regards our Lord as one possessing authority over diseases, as complete as his own authority over his soldiers, or a Boman Emperor's authority over himself. He believes that a word of command from Jesus is sufficient to send sickness away. He asks to see no sign or wonder. He declares his confidence that Jesus is an almighty Master and King, and that diseases, like obedient servants, will at once depart at His orders.
Faith like this was indeed rare when the Lord Jesus was upon earth. " Show us a sign from heaven," was the demand of the sneering Pharisees. To see something wonderful was the great desire of the multitudes who crowded after our Lord. No wonder that we read the remarkable words, " Jesus marvelled at him," and said unto the people, " I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel." None ought to have been so believing as the children of those who were led through the wilder- ness, and brought into the promised land. But the last was first and the first last. The faith of a Eoman soldier proved stronger than that of the Jews.
Let us not forget to walk in the steps of this blessed spirit of faith which the centurion here exhibited. Our eyes do not yet behold the book of life. We see not our Saviour pleading for us at God's right hand. But have we the word of Christ's promises ? Then let us rest on it and fear nothing. Let us not doubt that every word that Christ has spoken shall be made good. The word of Christ is a sure foundation. He that leans upon it shall never be confounded. Believers shall all be found pardoned, justified, and glorified at the last day. '' Jesus says so," and therefore it shall be done.