Peter Answers Jesus’ Call

Matthew 14:22-33

The Big Idea

Peter moved toward Jesus because Jesus called him. When we feel afraid, we can call on Jesus for rescue.

The Bible Story

Jesus Walks on Water

Matthew 14:28-29 records Peter’s response to Jesus during the night when the disciples’ boat was far from land and troubled by waves and opposing wind. After Jesus came toward them walking on the sea and identified himself, Peter asked Jesus to command him to come. Jesus told Peter to come, so Peter left the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. This moment is presented as Peter answering Jesus’ call, not as Peter acting independently or challenging the sea. The passage continues by describing Peter’s fear when he noticed the strong wind, but this scene focuses on his first steps toward Jesus. Matthew’s account is part of the larger story in which Jesus’ authority over the sea is revealed and the disciples come to recognize and worship him.

Themes

Calling on Jesus for rescue Faith and fear Jesus’ authority over the sea The disciples recognizing and worshiping Jesus

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

Peter steps out of the boat and walks across the water toward Jesus after asking Jesus to command him to come. Jesus stands ahead of him on the sea, making the moment visually clear as a response to Jesus’ call rather than a daring challenge.

Talk together

Talk about it

Why did Peter step out of the boat?
What can we learn from Peter calling on Jesus?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page to help children notice that Peter’s action followed Jesus’ command. Invite them to retell the scene in order: Jesus comes, Peter asks, Jesus calls, and Peter steps out. Keep the discussion gentle and avoid making the sea danger sensational. Connect the scene with faith, fear, and calling on Jesus for rescue.

Source note