Topical Encyclopedia The miraculous event of Jesus walking on the water is a significant episode in the New Testament, illustrating His divine authority over nature and His role as the Son of God. This event is recorded in three of the four Gospels: Matthew 14:22-33, Mark 6:45-52, and John 6:16-21. Each account provides unique details that contribute to a fuller understanding of the miracle.Context and Setting The miracle occurs shortly after the feeding of the five thousand, a testament to Jesus' compassion and power. Following this miracle, Jesus instructs His disciples to get into a boat and go ahead of Him to the other side of Lake Galilee, also known as the Sea of Galilee, while He dismisses the crowd and retreats to a mountainside to pray. The Miracle As the disciples are crossing the lake, a strong wind arises, and the waters become turbulent. In the early hours of the morning, Jesus approaches them, walking on the water. The disciples, straining against the oars and battling the storm, are initially terrified, mistaking Him for a ghost. Jesus immediately reassures them, saying, "Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid" (Matthew 14:27). In Matthew's account, Peter, seeking confirmation, asks Jesus to command him to come to Him on the water. Jesus invites Peter, who steps out of the boat and begins to walk toward Jesus. However, when Peter notices the wind, he becomes afraid and starts to sink, crying out, "Lord, save me!" Jesus immediately reaches out His hand and catches Peter, saying, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" (Matthew 14:31). Significance and Interpretation This miracle is rich in theological significance. It demonstrates Jesus' mastery over the natural world, affirming His divine nature. The act of walking on water is a powerful symbol of His authority, echoing Old Testament themes where God alone treads upon the waves (Job 9:8). The event also serves as a profound lesson in faith. Peter's initial success in walking on water illustrates the power of faith in Christ, while his subsequent fear and doubt highlight human frailty and the necessity of keeping one's focus on Jesus. The narrative underscores the importance of trust in Jesus, even amidst life's storms. Furthermore, the calming of the disciples' fears and the eventual calming of the storm upon Jesus' entry into the boat (as noted in John's account) reveal His role as the bringer of peace and assurance. The disciples' response, worshiping Him and declaring, "Truly You are the Son of God" (Matthew 14:33), encapsulates the recognition of His divine identity and mission. Conclusion The account of Jesus walking on the water is a testament to His divine authority and a call to faith for His followers. It invites believers to trust in His power and presence, even in the midst of life's challenges. This miracle, like many others, points to the greater reality of who Jesus is—the Christ, the Son of God, who commands the elements and offers peace to all who believe in Him. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 14:22-36And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him to the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. Nave's Topical Index Mark 6:45-56 John 6:15-21 Library Christ Walks Upon the Waters. (John, vi. , 16; Matt. , xiv. , 2 ... Index i. Of Subjects The Call by the Sea Christ Teaching by Miracles Christ Crucified The Gospel According to St. Mark The Gospel According to St. Matthew The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit as Revealed in his Names. In the House of his Heavenly, and in the Home of his Earthly ... Farewell Resources What is the Jesus Family Tomb? Has the lost tomb of Jesus Christ been discovered? | GotQuestions.orgIs Jesus the Messiah? | GotQuestions.org Why did God send Jesus? | GotQuestions.org Jesus: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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