The unnamed career Roman soldier, a Centurion in charge of at least 100 soldiers, was assigned to conduct Jesus’ crucifixion. Centurions were chosen on merit, remarkable for their deliberation, constancy, and strength of mind, more so than daring courage. This Centurion led Jesus from Pilate’s verdict and the hatred of the Jewish religious leaders with a company of men through the streets of Jerusalem to the place of execution, oversaw his nailing to the cross, gambled for Jesus’ clothes, mocked Jesus, offered Jesus wine vinegar, heard all that Jesus said on the cross, and observed the manner of his death.
The Centurion saw the sun go dark for three hours, the earthquake, and all that happened when Jesus was crucified and gave up his spirit (Matthew 27:54). This hardened soldier became terrified of the judgment of God. He carried out what he must have known was an unjust sentence. The fear of God’s judgement moved him to praise God and declare, “Surely this was a righteous man, the Son of God.” His testimony is recorded by Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The significance of his testimony cannot be understated.
Some wonder what the fear of God is and believe it has little or no merit in Christianity because they have not experienced it. Yet, the fear of God’s judgment has compelled many to regret and even repent of terrible acts, such as this man. The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, and its end is experiencing the love and forgiveness of God… if we only ask.
