Faith through Christ's Presence

Strengthening Faith through Christ's Presence: Navigating Doubt and Finding Hope

11th Sunday after Pentecost - 8/13/2023 | Matthew 14:22-33 ESV

In the Gospel of Matthew, an enduring narrative unfolds—one that intricately weaves together elements of faith, doubt, and divine intervention. As we delve into the layers of this account, we will peel back the surface to uncover its profound meanings and explore how its message resonates in our lives today.

Embracing Doubt: A Tale of Faith

At the heart of this narrative stands our Lord Jesus Christ, whose teachings and actions continue to shape lives across generations. This event takes place shortly after Jesus miraculously feeds a multitude with five loaves of bread and two fish. Despite this awe-inspiring display of power, doubts and fears still linger among his disciples.

Matthew 14:22-24: "Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of him to the other side. After dismissing the crowd, he went up to a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it."

Jesus, fully acquainted with his disciples' hearts, guides them on a transformative journey. He directs them to embark on a voyage across the Sea of Galilee, a deliberate decision carrying a significant purpose. This journey serves a dual function: shielding them from earthly distractions that could obscure Jesus' mission clarity and preparing them for the challenges that lie ahead. This pivotal moment underscores Jesus' deep concern for the spiritual growth of his followers.

Confronting the Storm: Faith amidst Turmoil

As the disciples set sail, an unexpected tempest arises, rendering their boat helpless against the ferocity of the elements. In this chaos, a remarkable sight unfolds—Jesus appears, walking on the water's surface. However, this extraordinary spectacle triggers fear within the disciples, perceiving Him as an apparition of impending disaster.

Matthew 14:26-27: "When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: 'Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.'"

At this critical juncture, Peter, a disciple characterized by a blend of faith and uncertainty, steps forward. With a voice infused with both longing and hesitancy, he calls out to Jesus, seeking confirmation of his identity. Jesus responds with words that provide solace amidst the storm: "Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid." Through this declaration, Jesus unveils his divine presence and unrivaled power, dispelling the fear that had taken hold of them.

Matthew 14:28-29: "Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water." "Come," he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water, and came toward Jesus."

Empowered by Faith: Triumphing over Adversity

Empowered by faith and moved by Jesus' invitation, Peter displays audacity. With heart pounding, he steps out of the boat, his feet making contact with the water's surface as he moves toward the Lord. This audacious act defies the laws of nature, underscoring the impact of faith in triumphing over life's adversities. Peter's steps on the water symbolize the potential that blossoms when trust in Jesus takes root.

Battling Doubt: The Ebb of Certainty

Yet, as Peter progresses, his focus wavers. The howling wind and tumultuous waves divert his attention, and doubt stealthily infiltrates his thoughts. In an instant, Peter begins to sink as doubt erodes his confidence. This episode serves as a poignant reminder that shifting our gaze from Jesus to overwhelming circumstances allows doubt to corrode the core of our faith.

Matthew 14:30: "But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, 'Lord, save me!'"

Without hesitation, Jesus extends his hand, rescuing Peter from the depths. This compassionate gesture reveals Christ as a Savior who is always prepared to lift us from doubt and fear. His outstretched hand encapsulates a timeless promise—that he is consistently present to raise us when we stumble.

Matthew 14:31: "Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. 'You of little faith,' he said, 'why did you doubt?'"

Symbolism in Scripture: The Sea of Chaos

Interwoven into the narrative of Peter walking on water is a rich tapestry of truth drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. The turbulent sea, often symbolizing chaos and defiance against God, metaphorically represents the trials that punctuate our human journey. Jesus walking on water signifies his sovereignty over creation, even over the forces that threaten our equilibrium.

Job 38:4-8: "Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone—while the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy?"

Job 38:16-18: "Have you journeyed to the springs of the sea or walked in the recesses of the deep? Have the gates of death been shown to you? Have you seen the gates of the deepest darkness? Have you comprehended the vast expanses of the earth? Tell me, if you know all this."

Parallels from Job 38:4-18 echo God's dominion over the sea's unpredictable forces. This connection further underscores Jesus' role as the Son of God, possessing authority that extends across every facet of creation.

Similarly, the Epistle reading from Romans 10:5-17 highlights the primacy of faith and the proclamation of God's Word. Paul's words remind us that faith originates from hearing Christ's message and flourishes through nurturing God's Word. In a manner akin to how Jesus' words emboldened Peter, the teachings of the Gospel empower us to navigate the storms of life with unshakable conviction.

The Voyage of Faith: A Personal Journey

The account of Peter walking on water serves as a compelling analogy for our personal faith journeys. It mirrors the perpetual struggle between doubt and belief that each one of us encounters. Jesus' presence amid life's storms infuses us with hope and reassurance, urging us to fix our gaze upon Him. By embracing truths from the Old and New Testament, we recognize that Christ's power transcends the limitations of the material world.

Just as Peter overcame doubt by fixing his gaze on Jesus and relying on His unwavering support, let us rise above our uncertainties. As we navigate the storms of life, may we bear in mind that, anchored in faith and guided by Jesus, we can confidently traverse the waters of our unique journeys. Amen