The Faith that Amazed Jesus

What was it that caused Jesus to marvel at the centurion’s faith? Only two times in Scripture are we told that Jesus marveled. Here and when he tried to minister in Nazareth in Mark 6:6 “And he marveled because of their unbelief. And he went about among the villages teaching.”

Great Faith believes without seeing, requests with humility, and trusts in the authority of Christ’s Word.

Great Faith Believes “Sight Unseen”

Illustration - during the pandemic people were buying homes via virtual walk-through. As much faith as that took it pales in comparison to the faith expressed by the Centurion.

The Centurion had not witnessed the miracles of Jesus. He had only heard of Jesus, but had not seen him. Yet, he believed in Jesus’ power to heal.

Jesus commended the faith of those who would believe on Him by word of mouth witness - John 20:29 “Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.””

Peter would later write, 1 Peter 1:8-9

1 Peter 1:8–9 ESV

Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

Great faith believes the witness about Jesus!

Great Faith is Humble

Notice some of the characteristics of this man. First, he was compassionate toward his servant. It appears the servant was a boy (paidos is used in verse 7 while doulos is used elsewhere in the passage).

He had a love for the Jewish people. It was highly unusual that Jewish leaders would care anything for a Roman officer, much less recommend him to Jesus for a favor. Here they make mention of his kindness and generosity toward the people of Israel.

As a side note, God is not done with the Jewish people. Paul says in Romans 11 that He is able to graft them in again.

Faith, in humility, recognizes that no man can boast in God’s presence! Romans 11:33-36.

Great faith recognizes that it a privilege to even be considered by God for His mercy. The centurion did not even think himself worthy, in spite of his great rank, to come into Christ’s presence.

Great Faith Trusts in the Authority of Christ’s Word

What truly amazed the Lord is the centurions recognition of the source of His power.

The centurion knew what it meant to be under authority. His authority to command others only came from his obedience and submission to his superiors.

He recognized that Jesus has the authority of God.

Faith trusts the Word of Christ, because it is the Word of God!

Your faith rests on the word of God. Have you trusted him?