Mark 6:45-56

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

The Miracle of the Lord Walking on the Water

BACKGROUND NOTES



DOCTRINAL POINT(S)

  1. The Lord is praying for us in heaven while we are toiling here on earth.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

  1. The Lord can walk on your troubled waters.

QUESTIONS

  1. Why did Jesus compel the disciples to get into the boat?

  2. What happened to the disciples while they were in the boat?

  3. Did Jesus really walk on the water?

  4. Was there healing magic in touching Jesus' garment?

  5. What is the Lord's present ministry on behalf of His disciples?

  6. What do parables and miracles have in common?

  7. How did Jesus answer the frightened cry of the disciples? How does this apply to us today?

ANSWERS

  1. They wanted to make Him a king, but the cross had to come first.

  2. A strong wind arose, which was not uncommon on the Sea of Galilee. It took all of their strength to keep rowing to Bethsaida, as the Lord had asked them to do.

  3. Yes! Although some would say that He found a sandbar or stepping stones to keep Him up. Incidentally, it was the same place where Peter walked on the water. When Jesus walked on water, it was another miracle showing His power over nature.

  4. There was no magic in the touch, but the healing was the Lord's response to the faith of those who reached out.

  5. Intercessory.

  6. They present a spiritual picture of the truth portrayed.

  7. He talked with them and said, "Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid." He went to them and the wind ceased. For us today? Are you troubled? Straining at the oars? Afraid? Sometimes the Lord permits hardships in our lives, and He may wait before answering our cry, but then He brings the calm. Do not be afraid, for He is here. Follow the Lord's directions, even when the winds are contrary.

DISCUSS/CONSIDER

  1. What is the spiritual truth pictured in this account?

  2. When you find yourself in troubled waters, be assured that a) the Lord is interceding on your behalf (He is praying for you), and b) the Lord is with you.

CHALLENGE

  1. Recall how the disciples tried to follow the Lord's directions, even against all odds. Are you trying to follow His directions, even when your sea is troubled?

KEY VERSES

  • "When Jesus had sent them away, He departed to the mountain to pray...He talked to them and said, 'Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid." (Mark 6:46, 49)



Mark, Talks, New TestamentDeb HarmsMark 6:45-56