Teenside Daily Devotional

4/28/20
Read Matthew 8:5-13.

This story gives us yet another example of living out respect and faith for our Lord. The centurion not only humbles himself by exclaiming that he is not even worthy for Jesus to come to his house, he also relates to Jesus on a certain level. He understands the true meaning of authority because he himself has some authority. While many people would most likely gloat or find identity in such authority, this centurion recognizes that Jesus has much more than he does, and makes sure that it’s known. He believes that Jesus’ power is so great that Jesus doesn’t even have to be there to make the miracle happen. And he’s right!

One thing that I have often overlooked is the person that is paralyzed. The centurion’s servant is paralyzed. Not his wife or child. Not one of his parents or friends. It’s his servant. This centurion not only had authority over many, but this action of seeking out Jesus to have his servant healed shows that he cares for those under his authority. I’m sure that Jesus did not overlook this either, as he cares for us who are under his authority.

Finally, Jesus foreshadows events to come among the last verses. But what does this foreshadow? The common belief among Jews at this time would have been that they are the only true worshippers of God. For this, God cares for only them. This is why they would view any foreigners or Gentiles as unclean. However, Jesus is declaring that many outside the nation of Israel will join the Jews “at the table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven,” most likely including this centurion, who would not have been of Jewish descent. This is an amazing blessing considering most of us are also not born into the Jewish lineage. Let us thank God for the opportunity that we have to join his kingdom!

Questions:
*Take a moment to journal these questions. Write down your thoughts, questions, and concerns. Then date your entry. One of the coolest things is being able to look back and see how God came through for you.*

1. Although you may not hold much authority right now, there are still people who look up to you. Who are these people in your life? How do you go out of your way to care for them?

2. What makes the centurion’s faith different from the people of the time? 

3. In order to have this amount of faith the centurion had to fully believe that Jesus was who He said He was. This meant believing that Jesus was the son of God, could heal people, and came for both Jews and Gentiles. Even the disciples wrestled with the last statement of belief until after Jesus ascended. Every firm declaration of faith is rooted in the belief that Jesus is who He says He is. Who do you believe Jesus to be? Take a moment to write out statements of belief.

For example:

Jesus is true to His promises. He will always keep His word. (Joshua 21:45) (2 Corinthians 1:20)
Jesus is good to us and wants the best for us. (John 10:9-11) (Ephesians 2:10) (Ephesians 3:20-21) (Luke 11:11-12)

Jesus died for me. He has called me chosen and worthy. (John 15:16)

Prayer: Spend some time praying about the things you journaled. Thank God for His authority in your life and the authority that He has given you. Pray that you would love and care for the people under you the way that Jesus does. Declare your statements of belief, so that when your faith is tested, you will stand the test.


Song: God of the Promise- Elevation Worship

Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/169Fs68hROYRdS362T8D9w