The Miraculous Work of Jesus (Part 5): Miraculous Rescue

TO START: In this series, we walk through the seven miracles—or “signs,” as John calls them—recorded in his Gospel. Each miracle beautifully reveals both Jesus’ identity (who He is and what He’s like) and His work (what He does and will ultimately accomplish). In John 6, Jesus comes to His disciples walking on water in the midst of a storm—revealing Himself as the God who brings miraculous rescue to those who risk greatly on behalf of His name.

TO READ: John 6:16-21

TO DISCUSS:

(1.) What’s your go-to ‘it went from bad to worse’ story—preferably one you can laugh about now?

(2.) What do you make of the fact that Jesus waited until the storm was raging before coming to the disciples on the water?

(3.) What stands out to you about this story of Jesus walking on water in John 6 compared to the other times He calms a storm? (Matthew 8:23–27; Mark 4:35–41; Luke 8:22–25)

(4.) Most fears (except two) are learned and must be unlearned over a lifetime of discipleship. What’s a fear you’ve unlearned because of your faith in God?

(5.) Think about a fear that feels present in your life right now. If that fear were gone, what would you have the courage to do in your faith journey?

TO CLOSE/TO PRAY:   This week, we invite you to close with this prayer exercise: 

  1. Start by leaving 1-2 minutes of silence to center the group in God’s presence

  2. Read John 6:18-20, “A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough. 19 When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened. 20 But he said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.”

  3. Invite the group to meditate on this question:  “what am I most afraid of right now?”

  4. Leave a minute of silence. And then ask anyone who is willing to share what bubbled up for them as a prayer of confession. 

  5. Close with a simple prayer over the group:, “Jesus we bring you our fears. Just like you calmed the storm, calm our hearts. Speak, “Peace, be still” over our minds, our situations and our souls. We trust that you are with us in the boats of our lives. Help us not to be afraid but to trust You. Amen.”

Matt DeLano