This chapter describes a few major ministry events including Jesus’ feeding of 5000+, and His walk on the stormy sea.
“Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass, and taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. 20 And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over… And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’ ” (v19-20,25,32-33)
These two events are great examples of God’s / Jesus’ power over creation. Miraculously multiplying food in an instant, and defying physics are simple tasks for the God of the universe who created all matter and its laws. It is clearly true that all things are possible with God and Jesus (Mt 19:26), and the disciples finally acknowledge that Jesus is the Son of God.
Because of accounts like these, the only potential argument against God’s and Jesus’ authority is attacking the authenticity of the Bible. Yet, to my knowledge, every scholar who has tried to prove the Bible is unreliable has failed. All external historical records from the period, archeological evidence, and science itself corroborate the accuracy of scripture.
So we have two options – accept the Bible is true, proclaiming Jesus and God as our Lord, or listen to our enemy’s lies about Their absolute authority in our lives. I think you know which camp I’m in. The question is, do you know which camp you are in, and are you willing to openly declare your beliefs to those around you?
Just as Peter ‘challenged’ Jesus in saying ” ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water’ “, I feel we can safely ‘challenge’ Him as well in saying something like “Lord, if Your desire is for me to share my faith, please point me toward someone, and provide the words to speak”.
Father God, our Sovereign and Creator Lord, we praise Your holy and righteous name. You have proven Your authority over creation, and given us more than enough evidence of Your absolute power. May we take this to heart, and share our faith with all who You bring across our paths. May we be willing professors of Jesus’ Lordship, and devout witnesses for Your glory. May we also rely on Your Spirit to guide us in each moment, and provide the words You wish us to share. In the name of Jesus our King of Kings we honor You, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training