What does Matthew 8:9 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 8:9 is part of the narrative where a Roman centurion approaches Jesus to heal his paralyzed servant.

In this verse, the centurion acknowledges Jesus' authority by making a parallel to his own authority over his soldiers and servants.

He understands that, just as he can command his subordinates and they obey, Jesus can command sickness to leave and it will obey.

This shows his faith in Jesus’ power and authority, even though he himself is not a Jew but a Roman - generally seen as oppressors by the Jewish people.

The centurion recognizes that Jesus' authority transcends physical presence, and he believes that Jesus can heal at a distance with just a word, much like the centurion can command without being physically present.

Historical Context

The verse is situated in the context of the Roman occupation of Judea during the first century.

Centurions were Roman army officers in charge of a 'century', or about 80-100 soldiers.

They were known for their discipline, loyalty, and ability to command.

The significant aspect here is that it was unusual for a Roman centurion to seek help from a Jewish teacher like Jesus, which illustrates the exceptional faith of the centurion and Jesus’ reach beyond the Jewish community.

The interaction also breaks cultural norms since Jews and Romans often kept a distance from one another.

Theological Insights

Diverse theological perspectives look at this verse in different ways:

• Traditional Christian viewpoints may see the centurion's faith as exemplary for believers.

It demonstrates the power of faith in Jesus and his authority over all creation.

• Catholic and Orthodox traditions might also reflect on the intercessory role of the centurion, presenting a case for praying on behalf of others.

• Reformed theology would emphasize the sovereignty of God as seen in the authority of Christ over illness.

• Liberation theology might focus on the contrast between the oppressive Roman system and the liberating authority of Jesus, who provides healing and hope to the marginalized.

Practical Applications

The faith of the centurion serves as a practical example for believers to:

• Recognize and respect authority and hierarchy within various spheres of life.
• Exhibit extraordinary faith in Jesus, acknowledging his authority and trusting in his power to intervene in situations regardless of human limitations.
• Understand the importance of intercession, advocating and praying for others.
• Embrace humility, as the centurion, a man of power, shows immense humility in approaching Jesus.

Cross-References

• Luke 7:6-8 - Luke's account of the same story highlights the centurion's words and faith.
• Matthew 15:28 - Demonstrates another instance of Jesus commending great faith.
• John 4:46-54 - Jesus heals the official’s son at a distance, similar to how He heals the centurion's servant.
• Psalm 107:20 - Psalms also acknowledges God's word as a tool for healing and deliverance.

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key words include:

• "ὑπὸ ἐξουσίαν" (hypo exousian), which means "under authority".

This phrase underlines the concept of being subject to a higher power.

• "λέγω" (lego), meaning "I say" or "I command", which points to the centurion’s authority to issue commands.
• "δοῦλος" (doulos), translated as "servant", indicates someone who is a bondservant or a person of low status under the command of a master.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The centurion’s recognition of Jesus’ authority stands in contrast to the Roman pantheon, where various gods had specialized powers but no single deity had ultimate authority over all realms.

Comparatively, in Greco-Roman mythology, healing was typically associated with gods like Asclepius.

The centurion's faith in a Jewish teacher as having unmatched authority would have been countercultural and against religious norms of the time.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the healing described in this story is non-medical and supernatural.

While modern medicine operates within the constraints of natural laws, the centurion's belief in Jesus' word as sufficient for healing reflects a worldview that accepts the possibility of miracles, which are typically defined as events that surpass all known human or natural powers.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and commentators offer various insights on Matthew 8:9:

• John Calvin focuses on the humility of the centurion, which leads to faith in Christ's spiritual power.
• Matthew Henry points out the centurion's understanding of power and authority which enables him to recognize Christ's divine authority.
• William Barclay highlights the remarkable nature of the centurion's faith, coming from someone outside of the Jewish faith.
• Contemporary commentators might discuss the interplay between faith and authority, seeing this passage as instructive for understanding the dynamic of faith in Christ's power to change circumstances.