How can understanding authority, as in Luke 7:9, strengthen our faith in Christ?

The setting: a soldier’s insight into authority

Luke 7:6-8 records a Roman centurion sending friends to Jesus: “Just say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I myself am a man placed under authority, with soldiers under me. I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes….” His military background gave him a clear, practical grasp of how authority works—orders issued, obedience expected, results guaranteed.

Authority recognized: the centurion’s logic

- He knew rank—he obeyed superiors and was obeyed by subordinates.

- He recognized Jesus’ higher rank over sickness, distance, even death itself.

- He understood that spoken command, not physical presence, was enough.

Jesus’ response: faith that amazed the Lord

Luke 7:9: “When Jesus heard this, He marveled at him. Turning to the crowd following Him, He said, ‘I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such great faith.’”

- Jesus calls the centurion’s trust “great faith.”

- The marvel of Christ highlights that accurate recognition of divine authority pleases Him.

How grasping Christ’s authority strengthens our faith

- Confidence in His word: If a centurion trusted a single command, we can trust every promise (Numbers 23:19).

- Freedom from fear: Knowing the One with “all authority in heaven and on earth” (Matthew 28:18) calms anxiety.

- Motivation to obedience: Authority implies rightful expectation of obedience (John 14:15).

- Expectation of power: Christ’s commands carry the power to accomplish what He speaks (Isaiah 55:11).

- Assurance in prayer: Requests align with His sovereign will (1 John 5:14-15).

Practical steps for an authority-aware faith

1. Read Scripture daily, noting every command and promise of Christ.

2. Respond quickly in obedience, like soldiers answering orders.

3. Speak Scripture aloud in situations needing His authority (Ephesians 6:17).

4. Remember past instances where His word proved true; rehearse testimonies.

5. Fellowship with believers who honor Christ’s lordship, encouraging mutual submission to His rule.

Scriptures that echo the theme

- Psalm 33:9: “For He spoke, and it came to be; He commanded, and it stood fast.”

- Mark 1:27: crowds amazed that Jesus commands unclean spirits, and they obey.

- Colossians 1:16-17: by Him all things were created and “in Him all things hold together.”

- Hebrews 1:3: He upholds the universe by His powerful word.

Understanding and embracing Christ’s absolute authority, just as the centurion did, transforms abstract belief into vibrant, robust faith—faith that marvels heaven and anchors the soul.