How does Matthew 14:28 connect with other instances of faith in the Gospels? Setting the Scene: Peter’s Bold Request “Lord, if it is You,” Peter replied, “command me to come to You on the water.” (Matthew 14:28) Parallels of Faith Across the Gospels • Centurion at Capernaum – “I am not worthy… But just say the word, and my servant will be healed.” (Matthew 8:8–10) – Like Peter, he asks for a word of command and acts on it. • Woman with the issue of blood – “If I only touch His cloak, I will be healed.” (Matthew 9:21) – Acts on a conviction that contact with Jesus brings deliverance. • Four friends and the paralytic – “When He saw their faith, He said… ‘Get up.’” (Luke 5:20–25) – They overcome obstacles, convinced that a simple word from Jesus changes everything. • Syrophoenician woman – “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.” (Mark 7:28–29) – Persistent, daring approach beyond normal boundaries—much like stepping out of a boat. • Blind men outside Jericho – “Son of David, have mercy on us!” (Matthew 20:30–34) – Cry out despite the crowd, trusting Jesus to do the impossible. Common Threads • Faith takes initiative but still depends on Jesus’ authority. • Each act involves risk—social, physical, or emotional. • Jesus’ response highlights the sufficiency of His word over circumstances. • Moments of doubt (Peter’s sinking, disciples’ fear during storms) show that faith can waver yet still mature. What Makes Peter’s Moment Unique • Physical impossibility amplified: walking on liquid, not just healing or forgiveness. • Direct request for a personal command—he will not move without Jesus’ explicit invitation. • Demonstrates that obedience precedes the miracle: Peter steps before he sees stability. • Provides a living parable for the disciples watching, foreshadowing their own future ventures of faith (Acts 5:19–20; 12:7–11). Takeaways for Disciples Today • True faith rests on Christ’s word, not on circumstances. • Asking boldly is encouraged when coupled with willingness to obey. • Failures (Matthew 14:30–31) become teachable moments that deepen dependence on Jesus. • Collective memory of such events forms a pattern: when Jesus speaks, the impossible becomes the new normal (Mark 9:23). |
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