Hebrews 7

Jesus is referred to several times as a priest "after the order of Melchizedek." That term is now explained. Melchizedek was the priest of God and king of Salem to whom Abraham gave a tenth of his treasure. Melchizedek can be translated "king of righteousness" and his title "king of peace." This great person received tribute (tithe: a tenth) from as great a leader as Abraham. Those who are his descendants (the Jewish priests and Levites) continued to receive offerings from the hands of those who worshiped and offered them up to God. Because Christ is a High Priest after the order of Melchizedek, He is able to receive those offerings without having to offer them to one higher than himself. Jesus is the pinnacle of priesthood: He receives offerings without needing to offer them higher; yet He offers Himself on behalf of the people's sins. By doing so, He saves to the uttermost, not just passes along an annual atonement.