How does Matthew 8:8 connect with other biblical examples of faith in Jesus? Matthew 8:8—A Snapshot of Remarkable Trust “Lord, I am not worthy to have You come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed.” What Stands Out in the Centurion’s Faith • Humility—he admits unworthiness. • Recognition of authority—he compares Jesus’ word to a military command that must be obeyed. • Dependence on the spoken word alone—no need for physical presence, signs, or rituals. Other Moments Where People Trusted Jesus in the Same Way • Faith in the Word at a Distance – John 4:50 – The royal official believed Jesus’ simple statement, “Go; your son will live,” before seeing any proof. – Matthew 15:28 – The Canaanite woman’s daughter is healed instantly when Jesus says, “Your faith is great! Let it be done for you as you desire.” – Luke 17:14 – Ten lepers start toward the priests, healed only after taking Jesus at His word. • Faith That Reaches Out in Action – Mark 5:27-34 – The woman with the flow of blood touches His cloak, convinced “If I just touch His garments, I will be healed.” – Luke 5:20 – Friends lower the paralytic through the roof; Jesus first sees “their faith,” then heals. • Faith That Acknowledges Supreme Authority – Mark 1:40-41 – A leper kneels: “If You are willing, You can make me clean.” He trusts Jesus’ ability absolutely. – Luke 5:5-6 – Peter obeys, “At Your word I will let down the nets,” displaying confidence in Jesus’ command over nature. A Continuous Thread from Genesis to the Gospels • Genesis 15:6 – “Abram believed the LORD, and He credited it to him as righteousness.” • Hebrews 11:1 – “Faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see.” • Romans 4:21 – Abraham was “fully convinced that God was able to do what He had promised.” The centurion joins this unbroken line of believers who rest in God’s word alone. Why These Connections Matter Today • Jesus still honors faith that trusts His word before visible evidence. • True faith approaches Him with humility, not entitlement. • His authority is absolute over illness, distance, time, and circumstance; nothing limits His reach. • Every believer is invited to echo the centurion’s confidence: “Just say the word.” |
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