Transformed By Truth: The Power Of Faith Matthew 8:6-10 Series

Transformed by Truth: The Power of Faith Matthew 8:6-10

Matthew 8:6-10 (NLT): "Lord, my young servant lies in bed, paralysed and in terrible pain." Jesus said, "I will come and heal him." But the officer said, "Lord, I am not worthy to have you come into my home. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed. I know this because I am under the authority of my superior officers, and I have authority over my soldiers. I only need to say, 'Go,' and they go, or 'Come,' and they come. And if I say to my slaves, 'Do this,' they do it." When Jesus heard this, he was amazed. Turning to those who were following him, he said, "I tell you the truth, I haven’t seen faith like this in all Israel!"

Introduction:

Today, we are delving into a passage that highlights the extraordinary faith of a Roman officer and the power of Jesus' authority. Our sermon will explore three key points: Recognising Jesus' Authority, The Humility of True Faith, and The Reward of Genuine Faith.

I. Recognising Jesus' Authority

Matthew 8:8-9 (NLT): "But the officer said, 'Lord, I am not worthy to have you come into my home. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed. I know this because I am under the authority of my superior officers, and I have authority over my soldiers.'"

The centurion, a Roman officer, understood authority and recognised Jesus’ supreme authority over all things, including sickness and health. The Greek word used here for "authority" (????s?a, exousia) implies power and the right to act.

Matthew 28:18 (NLT): "Jesus came and told his disciples, 'I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth.'

Jesus’ statement in Matthew 28:18 underscores His divine authority, encompassing both spiritual and physical realms. This authority is acknowledged by the centurion, even though he is a Gentile, demonstrating an understanding that many in Israel lacked.

Recognising Jesus’ authority in our lives means trusting Him completely with our circumstances. We must submit to His sovereignty, acknowledging that He has control over every aspect of our lives.

Consider a soldier who trusts his commanding officer’s orders without question. Similarly, we should trust Jesus’ authority, believing that His commands and decisions are always for our good and His glory.

II. The Humility of True Faith

Matthew 8:8 (NLT): "But the officer said, 'Lord, I am not worthy to have you come into my home. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed.'"

The centurion’s humility is evident in his recognition of his unworthiness to host Jesus in his home. The Greek term for "worthy" (??a???, hikanos) here denotes sufficiency or worthiness, which the centurion denies in himself.

James 4:10 (NLT): "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honour."

James 4:10 teaches that true humility before God brings His favour and exaltation. The centurion’s humility reflects his deep respect and understanding of Jesus’ holiness and power.

Humility is a critical component of faith. We must approach God with a humble heart, recognising our dependence on His grace and mercy. True faith does not demand but trusts in God’s provision and timing.

Think of a child who depends entirely on their parent for care and guidance. Our relationship with God should mirror this childlike trust and humility, fully relying on His wisdom and love.

III. The Reward of Genuine Faith

Matthew 8:10 (NLT): "When Jesus heard this, he was amazed. Turning to those who were following him, he said, 'I tell you the truth, I haven’t seen faith like this in all Israel!'"

Jesus marvels at the centurion’s faith, which is unlike any He has found in Israel. The Greek word for "amazed" (?a?µ???, thaumazo) suggests being filled with wonder or admiration.

Hebrews 11:6 (NLT): "And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him."

Hebrews 11:6 emphasizes that faith is essential to pleasing God and receiving His rewards. The centurion’s faith is a model of this principle, demonstrating sincere belief in Jesus’ power and authority.

Genuine faith brings about God’s blessings and approval. We should strive to cultivate such faith in our lives, trusting God’s promises and His ability to act in our situations.

Imagine a gardener who plants seeds, trusting that with time and care, they will grow and bear fruit. Similarly, our faith, when genuine and persistent, will yield spiritual rewards and deepen our relationship with God.

Conclusion:

In summary, let us remember:

Recognising Jesus' Authority: Trust in Jesus' sovereignty over all aspects of our lives.

The Humility of True Faith: Approach God with humility, acknowledging our dependence on His grace.