calling of the storm

• Calming the storm


  Calming the storm
• On the evening of that same day. Jesus said to his disciples, 'Let us go across to the other side of the lake.'


  Mark 4: 35-41
• Calming the storm


  1. They left the crowd; the disciples got into the boat in which Jesus was already sitting, and they took him with them

  2. Suddenly a strong wind blew up, and the waves began to spill over into the boat, so that it was about to fill with water

  3. Jesus stood up and commanded the wind, Be quiet!" and he said to the waves, 'Be still!' The wind died down, and there was a great calm
• The disciples' faith


  Jesus said to his disciples, "Why are you frightened? Do you still have no faith?
• The storm must have been severe as the disciples, some of whom were experienced fishermen, were frightened
• There is a contrast between Jesus' faith and the disciples' lack of faith
• Jesus' command to the wind and the waves is like the words he uses when casting out demons
• What does this passage tell us about the identity of Jesus?

  This miracle shows Jesus as Saviour. Jewish people believed only God had the power to control nature and here Jesus behaves as though he were God.
• Symbolism in this miracle


  • The storm represents the difficulties a Christian may face in their life, such as persecution
  • If a Christian has faith like Jesus in the story, God will come to their aid, comfort and save them in their time of need
  • The boat is sometimes used as a symbol for the Church
• This story would have given first-century Christians hope and encouragement in their troubled times and its message continues to comfort Christians today
• An eyewitness detail most likely from Peter