What lessons can we learn from Peter walking on water in Matthew 14?

The account of Peter walking on water in Matthew 14:22-33 is one of the most profound and instructive narratives in the New Testament. This story, rich in symbolism and spiritual lessons, provides a window into the nature of faith, the character of Jesus, and the journey of discipleship. Let us delve into this passage and extract the lessons it offers.

The story begins with Jesus sending His disciples ahead of Him in a boat while He goes up on a mountainside to pray. As night falls, the boat is buffeted by the waves because the wind is against it. In the early hours of the morning, Jesus approaches the boat, walking on the water. The disciples, seeing Him, are terrified, thinking He is a ghost. Jesus immediately reassures them, saying, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid" (Matthew 14:27, NIV). Peter, ever the impulsive disciple, responds, "Lord, if it's you, tell me to come to you on the water" (Matthew 14:28, NIV). Jesus invites him, and Peter steps out of the boat and begins to walk on the water toward Jesus. However, when Peter sees the wind, he becomes afraid and begins to sink, crying out, "Lord, save me!" Jesus reaches out His hand and catches him, saying, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" They climb into the boat, and the wind dies down. The disciples worship Jesus, declaring, "Truly you are the Son of God" (Matthew 14:33, NIV).

Faith Requires Focus

One of the most immediate lessons from this passage is the necessity of maintaining focus on Jesus. Peter's initial act of stepping out of the boat is a remarkable demonstration of faith. He trusts Jesus enough to step onto the tumultuous sea. However, when he shifts his focus from Jesus to the wind and the waves, fear overtakes him, and he begins to sink. This shift in focus from the Savior to the surrounding circumstances is a powerful metaphor for our spiritual lives. Hebrews 12:2 exhorts us to "fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith" (NIV). When our gaze is fixed on Christ, we find the strength and courage to face the storms of life. Conversely, when we allow our attention to be consumed by the challenges and dangers around us, our faith falters, and we begin to sink.

The Nature of Doubt

Jesus' question to Peter, "Why did you doubt?" (Matthew 14:31, NIV), invites us to examine the nature of doubt. Doubt is not the absence of faith but rather a wavering between faith and unbelief. Peter's doubt surfaces not because he lacks faith entirely but because his faith is momentarily eclipsed by fear. This teaches us that faith and doubt often coexist in our spiritual journey. The presence of doubt does not disqualify us from following Jesus, but it does challenge us to deepen our trust in Him. James 1:6-8 warns against being "double-minded" and "unstable" in our faith, urging us to seek wisdom from God with a steadfast heart.

The Power of Jesus' Presence

Another significant lesson is the transformative power of Jesus' presence. The disciples are initially terrified, thinking they see a ghost. Jesus' reassurance, "It is I. Don't be afraid" (Matthew 14:27, NIV), dispels their fear. His presence brings peace in the midst of the storm. This echoes the promise of Isaiah 41:10, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God" (NIV). The presence of Jesus in our lives has the power to calm our fears and bring peace, even when the circumstances around us are chaotic.

The Importance of Prayer

The context of this miracle is also instructive. Before walking on water, Jesus spends time alone in prayer. This highlights the importance of communion with God as the foundation of ministry and miracles. Jesus models a life of dependence on the Father, reminding us that spiritual power and discernment are cultivated in the place of prayer. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to present our requests to God through prayer and petition, promising that the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

The Call to Step Out in Faith

Peter's willingness to step out of the boat is a call to all believers to step out in faith. Following Jesus often requires us to leave the safety and security of our "boats"—our comfort zones, routines, and self-reliance. It is an invitation to trust Jesus in new and sometimes frightening ways. This act of faith is not a reckless leap but a response to Jesus' invitation. When Peter says, "Lord, if it's you, tell me to come to you on the water" (Matthew 14:28, NIV), he seeks Jesus' command before acting. This teaches us that genuine faith responds to the call of Christ, not to our own whims or desires.

Jesus' Readiness to Save

Peter's cry, "Lord, save me!" (Matthew 14:30, NIV), and Jesus' immediate response highlight the readiness of Jesus to save those who call on Him. Even when our faith falters, Jesus is quick to extend His hand and lift us up. This is a beautiful picture of grace. Our salvation does not depend on the perfection of our faith but on the faithfulness of Jesus. Romans 10:13 assures us, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (NIV). Jesus' readiness to save is a source of immense comfort and hope.

Worship as a Response to Revelation

Finally, the disciples' response to this miracle is worship. When Jesus and Peter climb into the boat and the wind dies down, the disciples worship Him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God" (Matthew 14:33, NIV). This moment of revelation leads to worship. True worship arises from a recognition of who Jesus is—the Son of God, sovereign over nature, and Savior of the world. This narrative invites us to respond to Jesus' revelation in our lives with worship, acknowledging His divinity and lordship.

Conclusion

The story of Peter walking on water is a rich tapestry of spiritual lessons. It teaches us about the necessity of focusing on Jesus, the nature of doubt, the power of Jesus' presence, the importance of prayer, the call to step out in faith, Jesus' readiness to save, and worship as a response to revelation. As we meditate on this passage, we are invited to deepen our faith, trust in Jesus' presence, and respond to His call with courage and worship. This narrative is not just a historical account but a living word that speaks to our hearts, encouraging us to walk with Jesus on the waters of our own lives.