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The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Centurion's Servant (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn Capernaum, the healing of the centurion's servant stands as a significant miracle performed by Christ, occurring shortly after the Sermon on the Mount. This event, one of only two miracles done in the presence of and for Gentiles, showcases the centurion's remarkable faith, humility, and love. The Jews, acquainted with the centurion, support his plea for his dying servant's healing, briefly breaking down the barrier between Jew and Gentile. Upon hearing of the servant's grave condition and recognizing the centurion's humility, Christ promises to come and heal him. Observing the centurion's faith, Christ declares, "Go your way; and as you have believed, so let it be done for you." Instantly, the servant is healed that same hour, demonstrating the immediate power of faith and humility in connection with healing. The centurion exhibits profound character traits, caring deeply for his servant despite the latter's status as a slave, treating him with compassion. His humility is evident as he, a Gentile, considers himself unworthy to approach Christ, showing a consciousness of his own sins and recognizing Christ's holiness. His faith in Christ's ability to heal is unwavering, expecting no magical cure or visible sign, but trusting in Christ's spiritual power. This humility is exceptional for a man of his rank, as those with status rarely display such modesty, often becoming inflated with pride. As a Roman soldier, trained to view himself as superior to the Jews, the centurion's act of humbling himself before a Jewish rabbi is striking, honoring Christ by declaring himself unworthy of His presence. Christ marvels at the centurion's great faith, noting that he seeks no sign but believes in Christ's supernatural ability without requiring direct contact. As a Gentile without a covenant promise of mercy, his faith is rare and extraordinary, acknowledging Christ's power and holiness, and showing submission to His will. This miracle reveals that true faith transcends race and birth privileges, affirming the spiritual reality over the physical.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Centurion's Servant (Part Three)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe healing of the centurion's servant reveals Christ as able to heal from a distance merely by the power of His word. The centurion, understanding authority as a commander, knew it was unnecessary for Jesus to be physically present to heal his sick servant. He believed that diseases must obey Jesus' command just as his soldiers obeyed him, recognizing that authority transcends distance. His faith in the spiritual capability of Christ and confidence in the effectiveness of His word to heal even the most desperate case was profound. The centurion's statement, "only speak a word," reflects his trust that Christ's spoken word alone holds power and authority over disease. When those sent to the house returned, they found the servant completely healed, providing abundant and visible evidence of the miracle, as he had been paralyzed and near death but was now fully well.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Centurion's Servant (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe miracle of healing the centurion's servant, as recorded by Matthew and Luke, showcases an unexpected display of faith. The servant, a young man in his teens, was a bond slave dear to his master, a Roman centurion in charge of one hundred soldiers in Capernaum. This centurion held a deep affection and respect for his servant, valuing him as an important member of his household due to his diligent and faithful service. The servant's condition was grave; he lay at home paralyzed, in horrible pain, and ready to die, suffering from a life-threatening ailment. In response, the centurion sent messengers to Jesus Christ, seeking His help with earnest commitment and respect. These messengers were tasked with presenting the centurion's request clearly and enthusiastically, demonstrating their dedication to the task. They appealed to Jesus to come and heal the servant, praising the centurion for his love and generosity, not only towards those under his authority but also towards the Jews, for whom he had built a synagogue in Capernaum.
Faith in the Healer
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe must establish an iron clad trust in God for spiritual matters, including healing, rather than having a misguided trust in self or other human beings.
Simple Faith
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughSometimes we make things a bit too theological, wanting to know all the details of a doctrine, but simple faith is trusting God and believing His word.
Heirs of the Kingdom
CGG Weekly by Mike FuhrerThe Jews believed that they had a natural right to the privileges of God's kingdom. They called themselves, therefore, "the children of the kingdom."
What Is Christ's Hidden Treasure?
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThe parables of the leaven and the treasure hidden in the field show two sides of the same coin. The hidden treasure is the God-given solution to the leaven.

God's Kingdom in the Parables (Part Three): Hidden Treasure
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeIn Matthew 13, the hidden treasure the man finds provides the spiritual solution to the leaven - corruption - the woman hides in the three measures of meal.
Using God's Given Authority
Sermon by Mark SchindlerGod has gifted all His called-out ones, expecting them to use those gifts with the pillars of godly wisdom for the edification of the Body of Christ.