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Jun 1, 2010 · Both Luke (Luke 7:9) and Matthew (Matthew 8:10) use the Greek word thaumazo (thou-mad'-zo) which we translate "marveled" or "amazed" to describe Jesus' response to the centurion's faith. The only time this word is used to describe Jesus' response to others' faith is in Mark 6:6, when he marvels at the lack of faith in the people of Nazareth ...
- Cultural and Historical Context
- Elements of The Centurion’s Faith
- Jesus’ Response to The Centurion’s Faith
- Theological Implications
- Practical Applications For Believers
- Conclusion
To fully understand why Jesus praised the centurion’s faith, it is essential to consider the cultural and historical context of the encounter.
Several aspects of the centurion’s faith stand out in the narrative and explain why Jesus praised it so highly.
Jesus Marveled
Both Matthew and Luke record that Jesus marveled at the centurion’s faith (Matthew 8:10, Luke 7:9). The Greek word used here, “θαυμάζω” (thaumazō), indicates profound amazement or astonishment. This reaction is significant because it shows that Jesus, who is omniscient, was genuinely impressed by the centurion’s faith.
Comparison to Israel
Jesus explicitly states that He has not found such great faith even in Israel (Matthew 8:10, Luke 7:9). This statement serves as a rebuke to the Jewish people, especially the religious leaders, who often demonstrated a lack of faith despite their knowledge of the Scriptures and the presence of Jesus’ miracles.
Faith and Authority
The centurion’s faith is closely tied to his understanding of authority. His profession of faith acknowledges that Jesus has supreme authority over sicknessand life itself. This understanding aligns with the biblical portrayal of Jesus as the ultimate authority (Matthew 28:18).
Humility and Faith
The centurion’s humility is integral to his faith. Biblical faith often involves a recognition of one’s own insufficiency and a reliance on God’s power and grace. The centurion’s acknowledgment of his unworthiness exemplifies the attitude that Jesus commends throughout His ministry (Matthew 5:3).
The Universality of the Gospel
The centurion’s faith prefigures the inclusion of the Gentiles in the early church. The gospel’s reach beyond ethnic and cultural boundaries is a central theme in the New Testament, fulfilled in the ministry of Paul and the expansion of the church(Acts 10:34-35, Galatians 3:28).
Emulating the Centurion’s Faith
Believers are called to emulate the centurion’s faith by recognizing Jesus’ authority, approaching Him with humility, and trusting in His power to work in their lives. This faith is not based on physical presence or visible signs but on a deep trust in Jesus’ word and His ability to intervene in any situation.
Humility in Leadership
The centurion’s example is particularly relevant for those in positions of authority. His humility, despite his high rank, serves as a model for Christian leaders to lead with humility and recognize their need for God’s guidance and intervention.
Acceptance
The story challenges believers to embrace and accept those who may be outside their cultural or social circles. The centurion’s faith and Jesus’ commendation of it underscore the importance of breaking down barriers and recognizing the faith of others, regardless of their background.
The story of the centurion’s faith is a profound illustration of the kind of faith that pleases Jesus. It encompasses humility, a recognition of Jesus’ authority, and a deep trust in His power. Jesus’ praise of the centurion’s faith serves as a powerful reminder of the qualities that constitute genuine faith and the universal gospel message. The ce...
Sep 15, 2020 · The centurion heard of Jesus and sent some elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and heal his servant. He is worthy to have you do this for him, for he loves our nation, and he is the one who built us our synagogue. Luke 7:3-4. After saying this, Jesus and his entourage follow them.
The striking irony is that while the intermediaries tried to sell Jesus on the centurion’s perceived worthiness, his humble recognition of his unworthiness impressed Jesus far more. The centurion demonstrated the essential attitude God has always sought in human beings: “On this one will I look: on him who is poor and of a contrite spirit” ( Isaiah 66:2 ).
Apr 26, 2013 · It is a gospel irony that the only person recorded in the gospels whose faith made Jesus marvel was a Roman soldier. The only reason he was in Palestine was to help keep the Jews under the domineering rule of the pagan Tiberius. It amazed Jesus that a Gentile soldier of all people, a stranger to the covenant, a man with limited understanding of ...
Oct 25, 2021 · As Jesus is getting closer to the Centurion's home, the Centurion doesn't come out to see Jesus. He sends his friends now, to tell Jesus, "I'm unworthy of you to come to my home. All you have to do is speak the word." But then he adds these couple of verses. He says, "For I am like you, I am a man under authority, yet I tell people what to do.
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Aug 7, 2019 · 3. The declaration of verses 10 to 12 Jesus impressed by the love and faith of the centurion. Jesus was amazed at the centurion’s answer: this very strong verb is only used here about faith, the faith of a pagan, while Jesus very often comes up against the unbelief of the Jews.
