Matthew 14:22-33
Chapter 14
He Walks On Water
Immediately, Jesus obliged his disciples to get into the boat and go ahead of him to the other side, while he sent the crowd away.After sending the people away, he went up the mountain alone to pray. By nightfall, he was there all alone.
Meanwhile, the boat was far from land, dangerously rocked by the waves, because the wind was against it.
At dawn, Jesus walked on the sea to reach them.
When they saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, thinking it was a ghost. And they cried out in fear.
But immediately, Jesus said to them:
“Take courage! Don’t be afraid. It’s me!”
Peter responded:
“Lord, if it is you, tell me to come to you on the water.”
Jesus told him:
“Come!”
Peter stepped out of the boat and walked on the water to go to Jesus.
But seeing the strong wind, he was afraid and began to sink; he cried out:
“Lord, save me!”
Jesus immediately extended his hand and grasped him, saying:
“Man of little faith, why did you doubt?”
As they stepped into the boat, the wind died down.
Then those in the boat bowed down before Jesus, saying:
“Truly, you are the Son of God!”
Commentaries
He Walks on Water.
During the night, amid a stormy sea, Jesus appears to his disciples. We can connect this event to the stories of the Transfiguration and Easter: displays of Jesus’ deep identity as Lord—he controls the elements (cf. Ps 77:20), brings peace and confidence through his presence (a familiar pattern, cf. Is 41:10; 43:5), with his words, and with the touch of his hand (cf. Ps 73:23; 80:18). Peter is not afraid because he sinks, but he sinks because he is afraid (cf. Ps 69:2f). Matthew thus illustrates the apostle’s spiritual journey: when Jesus reveals himself, he recognizes him; he responds to his call and follows him with bold confidence; he hesitates, falters in danger, and is saved by Jesus.