John 6:16-21 - Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Bible Comments

See this miracle of walking on the sea explained in the notes at Matthew 14:22-33. Compare Mark 6:45-52.

John 6:21

Immediately - Quickly. Before a long time. How far they were from the land we know not, but there is no evidence that there was a miracle in the case. The word translated “immediately” does not of necessity imply that there was no interval of time, but that there was not a long interval. Thus, in Matthew 13:5, in the parable of the sower, “and immediately (the same word in Greek) they sprung up,” etc., Mark 4:17; Matthew 24:29; 3 John 1:14.

John 6:16-21

16 And when even was now come, his disciples went down unto the sea,

17 And entered into a ship, and went over the sea toward Capernaum. And it was now dark, and Jesus was not come to them.

18 And the sea arose by reason of a great wind that blew.

19 So when they had rowed about five and twenty or thirty furlongs, they see Jesus walking on the sea, and drawing nigh unto the ship: and they were afraid.

20 But he saith unto them,It is I; be not afraid.

21 Then they willingly received him into the ship: and immediately the ship was at the land whither they went.