Watch the sermon here.

Summary

This sermon focuses on the biblical account of Peter walking on water from Matthew 14:22-33. Dr. John teaches about faith that enables believers to step out of their comfort zones and trust God even in the midst of storms and adversity. The message emphasizes that faith begins with a word from God, requires walking through difficult circumstances while keeping eyes fixed on Jesus, and results in God’s immediate help when we falter. Dr. John encourages believers to hold onto God’s promises even when circumstances look impossible, reminding them that God will not let them drown or be defeated.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You tonight with open hearts and minds. We ask that You would speak to each person in this group according to their specific needs. Help us to be receptive to what You want to teach us through Your Word and through our discussion together. Give us wisdom, understanding, and the courage to apply what we learn to our daily lives. May Your Holy Spirit guide our conversation and draw us closer to You. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What’s one skill or activity you learned by watching videos or reading about it, but didn’t truly understand until you actually tried it yourself?

Key Verses

• “Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He sent the crowds away. After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone. But the boat was already a long distance from the land, battered by the waves; for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.’ Peter said to Him, ‘Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.’ And He said, ‘Come!’ And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and *said to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’ When they got into the boat, the wind stopped. And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, ‘You are certainly God’s Son!’”
  Matthew 14:22-33
• “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” Romans 10:17
• “for we walk by faith, not by sight—” 2 Corinthians 5:7
• “For a righteous man falls seven times, and rises again,
  But the wicked stumble in time of calamity.” Proverbs 24:16

Questions

• The disciples were told to go to the other side, but weren’t warned about the storm. How do you handle situations where God calls you to step out but doesn’t reveal all the challenges ahead?
• Peter asked Jesus to command him to come on the water. What does this teach us about seeking God’s permission before taking steps of faith?
• The sermon states that ‘faith is not optimism, but obedience to a revelation.’ How would you explain the difference between these two concepts?
• When Peter began to sink, Jesus immediately reached out to save him. How does this demonstrate God’s character when our faith wavers?
• Dr. John mentioned that faith doesn’t always change the weather, but it changes us in the weather. Can you share an example of how God has changed you through a difficult circumstance?
• What are some ‘winds’ (fears, finances, opinions, uncertainty) that tend to distract you from keeping your eyes on Jesus?
• The message emphasized writing down and holding onto words God has spoken to you. Why is this practice important for maintaining faith during trials?
• How can Peter’s experience of walking on water, even briefly, encourage someone who feels they don’t have a history of seeing miracles in their life?

Life Application

This week, identify one area where you feel God is calling you to step out in faith. Write down any specific word, promise, or scripture God has given you regarding this situation. When doubts or distractions arise, return to that written word and declare it over your circumstances. Practice keeping your eyes on Jesus rather than focusing on the ‘winds and waves’ around you.

Key Takeaways

• Faith begins with a word from God – we need a specific revelation or scripture to stand on, not just optimism
• Faith often requires walking through storms and difficulties while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus rather than circumstances
• When our faith wavers, Jesus immediately reaches out to help us – He doesn’t let us drown
• God’s people should write down and hold onto the words God has spoken to them as anchors during trials
• Walking in faith leads to worship and gives others opportunity to see God’s power in our lives

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for being the God who walks on water and calls us to join You in the impossible. Help us to trust in Your words over our circumstances, to keep our eyes fixed on You when the storms of life rage around us. When our faith gets shaky, remind us that Your hand is always steady and ready to catch us. Give us courage to step out of our boats and walk in the faith You’ve called us to. May our lives be testimonies of Your faithfulness that lead others to worship You. In Your mighty name we pray, Amen.