Say the word - Fetalai mai le upu

Scripture Focus: Luka 7:1-17

After he had finished speaking in the hearing of the people, he entered into Capernaum. A certain centurion’s servant, who was dear to him, was sick and at the point of death. When he heard about Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and save his servant. When they came to Jesus, they begged him earnestly, saying, “He is worthy for you to do this for him, for he loves our nation, and he built our synagogue for us.” Jesus went with them. When he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying to him, “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I am not worthy for you to come under my roof. Therefore I didn’t even think myself worthy to come to you; but say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I also am a man placed under authority, having under myself soldiers. I tell this one, ‘Go!’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come!’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turned and said to the multitude who followed him, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith, no, not in Israel.” Those who were sent, returning to the house, found that the servant who had been sick was well. Soon afterwards, he went to a city called Nain. Many of his disciples, along with a great multitude, went with him. Now when he drew near to the gate of the city, behold, one who was dead was carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. Many people of the city were with her. When the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said to her, “Don’t cry.” He came near and touched the coffin, and the bearers stood still. He said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” He who was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he gave him to his mother. Fear took hold of all, and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has arisen among us!” and, “God has visited his people!” This report went out concerning him in the whole of Judea, and in all the surrounding region.
- Luke 7:1-17 (WEB)

Study:

This passage presents two powerful demonstrations of Jesus’ authority and compassion. The first involves a Roman centurion, a Gentile, whose faith astounds Jesus. The centurion doesn’t request Jesus physically come to his home, recognizing his own unworthiness. Instead, he simply asks Jesus to say the word, believing in His power to heal from a distance. Jesus marvels at this faith, highlighting that such profound belief isn’t often found even within Israel. The second story showcases Jesus’ power over death itself, raising the widow’s son in Nain. Both accounts emphasize that receiving God's power isn't about rituals or status, but about faith and recognizing Jesus’ authority.

Application:

Like the centurion, we often underestimate the power of simply asking and believing. We may think we need to earn God’s favor or perform specific actions to receive His blessings. However, these stories reveal that faith – a humble recognition of Jesus’ authority – is key. We don’t need to see to believe; we believe to see. We can approach Jesus with our needs, regardless of our perceived worthiness, trusting that He has the power to respond. The resurrection of the widow's son shows Jesus's compassion extends even to those experiencing the ultimate loss, offering hope and restoration.

Reflection Questions:

• How does the centurion’s faith challenge your understanding of what it means to believe?
• In what areas of your life do you hesitate to simply ask God for help, believing you aren't worthy?
• How does the story of the widow’s son offer comfort in times of grief or loss?
• What does it mean to “say the word” in your life?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank you for demonstrating your power and compassion. Help us to cultivate the kind of faith that trusts in your word and your authority. Remove our hesitation to approach you with our needs, and fill us with hope and courage. Amen.

Tags:Luke, faith, healing, centurion, Nain, resurrection, compassion, authority, believe, gospel, Jesus