What can we learn about humility from the centurion's approach in Luke 7? Setting the scene Luke 7:1-10 records a Roman centurion whose valued servant is at death’s door. Jewish elders plead with Jesus on the officer’s behalf, Jesus starts toward the house, yet before He arrives the centurion sends friends with a message of striking humility. Verse 10 concludes, “When those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the servant in good health.” Snapshots of humility in the centurion • Recognizes his own unworthiness – “Lord, do not trouble Yourself, for I am not worthy to have You come under my roof.” (Luke 7:6) – A high-ranking Gentile officer could have flexed military muscle; instead he bows low in spirit. • Values others above himself – He intercedes for a servant, not a VIP. – Philippians 2:3 reminds, “in humility consider others more important than yourselves.” • Confesses Jesus’ supreme authority – “Just say the word, and my servant will be healed.” (Luke 7:7) – He likens Jesus’ authority to his own command structure (v. 8). Humility sees true rank and gladly yields. • Approaches through intercession – First Jewish elders, then friends—he places no demand for personal audience. – Humility is content to stay in the background if Christ is exalted. What humility sounds like 1. “I am not worthy” (Luke 7:6) – honest self-assessment. 2. “Say the word” (Luke 7:7) – complete confidence in Christ, not in self. 3. Silence when praised – Jesus marvels at his faith (v. 9); the centurion never answers back. Where humility takes us • Access to divine help – “Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” (1 Peter 5:6) – The servant is healed without Jesus even crossing the threshold. • Admiration from the Lord – “He was amazed at him” (Luke 7:9). The only other time Jesus marvels is at unbelief (Mark 6:6). Humble faith turns the Savior’s head. • A pattern for Gentile inclusion – Before Acts 10 ever occurs, a Gentile’s humility opens the door to grace. Echoes throughout Scripture • Proverbs 3:34 – “He mocks the mockers but gives grace to the humble.” • James 4:6 – “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” • Isaiah 66:2 – “I will look favorably on the one who is humble and contrite in spirit.” • Luke 18:13-14 – the tax collector’s low posture leads to justification. Humility is consistently God’s chosen highway. Living it out today • Speak to Jesus with the same “I am not worthy… just say the word” attitude. • Place others’ needs before your own; pray for them earnestly as the centurion did. • Remember true authority resides in Christ; rest in His word rather than insisting on your own solutions. • Stay content to serve behind the scenes—no spotlight needed when the Lord is magnified. • Trust that humble faith still moves Jesus to act, and, like the household in Luke 7:10, expect to find His healing touch when you return home. |
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