Christian Monthly Standard

Melchizedek and the Dead Sea Scrolls (2)

Below is more about the Qumran people’s belief in what Melchizedek would do:

11Q13

2:10 Scripture also s[ays] about him, “Over [it]

2:11 take your seat in the highest heaven; A divine being will judge the peoples” (Psalm 7:7—8). Concerning what scripture s[ays, “How long will y]ou judge unjustly, and sh[ow] partiality to the wick[e]d? [S]el[ah” (Psalm 82:2),]

2:12 the interpretation applies to Belial and the spirits predestined to him, becau[se all of them have rebe]lled, turn[ing] from God’s precepts [and so becoming utterly wicked.]

2:13 Therefore Melchizedek will thoroughly prosecute the veng[ea]nce required by Go[d’s] statu[te]s. [Also, he will deliver all the captives from the power of B]elial, and from the power of all [the spirits predestined to him.]

In the last post we noticed that Melchizedek was considered to be a divine Messianic being who would deliver the people from their sins and debts. In this excerpt we also learn that this divine Messianic figure called Melchizedek would judge the people. Particularly, he will execute vengeance against those who have rebelled against God’s precepts. Also, he will deliver all who are captive under the power of Satan (Belial).

I will spare you from citing multiple scriptures to show how these concepts were taught about Jesus. I think we can readily see the parallel. Certainly, Jesus is high priest after the order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 7) continues this useful parallel. The Qumran people’s expectation of Melchizedek is fulfilled in the activities and character of Jesus. We will look at one more quote from the Dead Sea Scrolls about Melchizedek tomorrow, Lord willing.