Reference in the Bible
Primary References
- Gospel of Matthew 14:22–33
- Gospel of Mark 6:45–52
- Gospel of John 6:16–21
Summary of the Story
In John 6, after feeding the five thousand, he directs his disciples to cross the Sea of Galilee while He goes off to pray. A violent storm stirred up with a plentiful wind throughout the night, as they fought to keep their ship afloat. Then in the midst of this storm Jesus comes walking to them on the sea. Take courage. It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Peter had walked on water towards Jesus for a little while but he saw the wind, not Jesus and started to sink.
And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him. Then, when the men got into the boat, the wind ceased: and they worshiped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God. The miracle that transpired in the latter half of the fourth chapter demonstrated Jesus’ authority over creation and strengthened the faith of his disciples.
Introduction
One of the most incredible and mysterious miracles of Jesus Christ is a miracle when he walked on water. This miracle is a true symbol of faith, patience, and belief in God, which teaches a person that even in the most difficult times, when the path is unclear, when life seems impossible to be continued, God will help.
This miracle teaches us that when a person finds himself in a desperate situation and difficult circumstances, help is near. For the disciples, this episode was an event that changed their lives and opened the path to faith in the power of Jesus Christ.
Sea preparation
After Jesus ordered that His disciples make a voyage on the water, all things were ready for the voyage—a steady wind and no cloud in the sky—so the sea appears to be exceptionally placid at the moment. You never know how human beings might surprise you or what they may consider a nudge from the Almighty as he delivers some kind of life lesson.
The disciples were led to believe that the journey was short and a pleasant ride, but the road of the stormy journey was meant for those that aspired to youth and adventure. It illustrates to man that even a day with favorable weather could be an instructor. The storm Jesus asked His disciples to go through the sea one day while He proceeded to the mountain to pray.
As darkness approached, strong wind and high waves started to appear, like the size of a house. The disciples’ boat rocked with violence. Their hearts became full of fear for their lives as they felt they were doomed to perish on this stormy sea.
Restless in the boat
Everyone in the boat was concerned about different things. Some were watching the murky and wavy sea, while others were looking at the dark sky, and some were praying to God. The most annoying thoughts that could crush any soul at that moment were chasing each other in the disciple’s head.
The noisy sea, the storm, and the wind were not only a threat to his physical life but also a terrible trial for his spiritual self. The disciple realized that in the situation where he had to struggle for his life, his efforts were not strong enough to fight such forces of nature as the storm and the wind and the power of Jesus Christ himself.
Walking on water
Walking on water by Jesus Christ was a miracle for the disciple. Indeed, water usually swallows a man, but Jesus walked on it confidently. It meant that the path of man was not the limit of faith, humility, and knowledge; it was only the beginning of the path of God.
Peter’s baptism and prayer
When Peter saw the waves, his heart was overwhelmed with fear, and he looked away from Jesus. This episode shows that when a man starts to think that his troubles are stronger than the power of God, his courage fades away. However, Peter, despite his fears, prayed to Jesus and said, “Oh Rabbi, save me!” This was proof of his faith that, despite his fears, true prayers could open the path to God.
Pencil hand
This was not only a rescue but also a teaching for Peter, who was then overwhelmed with fear. Jesus raised him up and showed him that faith in God was essential.
The Storm Stops
- Peaceful descent
Then, the boat began to descend, and an amazing calmness and peace came over the disciple. Instead of noise and storm, there was complete quiet and calm.
- The disciples’ surprise
The disciple was surprised by what he saw before his eyes. It was a miracle that shook his soul and changed his mind.
- Spiritual Certainty
The disciple was confident that in the presence of Jesus, no storm could crush his soul.
The disciples’ confession
After seeing the miracle, the disciples realized that Jesus was not only a great prophet of God but also a living miracle that opened the path to faith. Thus, a new phase of the disciple’s life began, during which he realized that the words of Jesus, his actions, and his presence were no less than the words of God. For the disciple, this event became not only a miracle but also a symbol of his faith and an unforgettable episode of his life.
Light Spiritual
- God always helps in times of need.
- Faith weakens fear.
- Faith in Jesus brings peace.
- When a person looks at the sea of his fears, his dignity fades away.
- The power of God is over everything.
- Help always comes in due time.
- Prayer saves a person from despair.
- Faith becomes light in the dark.
- The mercy of God is greater than human weakness.
Message for today
Even today, this miracle teaches people that in times of financial, family, and health problems and in moments of spiritual excitement, they should look to the power of God, which is manifested in the miracle of Jesus walking on water. When the storm of life throws a man into the sea of his fears, the words of Jesus Christ will save him from despair and show him the path to faith. If the sight of the storm opens the door to fear in a person, the words of Jesus Christ will show him the way out.
Main Lessons
- About Jesus who has authority over nature and every storm.
- Faith blossoms by keeping our eyes on Christ.
- When we believe in God’s promises, fear grows dim.
- He is always there in our greatest struggles.
- God answers those who call on Him having faith.
- Jesus as the Son of God is the object of true worship.
Life Application
But, life can still throw off the stormy weather when you feel fearful or uncertain. It reminds Christians that Jesus is never far away, even when he feels far off. We may start to sink just as Peter did, when we take our eyes off of Christ and look at our problems. We keep our eyes off the wave through daily prayer, trust and obedience. Whatever our condition in life, God’s might conquers all fear and He is the source of strength, peace and hope.
The comforting word of Jesus Christ
The words of Jesus were not only comforting to the disciple but also spiritually elevated him. When Jesus said to the disciple, “No need to cry; I am here,” it was not only a phrase but a full stop for the disciple who was petrified by the storm. This phrase, which Jesus spoke to the disciple, is still a source of comfort for people in times of trouble and a symbol of faith in the presence of God. Thus, these words of Jesus are a true embodiment of the faith of God in every believer.
Ways to strengthen faith
The disciple saw the miracle of Jesus walking on water and strengthened his faith. However, there are certain things without which a person cannot strengthen faith. The first of these is prayer, which elevates a person spiritually and brings him closer to Jesus. Thus, these four things, without which a person cannot strengthen faith, became part of the life of the disciple and brought him spiritual comfort.
Reflection and Questions
- What storms am I facing that require greater faith in Jesus?
- Am I focusing more on my problems than on God’s power?
- How has Jesus shown His faithfulness during difficult moments in my life?
Conclusion
The miracle of Jesus walking on water is not only a miracle but also a symbol of faith, which teaches people that even when the path is blocked, the power of God is manifested in the miracle of Jesus. This miracle is a true symbol of faith that opens the path to God. This story teaches people that when the sea of life throws a person into the storm of his fears, he should look to the power of Jesus, whose power is manifested in his miracle.
