The feeding of the 500 and the walking on the water, the calming of the storm miracles, build to a peak with Peter acknowledging that Jesus is the Son of God. Jesus demonstrates that He is Lord over creation, he is the one who commands water, wind and wave to do his will. However, unfortunately the disciples have not yet truly learned that God will provide for their needs. But their understanding is deepening.
Jesus, can be compared here with Moses, who parted the red sea, but Jesus does not simply act for God, but rather God acts in him to conquer the stormy sea and rescue his people. Jesus demonstrates that he has the full authority and power of God. The one who can multiply the loaves of bread can walk on water and calms the storm. Miracles that are found in the Old Testament that only Yahweh God can do, Jesus is truly Lord of all creation.
Jesus had previously taught his disciples to rely on his merciful provision in the feeding of the 5000. In this reading Jesus leads his disciples into a time of testing. Unlike Jesus, (and like the Isreal who had failed their test in the wilderness), Jesus disciples partially pass this test shown in their little faith that is spoken of by Jesus. Peter is presented as the model disciple even in his ultimate failing to trust Jesus fully. He is an all-too human figure, struggling with his growing awareness of who Christ truly is, as we do.
When we are overwhelmed by external difficulties, Jesus is the only one who can truly remove our worries in this life. It is important to note that the disciples did not drift into the storm by accident. Matthew uses the word “made” or “compelled” to describe Jesus’ instruction to them to get into the boat. Jesus knew the storm was coming, and as such this is one of the most uncomfortable truths in the passage. Jesus does not always shield his followers from difficult circumstances. Sometimes he sends them directly into them, because what the storm produces in the disciple is something that calm water never could.
When Jesus enters the boat, the wind stops immediately and the disciples respond, not with relief, not with applause, but with worship: as Peter speaks, “Truly you are the Son of God.” This is the first time Matthew records the disciples worshiping Jesus in this clear way.
The three words spoken to reassure the disciples in the boat, "It is I," are in the original koine Greek, only two words which are (ego eimi), and these words are much more powerful and significant. Jesus did not say, "It is I" but he said "I am," which is a direct declaration of His deity.
Remember, Moses had asked God:
"Indeed, when I come to the children of Israel and say to them, 'The God of your fathers has sent me to you,' and they say to me, 'What is His name?' what shall I say to them?" And God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM." And He said, "Therefore you shall say to the children of Israel, 'I AM has sent me to you.'" (Exodus 3:13-14).
Clearly, Jesus was declaring that He is the Yahweh the God of the Old Testament. Throughout the New Testament, there are a number of significant places where Christ refers himself to "I AM” statements. Jesus declares: I AM the bread of life; I Am the light of the world; I Am the good shepherd; I AM the resurrection; I Am the way, I Am the truth, I Am the life; and I Am the Alpha and Omega.
A Prayer
Lord, I confess that what this passage says is true of me too. I have stood in the boat paralysed when you were walking toward me. I have taken my eyes off you and felt the water rise. I have been afraid of the very thing you were sending to help me. Teach me to recognize your voice across the water. Teach me to ask for the command before I step. And when I sink, remind me that three words are enough. You reach before I finish asking. Amen.