With this passage the author of Hebrews returns to the priesthood of Melchizedek mentioned in chapters 5 and 6 to demonstrate to his readers the superiority of Melchizedek’s priesthood over the Levitical priesthood, and therefore Christ’s superiority over the Levitical priesthood. Keep this context in mind as you discuss the questions.

1. What significant actions took place in the meeting between Melchizedek and Abram (Abraham) in Genesis 14:17-20?

2. In our passage, what does the author of Hebrews say these actions mean? In other words, how does he interpret them for us?

3. How long did it take your group facilitator to pronounce, “Chedorlaomer?”

4. What similarities do you see between Melchizedek and the Lord Jesus?

5. What is the significance of these similarities within the theological context of Christ Jesus’ superior priesthood?

6. Why does the author of Hebrews spend 10 verses emphasizing Melchizedek’s superiority to Abraham? What meaning would this have for the original Jewish-Christian readers?

7. What meaning does this have for us today? Why is Melchizedek’s superiority to Abraham important for us to know and remember?

8. What truths about the Lord God have you learned from this passage?