14: The faith of the Centurion & Raising a Widow’s Son (Luke 7:1 – 17)

It is not the law but faith that grants access to the Lord. From God’s side, it is compassion—not compensation for our works—that moves Him to intervene in our need. This reveals the nature of the gospel of Jesus, symbolized by the new wine.

👉 Read Luke 7:1 - 17

Q1. Compare Matt 8:5-13 and Luke 7:1-10. How is Luke’s record differences from Matthew’s?

ANS: The centurion sent some Jewish elders to Jesus and asked for help.

“He is worthy to have you do this for him” (v.4). The Jews told Jesus what the centurion had done and argued that he deserved help. This reflects a common human mindset—even among religious leaders—that grace is earned by merit.

But the centurion said, “I am not worthy to have you come under my roof.” Yet he believed Jesus could heal his servant by merely speaking a word. This is faith: humbling oneself, acknowledging Christ’s authority and power, and trusting that even a word from Him is sufficient.

Q2. What part of the Centurion's saying shows his faith? 

ANS: He confessed his unworthiness, recognized the greatness of Jesus’ power, and believed that a word from Him alone could heal his servant.

“I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” While many Jews, preoccupied with a distorted use of the law, were busy accusing others and rejecting Jesus’ gospel, this Gentile centurion experienced Christ’s power through faith. This episode shows that the kingdom of God is open to all nations—to anyone who comes in faith.

Q3. What moved Jesus to raise the widow’s son without her asking?

ANS: His compassion (v.13).

The author carefully records the people’s response: “fear,” “great prophet,” and “God has come.” They recognized that the raising of the dead was extraordinary and divine. Yet, despite witnessing God’s mighty work, they did not display the kind of faith the centurion had.