When Jesus calmed the storm, it was a pivotal moment for his disciples. The event is recorded in the Bible in Matthew 8:23-27, Mark 4:35-41, and Luke 8:22-25. In this article, we will explore what the disciples realized when Jesus calmed the storm.
The Storm
Before we delve into what the disciples realized, let’s first understand the magnitude of the storm. The Sea of Galilee is known for its sudden and violent storms.
The waves can reach up to 10 feet high and can capsize small boats. So, when Jesus and his disciples were crossing the sea and a storm hit them, it was no ordinary storm.
Fear and Panic
The disciples were experienced fishermen who had probably faced storms before. However, this storm was different. It was so fierce that they feared for their lives. They woke Jesus up from his sleep and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”
(Mark 4:38). Their words reveal their fear and panic.
Jesus Calms the Storm
In response to their plea for help, Jesus got up and rebuked the wind and waves saying, “Quiet! Be still!” (Mark 4:39).
Immediately, there was a great calm. The wind stopped blowing, the waves subsided, and there was silence on the sea.
Realization of Who Jesus Is
The calming of the storm had a profound impact on the disciples. They were amazed at what they had just witnessed. In Matthew’s account of the event (Matthew 8:27), we read that they said, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and waves obey him!”
The disciples realized that Jesus was not just an ordinary man. He had power over nature itself.
Realization of Their Own Faith
The calming of the storm also revealed the disciples’ own faith. In Luke’s account of the event (Luke 8:25), we read that Jesus said to them, “Where is your faith?” This question implies that the disciples should have had faith in Jesus regardless of the storm.
They should have trusted that he would keep them safe. The disciples realized that their faith was not strong enough and that they needed to trust Jesus more.
Application Today
The story of Jesus calming the storm is not just a historical event. It has relevance for us today. We all face storms in our lives- times of trouble, fear, and uncertainty.
Just like the disciples, we can turn to Jesus for help and he will calm our storms. We can also learn from the disciples’ realization of who Jesus is and what it means to have faith in him.
- Conclusion:
In conclusion, when Jesus calmed the storm, it was a momentous occasion for his disciples. They realized who Jesus was and what it meant to have faith in him.
Today, we can also learn from this event and turn to Jesus in our own storms knowing that he has power over nature and will keep us safe.