EXPLORE THE TEXT
2 Jesus’s Invitation (Matt. 14:28-30)When Jesus issues an invitation,
we can step out with confidence knowing that He is with us.
28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter answered him,
“command me to come to you on the water.”
29 He said, “Come.”
And climbing out of the boat, Peter started walking on the water and came toward Jesus.30 But when he saw the strength of the wind, he was afraid,
and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me!”
Describe Peter’s emotions, both before he left the boat and once he began to sink.
Highlight these truths:
As soon as Peter heard Jesus’s voice, he wanted to do what Jesus was doing.
He called out to Him, “Lord, if it’s you.”
The Greek grammar points to the meaning being “since it’s you.” . .
We typically focus on Peter’s lack of faith in this instance (vv. 30-31).
But what about the others?
Peter, at least, was willing to take the risk to be like his Master and be with his Master.
He knew there was safety with Jesus. (PSG, p. 14)
Once Peter’s faith was overcome by fear, he began to sink.
But he was smart enough to cry out to Jesus.
The same Lord who called him out of the boat would rescue him from the waves.
Explain that the group will see Peter show up several times in Matthew 14-28.
Peter’s act of courage and faith are mentioned only in Matthew’s Gospel.
How has Peter's action in these verses challenged you to trust Jesus more?