Opening Your Bible
Loading study tools and insights...
LOADING
Loading study tools and insights...
Loading study tools and insights...
Matthew 14:27 (BSB)
But Jesus spoke up at once: “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.”
THE HOLY BIBLE
ListenListen · Chapter audio
Hear this chapter read aloud — the verse you’re on highlights as the reading moves forward.
Chapter read aloud · verse highlights follow along
Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“But Jesus spoke up at once: “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.”” — Matthew 14:27
Imagine you're out on a dark, stormy lake, feeling the waves crash all around you. Suddenly, you see someone walking toward you on the water! It’s terrifying, right? In that moment, Jesus steps in and tells you to take heart and not be afraid. His words are like a warm blanket on a freezing night, reassuring you that He’s right there with you. It's all about calming those racing thoughts and fears, reminding you that even in the scariest moments, you’re not alone. This is a powerful invitation to trust and find peace in His presence.
This book was written by Matthew, one of Jesus' close followers. Matthew wanted to share the amazing experiences he had with Jesus, including this incredible moment on the water. He includes this detail because he knew how afraid they were and how much they needed to hear Jesus’ comforting words. It’s like he’s saying, 'I felt the fear too, but I also felt the peace that comes from knowing Jesus is there.' His perspective helps us understand the depth of that moment.
When this was written, the world was a mix of Roman rule and Jewish tradition. People were familiar with storms and the fear of the unknown, both in nature and in their lives. This timing matters because it highlights how Jesus was not just a teacher; He was someone who could confront the very things that scare us. The cultural backdrop of fear and uncertainty makes His message of peace even more powerful.
This verse matters today because we all face moments of fear and uncertainty. Whether it’s stress about school, family issues, or feeling lost, Jesus’ words remind you that it’s okay to feel scared, but there’s hope. You can find comfort in knowing that you’re not alone and that there’s someone bigger than your fears walking alongside you. His reassurance can help you face your own storms with courage.
This week, try to remember those words whenever you feel anxious or scared. When you start to feel overwhelmed, take a moment to breathe deeply and say to yourself, 'Take heart; I’m not alone.' You could also write down your fears and then write a counter-statement where you remind yourself of what’s true and hopeful. Reach out to someone and share your worries — talking about them can lighten the load too!
This moment is part of a dramatic scene where the disciples are out on a boat, battling a fierce storm. Just before this, they were terrified, feeling hopeless and stuck in the chaos. Jesus had just fed thousands of people, and now He’s walking on water to reach them! When He speaks, it’s a turning point — it shifts their fear into hope. This verse is crucial because it shows how Jesus intervenes in our fears with His calm assurance, changing the atmosphere from panic to peace.
What fears are you holding onto right now, and how can remembering Jesus’ words help you let go of them?
Keep reading the full Matthew 14:27 study — free
Sign Up or Login Free