Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Mark 6:48

"And seeing them distressed in rowing, for the wind was contrary unto them, about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking on the sea; and he would have passed by them:" — Mark 6:48 (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.”