Lesson 2: BOLD FAITH– A Look at the Bold Faith of Imperfect People
Lesson Description
Boldness doesn’t need to be audacious nor broadcasted for all to see; it is simply the act of bringing whatever you have to Jesus and trusting Him with the outcome. Together we will explore the idea that faith and boldness do not have to be extravagant or showy but can be a simple act of trust in Jesus.
You are invited to come journey on a seven-day adventure looking at the audacious faith of imperfect people. This devotional study is meant to explore the stories and experiences of flawed individuals who exhibited remarkable faith in their lives.
While allowing you to reflect on your own faith and challenges to trust in God’s plan, even in your imperfections.
Day 1: Peter
If you’ve ever come across the story of Peter walking on water in the Bible or in any related material, you’ve probably been encouraged to take a leap of faith and step out of your comfort zone. This remarkable incident is mentioned in three out of the four accounts of Jesus’ life, specifically in Matthew, Mark, and John. However, only Matthew highlights Peter’s involvement in the event. It’s worth noting the direct instruction Jesus gives to his disciples in Matthew’s account. Jesus actually instructs them to get into the boat. All three accounts quote Jesus saying, “It is I; do not be afraid.” Jesus is simply urging his disciples not to fear, as his presence with them renders fear unnecessary. But whose idea is it for Peter to leave the safety of the boat? It’s Peter’s own idea. Jesus agrees to it, but he didn’t initiate the request. The one thing Jesus did ask of Peter, which was to not be afraid, Peter fails to fulfill (v. 30). However, let’s examine the end of the story. The disciples respond with amazement and worship. They are convinced that Jesus “truly is the Son of God.”
Reflection/Discussion Questions:
- What insights dId you gain from reading three different accounts of the same event, each inspired by different men?
- Why do you think only one of the three accounts of this event mentions Peter’s involvement?
- Some scholars speculate that the gospel of Mark is actually Peter’s firsthand account of Jesus’ life, with Mark serving as the writer. If this is true, why might Peter not want to openly share the story of walking on water?
- What are one strength and one weakness that you possess, which you could surrender to Jesus for His use?
Scriptures
Mathew 14: 25-32
25 Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.
27 But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”
29 “Come,” he said.Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”
31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
32 And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down.33 Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
Study Notes
Contents: Jesus walks on water, call to not to be afraid, acting by faith, declaration of Jesus as the Son of God.
Characters: Jesus, Simon, Disciples,
Conclusion: The problem is that Peter takes his eye off Jesus, and his faith falters, but Jesus is there to save him. The call is to be courageous, get out of the boat and act in faith, but keep your focus on Jesus as the Son of God.
Key Words: Faith, Trust and Obedience to Christ, Recognition of Him as the Son of God.
Strong Verses: Matthew 14:27, 31, 32
Striking Facts: The power that Jesus Christ has to affect nature, change lives, and forgive lack of faith and save anyway has been fully attested, proving that He is God through the demonstation of His miracles and spoken word.
History
Storms and the Sea of Galilee
The Sea of Galilee, nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Israel, has long been subject to the whims of nature, particularly in the form of storms. These storms, originating from three distinct directions, each bring their own unique challenges to the region.
Firstly, the storms from the East are perhaps the most formidable. Driven by the powerful “Sharkia” wind, which derives its name from the Arabic word for East, these storms can be ferocious. Their onset is often sudden, typically in the early afternoon, and they can persist for hours, causing anxiety among local fishermen and inhabitants alike. The storm described in biblical accounts, such as Luke 8:22-25, is believed to be one such tempest, illustrating the raw power and unpredictability of these eastern storms. Even in modern times, storms of this nature, like the one documented in 1992, with winds reaching speeds of up to 50 km/h, continue to evoke awe and trepidation.
Secondly, storms from the South, while of lesser intensity compared to their eastern counterparts, still pose significant challenges. These winds, exceeding speeds of 30 km/h, carry warm air from the desert regions, laden with suspended particles. Their warmth, combined with the abrasive nature of the particles they carry, can create uncomfortable conditions and affect visibility, adding another layer of complexity for those navigating the waters of the Sea of Galilee.
Lastly, storms from the West, though perhaps less frequent, are no less dangerous. These storms often catch sailors and fishermen off guard, as they sweep down from the surrounding semi-mountainous terrain with sudden and intense force. As described by Wilkem in 1956, the topography of the area, with its narrow valleys and steep cliffs, can amplify the effects of these westerly winds, transforming the tranquil surface of the sea into a tumultuous maelstrom within minutes.
In the midst of these natural forces, Jesus, revered as the Creator of heaven and earth, demonstrated his mastery over the elements. Through his miraculous calming of storms on the Sea of Galilee, he not only ensured the physical safety of those on board but also used these events as opportunities to nurture the faith and understanding of his disciples and all who witnessed his power. In doing so, he provided a timeless reminder of his sovereignty over creation and his unwavering care for those who put their trust in him.
