Day 19 - John 6:16-21
07 Feb 2017
The last sign that Jesus performed was in front of a huge audience - over 5,000 people. Now Jesus moves away from them. The day turns to night. The next sign Jesus does is just as amazing as the feeding of the crowd, but it is for the disciples’ eyes only.
It is hard to imagine what the disciples must be thinking at the end of the day they have just had. They’ve seen wonderful things. But their amazement must also be coupled with confusion. Jesus has disappeared! They are left by themselves on the other side of Galilee. So probably reluctantly they board their boats to get home. After it, it is now dark (verse 17). It isn’t an easy journey though - the conditions make a turn for the worse (verse 18).
In the middle of this storm they see an amazing sight. Jesus is walking towards them. Now, we need to remember verse 18 - this is not a serene lake in the middle of a glorious day. It would be miraculous to see Jesus walking on water in those conditions. But he is coming towards them across the sea at night in the middle of a storm. The disciples are frightened. They simply can’t comprehend what they are seeing. The only explanation must be that Jesus is God - and to be face to face with God is always a terrifying experience.
Their fears are calmed when Jesus speaks (verse 19). “Do not be afraid”. Whenever God meets his people two things happen. They are terrified, and God calms their fears.
What does this sign point to? How does it reveal Jesus’ glory? In the Old Testament the Lord is described as one who has control over the seas (look up Psalm 65 and Psalm 107). More than that, the Lord is the one who controls the sea for the purpose of rescuing his people. When the Israelites were set free from slavery in Egypt they were brought to safety by the Lord parting the Red Sea so they could walk through it on dry land. And now, at Passover time (see 5:1) Jesus has fed his people in the wilderness and shown his power over the sea. He is the Lord who rescues his people - and he’s come to bring a greater rescue than the Passover.