The Centurion's Faith: Authority and Humility Combined

The Centurion’s Faith: Authority and Humility Combined

Introduction

Faith that astonishes Jesus—what kind of faith is that?

In Matthew 8:5–13 , we encounter a remarkable story about a Roman centurion who approached Jesus, not for himself, but on behalf of his suffering servant. What unfolds is one of the most profound moments in the Gospels, where Jesus “marveled” at the man’s faith—something He rarely does.

What made this centurion so special? Why was his faith different? This blog explores the deeper dimensions of the centurion's story and the incredible balance he displayed between authority and humility , offering a timeless lesson for believers today.

Understanding the Context: Who Was a Centurion?

A centurion was a Roman officer in charge of 100 soldiers—strong, disciplined, and a symbol of imperial authority. Roman centurions were respected military leaders, often seen as embodiments of loyalty, courage, and command. They were not Jewish, nor were they typically aligned with Israel's spiritual life.

This makes the story all the more surprising: a Gentile, a Roman officer—an outsider—shows more faith than the insiders .

In the eyes of many Jews, Roman soldiers represented oppression and uncleanliness. But this centurion broke stereotypes. He loved his servant , respected the Jewish people , and most importantly, recognized Jesus’ authority in a way that astonished even the Son of God.

The Story: Matthew 8:5–13

The Gospel of Matthew recounts the event:

“When Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to him, asking for help. ‘Lord,’ he said, ‘my servant lies at home paralyzed, suffering terribly.’”
—Matthew 8:5–6

Jesus responds with compassion:

“Shall I come and heal him?”

But the centurion replies with an extraordinary statement:

“Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed.” —Matthew 8:8

He continues:

“For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes... I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” —Matthew 8:9

Jesus is amazed and says:

“Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.” —Matthew 8:10

What Made the Centurion’s Faith Unique?

1. He Recognized Jesus’ Divine Authority

The centurion was a man familiar with command. He understood that words backed by authority carry power . Just as his own voice moved soldiers into action, he believed that Jesus’ word held even greater power —power to heal, to restore, and to command nature itself.

He didn't need Jesus to touch, visit, or perform a ritual. He simply believed:

“Just say the word, and my servant will be healed.”

This level of faith reveals a deep trust in the divine authority of Christ . It is a faith not rooted in signs, emotions, or visible evidence—but in God’s word alone .

Lesson #1: True faith trusts the authority of Jesus without needing proof.
Many today struggle because they wait for signs or emotions. The centurion challenges us to believe the Word —even when the evidence hasn’t yet arrived.

2. He Approached Jesus with Humility

Despite his position and power, the centurion came with reverence, calling Jesus “Lord.” He did not presume entitlement. In fact, he said:

“I do not deserve to have you come under my roof.”

He was aware of his unworthiness , especially as a Gentile addressing a Jewish teacher. His humility is striking and contrasts with others who approached Jesus demanding miracles or challenging His authority.

Lesson #2: Humility magnifies faith.
The centurion knew his limits. He understood that authority is best stewarded when grounded in humility . This posture opens the door for divine grace.

3. He Interceded for Another

The centurion didn't come for himself. He came for his servant—a lowly figure in Roman society. This shows his compassion and character . In a culture that devalued servants, this centurion valued his deeply.

His request was urgent and filled with care:

“My servant lies at home paralyzed, suffering terribly.”

He did not use his servant’s suffering to manipulate Jesus or enhance his public image. His plea was pure, compassionate, and selfless.

Lesson #3: God honors intercessory love.
When we pray for others with sincerity and compassion, God responds . The centurion models what it means to be an advocate—someone who brings others before Jesus in faith.

4. His Faith Impressed Jesus

One of the most stunning aspects of the story is Jesus’ response:

“I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.”

This is high praise. Israel, the chosen people, had the Law, the Prophets, and generations of miracles. Yet here stands a Gentile outsider who surpasses them in belief.

Jesus even uses this moment to hint at the inclusion of Gentiles in God's kingdom:

“Many will come from the east and the west, and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob...” —Matthew 8:11

Lesson #4: Faith transcends background.
This Gentile soldier shows us that God looks at the heart , not heritage. Your past, your status, or your background doesn’t limit what God can do through your faith.

The Power of Spoken Faith

One of the central themes in the centurion’s story is the power of the spoken word . The centurion believed that Jesus could heal with just a command.

This aligns with the foundational truth of creation itself:

“And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” —Genesis 1:3

Jesus, the Living Word, carries the same creative and restorative power. The centurion tapped into this truth before most even realized it.

Lesson #5: Faith in God’s Word activates supernatural outcomes.
Whether you’re praying for healing, guidance, or breakthrough—stand on the Word. Speak it. Believe it. Act on it. The Word of God never returns void.

Authority and Submission in Balance

The centurion says something that reveals a profound understanding of spiritual hierarchy :

“I am a man under authority, with soldiers under me…”

He recognized that true authority comes from being under authority . He submitted to Roman generals, just as Jesus, in His humanity, submitted to the Father. This balance of submission and leadership is rare—and precious.

Lesson #6: Great leaders submit to greater authority.
In the kingdom of God, submission is not weakness—it is strength . The centurion’s ability to command came from his understanding of structure and obedience. So too must we remain under God’s authority if we want to operate in spiritual power.

Applications for Today

1. Pray with Bold Humility

Come to God boldly, but with a heart that acknowledges your need and unworthiness. Let reverence and faith guide your prayers.

2. Believe Without Seeing

Like the centurion, trust that Jesus can move in your life even when you can’t physically see the answer yet.

3. Lead with Compassion

Whether you’re a parent, manager, teacher, or pastor, let your authority be rooted in care and service , not control.

4. Speak the Word

Declare God’s promises over your life, your family, and your circumstances. God’s word has power—use it faithfully.

5. Intercede for Others

Make it a habit to pray earnestly for others. Be a spiritual advocate. Your prayers could change someone’s life.

Conclusion: A Faith Worth Imitating

The Roman centurion remains one of the most unlikely heroes of faith in the New Testament. His story is not long, but its impact is deep. His faith was clear, courageous, compassionate, and Christ-centered .

He teaches us that true faith does not demand signs—it simply believes. It does not boast in status—it bows in reverence. And it does not only seek for self—it intercedes for others.

When Jesus marveled at the centurion’s faith, He gave us all something to strive for: faith that trusts in His authority, submitted in humility, and confident in His word.

May we seek to develop that same kind of faith— faith that makes heaven take notice.

Prayer

Lord Jesus,
Thank You for the example of the Roman centurion, who trusted Your authority and came to You with humility and compassion. Help us to develop a faith that believes without seeing, that speaks life through Your Word, and that always honors Your divine power. Teach us to lead as he did—with grace, submission, and care for others. May our lives reflect a faith that pleases You. In Your name we pray, Amen.