The Good Centurion; or, the Man Under Authority
The narrative explores the encounter between Jesus and a centurion, highlighting themes of authority, faith, and obedience. The centurion, a Roman officer, approaches Jesus, requesting healing for his servant. Demonstrating profound faith, he expresses that Jesus need only speak the word for healing to occur, illustrating his understanding of authority and subordination. The centurion's military background informs his belief that just as he commands his soldiers, Jesus, as the divine authority, can command the laws of nature. The text reflects on the centurion's character, emphasizing his respect for authority and his lack of envy towards those in higher positions. This reverence allows him to recognize Jesus' divine nature, leading to his commendation by Christ for having greater faith than many in Israel. The narrative draws moral lessons about the importance of obedience and discipline, suggesting that true freedom is found in recognizing and adhering to rightful authority. Ultimately, the centurion's faith not only results in his servant's healing but also in his deeper understanding of Jesus as the Son of God. The work concludes with a call to embody the virtues of duty, respect, and obedience, aligning one's life with divine moral laws for spiritual success and fulfillment.
By Charles Kingsley · First published 1857 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Religious Fiction, Christian Literature · 2,765 words
First lines
"And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto Him a centurion, beseeching Him and saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home, sick of the palsy, grievously tormented. And Jesus said unto him, I will come and heal him. 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. For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me, and I say unto this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found such great faith, no, not in Israel. " -- MATT. viii. 5-10.
What this Textopian page supports
The Good Centurion; or, the Man Under Authority is listed on Textopian as an essay by Charles Kingsley, dated 1857 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Charles Kingsley
- Date: 1857 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Fiction, Religious Fiction, Christian Literature, Adventure
- Length: 2,765 words
- Structure: 1 section, 30 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Good Centurion; or, the Man Under Authority by Charles Kingsley
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Good Centurion; or, the Man Under Authority?
- How does this essay by Charles Kingsley fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Historical Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Watchman by Charles Kingsley
- The Prophet And The Country by Rudyard Kipling
- A Centurion Of The Thirtieth by Rudyard Kipling
- The Perfect King by Charles Kingsley
- The Crusader Returns From Captivity by G. K. Chesterton
- Ethandune by G. K. Chesterton
Genres
- Historical Fiction — Originating from mid-nineteenth century era, Charles Kingsley often incorporated historical settings and elements into his novels. 'The Good Centurion' is likely based on a historical period, set within the confines of ancient times.
- Religious Fiction — Considering the word 'Centurion', which refers to a position in the Roman army during the time of Jesus Christ, along with the author's pronounced Christian beliefs and his habitual religious themes in his work, religious elements are expected in the book.
- Christian Literature — The title suggest biblical times. Given that Kingsley was an Anglican priest, Christian themes and teachings are likely to be central to the novel.
- Adventure — Most of Kingsley’s novels includes adventurers, the daring, brave, and spirited characters who embark on a journey of discovery. Given the 'Centurion' title, this could suggest military action or adventure in the story.
Tags
centurion · authority · leadership · military · Roman Empire · faith · morality · duty · service · sacrifice · character · virtue