How does John 6:20 connect with other instances of Jesus calming fears? Standing at the Center—John 6:20 “ But Jesus told them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” ” A Familiar Voice in Every Storm • “It is I” (Greek ego eimi) mirrors God’s covenant name in Exodus 3:14, underscoring Jesus’ divine, fear-banishing presence. • “Do not be afraid” is the Lord’s repeated, loving command whenever His followers face danger, doubt, or death. Parallel Moments When Jesus Calms Fear • Mark 4:39-40—He rebukes wind and waves: “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” • Matthew 14:26-27—Same walking-on-water scene, expanded: “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.” • Mark 5:36—To Jairus: “Do not be afraid; only believe.” • Matthew 17:7—At the Transfiguration: “Rise; do not be afraid.” • John 20:19, 21, 26—Resurrection evening: “Peace be with you.” • Revelation 1:17-18—To John: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last.” Shared Threads in Every Passage • Presence – Jesus Himself draws near before He stills the storm or speaks peace. • Authority – Nature, sickness, death, and even the future submit to His word. • Identity – Each “It is I” or “I am” reveals Him as the eternal I AM. • Invitation – Fear is replaced with faith; panic gives way to worship. Putting It Together • John 6:20 is not an isolated reassurance; it belongs to a consistent, literal pattern in Scripture: whenever Jesus shows up, fear must bow. • The same Lord who crossed the Galilean waves stands with us today, still speaking, “It is I; do not be afraid.” |
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