Text: Matthew 8:1–13 (Amplified Bible)

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Introduction

Faith is often tested in moments of desperation. In Matthew 8:1–13, we find two extraordinary examples of great faith: a leper and a Roman centurion. These stories remind us that faith transcends circumstances, societal boundaries, and human limitations.

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Background and Context

• Setting: This passage takes place early in Jesus’ ministry after He had delivered the Sermon on the Mount. Crowds were amazed by His teaching, and now they witness His miraculous power.
• Cultural Context:
  • Lepers were outcasts, deemed unclean, and isolated from society (Leviticus 13:45–46). Approaching Jesus was a bold, risky act.
  • Roman centurions represented an oppressive regime, yet this one showed humility and faith.

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Key Points

1. The Leper’s Confidence (Matthew 8:1–4)

• The Situation:
  • The leper approaches Jesus, an act forbidden by societal norms.
  • He kneels before Jesus and says, “If You are willing, You are able to make me clean.” (v. 2)
• Jesus’ Response:
  • Moved with compassion, Jesus stretches out His hand and touches him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.” (v. 3)
  • The leprosy is immediately healed.
• Lesson: The leper’s faith acknowledged both Jesus’ power and His will.

2. The Centurion’s Honesty and Faith (Matthew 8:5–13)

• The Situation:
  • The centurion’s servant is paralyzed and suffering greatly.
  • The centurion, a Gentile and Roman officer, approaches Jesus with humility, saying, “Lord, I am not worthy for You to come under my roof, but just say the word, and my servant will be healed.” (v. 8)
• Jesus’ Response:
  • Jesus marvels at the centurion’s faith, declaring, “I have not found such great faith with anyone in Israel.” (v. 10)
  • He speaks the word, and the servant is healed that very moment.
• Lesson: The centurion’s faith recognized Jesus’ authority over all things, even from a distance.

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Practical Application

1. Faith Requires Boldness

• Like the leper, approach Jesus with confidence, knowing He is both able and willing to meet your needs.
• Illustration: A child confidently asks their parent for help because they trust their love and care.

2. Faith Trusts Jesus’ Word

• Like the centurion, trust that Jesus’ word is enough, even when you don’t see immediate results.
• Illustration: A farmer plants seeds, trusting that the rain and sun will bring growth.

3. Faith Overcomes Hopelessness

• Both the leper and the centurion came to Jesus in desperate situations. Instead of making excuses, they exercised faith.
• Challenge: Whatever your situation—be it illness, brokenness, or fear—bring it to Jesus in faith.

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Conclusion

Great faith isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about believing in the One who does. The leper and the centurion remind us that faith moves mountains, breaks barriers, and draws us closer to God.

Call to Action:

• What is your desperate need today?
• Will you, like the leper and the centurion, approach Jesus with great faith, trusting His power and His will?

Let us boldly pray and trust in His word, knowing that He is both able and willing to work in our lives.