A continuation of the exposition of the Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the…

First, he was a Priest, and he was the first that was so by especial Institution; How the Rite of Sacrificing was common to all Worshippers of Old, and what was the peculiar Interest of the First-born therein, I have at large before declared. I have also proved that Melchizedek was the first who was Authoritatively separated unto this Office by Gods Approbation. And as it was a new, so it was a great and Remarkable thing in the World. For although we know not how far it was received or understood by the Men of that Age, who I believe were not stupidly Ignorant and Carnal as some would have them to be; yet certain it is, that the Institution of this Office, and the Representation of it in the Person of Melchizedek, gave great Light and Instruction into the Nature of the first Promise, and the work of the Blessing Seed which was to be exhibited. For the Faith of the Church in all Ages was so directed, as to believe that God had respect unto Christ and his Work, in all his Institutions of Worship. Wherefore the Erection of the Office of a Priesthood to offer Sacrifice, and that in the Person of so great a Man as Melchizedek, must needs lead them into an Acquaintance with the Nature of his work in some measure, both he and it being so conspicuously represented unto them.

First, he was a Priest, and he was the first that was so by especial Institution; How the Rite of Sacrificing was common to all Worshippers of Old, and what was the peculiar Interest of the First-born therein, I have at large before declared. I have also proved that Melchisedec was the first who was Authoritatively separated unto this Office by Gods Approbation. And as it was a new, so it was a great and Remarkable thing in the World. For although we know not how far it was received or understood by the Men of that Age, who I believe were not stupidly Ignorant and Carnal as some would have them to be; yet certain it is, that the Institution of this Office, and the Representation of it in the Person of Melchisedec, gave great Light and Instruction into the Nature of the first Promise, and the work of the Blessing Seed which was to be exhibited. For the Faith of the Church in all Ages was so directed, as to believe that God had respect unto Christ and his Work, in all his Institutions of Worship. Wherefore the Erection of the Office of a Priesthood to offer Sacrifice, and that in the Person of so great a Man as Melchisedec, must needs lead them into an Acquaintance with the Nature of his work in some measure, both he and it being so conspicuously represented unto them.