Watching From the Boat

So it occurred to me that when Peter walked on water with Jesus that the disciples were watching from the boat.

They were watching.

What were they thinking? Were they jealous, excited, fearful, in awe...?

I have heard many a sermon preached on Peter in this episode, on Jesus, or even the storm itself, but I've not heard much about the disciples.

Matthew 14:22 (NLT) reads, "Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home."

Immediately.

Immediately after what? After the feeding of the 5,000, after watching one of the most incredible miracles ever, after a long day, after emotions were running high, after a long long time of listening to the most mind blowing teaching. Immediately when their faith levels were raised.

Immediately.

And Jesus didn't just suggest to the disciples that they might like to consider getting back in the boat. He insisted.

Jesus insisted because He knew what was coming next. He knew the faith that would be needed for Peter's water adventure. And He knew that the disciples would be watching.

We're told that the disciples were in trouble. They were far away from land and fighting heavy waves. Physically, emotionally, mentally exhausted.

It's then that the whole Jesus walking on water / Peter joining him jobby happens. Worth noting that they were terrified and fearful. . . But I want to focus on the impact of watching Peter's faith journey with Jesus.