New Testament
Matthew 8:5
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When Jesus entered Capernaum, a centurion approached him with a plea.
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And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him,
What Matthew 8:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Jesus arriving in Capernaum, a town on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. A centurion, a Roman officer in charge of a hundred soldiers, approaches Jesus with a request. This is significant because centurions were often seen as outsiders to the Jewish faith, yet this one shows humility and respect by beseeching Jesus. The centurion's plea indicates a sense of urgency and desperation, likely for help regarding a servant who is suffering. This encounter highlights the theme of faith and the breaking down of social barriers, as a Roman soldier seeks assistance from a Jewish teacher. The centurion's approach demonstrates that faith can be found in unexpected places and among unexpected people, emphasizing that Jesus' ministry extends beyond the Jewish community. This moment sets the stage for a powerful demonstration of faith and healing that will unfold in the following verses.
How to apply Matthew 8:5 to your life
This verse encourages us to approach Jesus with our needs, regardless of our background or status. It reminds us that faith can come from unexpected places and that humility in seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. We should be open to God's work in all 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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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 Matthew 8:5 mean?
Matthew 8:5 describes Jesus entering Capernaum and being approached by a centurion who pleads for help. This interaction highlights the centurion's humility and faith, showing that even those outside the Jewish faith can seek and receive Jesus' assistance.
What is the significance of the centurion in Matthew 8:5?
The centurion in Matthew 8:5 is significant because he represents a Roman authority figure who humbly seeks help from Jesus, breaking social barriers. His faith and respect for Jesus demonstrate that belief can be found in unexpected individuals.
What does 'beseeching' mean in Matthew 8:5?
In Matthew 8:5, 'beseeching' means to urgently and fervently ask for help. The centurion's beseeching indicates his desperation and sincere need for assistance regarding his suffering servant.
How does Matthew 8:5 relate to themes of faith and healing?
Matthew 8:5 relates to themes of faith and healing by showcasing the centurion's belief in Jesus' ability to heal his servant. This encounter illustrates that faith can lead to miraculous outcomes, regardless of one's background.
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