-THE LIFE OF CHRIST - THE GALILEAN MINISTRY

-Jesus Heals the Centurion’s Servant

-Luke 7:1-10, Matt 8:1, 5-13

-Following the sermon on the mount, Jesus entered into Capernaum.

-When in Capernaum, the elders of the Jews were sent to Jesus by a centurion (a Gentile)
  with a request.  The centurion was asking Jesus to heal one of his servants who was near
  death.

     -The Jewish elders verified the goodness of the centurion and encouraged Jesus to help.

   -Some may wonder why this centurion sent others to Jesus rather than coming in person.

    At first, this may seem to indicate a degree of arrogance on the part of the centurion. 
      However, the scriptures point out just the opposite – a great degree of humility.

   -The centurion did not feel worthy to come to Jesus.  He did not feel worthy to have Jesus
      in his house.  Therefore, he was merely asking Jesus to heal the servant from afar.

-This was a man of military authority who recognized the ultimate authority and ability of Jesus. 

-Upon hearing the message the centurion sent by way of his friends, Jesus marveled at him. 
 Now that’s saying something! 

      -“To some it seems strange that Jesus could marvel, but he had all the actual feeling of
       a man.  However, we should note that Jesus is never said to have marveled but twice. 
       In this case it was because of belief, and in the other (Mark 5:6), it was because of unbelief”
       (McGarvey/Pendleton, pg 273).

- Jesus then addressed those following Him and said “…I have not found so great faith, no, not
  in Israel” (Luke 7:9).

     -In Matthew 8:11-12, Matthew reveals some additional words spoken by Jesus on this particular

    occasion.  These words are significant in that they show the future blessings offered to the

    Gentiles through the Gospel and the fall of the Jews in their overall rejection of it.

-The friends were then sent back to the centurion’s home and found that the servant had been healed.