A People After Godનમૂનો

The Centurion – God Never Rejects Humble Faith

What is the right way to approach Jesus? Matthew places this story right after the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus has just taught with authority about life in God’s Kingdom. The first two encounters that follow are with outsiders: a leper and a Roman centurion. Both approach Jesus with humility, and both find grace.

The centurion was a powerful Roman officer, well-known and respected in his community. Yet when his servant was suffering, he came to Jesus and pleaded for help. Instead of relying on his status or power, he humbled himself and said, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed” (Matthew 8:8 CSB). He recognized what others had missed: that Jesus’ authority was unlike anyone else’s.

Jesus marveled at this man’s faith. He said, “Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with so great a faith” (Matthew 8:10 CSB). The religious insiders had missed it, but the outsider understood that faith means trusting Jesus’ authority. True faith doesn’t negotiate with God or make demands. It submits to him as Lord, believing that his word is enough. Faith is not about heritage or performance; it is about humbly trusting Jesus.

Jesus goes on to say that “many will come from east and west to share the banquet with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 8:11 CSB). In other words, outsiders who humbly trust Jesus will be welcomed into God’s Kingdom. This echoes Isaiah’s vision of a feast for all peoples (Isaiah 25:6–9) and looks forward to the wedding banquet of the Lamb in Revelation 19:9. Everyone who trusts Christ has a seat at his table.

The centurion’s story reminds us that God never rejects humble faith. Heritage, status, background, or reputation cannot earn your way into the Kingdom. And none of those things can keep you out if you come to Jesus with humility and trust.

The centurion believed Jesus’ word was enough, and he was not turned away. His servant was healed that very moment. That same invitation stands for us. If we will come to him in humble faith, we will not be rejected.

Reflection Question: Where in your life do you need to submit to Jesus’ authority and trust that his word is enough?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you that you never reject humble faith. Help me to approach you with trust and surrender, not pride or self-reliance. Teach me to believe that your word is enough, and give me the courage to submit every part of my life to your authority. Amen.