Walking on Water

Illustration of Walking on Water

In the Gospel accounts, following the feeding of the five thousand, Jesus sent his disciples ahead by boat across the Sea of Galilee while he prayed alone on the mountain. A violent storm arose during the night, and Jesus approached them walking on the water, revealing his identity with the words "It is I" before inviting Peter to step out of the boat. Peter walked briefly toward Jesus but began to sink when fear and doubt overcame his faith, leading Jesus to rescue him and question the weakness of his trust. This event highlights Jesus' divine sovereignty over nature, reinforces the call to steadfast faith amid trials, and strengthens the disciples' understanding of his messianic identity in Scripture.

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Details

Category
Nature
Testament
New Testament
Performed by
Jesus

Key Passages

Jesus Walks on Water

Matthew 14:25-33

A25nd in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.

26 And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. 27 But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. 28 And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. 29 And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. 31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? 32 And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. 33 Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.

Mark's Account

Mark 6:47-52

A47nd when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land.

48 And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them. 49 But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: 50 For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid. 51 And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. 52 For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened.

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Did You Know?

1

The disciples had been rowing against the wind for 9 hours (from evening to the 'fourth watch').

2

Peter actually walked on water too. He only sank when he looked at the waves instead of Jesus.

3

Jesus said 'It is I'. Literally 'I AM' in Greek, echoing God's name from Exodus.