(47) And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land. (48) And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them. (49) But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: (50) For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid. (51) And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. (52) For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened.
In addition to what was observed on this display of CHRIST's power, on the parallel passage, Matthew 14:24, etc. I would just beg to re mark, what unceasing demonstrations the LORD gave of his GODHEAD. It should seem to have been done with a view to put to the blush the Infidel of after ages, as well as to comfort, and give confidence to his poor and humble believing Ones. Did the LORD JESUS make this pro vision for the present day of infidelity? (I only ask the question.) As the LORD could not but know the perilous times which in the last days should come, when men, calling themselves Christians, would nevertheless deny the LORD which bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction; did He mercifully furnish such testimonies of his GODHEAD, in the days of his flesh, as might afford peculiar strength to the faith of his people in the day of his power? Indeed, indeed, I cannot but think there was much of CHRIST's intention, in the numberless proofs we so continually meet with, in those records of our LORD. And, I am the more inclined to this judgment, because we are told, that the disciples then, when at the time JESUS displayed such wonderful acts, were sore amazed, and wondered; their heart; as it is said, being hardened: that is, I apprehend, they did not, for surely they could not for a moment doubt CHRIST's GODHEAD; but they stood amazed, like men overwhelmed with what they saw and heard; not knowing, as when in the Mount of Transfiguration, what to say. See Matthew 17:1, etc. See also my note on Matthew 28:17.