God, possessor of heaven and earth— קנה Coneh, signifies possessor by right of creation; from which idea probably the translation of the LXX might be derived, for they have it, the creator, ος εκτισε, who created heaven and earth. Le Clerc, who approves the first sense, possessor, thinks this to have been a common appellation of God, distinguishing him as grand Proprietary of all things from the local deities of the nations. Let it be observed here, that the knowledge of the true God was yet preserved among the Canaanites, as appears from this character of Melchizedek: Abram's confederates also, Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre, were most probably true believers: and the expression used by the Lord, that the iniquity of this people was not yet full, seems to prove, that some religion yet remained in the land.
REFLECTIONS.—Behold Abram's greatness. Kings come to congratulate him on his victory. The kings of Sodom and Salem: the latter deserves attentive consideration:
1. His name, Melchizedek, king of righteousness: his kingdom, Salem, king of peace. His character, a priest of the Most High God.
2. His benediction on Abram. He blessed God for him, and blessed him from God. Observe, (1.) The Most High God must be the object of our continual blessing and praise. (2.) All good things come from him: if we be enabled to overcome our spiritual enemies, we owe it to the strength of the Most High God. (3.) A true christian rejoices, and blesses God for the prosperity of his brethren.
3. Abram's grateful offering: the tenth of the spoils, Learn, (1.) God expects that they who have abundance should honour him with it. (2.) The Lord Jesus Christ, our great High Priest, must be applied to as the only channel in which our services and offerings can be presented with acceptance to God.