Jesus is a priest like Melchizedek because of His perfection and transcendence. Jesus “is able to save completely those who come to God through him” (7:25).
Hebrews 7:1-25
SERMON OUTLINE
“Because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” (Hebrews 7:24-25)
Who is Melchizedek? (Hebrews 7:1-10)
- Biblical background on Melchizedek (Genesis 14)
- Melchizedek in Hebrews 7:
- King of Salem
- Priest of God Most High
- Melchizedek in comparison with Abraham and the Levitical priests
Jesus and Melchizedek (Hebrews 7:11-25)
- Levitical priesthood and the search for a new priest
- Ancestry versus accomplishment
- Regulations versus hope
- Jesus as fulfillment by God’s oath and His complete work
Living with Jesus the Eternal High Priest Unlike Any Other
- Know who Jesus really is.
- Move from knowledge about Jesus to knowledge of Jesus.
- Take the first step with Jesus.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- What is one of the most confusing parts of the Bible for you?
- As we continue our series “The Final Word: Knowing Christ through Hebrews,” this week we turn to Hebrews 7:1-25 and explore Jesus in comparison to the strange biblical character of Melchizedek. Begin your study by praying that God would speak to you through His Word. Then, whether you’re alone or with a group, read that passage aloud. It may also be helpful to read Genesis 14.
- What do we find out about Melchizedek in Hebrews 7:1-3?
- Many times in Hebrews, Melchizedek is mentioned in connection with Jesus (see 5:6, 10; 6:20, 7:1, 2, 10, 11, 15, 17). This connection is rooted in Psalm 110, which is the only other place in the Old Testament that Melchizedek appears. Psalm 110 also plays a big role in the book of Hebrews. Read Psalm 110 and Hebrews 5:5-6. What do you understand Psalm 110 to be saying about Jesus according to Hebrews?
- Hebrews 7:4-10 compares Melchizedek to both Abraham and to the Levitical priests. What do you think the writer is trying to say about how Melchizedek is superior to both? Why does this matter?
- With verses 11-17, the author looks at how Jesus could not be a priest based on ancestry but becomes one, like Melchizedek, based on something else. What is the basis of Jesus’ priesthood and why is that significant?
- As the author continues to describe the significance of Jesus, he compares the work of Jesus to both the Hebrew law and covenant. Why does the author describe Jesus as bringing “a better hope” (vs 19) and “a better covenant” (vs 22)?
- Stop and reflect for a moment about Jesus. How have you found true hope in God through Jesus?
- We will conclude by looking at verses 23-25. What do these verses tell us about Jesus? What do they tell us about what Jesus does for us?
- What is one thing God is speaking to you through this study of Hebrews 7:1-25? If you are on your own, write that down. If you are in a small group, discuss your answers with one another. Close in prayer. Choose one person in your life with whom you will share something you learned through this study.
DIG DEEPER
- Memorize Hebrews 7:24-25 this week.
- Write or draw a prayer in response to the message of Hebrews 7 about Jesus
- Watch this video from The Bible Project on the law to understand the relation of the law to Christ.