but he said to them, “Stop being afraid, it is I.”
But Jesus spoke up: “It is I; do not be afraid.”
But he saith unto them, It is I; be not afraid.
John 6:20 captures a pivotal moment of divine revelation and comfort amidst a terrifying storm. After miraculously feeding over five thousand people, Jesus sent His disciples ahead by boat while He went up a mountain to pray. As night fell and a fierce storm arose, the disciples struggled against the wind and waves. Jesus then came to them, walking on the water.
Context
This verse is part of the broader narrative in John chapter 6, which emphasizes Jesus' identity and divine power. Following the miracle of feeding the five thousand (John 6:1-15), the disciples embark across the Sea of Galilee. They encounter a violent storm, highlighting their human limitations and vulnerability. Their fear upon seeing Jesus approach, thinking He was a ghost, sets the stage for His profound declaration. This event is also recorded in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew 14:22-33; Mark 6:45-52), underscoring its significance in the early Christian tradition.
Key Themes and Messages
Divine Presence and Authority: Jesus' ability to walk on water demonstrates His supernatural power and control over creation, asserting His divine nature.
Revelation of Identity: The phrase "It is I" is more than a simple identification; it carries profound theological weight, revealing who Jesus truly is.
Overcoming Fear: The command "be not afraid" is a recurring theme in scripture, often spoken by God or His messengers during moments of divine encounter or crisis, offering assurance and peace.
Jesus as Sovereign Lord: Even in the midst of chaos and danger, Jesus is in control, capable of calming both the storm and the hearts of His disciples.
Linguistic Insights
The Greek phrase translated as "It is I" is Egō eimi (ἐγώ εἰμι). This is a highly significant phrase in the Gospel of John, echoing God's self-revelation to Moses in Exodus 3:14 ("I AM THAT I AM"). Throughout John's Gospel, Jesus uses Egō eimi in absolute declarations, such as "Before Abraham was, I am" (John 8:58) or "I am the good shepherd" (John 10:11). In this context, it signifies not merely His physical presence but His divine identity and authority, intended to dispel the disciples' fear and instill faith.
Practical Application
John 6:20 offers immense comfort and strength for believers today. Just as Jesus appeared to His disciples in their moment of greatest fear and distress, He promises His presence to us in our own "storms" of life—whether they are anxieties, uncertainties, or overwhelming challenges. His words, "It is I; be not afraid," remind us that recognizing Christ's sovereignty and presence is the antidote to fear. When we are tempted to despair or feel overwhelmed, remembering that Jesus is with us and in control can bring profound peace and courage. This verse encourages us to fix our eyes on Him, trusting in His power and His unwavering care, even when circumstances seem most frightening.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.
TRV
John 6:20 captures a pivotal moment of divine revelation and comfort amidst a terrifying storm. After miraculously feeding over five thousand people, Jesus sent His disciples ahead by boat while He went up a mountain to pray. As night fell and a fierce storm arose, the disciples struggled against the wind and waves. Jesus then came to them, walking on the water.
Context
This verse is part of the broader narrative in John chapter 6, which emphasizes Jesus' identity and divine power. Following the miracle of feeding the five thousand (John 6:1-15), the disciples embark across the Sea of Galilee. They encounter a violent storm, highlighting their human limitations and vulnerability. Their fear upon seeing Jesus approach, thinking He was a ghost, sets the stage for His profound declaration. This event is also recorded in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew 14:22-33; Mark 6:45-52), underscoring its significance in the early Christian tradition.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The Greek phrase translated as "It is I" is Egō eimi (ἐγώ εἰμι). This is a highly significant phrase in the Gospel of John, echoing God's self-revelation to Moses in Exodus 3:14 ("I AM THAT I AM"). Throughout John's Gospel, Jesus uses Egō eimi in absolute declarations, such as "Before Abraham was, I am" (John 8:58) or "I am the good shepherd" (John 10:11). In this context, it signifies not merely His physical presence but His divine identity and authority, intended to dispel the disciples' fear and instill faith.
Practical Application
John 6:20 offers immense comfort and strength for believers today. Just as Jesus appeared to His disciples in their moment of greatest fear and distress, He promises His presence to us in our own "storms" of life—whether they are anxieties, uncertainties, or overwhelming challenges. His words, "It is I; be not afraid," remind us that recognizing Christ's sovereignty and presence is the antidote to fear. When we are tempted to despair or feel overwhelmed, remembering that Jesus is with us and in control can bring profound peace and courage. This verse encourages us to fix our eyes on Him, trusting in His power and His unwavering care, even when circumstances seem most frightening.