Gospel of Mark Part 35: Jesus Walks on Water [Small Group Discussion]
- Rev. Bruce A. Shields
- Sep 26
- 2 min read
Scripture Focus: Mark 6:45–52
Opening Question
Have you ever felt like you were rowing against the storms of life, exhausted and wondering if Jesus was anywhere near?
Background
After feeding the five thousand, Jesus sent His disciples ahead by boat while He dismissed the crowd. As they struggled against the wind and waves in the middle of the night, Jesus came to them walking on the water. In this event, we see three anchors of hope that sustain us in life’s storms: the prayer of Jesus, the peace of His presence, and the promise of His return.
Key Points
1. The Prayer During the Storms
Jesus went to the mountain to pray while the disciples battled the waves (Mark 6:46–47).
Even in His ministry’s busiest moments, Jesus made prayer His priority.
He is now our High Priest in heaven, interceding for us (Hebrews 7:25; Romans 8:34).
Imagine: while you are rowing through hardship, Jesus is praying for you.
2. The Peace in the Presence of Jesus
The disciples thought they saw a ghost, but Jesus immediately reassured them: “Take courage; it is I, do not be afraid” (Mark 6:50).
When He entered the boat, the storm ceased and peace followed.
Jesus is always near, waiting for our call (Matthew 7:7–8; Acts 2:21).
His presence brings courage, comfort, and worship (Matthew 14:33).
3. The Power of Jesus Returning
Just as Jesus came to His disciples in their storm, He will one day return to bring eternal peace.
Life’s storms remind us that we are rowing toward eternity’s shore.
The final “storm” will be the Day of the Lord, but His people can look forward with hope (2 Peter 3:10–13).
For the believer, His coming is not fear but promise—peace in the new heavens and new earth.
Application
Make prayer a daily priority. If Jesus prayed, how much more must we?
Remember that Jesus is with you, even when you cannot see Him. Call on His name in faith.
Live ready for His return, striving for holy conduct while looking forward to eternal peace.
Discussion Questions
Why do you think Jesus chose to spend time in prayer before walking to His disciples?
How does it comfort you to know that Jesus is interceding for you right now?
What storms are you rowing through, and how can the presence of Jesus bring you peace in them?
How does looking forward to Christ’s return help us persevere in faith today?
What practical steps can you take this week to “devote yourself to prayer” (Colossians 4:2)?
Memory Verse
“But immediately He spoke with them and said to them, ‘Take courage; it is I, do not be afraid.’”— Mark 6:50
Prayer Focus
Pray that each member would find strength in knowing Jesus prays for them, courage in His presence, and hope in His promised return.
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