New Testament
Matthew 8:10
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When Jesus heard this, he was amazed. He turned to the crowd following him and said, "I tell you the truth — I haven't found faith this great anywhere in Israel."
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When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.
What Matthew 8:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus expresses amazement at the faith of a centurion, a Roman officer, who believed in His authority to heal without needing to be physically present. This response highlights the centurion's deep understanding of faith and authority, contrasting with the lack of such faith among many in Israel. Jesus emphasizes that true faith can be found outside the expected places, challenging the norms of His audience. His statement serves as a powerful reminder that faith is not limited by nationality or background, but is recognized by God wherever it is found. This moment illustrates the importance of humility and trust in God's power, as the centurion approached Jesus with respect and confidence in His ability to heal. Jesus' acknowledgment of the centurion's faith serves as an encouragement for all believers to cultivate a similar trust in God's promises and capabilities, regardless of their circumstances or societal status.
How to apply Matthew 8:10 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own faith. Like the centurion, we should approach God with humility and confidence, trusting in His power to act in our lives. It reminds us that faith can come from unexpected places and people.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Centurion's Faith (Matthew 8:5–13)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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Keep studying Matthew 8:10
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jesus mean by 'great faith' in Matthew 8:10?
In Matthew 8:10, Jesus refers to the centurion's faith as 'great' because it demonstrates a profound understanding of authority and trust in Jesus' power to heal. The centurion believed that Jesus could heal his servant without being physically present, showcasing a deep confidence in Jesus' divine authority. This contrasts with the skepticism often found among the Israelites, highlighting that true faith transcends cultural and religious boundaries.
Why was Jesus amazed by the centurion's faith?
Jesus was amazed by the centurion's faith because it was rare and profound, especially coming from a Roman officer, a Gentile. The centurion recognized Jesus' authority and power to heal without needing physical proximity, which indicated a deep spiritual insight. This reaction from Jesus underscores the idea that genuine faith can be found in unexpected individuals, challenging the assumptions of those around Him.
What can we learn about humility from Matthew 8:10?
Matthew 8:10 teaches us that humility is essential in our approach to God. The centurion approached Jesus with respect and acknowledged his own unworthiness, which is a key aspect of true faith. This humility allowed him to recognize Jesus' authority and power, serving as a model for believers to trust in God's capabilities while remaining humble about their own status and needs.
How does Matthew 8:10 relate to the theme of inclusivity in faith?
Matthew 8:10 illustrates the theme of inclusivity by showing that faith is not confined to a specific group or nationality. The centurion, a Gentile, exemplifies that God's recognition of faith extends beyond traditional boundaries. This moment encourages believers to embrace a broader understanding of faith, acknowledging that God's grace and power can be found in unexpected places and people.
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