Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Mark 6:47

"And when even was come, the boat was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land." — Mark 6:47 (ASV)

The time of this incident was “evening,” probably late at night. A boat in the middle of the Lake of Galilee could easily be seen at the time of the full moon. Apparently the wind was blowing from the north or northeast and had blown the disciples off their course. They were facing a stiff headwind. Between 3–6 A. M. Jesus came to them “walking on the lake.” The disciples in the boat thought that this ghostly figure was going to pass by them. 49–50 Although they did not recognize him at first, Jesus identified himself and calmed their fears with words of assurance: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”