Lord over the Storm

Christ Revealed as Lord Over the Storm

In John 6:16 to 21, the Apostle John records a moment that reveals both the glory and gentleness of Jesus Christ. This account follows immediately after the feeding of the five thousand and Jesus withdrawing alone to the mountain. What unfolds is not merely a miracle at sea, but a revelation of Christ’s divine authority and His faithful care for His own.

As evening came, the disciples descended to the Sea of Galilee and entered a boat, intending to cross to Capernaum. John notes that Jesus had not yet come to them. Darkness had set in, the wind was strong, and the sea was becoming rough. These seasoned fishermen found themselves struggling against forces entirely beyond their control. This scene is a fitting picture of the Christian life. Even those who obey Christ and follow His commands are not exempt from storms. In fact, obedience often places us directly into them.

The disciples had rowed three or four miles when they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near to the boat. Their response was fear. This is not surprising. When divine glory breaks into human weakness, fear often precedes understanding. Yet Jesus immediately speaks words of comfort and revelation, saying, “It is I; do not be afraid” (John 6:20, ESV). The phrase “It is I” echoes the divine name revealed in Scripture, reminding us that the One who walks upon the waves is none other than the great “I AM.” This is not merely reassurance. It is revelation.

From a Reformed perspective, this passage powerfully displays the sovereignty of Christ. The wind and the waves do not resist Him. They submit to Him. The sea that threatened the disciples becomes a pathway beneath His feet. Creation responds to its Creator. This same sovereign Christ who commands the storm is the One who has already set His love upon His people from before the foundation of the world. Nothing, not wind, water, fear, or darkness, lies outside His rule.

When the disciples willingly receive Jesus into the boat, John records that “immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going” (John 6:21, ESV). There is no explanation offered, only the result. Where Christ is received, deliverance follows according to His perfect will and timing. The destination is reached not through human strength, but through His presence.

This passage reminds us that Christ does not always remove the storm right away. Instead, He comes to His people in the midst of it. He reveals Himself, calms their fear, and carries them safely to where He intends them to be. Our security is not found in calm seas, but in the Lord who rules over them.

For those walking through seasons of fear, uncertainty, or suffering, John 6:16 to 21 calls us to fix our eyes on Christ. He is not distant. He is not unaware. He comes to His own, speaks peace, and accomplishes His purposes without fail. The same Jesus who walked on the water is the same Lord who intercedes for His people today and will lose none of those the Father has given Him.

We always encourage everyone to check everything through the lens of the Scriptures. Be like the noble Bereans of Paul’s day. Please visit us here for much more, and remember, Christ is enough.

As Christmas approaches, let us spend time with our Lord and celebrate together the gift that was given to us in Jesus Christ our Lord.  Merry Christmas and until we meet again, lets go serve our King!

FRF Family