4 When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him, "This man deserves to have you do this,
4 And when they came to Jesus, they besought him instantly, saying, That he was worthy for whom he should do this:
4 And when they came to Jesus, they pleaded with him earnestly, saying, "He is worthy to have you do this for him,
4 They came to Jesus and urged him to do it, saying, "He deserves this.
4 And when they came to Jesus, they begged Him earnestly, saying that the one for whom He should do this was deserving,
4 So they earnestly begged Jesus to help the man. "If anyone deserves your help, he does," they said,
2 He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly.
2 A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway.
2 a devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God.
2 a devout man and one who feared God with all his household, who gave alms generously to the people, and prayed to God always.
2 He was a devout, God-fearing man, as was everyone in his household. He gave generously to the poor and prayed regularly to God.
(Read Acts 10:1-8)
Hitherto none had been baptized into the Christian church but Jews, Samaritans, and those converts who had been circumcised and observed the ceremonial law; but now the Gentiles were to be called to partake all the privileges of God's people, without first becoming Jews. Pure and undefiled religion is sometimes found where we least expect it. Wherever the fear of God rules in the heart, it will appear both in works of charity and of piety, neither will excuse from the other. Doubtless Cornelius had true faith in God's word, as far as he understood it, though not as yet clear faith in Christ. This was the work of the Spirit of God, through the mediation of Jesus, even before Cornelius knew him, as is the case with us all when we, who before were dead in sin, are made alive. Through Christ also his prayers and alms were accepted, which otherwise would have been rejected. Without dispute or delay Cornelius was obedient to the heavenly vision. In the affairs of our souls, let us not lose time.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Luke 7:4
Commentary on Luke 7:1-10
(Read Luke 7:1-10)
Servants should study to endear themselves to their masters. Masters ought to take particular care of their servants when they are sick. We may still, by faithful and fervent prayer, apply to Christ, and ought to do so when sickness is in our families. The building places for religious worship is a good work, and an instance of love to God and his people. Our Lord Jesus was pleased with the centurion's faith; and he never fails to answer the expectations of that faith which honours his power and love. The cure soon wrought and perfect.