Faith in Action

Jesus Forgives, Heals, and Raises the Dead!

If you’ve ever wondered what blesses God’s heart, Luke 7 gives us a beautiful answer. This chapter highlights the power of faith and Jesus’ miraculous works across 50 action-packed verses. Among the major stories, we find:

• Jesus healing a centurion’s servant.
• Jesus raising the son of the widow of Nain.
• John the Baptist sending messengers to Jesus.
• A sinful woman receiving forgiveness.

Encouraging Verse: Luke 7:9

“I say to you, not even in Israel have I found such great faith.” (NASB)

The Context

The story of the centurion’s servant unfolds right after Jesus’ powerful teachings on the Kingdom. He called His listeners to love their enemies, avoid judgment, and look for spiritual fruit in others’ lives. He ended by urging them to be doers of His words, building their lives on a firm foundation.

When Jesus entered Capernaum, Jewish elders approached Him, pleading for the healing of a Roman centurion’s servant. They highlighted the centurion’s love for Israel and his generosity in building a synagogue. Jesus agreed to go. But before reaching the house, the centurion sent a message:

“Lord, do not trouble Yourself, for I am not worthy for You to come under my roof… But just say the word, and my servant will be healed.” (Luke 7:6-7)

This profound statement of faith astonished Jesus, who healed the servant from a distance.

My Thoughts

Faith is the currency of heaven, and this story highlights its power. God is not moved by our wealth, achievements, or complaints. I can tell you from experience that pity parties don’t help—mine only led to headaches! But faith? Faith stops Jesus in His tracks and amazes Him.

This centurion’s faith did just that. It’s worth noting that Jesus marveled only twice in the Gospels: once here at the centurion’s great faith and again in Mark 6:6 at the unbelief of His hometown. WOW.

The Greek word for “marveled” is thaumazō (θαυμάζω), meaning to be amazed, astonished, or filled with wonder. What amazed Jesus here? The centurion’s understanding of authority.

As a Roman officer, the centurion commanded soldiers and servants. He recognized that Jesus’ authority in the Kingdom was far greater than his own. Jesus didn’t need to be physically present to perform a miracle—His word was enough.

What’s even more remarkable is that this man was a Gentile. Jesus Himself said in Matthew 15:24 that He was sent to “the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” Yet here was an outsider displaying greater faith than the people of Israel.

Jesus called this “great faith.” It was bigger than a mustard seed, and it worked.

Practical Application

Here’s how we can apply this story to our own lives:

• Recognize Jesus’ authority. Like the centurion, trust that His word is enough to bring healing, provision, or any miracle you need.
• Understand Kingdom principles. Study how leadership and authority operate in God’s Kingdom to deepen your faith and align with His will.
• Cry out for help when doubt creeps in. Follow the example of the father in Mark 9:24: “I do believe; help my unbelief!”
• Claim your inheritance. Galatians 3:29 reminds us that as believers, we are Abraham’s seed and heirs to God’s promises.
• Avoid unbelief. Don’t be counted among those whose lack of faith astonished Jesus. Choose to believe, no matter how small your faith feels.
• Live to please God. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us that without faith, it is impossible to please Him. Even faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains.

Your Turn 😊

What are your thoughts on Luke 7:9?
How can you apply this passage to your life?
Do you have a favorite verse or takeaway from this chapter?

Please share your insights—I’d love to hear from you!

Until tomorrow,
Peace & Love,
Coach D