Matthew 8:5-13 - Homilies By J.a. Macdonald

The centurion.

We take this to be the centurion also mentioned by Luke (7.). The points of agreement in the narratives are too remarkable and too numerous to be taken to apply to separate persons. The narratives are harmonized upon the principle of personation common in the sacred writings (see e.g. 2 Samuel 1:15 compared with 2 Samuel 4:10 , and Acts 9:23 , Acts 9:24 with 2 Corinthians 11:32 ). Let us consider the centurion's faith and its reward.

I. HIS FAITH ,

1 . It was reverent and humble.

2 . It was strong , and earnest.

3 . It was large and generous.

II. ITS REWARD .

1 . It gained for him his suit.

2 . He had the highest commendation.

3 . He was made a specimen of the conversion of the Gentiles.

4 . The reception of faithful Gentiles is condemnation to unfaithful Jews.