Matthew 14:22ff - Jesus Walks on the Sea

 

Matthew 14:22ff – Jesus Walks on the Sea

 

The disciples had embarked on a journey of approximately five miles, but after three miles or so (John 6:19), the wind started to blow. Every time their boat inched forward, the wind was contrary, blowing them backwards (Mark 6:48).

 

Jesus had gone to the mountain nearby to pray from early evening to early morning. Why did Jesus allow his disciples to struggle for such a long period of time? If He had rescued them immediately, the disciples might forget His intervention or perhaps assume that, given enough time, they could have saved themselves. The Lord sometimes waits until His followers have exhausted their resources before He steps in.

 

The disciples were afraid when they saw someone walking across the surface of the water not only because they had suspected a ghost. Mark says it was also because their hearts were hard (Mark 6:52). Even though they had just witnessed the miraculous feeding of the multitude, they failed to apply that experience of Jesus’ power to this situation.

 

Peter was not acting foolishly, and this was not a daring stunt; it was obedience. When Jesus beckoned him to come, Peter willingly went. He had enough faith to get out of the boat and walk toward Jesus, something no prophet had ever done.

 

What people focus on becomes magnified. Especially in fearful circumstances. Peter decided to leave the apparent safety of the boat an rely totally on Jesus, until the wind caught Peter’s attention. Whenever believers divert their eyes from Jesus during a storm, their circumstances assume prominence, and they, like Peter, lose heart and begin to sink. The difference between fear and faith is focus.

 

Peter did not fail that day; the failures were the other disciples who stayed in the boat where they thought they were safe. The failed to experience the joy of walking on water and the hand of Jesus reaching out to them in their time of need. It is tempting to look down on sinking Peter for his small faith, but at leas he was willing to step out of the boat.

 

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible