After the crowd has been fed, Jesus sends the disciples across the lake while he goes up the mountain alone to pray.

During the night the boat is far from land and struggling against wind and waves. The disciples are making little progress.

Jesus comes toward them walking on the sea. The sight terrifies them. They think they are seeing a ghost and cry out.

Jesus immediately tells them to take courage and not be afraid.

Matthew adds a scene centered on Peter. Peter asks Jesus to command him to come across the water. Jesus says, “Come,” and Peter steps out of the boat and begins walking toward him.

When Peter focuses on the strong wind, fear overtakes him and he begins to sink. He cries for Jesus to save him. Jesus reaches out, catches him, and challenges his doubt.

When they enter the boat, the wind stops. Matthew says those in the boat worship Jesus and identify him as the Son of God.

Mark emphasizes the disciples’ amazement and lack of understanding, connecting their reaction to the previous feeding miracle. Across the accounts, the dark water becomes another setting in which the disciples encounter power they do not yet fully comprehend.