn of in Genesis when Abraham gives him a tenth of the spoils that he collected from his battle against the kings who fought against him. 

In Genesis we are told very little about this king who was "priest of the Most High God", but the writer of Hebrews tells us a little more.. " without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but made like the Son of God, he abides a priest perpetually."  We know that Abraham recognized and honored Melchizedek and gave him a tenth of the spoils. We also know that Melchizedek blessed Abraham.. therefore we understand that Melchizedek was "greater" and Abraham was "lesser".  We also learn that all who came after Abraham.. in particular the tribe of Levi who were set aside for the priesthood.. would also be of a lower order than the order of Melchizedek. 

It is in Psalm 110 that we hear of Melchizedek again.. as David writes an inspired psalm about the Messiah.. it is in this Psalm that God reveals that He has "sworn and will not change His mind.." that the Messiah is  "a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek .. "  The writer of Hebrews tells us that there has been a change in the "priesthood".  The Levitical priesthood could not bring about the "perfection" that God requires.. so God brought forth a new Priesthood.. "not on the basis of a law of physical requirement, but according to the power of an indestructible life." 

The former Law and priesthood were weak and useless to bring "perfection" or completion.. but the new Priesthood brought a "better hope, through which we draw near to God." 

Jesus, our Great High Priest, is forever the "guarantee of a better covenant".. for He lives forever.. He is our "permanent" High Priest. He saves forever! He makes intercession for all who will "draw near to God through Him."  He is "holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens."  He never needs to offer sacrifices for Himself, for He never sinned.. but He did offer Himself up for our sins.. "once for all.."  that we might be saved. 

"For the Law appoints men as high priests who are weak, but the word of the oath, which came after the Law, appoints a Son, made perfect forever." 

Our Father in heaven, we draw near to You, through Jesus Christ, our Great High Priest, who brings us to completion by His offering of Himself, once and for all.  We are thankful for such a wonderful Savior and King.. for His intercessions for us.. for His great love shown to us.. and for His power poured out on us by His Spirit.  Help us to understand more of this great truth and to draw even nearer to You.. every day.. and forever. Amen.