23 And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him. 24 And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep. 25 And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish. 26 And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. 27 But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him! (Matthew 8:23-27KJV)
Thomas Haweis
Verses 23-27: Christ having issued his orders to cross the lake, his chosen disciples immediately obeyed and launched forth; for no danger or difficulties will deter those from following Jesus, who know the blessedness of his service. Since their master was with them, they counted, no doubt, they were perfectly safe: but, for the trial of their faith, and the manifestation of his glory, we find them plunged into the greatest danger and distress.
1. No sooner were they got to sea, than a violent hurricane overtook them. The waves, like mountains rolled, broke over them with dreadful roar; and their boat filled almost with water, was ready instantly to founder in the deep; while Jesus, as if unconcerned and unacquainted with the danger, wearied with his labours, sweetly slept. Note, (1.) They who follow Christ will meet with many a storm. (2.) Christ often seems to disregard his people when their dangers seem most imminent. (3.) The temptations permitted to overtake the faithful, are designed not to harm them, but to exercise, strengthen, and brighten their graces.
2. With deep distress the affrighted disciples ran to their Lord, and with their cries awoke him, saying, Lord, save us, we perish; their case was desperate if he did not immediately interpose. Note, (1.) Awakened consciences feel their perilous condition, and see their inevitable destruction without divine grace and help. (2.) Prayer will be then fervent and importunate, when the deep sensibility of danger raises the cry. (3.) They who come to Jesus must exercise faith in his sufficiency to save, though utterly despairing of help in themselves. (4.) Even doubts and fears will sometimes mingle with the prayer of faith.
3. Jesus with calmness and majestic dignity arose, rebukes their fears, then bids the storm be still, and suddenly the foaming billows subside, the winds are hushed, the troubled waters now are smooth, and not a breath of air dimples the polished surface. Note, (1.) In the stormy seasons of temptation, many a fear distresses the faithful heart. (2.) Those may have true faith who have but little faith. (3.) The weakness of our faith, and the prevalence of our fears deserve rebuke, as they reflect dishonour upon the faithfulness, power, and grace of Jesus; wherefore are ye fearful? (4.) Though the storm of temptation be never so violent, no sinner that cleaves to Jesus shall ever perish. (5.) Where the distresses of the soul have been peculiarly deep, and the trials uncommonly severe, there usually the strongest consolations, and the most delightful sensations follow, of joy and peace in believing.
4. The effect produced by the miracle was, the astonishment of the mariners or disciples who were in the ship, or of both. Never was such an amazing change known before: and this naturally leads them to express their admiration of this wonderful person, whom even winds and waves obeyed. Note, They who have experienced the power of a Saviour’s grace, in circumstances where every prospect seemed covered with darkness and despair, cannot but wonder and adore.