This passage from Luke chapter 7 tells the story of a Centurion who seeks healing for his sick servant. The sermon uses this story to discuss faith, trust, and the importance of community within the Christian faith.

The Faith of a Centurion

• The Centurion was a highly respected Roman military leader, in charge of over 100 soldiers, with influence that extended into the town’s laws and customs. Despite his position, he was loved by the people.
• He had heard about Jesus and his ministry, which was growing and impacting many people. Jesus was bringing hope and healing, and crowds flocked to him.
• The Centurion showed great love for his servant. Instead of directly approaching Jesus, he sent Jewish elders to plead on his behalf. These elders testified to the Centurion’s good character, noting that he loved their nation and built their synagogue.
• When Jesus agreed to come, the Centurion sent friends to stop Jesus from coming to his home, saying he wasn’t worthy to have Jesus under his roof. He understood that if Jesus came to his house, he might not be able to go to the temple.
• The Centurion believed that Jesus could heal his servant just by speaking the word. He recognized Jesus’s authority, comparing it to his own authority over his soldiers.
• Jesus was amazed by the Centurion’s faith. He marveled at it and said he had not found such great faith, even in Israel. The servant was healed.
• Unlike many others, the Centurion did not need to see a miracle to believe.

Key Takeaways

• Faith is more than just belief: It involves action and trust in God’s promises, even when things are uncertain. Many believe in God’s promises, but get stuck when called to act. Like the crowd at Niagara Falls, many will believe in someone’s ability, but won’t get into the “willowbarrow” themselves. We must step into the unknown and trust in God.
• God’s love is for all people: Jesus’s ministry was not limited to the Jewish people; he was willing to break social norms and reach out to all. The Centurion, a Gentile, sought help from Jesus, breaking through cultural barriers. Jesus is willing to break all the rules to help the hurting.
• Humility is essential: The Centurion, despite his high status, demonstrated humility by acknowledging that he was not worthy of Jesus. He recognized Jesus’s authority and trusted that his word was sufficient.
• We must rely on God, not ourselves: We cannot fulfill God’s plans in our own strength. When we rely solely on our own ability, we will fail; even if it looks like a success in the beginning, it won’t be sustainable. Acknowledge God’s power and let him work. God moves most powerfully when we acknowledge Him.
• Community is important: We need to surround ourselves with people who can encourage and support us. Sharing our struggles as well as our hopes with those who share our faith, lifting each other up. We should not neglect to help others because of fear of association with sin.
• We walk by faith, not by sight: Often, the path God has for us will not make sense. God provides for us when we put our trust in Him. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding.
• Be connected to God: Spend time in prayer and studying the Bible to understand what God is calling you to.
• We must be willing to help others: We must be willing to spend resources, and risk our character, to help those in need, just as Jesus did. As Christians, we should not ignore the struggles of others.

Encouragement

This passage encourages us to examine our own faith. It’s a reminder that faith isn’t just a feeling; a deep assurance of God’s promises and a willingness to act on them. It’s a call to rely on God, not ourselves, and to connect with a supportive community that can help us along the journey.

Even when life seems uncertain and we face challenges, God provides solutions where there seems to be no way. God wants to speak to your heart and plant vision so you can be the person that God has called you to be. Just as the centurion acted in faith and humility, we are encouraged to live a life of faith, trusting in God’s love and provision. Would you jump into the “willowbarrow” and give it all to God?

This study explores the story of the Centurion’s faith in Luke 7:1-10, highlighting key concepts of trust, humility, and community within the Christian faith. The sermon uses the Centurion’s story to encourage believers to take action, trust God, and embrace a life of faith. It’s a reminder that faith is more than just belief; it’s a deep assurance of God’s promises and a willingness to act on them.

If you’re interested in learning more about overcoming obstacles and living a life of faith, you might find our article on “How to Transform your Struggle into Strength“ helpful. Or, if you are curious about the importance of community and connection with others, consider checking out “Find Your Tribe, Grow Your Faith“.

References

• Men’s Fellowship Study by Ben