JESUS WALKS ON WATER

JESUS WALKS ON WATER

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 14:22-33

Key Verse: “But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.” (Matthew 14:27)

Supporting Texts: Mark 6:45-52, John 6:16-21, Isaiah 43:2, Psalm 77:19, Hebrews 12:2

Description: This study reveals Christ’s authority over every storm, the importance of faith during difficult times, and the power of keeping one’s focus upon Jesus.

INTRODUCTION

After feeding the five thousand, Jesus instructed His disciples to cross over to the other side while He went into the mountain to pray. During the night, a strong storm arose, and the disciples struggled against the wind and waves. In the midst of their fear and exhaustion, Jesus came walking upon the sea.

The disciples were terrified, thinking they had seen a spirit, but Jesus immediately spoke words of comfort and assurance. Peter responded with faith and stepped out of the boat to walk toward Jesus on the water. However, when he shifted his attention from Christ to the storm, fear overcame him, and he began to sink.

This powerful account teaches believers that Jesus possesses authority over every storm of life. It also reveals that faith grows stronger when believers keep their eyes fixed upon Christ rather than circumstances.

1. STORMS OF LIFE ARE REAL BUT GOD REMAINS PRESENT

Believers may face difficulties, but they are never abandoned by God.

a) The disciples encountered a violent storm while obeying Jesus (Matthew 14:22-24)
Following God does not mean believers will never face trials or opposition. Even obedient Christians may encounter storms, delays, and difficult situations in life.

b) The storm created fear and uncertainty among the disciples (Matthew 14:26)
Human challenges often produce anxiety, confusion, and emotional pressure. Difficult circumstances can test faith and reveal spiritual weaknesses.

c) Jesus came to His disciples in the midst of the storm (Matthew 14:25)
The Lord does not abandon His people during hardship. He draws near in moments of fear, pain, and uncertainty to strengthen and sustain them.

d) God promises to remain with His people through every trial (Isaiah 43:2)
No storm is powerful enough to separate believers from God’s presence, protection, and care.

Biblical Example:
Paul faced a dangerous storm at sea, yet God preserved him and everyone aboard because of divine purpose and protection (Acts 27:20-25).

2. JESUS HAS AUTHORITY OVER EVERY IMPOSSIBILITY

Christ rules over nature, circumstances, and every human limitation.

a) Jesus walked upon the water effortlessly (Matthew 14:25)
What is impossible for men is completely under the authority and control of Christ. The storm and sea obeyed His power.

b) God’s power is greater than natural laws and human limitations (Jeremiah 32:27)
No situation is too difficult, complicated, or hopeless for God to handle.

c) Jesus revealed His divine nature through this miracle (Matthew 14:33)
The disciples recognised Christ’s authority and worshipped Him as the Son of God.

d) Believers must trust God above visible circumstances (2 Corinthians 5:7)
Faith requires confidence in God’s power even when situations appear impossible.

Biblical Example:
The Red Sea parted before Moses and the Israelites because God demonstrated His authority over nature and impossibility (Exodus 14:21-22).

3. FAITH GROWS WHEN BELIEVERS FOCUS ON JESUS

Spiritual stability comes from fixing attention upon Christ.

a) Peter stepped out of the boat in response to Jesus’ word (Matthew 14:28-29)
Genuine faith responds courageously to God’s instruction even when circumstances appear dangerous or uncertain.

b) Peter walked successfully while focused on Jesus (Matthew 14:29)
As long as his attention remained on Christ, he experienced supernatural victory over natural limitations.

c) Fear entered when Peter focused on the wind and waves (Matthew 14:30)
Doubt and discouragement often grow when believers become overwhelmed by problems instead of trusting God’s promises.

d) Jesus immediately reached out to save Peter (Matthew 14:31)
Even when believers struggle in faith, Christ remains merciful and ready to restore those who call upon Him sincerely.

Biblical Example:
David defeated Goliath because he focused on God’s power rather than the size of the giant before him (1 Samuel 17:45-47).

4. STORMS CAN LEAD TO GREATER REVELATION OF CHRIST

Trials often deepen spiritual understanding and worship.

a) The disciples worshipped Jesus after the miracle (Matthew 14:33)
Their experience in the storm revealed Christ’s greatness more deeply than before.

b) Difficult seasons often strengthen faith and dependence upon God (James 1:2-4)
Trials can mature believers spiritually and deepen trust in God.

c) God uses challenges to reveal His power and faithfulness (Romans 8:28)
Even painful situations can produce spiritual growth and testimony.

d) Every storm has the potential to bring believers closer to God (Psalm 46:1)
Hardship often drives believers into deeper prayer, worship, and intimacy with Christ.

Biblical Example:
Job endured severe trials, yet through them he gained deeper revelation and understanding of God’s greatness (Job 42:5).

CONCLUSION

The account of Jesus walking on water reveals His authority over every storm, challenge, and impossibility. Though the disciples faced fear and uncertainty, Christ came to them with power, peace, and assurance.

Peter’s experience teaches believers the importance of keeping their focus upon Jesus rather than circumstances. Faith grows stronger when believers trust God above visible problems and rely fully upon His power.

No storm is greater than Christ. Those who fix their eyes upon Him shall overcome fear, walk in victory, and experience deeper revelation of God’s power and presence.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, help me to trust You in every storm and difficulty of life in Jesus name

2. Father, remove every spirit of fear, anxiety, and doubt from my heart in Jesus name

3. Lord, strengthen my faith to focus continually upon You in Jesus name

4. Father, help me not to be overwhelmed by circumstances in Jesus name

5. Lord, speak peace into every storm surrounding my life in Jesus name

6. Father, let Your power manifest in every impossible situation before me in Jesus name

7. Lord, increase my confidence in Your ability to sustain and preserve me in Jesus name

8. Father, draw me closer to You through every challenge and trial in Jesus name

9. Lord, help me to walk victoriously above fear and limitation in Jesus name

10. Father, let my life continually reveal Your power, glory, and faithfulness in Jesus name

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. Every storm threatening your peace and stability shall be calmed by the power of God!

2. Fear, anxiety, and discouragement shall not overcome your faith!

3. The Lord shall uphold and strengthen you through every challenge!

4. You shall walk in victory above every impossibility and limitation!

5. God’s presence shall surround and preserve you continually!

6. Every wave of opposition assigned against your destiny shall fail!

7. Your faith shall grow stronger through every season of testing!

8. The power of Christ shall manifest mightily in every difficult situation around you!

9. You shall experience deeper revelation and intimacy with God!

10. Your life shall continually testify of God’s faithfulness, power, and miraculous intervention!