JESUS ADMIRES A CENTURION’S FAITH
Keywords 8:10
When Jesus heard this, he
was astonished and said to those following him, "I tell you the truth, I
have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.
1. A centurion’s “Say the word” faith (5-13)
A Roman centurion
asked Jesus for help, with deep concern for the desperate situation of his sick
servant. Jesus was willing to help even a Roman soldier who came by faith. But
the man explained Jesus didn’t need to come with
him. Why? He understood Jesus’ authority as Lord.
He said, “But just say the
word, and my servant will be healed.” As this centurion
expected absolute obedience from the soldiers under him, he believed Jesus’ authority as Lord
was absolute. Jesus was astonished by the faith of this centurion, and thought
of the Patriarchs. With this faith, even Gentiles may enjoy the feast in the
kingdom, while Jews without this faith will be thrown outside. Jesus blessed
this man’s faith, and his
servant was healed from that very hour.
2. Jesus’ healing ministry
(14-17)
The people of
Capernaum had inferior faith to the centurion. But Jesus served them, healing
many including Peter’s mother-in-law. He
revealed himself as the suffering servant, who took up all our infirmities and
carried our diseases (Isa 53:4).
Prayer Father, thank you for
Jesus the suffering servant. Please teach me faith in Jesus as Lord.
One Word It will be done just as you believed
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