Get Out of the Boat

Matthew 14:22–33 (NASB 95)

22 Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He sent the crowds away. 23 After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone. 24 But the boat was already a long distance from the land, battered by the waves; for the wind was contrary. 25 And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. 26 When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out in fear. 27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.”

28 Peter said to Him, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” 29 And He said, “Come!” And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” 31 Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” 32 When they got into the boat, the wind stopped. 33 And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “You are certainly God’s Son!”

Introduction

This event is recorded in Matt, Mark, and John, but only Matthew’s account tells Peter’s story

Jesus sent them in the boat and storm (v. 22)

Peter, Andrew, James & John spent their lives on boats and on the water—this water

They were comfortable and at home in a boat

During Jesus’ ministry they traversed lake countless times

This time was different

The fishermen knew how discern the weather. This was there lake, but nothing indicated issues this time

There was a storm coming. They knew that the safest place to be during a storm at sea is on land.

Jesus had other plans

Jesus had just fed 5,000+; not it was faith stretching time

Jesus called Peter out of the boat (v. 29)

Yes, Peter’s faith wained and Jesus rebuked him.

Peter did something else no prophet or teacher has done before

Why did no one else go?

Conclusion

The real issue is not the storm; it is Peter’s response during the storm

Is it safer in the boat with everyone else, with those things that are familiar and comfortable, or on the water with Jesus?

Peter spent his life on the water. He knew it, knew how to navigate it, and how to watch for dangers.

But with Jesus he did something that he never did before or after—neither has anyone else. Peter found out that with Jesus anything is possible.