What can we learn about faith from the centurion's understanding of authority? The Centurion’s Insight into Authority “ ‘For I myself am a man placed under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, “Go,” and he goes; and that one, “Come,” and he comes. I say to my servant, “Do this,” and he does it.’ ” (Luke 7:8) The centurion recognizes a chain of command: he submits to higher officers and, in turn, commands those below him. He applies the same structure to Jesus, believing that disease and distance obey Christ just as soldiers obey their commander. His reasoning: if mere human words can move troops, how much more can the divine word move creation? Authority in the Rest of Scripture • Matthew 8:9 is the parallel account, underscoring that Jesus’ spoken word alone is sufficient. • Matthew 28:18—“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” The risen Christ confirms what the centurion assumed. • Colossians 1:16-17—All things were created through and for Christ; therefore everything is subject to Him. • Romans 13:1—“There is no authority except from God,” reminding us that earthly structures reflect a higher, divine order. What This Teaches Us About Faith 1. Faith trusts the Word, not the circumstances • The servant was miles away; the centurion still rested in Jesus’ command (Hebrews 11:1). 2. Faith sees Jesus as Lord over every realm • Physical illness, geography, social barriers—none limit Christ (Psalm 115:3). 3. Faith submits before it requests • The centurion calls Jesus “Lord” (Luke 7:6). Recognition precedes petition. 4. Faith delights in delegated authority • Just as soldiers find security in clear orders, believers find security under Christ’s rule (Psalm 23:1-2). Practical Marks of a Faith That Understands Authority • Immediate obedience—“He does it.” No delay (John 2:5). • Humble confidence—“I am not worthy” (Luke 7:7), yet bold in asking (Hebrews 4:16). • Expectant speech—He speaks as though the miracle is already done (Mark 11:24). Living Under Christ’s Command Today • Submit: “Therefore submit yourselves to God” (James 4:7). • Speak His Word with certainty: Scripture carries the same authority now (Isaiah 55:11). • Serve others from a place of delegated responsibility (1 Peter 4:10-11). Promises for Those Who Acknowledge His Authority • Protection—“The name of the LORD is a strong tower” (Proverbs 18:10). • Provision—“Seek first the kingdom… and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). • Power—“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you” (Acts 1:8). Key Takeaways • Faith grows as we grasp who Jesus is: the Commander of creation. • True authority liberates, never oppresses, when it comes from Christ. • The centurion’s story invites us to pray big, obey promptly, and rest fully in the One who needs only to speak the word. |
    |