Matthew Henry Commentary Matthew 14:22-33

"And straightway he constrained the disciples to enter into the boat, and to go before him unto the other side, till he should send the multitudes away. And after he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into the mountain apart to pray: and when even was come, he was there alone. But the boat was now in the midst of the sea, distressed by the waves; for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night he came unto them, walking upon the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a ghost; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto the upon the waters. And he said, Come. And Peter went down from the boat, and walked upon the waters to come to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried out, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and took hold of him, and saith unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were gone up into the boat, the wind ceased. And they that were in the boat worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God." — Matthew 14:22-33 (ASV)

Those are not Christ's followers who cannot enjoy being alone with God and their own hearts. It is good, on special occasions, and when we find our hearts enlarged, to continue long in secret prayer, and in pouring out our hearts before the Lord. It is no new thing for Christ's disciples to meet with storms in the way of duty, but by this he shows himself with greater grace to them and for them. He can take whatever way he pleases to save his people.

But even appearances of deliverance sometimes cause trouble and perplexity to God's people, from mistakes about Christ. Nothing ought to frighten those who have Christ near them, and know he is theirs; not death itself. Peter walked upon the water, not for diversion or to boast of it, but to go to Jesus; and in that he was thus wonderfully supported. Special supports are promised, and are to be expected, but only in spiritual pursuits; nor can we ever come to Jesus, unless we are upheld by his power.

Christ told Peter to come, not only that he might walk upon the water, and so know his Lord's power, but that he might know his own weakness. And the Lord often lets his servants have their choice, to humble and test them, and to show the greatness of his power and grace. When we look away from Christ, and look at the greatness of opposing difficulties, we will begin to fall; but when we call to him, he will stretch out his arm, and save us.

Christ is the great Savior; those who want to be saved must come to him, and cry to him, for salvation; we are never brought to this until we find ourselves sinking: the sense of need drives us to him. He rebuked Peter. If only we believed more, we would suffer less. The weakness of faith, and the prevailing of our doubts, displease our Lord Jesus, for there is no good reason why Christ's disciples should be of a doubtful mind.

Even in a stormy day he is to them a very present help. None but the world's Creator could multiply the loaves, none but its Governor could tread upon the waters of the sea: the disciples yielded to the evidence, and confessed their faith. They were suitably affected, and worshiped Christ. He who comes to God must believe; and he who believes in God will come (Hebrews 11:6).