Hebrews 7:1-10 For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings… I. THE HONOURS HE RECEIVED. One of the highest marks of greatness is to be had in honour by the good. We should not attach so much importance to a eulogy, as to the character of those by whom it is uttered. II. THE DUTIES HE DISCHARGED 1. Those of a king. Living in peace; striving to bless his subjects, and honour his God. 2. Those of a patriarch. 3. Those of a priest. This is true greatness, when the spiritual is not neglected for the secular, nor the secular for the spiritual. III. THE TENTS OF CHARACTER HE DISPLAYED. 1. Stability. Did not allow the idolatry around to influence either his heart or life. 2. Peacefulness and wisdom. Did not embroil himself in quarrels, or resent fancied grievances. 3. Tolerance. Did not go to war himself, but respected the valour of Abraham, believing he engaged in the conflict by command of God. 4. Cordiality. No gloomy ascetic, or lofty monarch. IV. THE FAME HE SECURED. He was great, because good; illustrious, because beloved of God. V. THE REWARD HE ENJOYS. Conclusion: 1. It is possible for us to be great after the manner of Melchisedec. Are not Christians made like unto the Son of God? 2. If we would be thus great, we must seek to be invested with the righteousness of Christ. (R. A. Griffin.) Parallel Verses KJV: For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; |
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