The study of Melchizedek offers a fascinating glimpse into the convergence of priesthood, kingship, and divine purpose within biblical and extrabiblical traditions. Through his brief yet powerful appearances in texts like Genesis, Psalms, and Hebrews, Melchizedek emerges as a mysterious and multi-faceted figure whose role prefigures and illuminates the unique priesthood of Jesus. His dual status as both king and priest underscores a timeless and divinely appointed leadership that transcends lineage and ritual, emphasizing spiritual continuity from the ancient past to the messianic future. The rich variety of interpretations surrounding Melchizedek highlights the dynamic nature of biblical tradition and invites believers to reflect on themes of worship, divine authority, and the unfolding plan of salvation.

This lesson introduces the Epistle of Barnabas, a second-century Christian writing that reflects the turbulent era between the Jewish revolts against Rome and the growing separation of Christianity from its Jewish roots. While the letter opens with warmth and encouragement, its deeper message is marked by radical allegory, a rejection of Torah observance, and the early seeds of replacement theology. By placing Barnabas in its historical context — between the hope of a rebuilt Temple and the disappointment of Roman betrayal — we see how Gentile Christianity was shaping its identity apart from Judaism. Though the epistle is not Scripture, it preserves both authentic echoes of apostolic tradition and troubling distortions, making it a valuable case study in how theology can be shaped by historical pressures. For modern readers, Barnabas stands as both a warning against abandoning the Jewish foundations of the faith and a reminder that God’s righteous requirements still call us to faithful obedience and hope.

This lesson reflects on the open-ended conclusion of Acts and the unfolding story of discipleship in the generations that followed. While the apostles and their successors faced false messiahs, persecution, revolts, destruction, and the painful parting of the ways, their example reminds us that discipleship has always been costly—but always worth it. We are called to learn from both their dramatic sacrifices and their quiet faithfulness, carrying forward their vision of unity in Messiah and resisting the divisions that history has sown. The unfinished ending of Acts becomes our invitation: to take up the same mission, empowered by the Spirit, and to continue writing the story with our own lives.