This Sermon was given at Casey
Life group Study: A Long Night in a Boat
Series: The 7 Signs of John
Introduction
The Sea of Galilee has always been a significant setting in
Jesus’ ministry—a place where the ordinary meets the miraculous. In John 6, we
find the disciples following Jesus’ instructions, getting into a boat, and
setting out across the water. But what starts as a normal evening turns into a
night filled with fear, struggle, and revelation.
A sudden storm arises. They are far from shore, straining
against the wind. And in the midst of the chaos, Jesus comes—walking on water.
This passage isn’t just a moment in the disciples’ lives. It
mirrors our own experiences when we feel stuck in a storm. It shows us that
storms can come even when we’re obeying God, that Jesus often meets us in the
storm, and that our response can either be ruled by fear or anchored in faith.
Let’s explore what this moment teaches us about facing
life’s storms with faith and trust.
I. The Reality of Life’s Storms
John 6:16–18; Mark 6:45–48The disciples were obeying Jesus’ command and still ended up
in a storm.
They were experienced fishermen, but their skill couldn’t
calm the waves.
Sometimes, storms hit not because we’re off course, but
because we’re on the right path.
Our obedience doesn’t guarantee comfort—it often invites
challenge that grows our faith.Discussion Questions
1. Can you think of a time when you felt like you were doing
exactly what God asked, yet faced unexpected hardship?
2. Why do you think God allows storms even when we’re
walking in obedience?
3. How do you typically respond when life gets turbulent—do
you lean in or pull away from God?
II. The Reassurance of Jesus’ Presence
John 6:19–20; Matthew 14:25–27In the middle of the storm, Jesus shows up in a completely
unexpected way.
The disciples are terrified—but Jesus speaks: “It is I; do
not be afraid.”
“It is I” echoes the same language God used with Moses
(Exodus 3:14)—a reminder of His divinity and power.
Fear distorts our perception, but Jesus’ presence brings
peace.Discussion Questions
1. Why do you think the disciples didn’t recognise Jesus at
first?
2. What does this moment show us about the character of
Jesus in our hardest times?
3. Can you recall a moment when Jesus showed up in your life
in an unexpected way?
III. The Response of Faith
John 6:21; Matthew 14:28–33When the disciples realised it was Jesus, they welcomed Him
into the boat.
Matthew’s account shows Peter stepping out in faith—and
sinking when he loses focus.
Jesus’ presence changed everything—the sea calmed, and they
arrived at shore.
The storm wasn’t the issue—fear was. And Jesus’ power was
greater than both.Discussion Questions
1. What do you think faith looked like for the disciples in
that moment?
2. How does fear show up in your life, and how does it
affect your decisions?
3. What would it look like for you to invite Jesus into your
current “storm”?
Bringing It Together: Fear vs. Faith
Main Thought:Fear is often the louder voice in the storm, but it lies to
us. It tells us the waves are bigger than Jesus. But faith chooses to keep its
eyes on Him.
Scripture for Reflection
“But he said to them, ‘It is I; do not be afraid.’”
— John 6:20
These words, spoken by Jesus in the midst of the storm,
remind us of His nearness and power. When fear rises and our own strength
fails, Jesus comes to us—often in ways we don’t expect—and offers peace. Just
like the disciples in the boat, we are invited to shift our focus from the
storm to the One who walks over the waves.
Closing Challenge
Are you facing a storm right now? What if your next step
isn’t to fight harder, but to trust deeper?
Closing Prayer Prompt
Take a few moments in silence to reflect on the areas where
fear has been louder than Jesus’ voice in your life. Invite Him into that
space.
Then, pray together: “Jesus, we welcome You into the boats of
our lives. Help us recognise You in the storm, trust You when we can’t see
clearly, and respond with faith, not fear. Strengthen us to keep our eyes fixed
on You. Amen.”
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