Melchizedek's Superiority to Abraham

Melchizedek received tithes from Abraham from the best of the spoils. There is a clear distinction between his priesthood and that of Levi. The priests of Levi were the Hebrews' brethren and were commanded to collect tithes. "But Abraham's act of tithing was voluntary and spontaneous, a tribute to Melchizedek's personal greatness" (Lightfoot, p. 139). He was not of Abraham's kindred and, seemingly, had no legal right to force Abraham to tithe, yet Abraham gave him the tithe and received the blessing.

Every nation will be blessed through Abraham's seed (Genesis 12:3). Yet, he received a blessing of Melchizedek. It is always true that the one who is blessed is lesser than the one doing the blessing. Sons are blessed of their father (Genesis 27:1-29) and nations are blessed by kings (Hebrews 7:4-7; 2 Samuel 6:18-19).

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