Hebrews 5 (4)

Introduction
The mention of Melchizedek introduces a brief side-excursion, essential to the writer’s argument, but painful to bear. One reason these first readers were drifting from the Lord in the face of persecution is that they were not pressing on to maturity. There is no standing still in the life of faith. Mature people would understand the importance of Melchizedek. And these readers would hear about him soon enough (chapter 7). But for now, the mention of Melchizedek allows the writer to inject a much-needed rebuke.

Read Genesis 14.18-20.

Read Hebrews 5.9-11.

Think it through.
1.  The Greek word translated author in verse 9 is αἴτιος and means source orreason. In what sense is Jesus the source or reason for salvation? To whom is that salvation available? Jesus obeyed through suffering to become the source of our salvation (v. 8); we must obey Him to gain the salvation of which He is the source. What obedience is required of those who would be saved (cf. Acts 2.36-39; Acts 17.30, 31)? In what sense was Jesus perfected (v. 9)? What is the significance of this for us (1 Jn. 3.2, 3)? Having been perfected and become the source of salvation, Jesus was then appointed High Priest, but not according to the order of Aaron. Why not? Why does He need to be High Priest at all?

2.  Looking at the account of Melchizedek in Genesis 14.18-20, we see that he fulfilled two roles. What were they? Melchizedekmeans king of righteousness. He was also the King of Salem, or king of peace. How would you describe this man’s relationship to Abram? It is hard to explainthe role Melchizedek plays in the divine economy and the plan of redemption, but in chapter 7 the writer will have a go at it. First, however, the writer addresses his readers with a rebuke. He says they are dull of hearing. This phrase literally means lazy in the ears. What does this imply? How does such laziness contribute to drifting from our great salvation? Is it possible to know when we’re becoming lazy in the ears? Explain.

Meditate.
“‘He became the source of our eternal salvation’ by replacing Adam, who had been the source of our death through his disobedience. But as Adam’s death did not reign in those who did not sin, so life reigns in those who do not need to be absolved. Even though he is a liberal giver of life, life is given to those who obey, not to those who fall away from him.” Ephrem the Syrian (306-373 AD)

But God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered. Romans 6.17

Lord, Your Gospel calls for obedience every day, and today this means…

Pray Psalm 132.6-9
Look carefully at the verbs that follow “we heard” and “we found” in these verses. Meditate on each. Here is what obedience to the Gospel requires. Ask the Lord to show you what they require of you today.

Psalm 132.6-10 (Finlandia: Be Still, My Soul)
The word throughout the chosen nation spread, 
To Ephrata, and in the fields of Jaar:
“Now let us go,” the faithful people said, 
“And worship where our Savior’s dwellings are!
Around His footstool let our worship spread; 
Come, gather to Him, all from near and far!”

Arise, O Lord, come to Your resting place; 
Your holy presence meet with us in might. 
Clothe us with righteousness in Jesus’ grace, 
And we will shout to Your divine delight!
For David’s sake, turn not away Your face, 
But look upon us in Your holy light.

T. M Moore

For a better understanding of the book of Hebrews, and all the books of the Bible, order a copy of the workbook, God’s Covenant, from our online store. The studies in this workbook will show you how the parts of the Bible connect with one another to tell the story of God’s redemption and glory (click here). To learn more about Christ in His exaltation, order the book, The Kingship of Jesus (click here).

Men, God is calling you to pray, lest He come in judgment against His Church. Watch this brief video, then seek the Lord about joining our Men at Prayer movement.

Please prayerfully consider sharing with The Fellowship of Ailbe through your giving. You can contribute to The Fellowship by clicking the Contribute buttonat the website or by sending your gift to The Fellowship of Ailbe, 19 Tyler Drive, Essex Junction, VT 05452.

Except as indicated, Scripture taken from the New King James Version. © Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. All psalms for singing adapted from The Ailbe Psalter. All quotations from Church Fathers from Ancient Christian Commentary Series, General Editor Thomas C. Oden (Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2006.