“And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, heard his cry and saw how he died, he said, ‘Surely this man was the Son of God!’”
Mark 15:39
Roman centurions struck fear in the hearts of ordinary Jewish citizens. Tall, muscular, and equipped with sword, helmet, and breastplate, they would stride arrogantly through the dusty streets. People scurried away like frightened rats. Most centurions probably enjoyed having this effect on the Jews they despised.
At least one member of the Roman guard was about to have his heart moved by Jesus. We never learn this man’s name, but we see someone who would have been hardened against Jesus instead humbled and changed. He would have heard the Jews hotly debating whether or not Jesus was the Messiah. His people had always worshiped many gods. Why believe in only one?
At the crucifixion, the armed centurion’s role was to keep peace among the onlookers. He saw Jesus willingly lay down His life. He heard Jesus pray for the men pounding the nails into his wrists and feet. He watched Jesus reassure the thief of eternal life. He felt the earth shake. And when he heard Jesus’ final cry, the Roman centurion was convinced that surely this was the Son of God.
At least one member of the Roman guard was about to have his heart moved by Jesus. We never learn this man’s name, but we see someone who would have been hardened against Jesus instead humbled and changed. He would have heard the Jews hotly debating whether or not Jesus was the Messiah. His people had always worshiped many gods. Why believe in only one?
At the crucifixion, the armed centurion’s role was to keep peace among the onlookers. He saw Jesus willingly lay down His life. He heard Jesus pray for the men pounding the nails into his wrists and feet. He watched Jesus reassure the thief of eternal life. He felt the earth shake. And when he heard Jesus’ final cry, the Roman centurion was convinced that surely this was the Son of God.
Scripture Focus
Matthew 27:45-54
Insight
Put aside your confidence in your own strength and valor. Humble your heart before the Savior who gave His life for sinners like you and me.
Bible In A Year
- Genesis 43-44
- Psalm 22
- Mark 2
