Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Account:The event of Peter walking on water is a significant moment in the New Testament, recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. This miraculous occurrence takes place shortly after the feeding of the five thousand, as Jesus and His disciples are on the Sea of Galilee. The narrative is found in Matthew 14:22-33. Context and Setting: After the miraculous feeding, Jesus instructs His disciples to get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side of the lake while He dismisses the crowd. Jesus then retreats to a mountainside to pray alone. As evening falls, the boat is already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind is against it. The Miracle: During the fourth watch of the night, Jesus approaches the disciples, walking on the water. The disciples, terrified, initially mistake Him for a ghost and cry out in fear. Jesus immediately reassures them, saying, "Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid" (Matthew 14:27). Peter's Response: Peter, known for his impulsive nature and strong faith, responds to Jesus, "Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water" (Matthew 14:28). Jesus invites Peter to come, and Peter steps out of the boat, walking on the water toward Jesus. This act of faith demonstrates Peter's trust in Jesus' power and authority over nature. Peter's Doubt and Jesus' Rescue: As Peter walks on the water, he becomes aware of the strong wind and begins to doubt, causing him to sink. In his moment of fear, Peter cries out, "Lord, save me!" (Matthew 14:30). Jesus immediately reaches out His hand and catches Peter, saying, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" (Matthew 14:31). This interaction highlights the importance of faith and reliance on Jesus, even amidst life's storms. Significance and Lessons: The account of Peter walking on water serves as a powerful illustration of faith and the human tendency to doubt. It underscores the necessity of keeping one's focus on Christ, especially when faced with challenges. Peter's initial success in walking on water is attributed to his faith in Jesus, while his subsequent sinking is a result of taking his eyes off the Lord and focusing on the surrounding turmoil. This event also emphasizes Jesus' divine nature and His mastery over creation. By walking on water, Jesus demonstrates His authority, reinforcing the disciples' understanding of His identity as the Son of God. After Jesus and Peter return to the boat, the wind ceases, and those in the boat worship Jesus, declaring, "Truly You are the Son of God" (Matthew 14:33). Theological Implications: Peter's experience on the Sea of Galilee is a reminder of the Christian journey of faith. Believers are called to step out in faith, trusting in Jesus' power and presence. The narrative encourages Christians to maintain their focus on Christ, even when circumstances seem overwhelming. It also reassures believers of Jesus' readiness to save and support them when they falter, highlighting His grace and compassion. Conclusion: The account of Peter walking on water is a testament to the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ. It invites believers to trust in His sovereignty and to seek His help in times of doubt and fear, knowing that He is always near to extend His hand and offer salvation. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 14:28-31And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be you, bid me come to you on the water. Nave's Topical Index Library First Withdrawal from Herod's Territory and Return. The Call by the Sea Index i. Of Subjects Farewell Christ Teaching by Miracles The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit as Revealed in his Names. Against Jovinianus. The Romance of M. Renan. By Napoleon Roussel. A Treatise of the Fear of God; A Traveler's Note-Book Resources Was Saint Peter the first pope? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of the rooster crowing in regards to Peter denying Jesus three times? | GotQuestions.org Why did Jesus ask Peter "Do you love me?" three times? | GotQuestions.org Peter: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Peter of the Law of Defilement Peter of the Law of Forgiveness Peter of the Parable of the Steward Peter of the Prophecy of Jesus Concerning his Second Coming Peter: Accused by the Council; his Defense Peter: Also Called Simon Bar-Jona and Cephas Peter: Calls Attention to the Withered Fig Tree Peter: Confesses Jesus to be the Messiah Peter: Cuts off the Ear of Malchus Peter: Follows Jesus to the High Priest's Palace Peter: Foretells the Death of Ananias and Sapphira Peter: Has a Vision of a Sheet Containing Ceremonially Clean and Unclean Animals Peter: Heals the Immobile Man in the Portico of the Temple Peter: His Denial of Jesus, and his Repentance Peter: His Mother-In-Law Healed Peter: His Presumption in Rebuking Jesus Peter: His Presumption in Refusing to Let Jesus Wash Peter's Feet Peter: His Statement in Front of the Disciples Concerning the Death of Judas Peter: His Treachery Foretold by Jesus, and his Profession of Fidelity Peter: Imprisoned and Delivered by an Angel Peter: Imprisoned and Scourged; his Defense Before the Council Peter: Jesus Sends Message To, After the Resurrection Peter: Prays for the Reception of the Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit Peter: Preaches on Pentecost Day Peter: Present at Lake Tiberias when Jesus Appeared to his Disciples Peter: Present in the Garden of Gethsemane Peter: Present: At the Healing of Jairus' Daughter Peter: Present: At the Transfiguration Peter: Rebukes Simon, the Sorcerer, Who Desires to Purchase This Power Peter: Receives the Servant of the Centurion Peter: Sent With John to Prepare the Passover Meal Peter: Visits Joppa; Stays With Simon, the Tanner; Raises Dorcas from the Dead Peter: Visits Lydda; Heals Aeneas Peter: Visits the Gravesite of Jesus Peter: Walks Upon the Water of Lake Galilee Select Readings: Peter on the Day of Pentecost Related Terms |
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