A Blessed Wonder

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Matthew 8:5-10

And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came to him a centurion, beseeching him,…

What was there about the centurion's faith so remarkable that Christ wondered at it?

I. THAT THERE WAS SUCH FAITH FOUND IN SUCH A PERSON. Did not expect to find it in a Gentile — a Roman — a soldier, etc. The most astonishing and acceptable faith may be exercised by the most unlikely persons.

II. THE SUBJECT OF THE CENTURION'S CONFIDENCE — his servant struck with the palsy. His was a faith which took an impossibility into its hand and threw it aside, etc. There is no sin too black for His blood to wash out the stain.

III. THE REALIZING ENERGY OF THIS MAN'S FAITH which led him to deal with the case in such a business-like way. So should we.

IV. HE DID NOT ASK FOR A SIGN. Some want to feel "strong convictions," "extraordinary sensations," etc. We must accept the bare word of God in Christ Jesus as the basis of faith, for no other foundation is to be depended on for a moment.

V. His CONVICTION THAT CHRIST COULD CURE HIS SERVANT AT ONCE. Usually, successful combat with disease requires time. Pardon, a present blessing — not the result of weeks of fasting, etc.

VI. His DEEP HUMILITY, which instead of weakening his faith only strengthened it. How often the sense of unworthiness keeps from Christ — "I cannot believe, I am so great a sinner," etc. The simplicity of faith often makes it difficult.

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