This message explores the fifth sign in John’s Gospel, where Jesus walks on water across the Sea of Galilee.
(John 6:16-21)
Sermon Outline
“When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened.” (John 6:19)
Assailed by Storms: the disciples
- Alone in the night (6:16-17)
- Fierce storms (6:18-19a)
- Stormy fears (6:19b)
Walking on Water: Jesus
- Approaching the boat, walking on water (6:19)
→ authority; greater than Moses; God walks on the paths of the sea (Job 9:8; Psalm 77:16-19) - Speaking who He is, casting out fear (6:20)
→ revelation; “I AM…”; God casts out fear (“I AM” statements of John; Mark 6:50; 1 John 4:18) - Entering the boat, immediate arrival (6:21)
→ presence; like in the upper room (John 20:19-29)
Encountering Jesus
- Only Jesus walks on water
- Only Jesus walks on water because He is God
- Encountering Jesus in the storms and receiving Him into the boat
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
- When have you experienced storms in your life where you either felt alone or strongly experienced the presence of God? What happened?
- This week we continue our sermon series “Look for the Signs,” by exploring John 6:16-21. Whether on your own or with others, begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you. Since today’s text is brief perhaps you could read it through slowly twice, giving additional time for reflection.
- What do you notice about the situation of the disciples in verses 16-18? Enter into the story in your imagination, and reflect on what particularly stands out to your senses about this.
- Why do you think the disciples were afraid when they see the figure who is Jesus walking on the water toward them?
- How does Jesus respond to them?
- In Scripture, appearances of angels or divine revelation are often accompanied by words dispelling fear (e.g., Genesis 15:1; 21:17-19; 26:24-25; Joshua 1:9; Daniel 10:10-12; Luke 1:11-13; 2:8-10; Revelation 1:17-18). What might this be telling us about who Jesus is?
- What is one thing you sense God is bringing to your attention through this week’s study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and then pray about what you shared. If you are on your own, write it down, pray about it, and consider sharing your thoughts with someone this week.
DIG DEEPER
- Exploring Faith–The disciples were still learning who Jesus was in the gospel, and this episode (like each of the seven signs) brought a revelation of who Jesus is. What does this story of Jesus speak to you about who He might be? What questions does it raise that you want to explore further?
- Growing in Faith–In what area of your life do you need to invite Jesus into the boat that He might be with you and bring His peace to you?
- Centered in Faith–Is there someone in your sphere of influence that needs to encounter Jesus entering their boat? Pray about this person, and that God would give you an opportunity to speak to them. Look for and pursue them in some way this week.