Matthew Henry Commentary Mark 4:35-41

"And on that day, when even was come, he saith unto them, Let us go over unto the other side. And leaving the multitude, they take him with them, even as he was, in the boat. And other boats were with him. And there ariseth a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the boat, insomuch that the boat was now filling. And he himself was in the stern, asleep on the cushion: and they awake him, and say unto him, Teacher, carest thou not that we perish? And he awoke, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, Why are ye fearful? have ye not yet faith? And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?" — Mark 4:35-41 (ASV)

Christ was asleep in the storm to test the faith of his disciples and to stir them up to pray. Their faith appeared weak, and their prayers strong.

When our wicked hearts are like the troubled sea which cannot rest, and when our passions are unruly, let us think we hear the law of Christ, saying, Be silent, be mute. When without are fightings, and within are fears, and our spirits are in a tumult, if he says, “Peace, be still,” there is a great calm at once.

Why are you so fearful? Though there may be cause for some fear, yet not for such fear as this. Those may suspect their faith who can have such a thought as that Jesus does not care though his people perish.

How imperfect are the best of saints! Faith and fear take their turns while we are in this world; but before long, fear will be overcome, and faith will be lost in sight.