I. What is the story of Jesus walking on water?
The story of Jesus walking on water is one of the most well-known miracles in the Bible. It is found in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 14, verses 22-33. The story takes place after Jesus feeds the five thousand with just five loaves of bread and two fish. After the miraculous feeding, Jesus sends his disciples ahead of him in a boat while he goes up on a mountainside to pray.
As the disciples are crossing the Sea of Galilee, a storm arises, and the wind and waves begin to batter the boat. In the midst of the storm, Jesus comes to his disciples walking on the water. At first, the disciples are terrified, thinking they are seeing a ghost. But Jesus reassures them, saying, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
Peter, one of the disciples, then asks Jesus to command him to come to him on the water. Jesus tells Peter to come, and Peter steps out of the boat and begins to walk on the water towards Jesus. However, when Peter sees the wind and waves, he becomes afraid and begins to sink. He cries out to Jesus for help, and Jesus immediately reaches out his hand and catches him. Jesus and Peter then get into the boat, and the storm calms down.
II. How did the disciples react to Jesus walking on water?
The disciples’ initial reaction to seeing Jesus walking on water was one of fear and disbelief. They thought they were seeing a ghost and were terrified. However, once Jesus reassured them that it was indeed him, they were amazed and in awe of his power and authority over nature. Their fear turned to faith as they witnessed this incredible miracle.
Peter’s reaction was one of boldness and faith. He was the only disciple who had the courage to step out of the boat and walk on the water towards Jesus. However, when he took his eyes off Jesus and focused on the storm around him, he began to doubt and sink. This shows the importance of keeping our focus on Jesus in the midst of life’s storms.
III. Why did Peter try to walk on water too?
Peter’s decision to try to walk on water was a demonstration of his faith and trust in Jesus. He wanted to be like his master and believed that if Jesus could walk on water, then he could too. Peter’s impulsive nature often led him to act before thinking, but in this instance, his boldness and willingness to take a risk paid off.
Peter’s attempt to walk on water also shows his desire to draw closer to Jesus. By stepping out of the boat and walking towards Jesus, Peter was demonstrating his commitment to following and obeying his Lord, even in the face of fear and uncertainty.
IV. What lesson can be learned from Jesus walking on water?
The story of Jesus walking on water teaches us several important lessons. First and foremost, it shows us the power and authority of Jesus over nature. Jesus was able to defy the laws of physics and walk on water because he is the Son of God. This miracle reminds us that nothing is impossible for God and that he is in control of all things.
Secondly, the story teaches us about the importance of faith and trust in Jesus. Peter was able to walk on water as long as he kept his eyes on Jesus, but when he allowed fear and doubt to creep in, he began to sink. This serves as a reminder to us to keep our focus on Jesus in the midst of life’s storms and to trust in his power to sustain us.
Finally, the story of Jesus walking on water demonstrates the importance of obedience and stepping out in faith. Peter’s willingness to take a risk and step out of the boat, even though it seemed impossible, led to a miraculous encounter with Jesus. This challenges us to step out of our comfort zones and trust in God’s leading, even when it seems risky or uncertain.
V. How does Jesus walking on water demonstrate his divinity?
The story of Jesus walking on water is a powerful demonstration of his divinity. By walking on water, Jesus was showing that he had power and authority over nature, something that only God himself could possess. In the Old Testament, God is often described as the one who controls the waters and calms the storms. By walking on water, Jesus was revealing himself as the Son of God, equal to the Father in power and authority.
Furthermore, the disciples’ reaction to seeing Jesus walking on water as a ghost shows that they recognized his divine nature. They were terrified because they knew that only God could perform such a miraculous feat. Jesus’ words, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid,” further emphasized his identity as the divine Son of God.
VI. What is the significance of Jesus walking on water in the Bible?
The significance of Jesus walking on water in the Bible goes beyond just a miraculous event. It serves as a powerful symbol of faith, trust, and obedience. The story challenges us to step out in faith, even when the circumstances seem impossible, and to keep our focus on Jesus in the midst of life’s storms.
Additionally, Jesus walking on water points to his identity as the Son of God and his power over nature. It foreshadows his ultimate victory over sin and death through his death and resurrection. Just as Jesus conquered the stormy waters of the Sea of Galilee, he has the power to overcome the storms of life and bring us safely to shore.
In conclusion, the story of Jesus walking on water is a powerful reminder of the divinity and authority of Jesus. It challenges us to trust in his power, step out in faith, and keep our eyes fixed on him in the midst of life’s trials. May we learn from Peter’s example and have the courage to walk on water with Jesus, knowing that he is always there to catch us when we begin to sink.