What role does Melchizedek play in understanding Christ's priesthood?

Melchizedek is a significant figure in understanding Christ’s priesthood because he embodies a priesthood that is greater than Aaron's. In Genesis, he is both a king and a priest, which points to Christ being the ultimate fulfillment of those roles. The author of Hebrews highlights Melchizedek's lack of recorded lineage and mortality to show that Christ’s priesthood, likened to Melchizedek, is eternal and divine. This connection reassures believers that Christ’s role as High Priest is established on a greater covenant of grace, which brings the certainty of salvation unlike the temporary and recurring sacrifices of the Levitical priests.