Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation.” Hebrews chapter 11, later labeled the “Hall of Faith,” goes on to describe many heroes of the faith.
Do you have faith like that of Abraham or Moses or Rahab? How about David, Samuel, and the prophets? Paul? Peter? Those heroes of faith, and many others, are our inspirations. They are also very tough acts to follow.
It might be encouraging to consider someone commended for faith greater than anyone in Israel. He’s not noted in Hebrews 11, but Jesus himself praised him for his faith.
Jesus Recognized Faith
Jesus always recognized great faith. He could see faith (Matthew 9:2), or the lack of faith. Would you like to have heard from Jesus, as his disciples sometimes heard, “Oh you of little faith” (Matthew 14:22-32)? Me neither.
On the other hand, it would have been wonderful to have heard, “Truly, I tell you, with no one in Israel have I found such faith” (Matthew 8:10).
Jesus said those very words to a Roman centurion who had just asked him to heal his servant. Jesus had responded in the affirmative and had been prepared to go to the centurion’s house. But the centurion said, “…only say the word, and my servant will be healed.”
Jesus saw something in the centurion’s statement that showed faith greater than anyone in Israel. What was it?
