Who is this?

Faith Over Fear: Jesus Is in the Boat

Bible Passage: Mark 4:35–41

Summary: In this narrative, Jesus invites His disciples to cross the Sea of Galilee. As they sail, a sudden storm arises, threatening their safety. Despite their panic, Jesus remains asleep in the boat. When awakened, He commands the wind and waves to be still, showing His power over nature and revealing the importance of faith in challenging circumstances.

Application: Children can draw from this story the lesson that they can overcome their fears by placing their trust in Jesus. This passage teaches them to remember that Jesus is always present with them, even when they forget or feel alone, encouraging them to pray and seek His help in difficult moments.

Teaching: The core teaching of this sermon is the necessity of faith in Jesus, especially during tumultuous times. When children face fears—whether about storms, darkness, or changes—they learn that Jesus' presence offers peace and support as they navigate through life's challenges.

How this passage could point to Christ: This event in the life of Jesus highlights His divinity as He exercises authority over the natural world. It foreshadows His ultimate victory over chaos and disorder in a fallen world, pointing towards the promise of ultimate peace and redemption found in Him through His death and resurrection, emphasizing that He is the Savior who brings both physical and spiritual reassurance.

Recommended Study: As you delve into this sermon preparation, consider studying how ancient Jewish culture perceived storms and divine authority. Explore commentaries that discuss the symbolic significance of storms within Scripture, focusing on their representation of chaos and fear. Using your Logos library, investigate the themes of faith and fear in the Gospel of Mark, and how Jesus’ calmness in the storm can teach children about reliance on God.

Big Idea: In the storms of life, Jesus invites us to trust Him, reminding us that He is with us, and His power can calm our fears and uncertainties.

1. Facing the Fierce Storm

Mark 4:35–37

Perhaps you could begin by illustrating the sense of fear and chaos the disciples felt as they faced the storm in this portion of the passage.

Emphasize how they were overwhelmed and afraid, even though they were experienced fishermen.

(BIG Storm think of who else in the Bible was caught in a storm with experienced fisherman “Jonah”)

Draw parallels to the fears and uncertainties children face today, reminding them that it's normal to feel scared sometimes. Introduce the idea that, like the disciples, we may often forget Jesus is with us during these moments.

2. Finding Peace in His Presence

Mark 4:38–41

Consider highlighting how, despite the chaos around Him, Jesus was peaceful and calm, asleep in the boat. When awakened, He demonstrated His authority over the elements by calming the storm.

Suggest that children can trust Jesus in their fears, knowing He has the power to bring peace to any situation.

This teaches them to rely on Jesus’ presence and power, learning that with Him in the boat of their lives, they can find calmness and security in the midst of life's storms.

Questions

Why do you think Jesus was able to sleep during the storm?

How can remembering that Jesus is with us help us when we feel scared?

Can you think of a time when you felt scared? What did you do to feel better?