Introducing Melchizedek
Genesis 14:1-24
I. War Comes to the Plain of Jordan (vs. 1-12)
a. What kings join forces in verse 1?
b. Where and upon whom do these kings project their force?
c. The indication that they ‘served’ Chedorlaomer twelve years would indicate they paid tribute (taxes) usually in goods or services. What happens after twelve years?
d. The Rephaim(giants) and Emim (terrors) (see Deuteronomy 2:10-11), the Zuzim (roving creatures), and Horites (cave dwellers ‘troglodytes’) were also attacked. Is there a reason given for this military expedition?
f. What do the five kings of the Jordan plain do and why at this time?
g. Who wins this battle and who is taken along with the plunder from the cities of the plain?
II. Rescue (vs. 13-16)
a. What description of Abram do we see in verse 13 for the first time?
b. How does Abram first hear of Lot’s capture?
c. What action does Abram immediately pursue?
d. How successful are Abram and his 300?
e. Why would the king of Sodom come to meet Abram?
III. Melchizedek (vs. 17-18)
a. What were Melchizedek’s (my king is righteousness) titles?
b. What does Melchizedek do for and say to Abram?
c. What was Abram’s response toward Melchizedek?
d. Why does Abram not accept anything from the king of Sodom?
Application: Abram gives a tithe (1/10th) to Melchizedek. Where else has Abram given offerings?
Do we still give ‘sacrificial’ offerings to God?
