The Audience Mark Is Writing To
Mark writes to a Roman audience that valued action, strength, and power. In this miracle, where Jesus calms the storm, He doesn’t just teach—He demonstrates supernatural control over nature, proving that He is more than a teacher or prophet. He is Lord over the natural world.
Key Focus of the Passage and Jesus’ Character
The passage highlights Jesus’ authority and the necessity of faith. His character is revealed as both protector and commander—He is unshaken by chaos and calls His followers to believe beyond their circumstances.
📖 Scripture: Mark 4:35–41 (NASB)
On that day, when evening came, He said to them, “Let’s go over to the other side.”
After dismissing the crowd, they took Him along with them in the boat, just as He was; and other boats were with Him. And a fierce gale of wind developed, and the waves were breaking over the boat so much that the boat was already filling with water. And yet Jesus Himself was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke Him and said, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?” And He got up and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Hush, be still.” And the wind died down and it became perfectly calm. And He said to them, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?” They became very much afraid, and said to one another, “Who, then, is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?”
The People Jesus Interacted With
Jesus is in the boat with His disciples—the ones who have heard His parables and seen His miracles. And yet, when danger comes, their fear outweighs their faith.
What Happened in the Scene
After a day of teaching, Jesus invites His disciples to cross the Sea of Galilee. A violent storm arises. While Jesus sleeps peacefully, the disciples panic. When they wake Him, He calms the storm with a command and then challenges their lack of faith.
Mood and Tone of the Moment
The tone moves from panic to awe. At first, there’s chaos and fear. But when Jesus speaks, there’s calm—and the disciples are left in stunned reverence, asking, “Who is this?”
What Jesus Said
“Hush, be still.”
These words aren’t just for the wind and waves—they speak to our hearts too. Jesus’ authority silences both external storms and internal turmoil.
“Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?”
Jesus challenges the fear of His disciples. Faith is not proven in calm—it’s forged in the storm.
The Response of the Others
The disciples move from terror of the storm to a deeper fear of who Jesus is. They realize they are in the presence of Someone with divine authority.
The Lesson for Us in 2026
- Jesus Is With You in the Storm – He never promised smooth sailing, but He does promise His presence.
- Faith Grows Through Trials – Fear may rise, but faith must rise higher. Trust Jesus even when you don’t understand.
- Peace Comes From His Word – One word from Jesus can calm any storm. Lean into His promises.
When storms rage around you, don’t ask if Jesus cares. Look to the One who speaks peace over every wave.
