At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, our mission to “Be the Change as Jesus Has Changed Us” calls us to “Just 3” – Study, Share, and Serve. Today, we explore the story of the Roman centurion, a powerful example of faith that transcends cultural and religious boundaries.
Faith in Unexpected Places
In Luke 7, we encounter a Roman centurion whose faith amazes Jesus. Despite not being part of the Jewish community, his belief in Jesus’ authority is profound. This story reminds us that faith is not confined to a specific group or background. As Galatians 3:28 declares, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
The centurion’s faith challenges us to look beyond our preconceived notions of who can possess faith. It encourages us to recognize that God can work in the hearts of people from all walks of life. This story is a testament to the universality of the Gospel, which is available to all who believe, regardless of their background or circumstances.
The Power of Belief
The centurion’s faith is a testament to the power of belief. He understood authority and recognized Jesus’ divine power, trusting Him to heal his servant with just a word. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” This centurion exemplifies this definition, showing us that faith can lead to miraculous outcomes.
The centurion’s understanding of authority is particularly noteworthy. As a military leader, he knew the importance of authority and command. He recognized that Jesus had authority over sickness and death, and his faith in Jesus’ power was unwavering. This understanding of authority is a crucial aspect of faith, as it acknowledges God’s sovereignty and His ability to intervene in our lives.
Sharing Faith Across Boundaries
Our mission at Lakeview is to share to know and love others. The centurion’s story encourages us to share our faith beyond our comfort zones, reaching out to those who may not yet know Jesus. By doing so, we become instruments of God’s love and grace, breaking down barriers and building bridges.
Sharing faith across boundaries requires us to be intentional in our interactions with others. It involves listening, understanding, and empathizing with those who may have different beliefs or experiences. By sharing our faith with humility and love, we can create opportunities for meaningful conversations and relationships that reflect the love of Christ.
Conclusion
Let us be inspired by the centurion’s faith, recognizing that God can work through anyone who believes. As we share our faith, may we be the change in our communities, reflecting the love and power of Jesus to all. At Lakeview Christian Church, we are committed to being the change as Jesus has changed us, and it begins with sharing our faith beyond boundaries.
