THE STORM ON THE SEA
Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook
Sunday, February 22, 2026
Text: John 6:15–21
INTRODUCTION
Background Context:
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The disciples had just witnessed Jesus feed the 5,000 (John 6:1–14).
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They not only observed the miracle — they participated in it.
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Jesus satisfies our deepest hunger — and He also meets us in our deepest despair.
I. THE MISERY OF THE STORM (John 6:16–19a)
The disciples were unknowingly sailing into a storm.
Storms in life:
Do not equate an easy life with a joyful life.
A. IN OUR LORD’S PLAN
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Jesus sent them into the storm (Matthew 14:22).
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The trip was short (approx. 5 miles across the Sea of Galilee).
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They were confident and experienced fishermen.
Reasons Jesus Sent Them Into the Storm:
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To Save Them from a Greater
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The crowd wanted to make Jesus king (John 6:15).
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The disciples could have been swept up in the excitement.
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Sometimes God sends storms to protect us from worldliness.
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To Prepare Them for Greater Ahead
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To Give Them Greater Revelation of Christ and Understanding of the of the Son of God
B. THEY WERE IN HIS PRAYERS
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Jesus went to the mountain to pray (Matthew 14:23).
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While they were on the sea, He was interceding.
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He never forgets to pray for His own.
II. THE MESSIAH ON THE SEA (John 6:19b–21)
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They were “toiling and rowing” (Mark 6:48).
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Fourth watch of the night (3–6 AM).
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In the middle of the sea (approx. 9 miles across).
Jesus delayed — but He had them in His sight and in His prayers.
They forgot the meaning of the miracle of the loaves (Mark 6:51–52).
A. THE OF JESUS CHRIST
When storms rage:
Psalm 46:1–3
B. THE SAVIOR’S (John 6:20)
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“It is I; be not afraid.”
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The presence of Christ is the source of courage.
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Our best efforts are no match for life’s storms.
III. THE MAN ON THE SHIP (Matthew 14:28–32)
John does not record Peter walking on water, but Matthew does.
3 Things to See about Peter
A. HIS (Matthew 14:28)
Lessons:
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You must leave your comfort zone.
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Only one left the boat.
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To walk on water, you must step out.
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What “boat” do you need to leave?
B. HIS (Matthew 14:30)
Fear looks at God through circumstances.
Faith looks at circumstances through God.
Defeat that leaves you humble is better than victory that leaves you proud.
C. HIS
CONCLUSION
“The will of God will not take you where the grace of God cannot keep you.”
“When you hear God’s voice, it’s time to jump! Jesus has His arms wide open.”