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Matthew 8:10
This centurion, a Gentile who came to Jesus as his last resort, is noted by Jesus as having faith greater than anyone who is included in God’s chosen people Israel. This is proof-positive that salvation is through faith and not works as the Israelites worked very hard to prove themselves worthy to God, however it be in vain.
This is an example of the faith that God desires us all to have in Him.
The Apostle Paul declares in Romans 5:1-2, “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God” (NKJV).
Jesus has been preaching to the primarily Jewish community and now gives them a challenge to grow their faith to that of this outsider – a Gentile. This comment would have been embarrassing to the Jews that witnessed this event as even though they were under the Roman authority, in matters concerning the God of heaven, they were the only ones to receive God’s blessings (as far as they knew). This was new ground for all the people; Jews and Gentiles alike. For the Jews to realize that they were not the only people to be blessed by God, and for the Gentiles to realize that they too were included in receiving the blessings of God. But this is not new news as we learn in Exodus 12:48-49 as God gave instructions for the Passover, He declares, “And when a stranger dwells with you and wants to keep the Passover to the LORD, let all his males be circumcised, and then let him come near and keep it; and he shall be as a native of the land. For no uncircumcised person shall eat it. One law shall be for the native-born and for the stranger who dwells among you.” This is the magnificent splendor of God being revealed in His Word: When God gave the law to the Israelites, He also gave instructions for outsiders who desired to worship Him that they too would be included – this is nothing new, but Jesus is simply reiterating what the law states in its proper context. And to the surprise of His hearers is the truth that they themselves have twisted. Jesus is teaching God’s love for all people…including you!
Dear LORD,
It is in Bible lessons taught by Jesus that we learn that Your Word has never changed but has been true from the beginning. Your love for everyone who will put their faith in You is the everlasting promise. You sent Your One and only Son to explain the message that had been twisted by man so that we all would have a better understanding of Your love for us as He then gave Himself a ransom for all our sins that we may live through Him. Thank You LORD. In Jesus name I pray, amen.