Matthew 14:28-33 And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be you, bid me come to you on the water.… There are two powers working side by side under which Christ has taught us He means every true Christian life shall move forward, undervaluing neither the one nor the other. One of these is the IMPELLING POWER, impulse. This impulsive part of religious character is indispensable. St. Peter was right in his outset "Bid me come to Thee," etc. The other is the REGULATING POWER. It is this that keeps alive the life that has been awakened, and fulfils the good intentions. Impulses spring up in the region of feeling. Their continuance, regulation, and practical results, depend on the conscience and the will. It is easy to reach the transition point between impulse and principle; some reach it as soon as danger threatens. How shall I turn the ardent impulse of penitent faith into consistent piety? By leaving no good impulse to grow cold or waste in a neglected sentiment, but by embodying it immediately in its corresponding action; in other words, by Christian regulation. Steadfastness will come as you are really planted in Christ. (Bishop Huntingdon.) Parallel Verses KJV: And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.WEB: Peter answered him and said, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the waters." |
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