And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him,

MATTHEW 8:5KJV
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Matthew 8:5 (KJV)

What does Matthew 8:5 mean?

Matthew 8:5 describes Jesus entering the town of Capernaum, where a Roman centurion approaches him and earnestly asks for his help. This verse introduces a moment where someone outside the Jewish community seeks out Jesus, showing both need and respect.

In this scene, Jesus is traveling and arrives in Capernaum, a town on the Sea of Galilee that often appears in the Gospels. The centurion, a Roman military officer, comes directly to Jesus and pleads with him—an unusual act for a Gentile and a person of authority. This sets up a significant encounter that highlights both the centurion’s humility and the growing reputation of Jesus among different groups.

The Greek behind Matthew 8:5

  • "centurion" (ἑκατόνταρχος, hekatontarchos): This word refers to a Roman officer in charge of about a hundred soldiers. The presence of a centurion shows that Jesus’ influence reached even those outside the Jewish faith and social circles.
  • "beseeching" (παρακαλῶν, parakalōn): This Greek word means to beg, plead, or earnestly request. It suggests that the centurion is not just making a casual request but is sincerely and urgently seeking Jesus’ help, showing deep respect and perhaps desperation.

Why Matthew 8:5 matters

  • Matthew 8:5 highlights that Jesus’ ministry attracted attention from non-Jews, hinting at the broader reach of his message and compassion.
  • The centurion’s approach—coming personally and pleading—shows a mix of authority and humility that stands out in the Gospel narrative.
  • This verse sets the stage for the following story, where Jesus responds to the centurion’s faith, making this encounter a key moment for understanding how faith and openness to Jesus cross cultural and social boundaries.

Where else these words appear

“Capernaum” Greek G2584 · used in 16 verses

  • Matthew 4:13 And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:
  • Mark 9:33 And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?
  • John 2:12 After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days.

“centurion” Greek G1543 · used in 21 verses

  • Matthew 8:8 The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.
  • Acts 10:1 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band,
  • Acts 24:23 And he commanded a centurion to keep Paul, and to let him have liberty, and that he should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him.

“came” Greek G4334 · used in 85 verses

  • Matthew 4:3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.
  • Matthew 21:23 And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?
  • Luke 9:12 And when the day began to wear away, then came the twelve, and said unto him, Send the multitude away, that they may go into the towns and country round about, and lodge, and get victuals: for we are here in a desert place.

“beseeching” Greek G3870 · used in 104 verses

  • Matthew 2:18 In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.
  • Acts 16:40 And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.
  • 2 Corinthians 12:18 I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not in the same steps?