“In the one case, tithes are received by mortal men, but in the other case, by one of whom it is testified that he lives.”

See how our writer blends these two acts of inferiority and superiority. Not only was Abraham blessed by Melchizedek, but Melchizedek received tithes from Abraham, not the other way around. As far as the Jewish priests are concerned, they receive tithes from the people but only for their lifetime, which is limited. Melchizedek is featured as one without beginning or end of days. The tithes of Abraham paid to Melchizedek were paid to is presented as alive. This is not meant to imply that Melchizedek never tasted of physical death. That is not how he is presented.

Melchizedek, remember, is presented as a priest/king of an unprecedented linage. This is also true of Jesus. It is also true in the sense that Jesus though he died, continues to live and act as priest on our behalf. So, both Melchizedek and Jesus as priests of the most high God ever live and reign in that spiritual sense.

The entire Jewish nation paid tithes to Jesus through Melchizedek because of Abraham’s tithing. Therefore Jesus is superior to the Levitical/Aaronic priesthoods.

Task for Today: Decide today to make Jesus your high priest. Give your tithes, every kind, and every way to Jesus. He and He alone can provide the sacrifice required by God for the forgiveness of sins.