What can we learn from Peter's boldness in asking, "command me to come"? Setting the Scene on the Sea of Galilee The disciples are straining against the wind when Jesus walks toward them on the water (Matthew 14:22-27). Fear grips the boat—until Peter dares to turn panic into petition. Peter’s Bold Appeal: “Command me to come” “‘Lord, if it is You,’ Peter replied, ‘command me to come to You on the water.’” (Matthew 14:28) What Motivated Peter’s Request? • Confidence in Christ’s identity – He addresses Jesus as “Lord,” recognizing divine authority (cf. John 20:28). • Desire for greater intimacy – Peter would rather be with Jesus on the waves than without Him in the boat (Philippians 3:8). • Trust in the power of Jesus’ word – If the Lord speaks, the impossible becomes possible (Genesis 1:3; Hebrews 1:3). • A faith that acts, not merely agrees – “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (James 2:17). Lessons Drawn From Peter’s Boldness • Ask big when the request exalts Christ – Peter does not seek a thrill but an opportunity to obey. Bold petitions that honor the Lord receive His welcome (Ephesians 3:12). • Obedience precedes experience – The water held Peter only after Jesus said, “Come” (Matthew 14:29). We step out on commands, not whims (Psalm 119:105). • Focus determines footing – When Peter fixed on Jesus, he walked; when he looked at the wind, he sank (Matthew 14:30). Faith’s eyes stay on the Savior (Hebrews 12:2). • Failure is a classroom, not a life-sentence – Though Peter faltered, Jesus immediately reached out (Matthew 14:31). Moments of sinking can deepen dependence and worship (v. 33). • God’s word is sturdier than circumstances – Waves still roared, yet the single word “Come” outweighed the storm. Scripture remains immovable truth amid cultural and personal turbulence (Isaiah 40:8). Cultivating Similar Boldness Today • Anchor every request in clear Scripture – Pray promises such as 1 John 5:14-15; confidence grows when petitions match God’s revealed will. • Prioritize presence over comfort – Choose steps that draw you nearer to Christ, even if they lead onto “water” (Luke 9:23). • Act promptly on the Lord’s leading – Delayed obedience often turns into disobedience. Peter stepped “out of the boat” at once (Matthew 14:29). • Keep eyes on Jesus through Word and prayer – Regular meditation prevents distraction by wind and waves (Joshua 1:8). • Let setbacks drive you to deeper worship – Every rescue, like Peter’s, should end with fresh confession: “Truly You are the Son of God!” (Matthew 14:33). Bold faith does not deny the storm; it simply counts Christ’s command surer than the sea beneath. |
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