| Series | Living with the Romans |
|---|---|
| Theme | 1. At the time of Jesus - I taimi o Iesu |
| Colour | Lanu Auro |
Scripture Focus: Mareko 15:37-39
Jesus cried out with a loud voice, and gave up the spirit. The veil of the temple was torn in two from the top to the bottom. When the centurion, who stood by opposite him, saw that he cried out like this and breathed his last, he said, “Truly this man was the Son of God!”
- Mark 15:37-39 (WEB)
Study:
This passage marks the moment of Jesus’ death, but it’s the reaction of a Roman centurion that’s particularly striking. This wasn’t a Jew familiar with prophecies of the Messiah. This was a hardened soldier, representing the power and authority of the Roman Empire - the very power that orchestrated Jesus’ crucifixion. Yet, witnessing Jesus’ death – the manner of it, the accompanying earthquake (mentioned in Matthew’s account), the tearing of the temple veil – led him to an astounding confession: “Truly this man was the Son of God!” This Roman officer, an outsider to the Jewish faith, recognized a divine truth in Jesus’ final moments. The tearing of the temple veil symbolizes the opening of access to God, no longer limited by ritual or place, but available through Jesus. It’s a powerful demonstration that God’s revelation isn’t confined to one people or one culture.
Application:
The centurion’s belief is a reminder that God reveals himself to those who are open to receiving him, regardless of their background or status. We often focus on the Jewish audience during Jesus’ ministry, but this verse highlights the universality of God’s offer of salvation. Like the centurion, we may encounter God in unexpected ways and through unlikely witnesses. It encourages us to be open to recognizing God’s presence and truth, even in circumstances that seem bleak or despairing. His death wasn't the end, but a revelation.
Reflection Questions:
- What does the centurion's confession tell us about the impact of Jesus’ life and death?
- How does the tearing of the temple veil relate to our access to God today?
- In what ways might God be revealing himself to you in unexpected ways?
- Consider the power dynamics at play – a Roman soldier recognizing the divinity of the man they were executing. What does this tell us about God’s power?
Prayer:
Lord, open our hearts and minds to recognize you in all things. Help us to see beyond our own preconceptions and cultural barriers, and to receive your truth with humility and faith. May we, like the centurion, be able to declare your majesty and power. Amen.
Tags: Jesus, Crucifixion, Centurion, Son of God, Roman Empire, Temple Veil, Revelation, Faith, Belief, Mark, Gospels, Bible Study, Theological Reflection, Divine Revelation