Matthew 8:23-27 And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him.… I. THE STORM. We are closely connected with the material world, waves may dash against our spirits as well as our bodies. 1. The storm in the elements of nature. 2. The storm in the bosom of the Church. II. THE CALM. 1. In the elements of nature? 2. The calm in the kingdom of grace.Application: — 1. Have you embarked with Christ? 2. Flee to Jesus now, and cry, "Lord, save: we perish." 3. If we are embarked with Christ, learn His claims to confidence. 4. This miracle speaks to ministers. They must learn by experience the value of the Saviour they recommend. (J. Bennett, D. D.) I. THE PASSAGE ACROSS THE LAKE. 1. Christ commands His disciples to pass over to the other side of the sea. He left the attractive for the repulsive. 2. The voyage is undertaken suddenly — "even as He was." Disciples should hold themselves ready to go at a moment's notice on their Master's service. 3. He takes the apostles with Him: the school of the prophets, in which He is training the ministers of the Word. Daily lessons in providence. 4. Besides Christ's immediate company in their own ship, a number of other disciples accompanied Him in " other little ships." II. JESUS ASLEEP IN THE STORM. 1. An apt figure of the homeless state of Jesus on earth. 2. The holy rest of the weary workman after earnest labour. He redeems this time for rest. 3. A quiet sleep in the midst of danger. 4. The sleep of innocence — a contrast to the sleep of Jonah in guilt. III. JESUS STILLING THE TEMPEST. 1. The calm is in answer to the earnest cry of the disciples. We should pray in time of need. The cry of the disciples brought deliverance to many around; we never pray for ourselves without benefitting others. 2. Jesus stills the tempest by His word. An image of many a believer's life. (A. M. Stuart.) Parallel Verses KJV: And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him. |
    |