Calming of the Storm

The Calming of the Storm

Mk 4.35 - 4.41

C) Explain what the Calming of the Storm shows about the identity of Jesus.

1. Jesus is the Son of God.

Jesus performs a nature miracle: “Jesus stood up and commanded the wind, "Be quiet!" and he said to the waves, "Be still!" The wind died down, and there was a great calm.” This supernatural event could only have been performed by the Son of God.

2. Jesus is the Saviour.

“…don't you care that we are about to die?” Jesus saves the disciples from the death they fear because of the storm, Mark may also be suggesting that Jesus will save the Christians from persecution, or more significantly Jesus will save people from the chaos and destruction that is sin.

3. Jesus is present even if his presence is not obvious.

Jesus seems not to care about the storm, Christians might have thought that Jesus did not care about the persecution of the Church, but God can be present in a secret unknown way. (In the story of Elijah God is present in the still small breeze, hardly noticeable, not the strong wind, earth quake or fire.)

4. Jesus is Omnipotent

“Even the wind and the waves obey him!" When God created the universe the forces of nature obeyed the voice of God, here again creation recognises God’s voice and obeys His command.

5. He is disappointed with the disciples’ lack of faith

C) Explain why Calming of the Storm might cause problems for Christians today.

1. Unbelievable

The events break the laws of nature, it seems highly unlikely to a modern rationalist that a human being could command the forces of nature. “Jesus stood up and commanded the wind, "Be quiet!" and he said to the waves, "Be still!" The wind died down, and there was a great calm.”

2. Failed promise of help

Mark seems to be suggesting that Jesus will look after those who face death, yet thousands of Christians have been persecuted or put to their death because of their beliefs. Mark’s assurances that Jesus will save don’t...