Untitled Sermon

Faith Over Fear: Trusting in Christ’s Power

Bible Passage: Matthew 14:22-33

Summary: In Matthew 14:22-33, the disciples encounter a life-threatening storm on the sea of Galilee. Despite their fear and doubt, Jesus approaches them, walking on the water, symbolizing His sovereignty over chaotic circumstances. When Peter attempts to walk to Jesus but starts to sink, it highlights the tension between faith and fear. This passage affirms that Christ is not only present in our struggles but also has the power to deliver us from our fears.

Application: This sermon provides a framework for Christians to confront their fears with a faith that looks to Jesus. It encourages the audience to recognize that their difficulties can become opportunities for experiencing God's deliverance when they fix their attention on Him rather than their problems.

Teaching: This sermon teaches that faith has the power to overcome fear. By focusing on Jesus and trusting in His presence and authority, believers can find strength to face life's tumultuous storms with confidence, knowing they are never alone in their struggles.

How this passage could point to Christ: In this passage, Jesus embodies the fulfillment of God's promise to deliver and protect His people. This incident foreshadows His ultimate act of salvation through His death and resurrection, assuring believers that He has dominion over every fearful circumstance we face.

Big Idea: Faith in Jesus transforms fear into courage, empowering believers to confront the storms of life with confidence in His saving power.

Recommended Study: For your preparation, consider using Logos to explore the biblical themes of fear and faith throughout the Gospels. Investigate how Jesus’ miracles, including this one, illustrate his authority over creation and human fears. Examining theological reflections on the nature of faith can also provide depth to your application points.

1. Stepping into the Storm

Matthew 14:22-24

Perhaps, as you examine the disciples' immediate obedience in getting into the boat and facing the storm, you can encourage the congregation that stepping into uncomfortable, fear-inducing situations often results from following Christ's call. Jesus’ separating Himself to pray reminds us that our spiritual preparation precedes our physical trials, emphasizing our need for communion with the Father. Focusing on obedience and prayer over fear sets the stage for facing life's unexpected storms with Christ-centered confidence.

2. Seeing Jesus in Chaos

Matthew 14:25-29

You could highlight how Jesus’ approach on the water reinforces His divine authority over creation and His personal approach toward our most fearful moments. Peter’s initial faith to step out mirrors our aspiration to trust Christ, demonstrating courage sparked by seeing Jesus amidst chaos. This moment invites reflection on our responses to Christ's command, highlighting that bold faith rooted in Jesus' identity transcends situational fears, stirring courage within us.

3. Sinking to Salvation

Matthew 14:30-33

Maybe, as Peter starts to sink, you illustrate how taking eyes off Jesus symbolizes how prioritizing problems over divine presence generates fear. Jesus' immediate rescue underscores His readiness to save, portraying His role as the ever-present helper. This exchange concludes with worship, reinforcing that when faced with sinking fears, acknowledging Jesus’ saving power leads to peace and reverence. Invite the audience to consistently redirect focus from fears to the unchanging, rescuing power of Christ as a lifestyle of faith.