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Call to worship: Psalm 110
Text: Genesis 14:1-24
Summary:
Chedorlaomer is the king of so many kings. Some of them rebel. Their rebellion proves futile. The greater kingly coalition is a force with which to reckon, but powerful people often and wrongly assume themselves above a higher reckoning. Pride is a weed sowing many seeds, and some have been determined to bite. In taking Sodom, the royal coalition takes Lot into captivity, engaging Abram in pursuit, engaging God and His promise. With the help of a few international allies, Abram defeats this mighty coalition with 318 men born in his house. In effect, he now holds the title of king of kings, but only ever so briefly. In the aftermath of victory, a banquet is held in the King's Valley. There is Abram and the king of Sodom and one so far unmentioned: Melchizedek. This king of righteousness (Melchi-zedek) is king of Peace (Salem), as well as prophet (disclosing the Sovereign behind Abram's victory) and priest (blessing Abram, while receiving a tithe from him); and without genealogy, he seems without beginning or end. He's the host of a banquet prefiguring the table of Heaven and he, himself, typifies the true King of kings, the Lord Jesus Christ Who wins by forfeit and saves by dying and takes His proper seat by resurrection, Prophet-Priest-King, holding His office forever for those who trust Him.
Main idea(s):
For peace with God, we begin to look for a Mediator in the order of Melchizedek.
Sermon Outline:
- A miscalculating king of kings. (14:1-12)
- A conquering king of kings. (14:13-16)
- A foreshadowing king of kings. (14:17-24)
Prepare
Discussion Questions:
- Read Genesis 14:1-24.