New Testament
Matthew 8:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Lord," he said, "my servant is lying at home paralyzed, suffering terribly."
Compare translations
And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented.
What Matthew 8:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a centurion approaches Jesus, expressing deep concern for his servant who is paralyzed and in great pain. The centurion's use of the term "Lord" shows his recognition of Jesus' authority and power. He is not just asking for help; he is acknowledging Jesus as someone who can truly make a difference. The servant's condition is serious, indicating that he is suffering greatly, which highlights the centurion's compassion and care for those under his command. This interaction illustrates the importance of faith and humility, as the centurion believes that Jesus can heal his servant without even being physically present. It also reflects the broader theme of Jesus' ministry, where he reaches out to those in need, regardless of their social status or background. The centurion's plea is a powerful reminder of the impact of intercession and the belief in Jesus' healing power, emphasizing that faith can lead to miraculous outcomes.
How to apply Matthew 8:6 to your life
This verse encourages us to have faith in Jesus' ability to help those we care about. It reminds us to intercede for others in prayer, showing compassion and concern for their struggles. We can trust that Jesus hears our requests and can bring healing and comfort.
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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Keep studying Matthew 8:6
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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 8:6 mean?
Matthew 8:6 describes a centurion who approaches Jesus, expressing concern for his paralyzed servant. This shows the centurion's faith in Jesus' authority to heal and highlights themes of compassion and intercession.
What is the significance of the centurion calling Jesus 'Lord' in Matthew 8:6?
By calling Jesus 'Lord,' the centurion acknowledges Jesus' authority and power, demonstrating his faith that Jesus can heal his servant without being physically present.
What does the term 'paralyzed' refer to in Matthew 8:6?
In Matthew 8:6, 'paralyzed' refers to the servant's inability to move due to a serious medical condition, indicating he is suffering greatly and in need of healing.
What themes are present in Matthew 8:6?
Matthew 8:6 includes themes of faith, compassion, the authority of Jesus, healing, intercession, and the suffering of others, illustrating the importance of caring for those in need.
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