THE CENTURION:
Matthew 8:5-10 NKJV
[5] Now when Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to Him, pleading with Him, [6] saying, “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, dreadfully tormented.” [7] And Jesus said to him, “I will come and heal him.” [8] The centurion answered and said, “Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof. But only speak a word, and my servant will be healed. [9] For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” [10] When Jesus heard it, He marveled, and said to those who followed, “Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!
The story of the encounter of this Centurion with Jesus is a lesson on the humility of faith. Every aspect of this story gives evidence that this Centurion was God fearing and humble. The exercise of true faith and authority must never be brash and arrogant. It must be expressed in humility.
This Roman officer came to Jesus pleading for his sick and paralyzed servant. Who cared this much about a servant in those days? This servant might have been a valuable servant to his master. Are you that valuable to your group and in your workplace?
Centurions were men of authority and not known to beg for anything, but this Centurion was different. Luke’s account explains how unworthy he felt to even approach Jesus on his own. He first sent elders of the Jews with his request and then his friends to Jesus, when He was close to his house, that he was even unworthy for Jesus to come into his house (Luke 7:2-10).
This Centurion’s humility was matched by his level of understanding of faith. He likened the exercise of his authority to that of Jesus in the spiritual realm, and concluded that since he was that unworthy for Jesus to come to his house, He should just give the command and he knew his servant would be healed. His servant was healed that moment!
Jesus went further to commend the man for his faith, saying He had never seen such faith, not even in Israel! How deep is your understanding of the authority of Christ, His name, and His blood? Is your understanding of authority matched by your humility? This is God’s Word to you today…….
James 4:6-10 NKJV
[6] But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.” [7] Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. [8] Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. [9] Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. [10] Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.
Humility, my friend, is also the key to greatness and breakthroughs.