The Centurion’s Extraordinary Faith!

Luke 7:8

New King James Version

For I also am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”

For Encouragement

The story of Naaman, the Syrian commander, and the Prophet Elisha starkly contrasts faith and ritual. Placing these narratives side by side reveals the importance of faith over sight and human touch. 

For example, Naaman struggled with the simplicity and authority of Elisha’s command. Elisha’s decision not to greet him in person also offended Naaman’s social status (2 Kings 5:10-11).

Behold, I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call upon the name of the Lord his God, and wave his hand over the place and cure the leper (11).

This underscores the belief that healing needs physical presence, touch, or a religious leader. These views are still common in contemporary churches. Rituals aimed at miracles and healings often overshadow genuine faith and the call to believe in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In contrast, the centurion in Luke 7:1-10 offers an example of true faith.

In contrast to Naaman, the centurion in Luke 7:1-10 understood before Jesus reached his home that His authoritative command was all He needed. It would be just as effective as His physical presence in healing his servant.  

To deepen this comparison, consider the Syrian commander’s attitude alongside that of the Roman centurion of Capernaum. Through this lens, one can better understand why Jesus commended the centurion’s faith as unequaled in Israel (9), bridging the two stories to reveal a central theme.  

The centurion knew he was unworthy before the Lord (6). He also understood both authority and the power of words (7-8). As a leader, he could command his servants, and they obeyed him. How much more when Jesus sent His word to heal from a distance (10).

With these accounts in mind, we see three key lessons emerge from this story, offering a cohesive understanding of faith, humility, and trust.

First, humility enables faith and opens us to receive grace. Turning to Jesus during challenges fosters humble worship and trust, even amid doubts.

Second, recognizing Jesus’ absolute power over creation strengthens our faith in every circumstance. His spoken word accomplishes His purposes (Isa. 55:10-11), and no situation or distance can limit His ability to act (LK. 7: 9-10).

Third, we do not need rituals or special human actions for God to work in our lives. Faith in Jesus and the Holy Spirit is sufficient.

So, trust in Jesus’ goodness and love. Have faith that He knows what is best and that He will act for your ultimate good, regardless of circumstances (cf. Jer. 32:40-41).

Pray with Me

Thank you, our eternal Father, that you love us so much. You have revealed your absolute authority over all life situations, so we can trust you even in the most difficult situations. Please strengthen our faith when unbelief holds us back in trying times. In Christ we have prayed. Amen.

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