6:16-21
There seem to be two miracles in this section. One is Jesus walking on water, the other is the boat immediately getting to the land they were going to (v21). Sailing in the dark would not be a problem to the disciples, particularly those who were fishermen as it would be something they were used to. The Sea of Galilee was subject to strong winds, so storms did blow up periodically.
Now why has John put this incident in his gospel? Possibly it is just to confirm Jesus’ authority over nature. Note also that the disciples were afraid, they clearly did not expect Jesus to be walking on the water. Jesus tells them not to be afraid. Indeed, “do not be afraid” is an oft repeated phrase in the Bible. From time to time God does things that are beyond our comprehension, and outwith our expectations.
Mark in his account tells us that they thought Jesus was a ghost (Mark 6:45-52). He also tells us that the disciples were completely amazed because they had not understood about the loaves. Jesus has complete authority over nature. Matthew, of course, also tells us about Peter walking on water as well, at least up to a point (Matt 14:22-33). Now the reason that this is not mentioned in Mark is probably because Peter was Mark’s primary source and Peter was not wanting to draw attention to himself, but why doesn’t John mention it?
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