Lk. 7:9 When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him, and turned around and said to the crowd that followed Him, "I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!" (NIV)
Jesus was approached by the Jewish elders. They were sent (out of respect) by a Roman centurion whose servant was near death. The elders, in their efforts to persuade Jesus to visit the centurion's home, pointed out that this particular Roman was a friend of the Jews (unlike most Romans) and had even built them a synagogue. Because of this work, they reasoned, he deserved (v.4) a favor, a healing for his servant. He was worthy. It was almost as if the elders were suggesting that Jesus was somehow indebted to this centurion.
So, Jesus went with them. But before He actually got to the house and the sick servant, He received a message from the centurion that we are told caused Him to marvel at the man. Other translations say Jesus admired him and was taken back by him. Exactly what was it that Jesus could determine about him?
First, he recognized the authority of Jesus (v.8). The centurion knew with absolute certainty that Jesus' words would be spoken and His will would be done (v.7). Great confidence produces great faith. Second, he recognized his own unworthiness (v.6). He realized that nothing he could ever do on his own would make him deserving of God's favor and blessing. You see, it wasn't a matter of deserving but rather one of believing. Humility accompanied his faith and, as a result, Jesus was moved to heal the servant.
Is it possible for God to marvel at us in the same way today? Yes. If, in humility, we have the same faith borne out of absolute, unwavering confidence and conviction in His authority, should we not expect the same results? God will marvel and God will move when He sees such great faith!
Sock Monkey Snippet: It isn't a matter of deserving but rather of believing.
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