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"Those who are of the sons of Levi..."

Text: Hebrews 7:5

THE LAW OF THE TITHE

The author of Hebrews brought in the principle of Abraham’s tithe to Melchizedek for good reason! He wanted to show the greatness of Melchizedek. He knew that this point would be better appreciated if he also discussed the law of the tithe in the Levitical priesthood

“And indeed those who are of the sons of Levi,
who receive the priesthood, have a commandment
to receive tithes from the people according to the law,
that is, from their brethren, though they have come
from the loins of Abraham.”
Hebrews 7:5

1. The sons of Levi

a) They formed “the priesthood”.

b) They were set aside to lead in the religious life of the nation.

2. God’s special provision for the Levites

a) God would provide for them.

b) The support of the Levites became part of the Law code of Israel.

c) Israel was bound by the law to give their tithe (in support of the Levitical priesthood).

3. The significance of the Levitical tithe

a) Tithing became mandatory for Israel.

b) The work of the Levitical priesthood was considered important enough to warrant the giving of the law of tithing by God Himself.

c) The giving of the tithe underscores an important truth!

i) The Levitical priesthood was an institution that came from God Himself.

ii) That it was able to “command” a tithe would further suggest that there was “greatness” in the Levitical priesthood.

iii) The office of the priesthood remained “great” even if some of the priests did not bring honour to it!