Luke 7:1-17
Luke 7:1-17
As I read Luke 7, I’m reminded of Jesus’ authority that extends beyond his presence, ruling even life and death.
Although Jesus was beckoned to go to the Centurion’s house, Jesus never met the Centurion. Jesus was approached by Jewish elders who spoke of the Centurion’s character. In verse 6, “just before they arrived at the house, the officer sent some friends to say, ‘Lord, don’t trouble yourself by coming to my home, for I am not worthy of such an honor. I am not even worthy to come and meet you. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed.’” The story of the Centurion is an incredible example that Jesus’ power isn’t limited to proximity—He is not bound by time and space.
In the next story, we see an example of Christ’s authority over life and death. Christ had compassion on the widow who had just lost her son. Jesus touched the coffin and said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.”
As I read these stories, a couple things stand out: First, I think it’s interesting that when the people saw Jesus raise the young man from death, they were seized with fear. Many of us casually stroll to the throne of God in prayer because we have not beheld the true power and authority of God. Thankfully, like the widow, our primary experience with Christ is compassion. However, don’t mistake compassion for weakness.
The second thing that stands out is how this passage reminds me of Romans 8:35–39:
35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? 36 As it is written,
“For your sake we are being killed all the day long;
we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.”
37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
In our stories today, death can’t stop Jesus, sickness can’t stop Jesus, distance can’t stop Jesus—nothing can stop his power, authority, and love. This doesn’t mean that Jesus will always give a “yes” to every prayer for healing, but it does mean that his love for us is unstoppable. As we turn our hearts toward him, as we cry out to him in prayer, he is faithful to respond for our absolute best. Even when we receive a “no” or “later” as a response, it is for our greatest good. He has the power and authority, yet the wisdom and foresight to know when to use it.
What stands out to you in this passage?
How does Jesus’ interaction with people encourage you as you seek him in prayer?
By: Tyler Short
As I read Luke 7, I’m reminded of Jesus’ authority that extends beyond his presence, ruling even life and death.
Although Jesus was beckoned to go to the Centurion’s house, Jesus never met the Centurion. Jesus was approached by Jewish elders who spoke of the Centurion’s character. In verse 6, “just before they arrived at the house, the officer sent some friends to say, ‘Lord, don’t trouble yourself by coming to my home, for I am not worthy of such an honor. I am not even worthy to come and meet you. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed.’” The story of the Centurion is an incredible example that Jesus’ power isn’t limited to proximity—He is not bound by time and space.
In the next story, we see an example of Christ’s authority over life and death. Christ had compassion on the widow who had just lost her son. Jesus touched the coffin and said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.”
As I read these stories, a couple things stand out: First, I think it’s interesting that when the people saw Jesus raise the young man from death, they were seized with fear. Many of us casually stroll to the throne of God in prayer because we have not beheld the true power and authority of God. Thankfully, like the widow, our primary experience with Christ is compassion. However, don’t mistake compassion for weakness.
The second thing that stands out is how this passage reminds me of Romans 8:35–39:
35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? 36 As it is written,
“For your sake we are being killed all the day long;
we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.”
37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
In our stories today, death can’t stop Jesus, sickness can’t stop Jesus, distance can’t stop Jesus—nothing can stop his power, authority, and love. This doesn’t mean that Jesus will always give a “yes” to every prayer for healing, but it does mean that his love for us is unstoppable. As we turn our hearts toward him, as we cry out to him in prayer, he is faithful to respond for our absolute best. Even when we receive a “no” or “later” as a response, it is for our greatest good. He has the power and authority, yet the wisdom and foresight to know when to use it.
What stands out to you in this passage?
How does Jesus’ interaction with people encourage you as you seek him in prayer?
By: Tyler Short
1 Comment
This is one of my favorite stories in the Bible. This story shows us that Jesus also came to save the Gentle. The centurion also had faith to believe without question. So many takeaways in this story!