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Luke

The Centurion's Faith: Authority & Humility at Christmas

Speaker

Pastor Troy Ingersoll

Date Published

Scripture: Luke 7:1–10

Topic: Faith, Authority, Humility, and The Centurion

I. Announcements & Opening

  • Lottie Moon Christmas Offering: The goal was $1,500, but the church has raised $1,855.
  • Upcoming Events:
    • Caroling: This Sunday afternoon (the 21st) following pizza at the church.
    • Christmas Eve Service: Wednesday, Dec 24th at 6:00 PM.
    • Progressive Dinner: New Year's Eve starting at noon (Lunch -> Dessert).
  • Website: The new church website is live; check the bulletin for details.

II. Introduction: Character and Perspective

  • Humorous Illustration: Pastor Troy shared a story about accidentally wearing his wife’s shorts while cleaning the pool. He thought he had gained weight, but it was simply a matter of perspective (and the wrong wardrobe!).
  • The Lesson: This leads to how we evaluate ourselves versus how others see us, and ultimately, how God sees us.

III. The Centurion: A Man of Character (Luke 7:1-5)

  • The Context: Jesus enters Capernaum. A Centurion (a Roman captain of 100 men) has a sick servant whom he values highly.
  • Unusual Compassion: unlike many Roman leaders who viewed servants as disposable tools, this Centurion cared deeply for his servant.
  • High Esteem:
    • He did not send soldiers to Jesus; he sent Jewish elders.
    • The Jewish elders pleaded earnestly for him, noting that he "loves our nation" and even built their synagogue.
    • Lesson: Even in a position of power and oppression (Rome over Israel), his character won over the community.

IV. Humility and Worthiness (Luke 7:6-7)

  • The Centurion’s Message: As Jesus approached, the Centurion sent friends to say, "Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof."
  • Evaluation of Self:
    1. Public Evaluation: The Jews said he was worthy.
    2. Private Evaluation: The Centurion felt unworthy to meet Jesus.
    3. Divine Evaluation: Jesus found his faith to be "great."
  • Spiritual Application: We often feel unworthy, and in our sin, we are. However, Christ’s sacrifice makes us worthy. We must move past self-doubt to accept His grace.

V. Understanding Authority (Luke 7:8)

  • The Chain of Command: The Centurion understood that power comes from being under authority.
    • He obeyed the Roman government; therefore, his soldiers obeyed him.
    • He recognized Jesus was under the authority of God; therefore, sickness had to obey Jesus.
  • "Say the Word": He knew Jesus didn't need to be physically present. Distance is no barrier to God's power.
  • Modern Illustration: Pastor Troy shared a frustration about trying to fix a phone bill with Comcast. When lines of authority and communication are crossed, things get confused. When God speaks, it is simple and absolute.
  • The Crisis of Authority: Society today struggles because there is a rebellion against authority (e.g., violence, disrespect for law enforcement). To share the authority of Christ, we must first submit to the authority of Christ.

VI. Conclusion: Great Faith at Christmas

  • Amazement: Jesus marveled at the Centurion, stating, "I have not found such great faith even in Israel."
  • The Result: The servant was healed that very hour.
  • Call to Action: This Christmas, do not just focus on the gifts or the food. Focus on the authority of Jesus. Be humble, recognize your position in God's family, and share the Light of the World with a conviction that comes from true faith.

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