The Sea of Galilee, being located in a valley between mountainous terrain, is well known for its sudden, violent storms. Several of the disciples were professional fisherman and most likely had experienced these tempests frequently. But something about this storm was particularly terrifying to them. What was it and did they feel any less fearful after the storm ceased? The answer may surprise you!!!
Matthew 8:23-27
23 And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him. 24 And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. 25 And they went and woke him, saying, “Save us, Lord; we are perishing.” 26 And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?” Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. 27 And the men marveled, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?”
[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?
+ Do you think it's of any consequence that Matthew mentions that Jesus got in the boat first and his disciples followed Him? Why?
+ What does the fact that Jesus fell asleep tell you about Him?
+ Why did the disciples turn to Jesus for help? If they thought He could do something to help, then why were they still afraid? Have you ever cried out to the Lord for help and remained afraid? Why?
+ Based on what happened earlier in Chapter 8, do you think Jesus had just cause to chide the disciples for their fear? Have you ever seen Jesus work miracles in the past and yet doubt He will hear your pleas for help? Why?
+ Why does Matthew use the verb "rebuke" to describe what Jesus did to the storm? Read Luke 4:35, 39 and 41. Also, what happens when Jesus gets to the other side of the Sea of Galilee in verses 28 and following. Note the reaction of the people in verses 33-34 and compare it to the reaction of the disciples in verse 27. (Sorry next Daily author for delving into your verses)!!!
+ How would you answer the question "What "sort of man" is Jesus"? Read Psalm 89:8-9 and Colossians 1:15-17.
[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?
+ Is there a sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Do you have fear in your life? Fear of losing your job, fear of abandonment, fear for the welfare of your children, fear of losing a loved one, fear of death itself? "He (Jesus) was upset at their (the disciples) fear, because fear and unbelief go together. When we trust God as we should trust Him, there is little room left for fear" (Guzick 2018).
Heavenly Father, forgive me for sometimes doubting Your goodness and greatness. You are forever faithful. I echo the prayer of the father of the demon possessed son in Mark 9:24 "I do believe; help me in my unbelief". Amen.
[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?
+ What is my next step?