16 And he brought back all the property, and brought again his brother Lot and his property, and the women also, and the people.
17 And the king of Sodom went out to meet him after he had returned from smiting Chedorlaomer, and the kings that were with him, into the valley of Shaveh, which is the king's valley. 18 And Melchisedec king of Salem brought out bread and wine. And he was priest of the Most High God. 19 And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the Most High God, possessor of heavens and earth. 20 And blessed be the Most High God, who has delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him the tenth of all.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Genesis 14:16-20
Commentary on Genesis 14:13-16
(Read Genesis 14:13-16)
Abram takes this opportunity to give a real proof of his being truly friendly to Lot. We ought to be ready to succour those in distress, especially relations and friends. And though others may have been wanting in their duty to us, yet we must not neglect our duty to them. Abram rescued the captives. As we have opportunity, we must do good to all.
Commentary on Genesis 14:17-20
(Read Genesis 14:17-20)
Melchizedek is spoken of as a king of Salem, supposed to be the place afterwards called Jerusalem, and it is generally thought that he was only a man. The words of the apostle, Hebrews 7:4. When we have received some great mercy from God, it is very fit we should express our thankfulness by some special act of pious charity. Jesus Christ, our great Melchisedek, is to have homage done him, and to be humbly acknowledged as our King and Priest; not only the tithe of all, but all we have, must be given up to him.