A Profound Faith

When Jesus heard it, he marveled, and said to them that followed, “Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.”
—Matthew 8:10

Yesterday, our pastor shared the great faith of the centurion who came to Jesus on behalf of his servant, What was so profound about this centurion that made Jesus marvel? The centurion’s servant was sick from palsy, but he had faith that Jesus would heal him. Jesus recognized the centurion had a compassionate heart and had pursued Him out of love for his servant. He saw a man who recognized his authority to heal and humbly sought him to heal his servant. Jesus was so pleased with the centurion’s faith he declared he had never found so great a faith, not even in Israel.

Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, initiated it in us. To nurture our faith, it is beneficial to delve into such a great faith as that of the centurion. 

“And Jesus said to him, ‘I will come and heal him.’  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’” (Matthew 8:7-8).

This centurion recognized Jesus’ authority and believed that his spoken word was enough to heal his servant. He didn’t need Jesus to visit his house. The centurion had faith in Jesus’ word. This demonstrates that those who simply believe the written Word of God have a greater faith than those who require additional proof. 

For a man with immense power and authority, the centurion’s humble demeanor was truly remarkable. Humility is one of the key components of great faith. People of profound faith in God don’t rely on themselves. They realize their lack but know God shall unequivocally supply their need. Those who excessively depend on themselves struggle to rely on God, and pride hinders their ability to receive from Him.

The centurion said to Jesus: “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’” (Matthew 8:9).

This verse demonstrates the centurion’s understanding of authority. He was under the authority of his superiors and held authority over the hundred men under him. He recognized Jesus’ authority from God to heal. Acknowledging Jesus’ authority was crucial for the centurion’s servant to be healed.

Just as the centurion trusted Jesus’ spoken Word, I must also trust the Word of God. The centurion didn’t doubt that Jesus could just speak a word and heal His servant. Do I believe and trust God’s word to do the same in my life? His Word says that I am healed. Do I believe the truth of His Word? Or do I require additional proof? If I require additional evidence of God’s truth working in my life, then His Word alone won’t suffice for me. I’ve elevated my unbelief above its truth, and I’ve become more reliant on myself than on God.

If I want a greater faith, I must acknowledge the authority of God's Word and allow it to speak “life” to me. If I want a faith that overcomes destructive emotions or sickness or loss in life, I find it in the Word. If I want a profound faith that receives God’s promises, I take possession of the Word of God. If I desire a faith that experiences the revelation of God’s wisdom and knowledge, I pray in the Holy Spirit to build up my most holy faith (Jude 20). Through faith and patience I never lack but inherit the promises of God (James 1:4, Hebrews 6:12). Having done all, I stand with bold tenacity and unrelenting faith, knowing I shall see God’s spoken Word fulfilled in my life.

Does Jesus marvel at my faith like he marveled at the faith of the centurion? Are the qualities in the centurion’s life also exemplified in mine? Is Jesus pleased with my spiritual growth and His Word manifesting in me? Jesus shall marvel at my faith when I marvel at the Word He speaks into my life.