Lent 2023: John 6:16-21

The Fifth Sign: Walking on Water

16 When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea, 17 got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum. Darkness had already set in, but Jesus had not yet come to them. 18 A high wind arose, and the sea began to churn. 19 After they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea. He was coming near the boat, and they were afraid. 20 But he said to them, “It is I. Don’t be afraid.” 21 Then they were willing to take him on board, and at once the boat was at the shore where they were heading.

—John 6:6-21

Read & Journal

Read John 6:16-21. Journal about what you’ve read, using these questions or others.

• What does this miracle teach you about Jesus’ character? His purpose?

• In the Gospel of John, Jesus’ miracles are presented as evidence that Jesus is the Messiah. How does the miracle in today’s passage affirm that?

• Many of Jesus’ disciples were fishermen. If the conditions on the Sea of Galilee were terrifying to them, what does it tell us about the storm?

• In the accounts of this miracle in Matthew and Mark, the writers stress that Jesus sent the disciples away. Why would Jesus ask His disciples to sail into a storm?

• What are the storms in your own life right now? How might Jesus be using that situation to display His authority and power? How might He be asking you to respond in faith?