Biblical explanation
Genesis records: "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18 He blessed Abraham, and Abraham gave him tithes. Psalm 110 later says of the Messiah: "Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek." Psalm 110:4 Hebrews develops this theme extensively. Jesus is described as a priest according to the order of Melchizedek, not according to the Levitical priesthood. Hebrews says Melchizedek is presented in Scripture as: "without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life." Hebrews 7:3 This language is best understood in the context of the biblical record. Genesis does not give Melchizedek's genealogy, birth, or death. Hebrews uses this absence of genealogical record as part of its typological argument. The Bible does not explicitly say Melchizedek was Christ Himself. Hebrews uses Melchizedek as a type and comparison for Christ's superior, eternal priesthood.
Key takeaway
Discipleship applies the gospel to the whole life: body, mind, relationships, work, finances, and worship. Healthy choices and faithful habits do not earn salvation; they are grateful stewardship of the life God has entrusted to us and practical ways to serve others.