Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.

HEBREWS 5:10KJV
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Hebrews 5:10 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 5:10 mean?

Hebrews 5:10 says that Jesus was called by God to be a high priest, not in the traditional Jewish priestly line, but in a unique way—"after the order of Melchisedec." This means Jesus’ priesthood is different from the usual priesthood descended from Aaron, and instead follows the pattern of Melchisedec, a mysterious priest-king from the Old Testament.

The writer of Hebrews is explaining to Jewish Christians that Jesus’ role as high priest comes directly from God’s appointment, not from human ancestry. The mention of Melchisedec points to an older, special kind of priesthood that is above the normal system, setting up the argument that Jesus’ priesthood is greater and more lasting than the traditional one.

The Greek behind Hebrews 5:10

  • "Called" (προσαγορευθεὶς, prosagoreutheis): This word means "designated" or "addressed as." It highlights that Jesus did not take this role on His own, but was officially recognized by God for this position.
  • "Order" (τάξιν, taxin): This word refers to a "rank" or "arrangement." Here, it means a specific kind or category of priesthood, showing that Jesus’ priesthood is of a different kind than the Levitical priests.
  • "Melchisedec" (Μελχισεδέκ, Melchisedek): This name refers back to Genesis, where Melchisedec appears as both a priest and a king. The reference signals that Jesus’ priesthood is ancient and unique, not bound by the usual rules.

Why Hebrews 5:10 matters

  • Hebrews 5:10 clarifies that Jesus’ priesthood is not inherited through family lineage but is a special appointment from God, which would have been a significant point for Jewish readers used to the Levitical priesthood.
  • The verse sets up a major theme in Hebrews: that Jesus’ priesthood is superior and eternal, unlike the temporary and limited priesthood of Aaron’s descendants.
  • By connecting Jesus to Melchisedec, the writer shows that Jesus fulfills a much older and broader promise of God’s plan, which helps readers see Jesus’ unique and lasting role as mediator.

Where else these words appear

“order” Greek G5010 · used in 9 verses

  • Luke 1:8 And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course,
  • Colossians 2:5 For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.
  • Hebrews 7:11 If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood,(for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?

“Melchisedec” Greek G3198 · used in 9 verses

  • Hebrews 5:6 As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
  • Hebrews 7:1 For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;
  • Hebrews 7:15 And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,

“priest” Greek G749 · used in 120 verses

  • Matthew 2:4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.
  • Mark 14:66 And as Peter was beneath in the palace, there cometh one of the maids of the high priest:
  • John 19:15 But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar.