Sunday, March 22, 2009

Luke 7:1-36

What is Great Faith? Today Pastor Rob spoke on this topic using the story of Jesus and a Centurion who requested healing of a servant of his by Jesus. There are several points that illustrated the Centurions strong faith which lead to Jesus having love for this leader and healing the servant as he requested. First we see that great faith is not self centered. The fact that this Centurion who would have been able to do nearly whatever pleased him, yet would care so much for a slave that he would seek help spoke volumes about his character. It showed that he cared for others and recognized that he didn't have the power to help his servant. Second great faith is Christ-centered. The centurion recognized Christ's power and authority and believed that Christ was the one who was able to do what no one else could. Thirdly, great faith humbly trusts in God. Everyone, no matter what their position in this life, is still well below the superiority God, one day even Kings will bow before the Lord. The centurion felt unworthy, to the point of not even wanting to bother Jesus to come to his home but instead to just say the word. He knew God owed him nothing, let alone a personal visit, yet is willing to seek out the Lord and make his request, no matter what the outcome. Jesus is impressed with the centurions faith and character and answers him by healing the servant from afar. Finally, great faith stirs the power of God. We can expect God to show up in a mighty way when his people are active and pursuing Him. How great is your faith? Sure, doubting is natural, but overall do you live life to help others, keeping Christ in the center and trusting him to do what he promises? Pray that the Lord will create in you the kind of faith the centurion had.

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