Matthew 14:27

But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.

Matthew 14:27 (KJV)

Context

Jesus had just fed the multitude with five loaves and two fish, demonstrating His power to provide. Afterward, He sent His disciples ahead in a boat while He dismissed the crowd and went up into a mountain to pray. As the disciples crossed the Sea of Galilee, they encountered a storm and were battered by the waves. In the fourth watch of the night, Jesus came to them, walking on the water.

Meaning

When the disciples saw Jesus walking on the water, they were terrified, thinking they had seen a ghost. Jesus immediately spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.” His immediate response shows His concern for their welfare; He did not intend to frighten them but to save them. The command to take courage is grounded in His presence: “It is I.” If Jesus is near, there is no room for fear.

Jesus’ declaration, “It is I,” holds significant meaning. The Greek phrase used here, “ego eimi,” can also be translated as “I am.” This echoes the divine name of God revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:14, where God said, “I AM WHO I AM.” By using this phrase, Jesus was affirming His deity and the presence of God with them in their time of fear and distress.

Biblical connections

This verse connects to the broader biblical theme of Jesus’ authority over nature and His care for His disciples in times of trouble. The disciples’ fear stemmed from lack of discernment; they did not recognize Jesus. This teaches that lack of discernment can blind the soul to its richest consolations.

Application

Jesus encouraged His disciples to be of good cheer and not be afraid. This teaches us that even in the midst of life’s storms and challenges, we can find courage and comfort in the presence of Jesus. He is the source of peace and assurance, enabling us to overcome our fears.

This account also highlights the importance of faith. Peter, one of the disciples, asked Jesus to command him to come to Him on the water. Jesus granted his request, and as long as Peter had his focus on Jesus, he was able to walk on the water too. However, when he shifted his attention to the wind and the waves, fear crept in, and he began to sink. Jesus reached out and rescued him, illustrating the need to keep our faith rooted in Christ, regardless of the circumstances around us.

Reflection

Matthew 14:27 reminds us that in the midst of life’s challenges, Jesus is with us, providing comfort, peace, and encouragement. We are called to trust in Him, maintain our focus on Him, and not let fear overwhelm us. By keeping our faith in Christ, we can navigate through the storms of life and find strength to overcome.