There are only two times that I could find where Jesus commended someone for great faith. I will look at the first this week, and the other next week. The first is in Matt. 8:5-13 (Luke 7:1-10).
In Capernaum, Jesus was approached by a centurion who pleaded with Jesus to heal his servant who was lying at his home paralyzed, “dreadfully tormented”. Jesus said he would come to heal him. At this point, the centurion made two unusual statements. First, he noted his unworthiness for Jesus to come to his home. Yes, he most likely knew the Jewish tradition that a Jew who entered a Gentile’s home would be ceremonially unclean. But most centurions did not think much of the Jews, yet he showed great respect to this Jewish rabbi.
Secondly, he stated that Jesus did not need to come to his home, but He just needed to “speak a word” for this healing to take place. He then explained the fact that he was a man UNDER authority (not IN authority). He further explained, And I say to this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it. He understood the power of authority, both being under authority and in authority.
When Jesus heard this, He marveled! This was the only time I could find where Jesus marveled for someone doing something good. (He also marvelled at the unbelief of the Jews in His hometown – Mark 6:1-6.) He then exclaimed to those who followed, “Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel! And I say to you that many will come from east and west, and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. But the sons of the kingdom will be cast out into outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Then Jesus said to the centurion, “Go your way; and as you have believed, so let it be done for you.” And his servant was healed that same hour.
As this centurion, may we acknowledge the worthiness, authority, and power of our Savior, Jesus Christ, and believe in His ability to perform His will for His glory!