1. A centurion sends for Jesus (1-6a)

A certain centurion lived in Capernaum. He was a high-ranking soldier in the army and most probably a Gentile. This centurion had a servant whom he highly valued and who was also near death. The centurion asked for Jesus to come and heal his servant. He was so highly respected in the town that the Jewish elders interceded on his behalf. Is there someone whom you can bring to Jesus?

2. The centurion's great faith (6b-10)

Jesus was on his way to the centurion's home. Then the centurion sent friends to tell him not to trouble himself. He believed that if Jesus simply said the word, his servant would be healed. As a military officer, the centurion understood authority. Those under his charge did whatever he told them to do. He believed Jesus possessed even greater authority - authority over sickness. Jesus commented that he had not seen such great faith anywhere in Israel. The servant was healed.