Water Walking Faith

July 27, 2014

Mark 6:45-53 cf. Matthew 14:22-33 (text v. 31)

Immediately after the miracle of feeding 5,000, Jesus constrains the disciples to get into their boat and go back to “the other side” of the sea o Galilee. This is their fourth trip across the Sea of Galilee within a few days (Mk. 4:35; 5:21; 6:32; 6:45). READ text in Matthew 14:22-33.

Dispensational / Prophetic picture:

The disciples are sent (v. 22). We are sent into the world.
Jesus goes up on high to intercede (v. 23). Jesus is in heaven interced- ing for us today (Heb. 7:25).
It is night-time (this age is pictured as night – John 9:4; Rom. 13:12; 1 Thess. 5:2). “The fourth watch” is 3:00 am – 6:00 am. The darkest part of night, just before the dawn.
The disciples are fighting contrary winds (adversities of life). Jesus returns to rescue His church (Rapture is at hand).

I. Jesus SENDING (v. 22).

He “constrained” them to go, knowing a storm was coming. He had a purpose in sending them. What was it? Test their faith? To illustrate the prophetic picture? To manifest His power over nature?

A. Obedience doesn’t always mean “smooth sailing.”

B. Doing the will of God may involve going through a storm. There is no such thing as a “storm-free” life.

II. Jesus SEEING (Mk. 6:48). Hagar said, “Thou God seest me.”

No amount of distance can obscure Jesus from seeing us. [Jesus on the mountain, the ship was about three miles in the middle of the lake, and it was dark.] Jesus knows what I’m going through!
Perhaps Peter had this incident in mind when he wrote, “The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers” (1 Pet. 3:12)

III. Jesus STEPPING (vs. 25-26). Like taking a stroll on solid ground.