Long before God gave the law on Mount Sinai, a mysterious king and priest appeared to Abraham. His name was Melchizedek. Abraham was returning from a weary battle, exhausted and fatigued. Melchizedek met him with refreshment and words of favor.

"Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine; he was the priest of God Most High. And he blessed him and said: 'Blessed be Abram of God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth;'" Genesis 14:18-19 (NKJV)

Melchizedek did not bring demands, rules, or condemnation. He brought bread and wine, and he spoke blessings. This historical moment is a picture of our relationship with Jesus today.

"where the forerunner has entered for us, even Jesus, having become a High Priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek." Hebrews 6:20 (NKJV)

In Hebrew, the name (Melchizedek) מַלְכִּי־צֶדֶק means "king of righteousness". The Levitical priesthood, which came later under the law, operates on demand. It blesses you only when you obey, and curses you when you fail. But the order of Melchizedek operates on supply. Jesus is our High Priest under this new order. He meets us in our fatigue with bread and wine—the Holy Communion. He brings healing and refreshment to our bodies and minds.

Abraham responded to this grace by giving a tithe. In Hebrew, the word for tithe is (Ma'aser) מַעֲשֵׂר — "tithe, tenth part", which comes from the root (asser) עָשַׂר — "to be rich". Abraham did not give because a law forced him to. He gave because he saw the goodness of God. Under grace, we do not give to get blessed; we give because we are already blessed by our High Priest.

Under the priesthood of grace, God does not demand your performance; He supplies your strength.