John 6:20

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} he saith {G3004} unto them {G846}, It is {G1510} I {G1473}; be {G5399} not {G3361} afraid {G5399}.

Complete Jewish Bible

but he said to them, “Stop being afraid, it is I.”

Berean Standard Bible

But Jesus spoke up: “It is I; do not be afraid.”

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 6:20 presents a pivotal moment of divine revelation and comfort as Jesus, walking on the stormy Sea of Galilee, calms His terrified disciples with the profound declaration, "It is I; be not afraid." This encounter, following the miraculous feeding of the five thousand, powerfully underscores Jesus' absolute sovereignty over creation, His divine identity, and His compassionate presence amidst human fear and distress, offering an antidote to anxiety through recognition of His authority.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated immediately after Jesus miraculously feeds over five thousand people with five barley loaves and two fish, a sign of His abundant provision and messianic identity ([John 6:1-15](/john/6-1-15 "John 6:1-15 - The Feeding of the Five Thousand")). Following this, Jesus sends His disciples across the Sea of Galilee while He withdraws to a mountain to pray ([John 6:16-17](/john/6-16-17 "John 6:16-17 - Disciples Depart by Boat")). As night falls and a severe storm arises, the disciples find themselves struggling against the elements, making little progress. Jesus' appearance, walking on the water, occurs in the midst of their despair and physical exhaustion ([John 6:18-19](/john/6-18-19 "John 6:18-19 - Storm on the Sea")). The disciples' immediate reaction of fear, mistaking Him for a ghost, sets the stage for Jesus' powerful self-identification and calming command, which directly precedes their miraculous arrival at their destination ([John 6:21](/john/6-21 "John 6:21 - Arrival at Shore")). This event serves as a crucial bridge between the miracle of physical sustenance and the subsequent discourse on Jesus as the "Bread of Life" ([John 6:22-59](/john/6-22-59 "John 6:22-59 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")), further revealing His divine nature and authority.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Sea of Galilee, a freshwater lake, is notorious for its sudden and violent storms, caused by cold air sweeping down from the surrounding hills and meeting the warm air over the lake. Fishermen, like many of Jesus' disciples, were intimately familiar with these dangers. Traveling by boat was a common mode of transport, but even experienced sailors could be overwhelmed. In ancient Jewish culture, the sea was often seen as a symbol of chaos and danger, a realm over which only God had ultimate control (e.g., [Psalm 89:9](/psalms/89-9 "Psalm 89:9 - God Rules the Raging Sea")). The belief in spirits or apparitions was also prevalent, which explains the disciples' initial terror at seeing a figure approaching them on the water in the darkness ([Matthew 14:26](/matthew/14-26 "Matthew 14:26 - Disciples Think Jesus is a Ghost")). Jesus' act of walking on water and His subsequent declaration would have resonated deeply with their understanding of divine power and sovereignty over the very forces of nature and the unseen world.
* **Key Themes:** John 6:20 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Gospel of John and the broader biblical narrative. Central among these is the theme of **Divine Presence and Authority**, as Jesus demonstrates supernatural control over creation, asserting His identity as God. His declaration "It is I" (Greek: *Egō eimi*) is a profound **Revelation of Identity**, echoing God's self-revelation to Moses in [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - God's Name 'I AM'"). This moment highlights Jesus' **Sovereignty over Chaos**, showing that even in the midst of terrifying storms, both literal and metaphorical, He is in control. Furthermore, the command "be not afraid" underscores the theme of **Overcoming Fear through Faith**, a recurring motif throughout Scripture where divine encounters often begin with this assurance, inviting trust in God's protective presence. The event also foreshadows Jesus' ultimate triumph over death and the grave, demonstrating His power over all that causes fear and despair.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **saith (Greek, _légō_):** This verb signifies to "lay forth" or relate in words, often implying a systematic or set discourse. Here, it denotes Jesus' authoritative and deliberate utterance, not merely a casual remark, but a profound statement of self-revelation intended to convey truth and comfort.
* **I (Greek, _egṓ_):** This is the primary pronoun of the first person, "I." In Greek, the pronoun is often omitted when the verb conjugation makes the subject clear. Its explicit inclusion here, particularly when paired with *eimí*, makes it emphatic, drawing specific attention to the speaker's identity.
* **is (Greek, _eimí_):** This verb means "to exist" or "I am." When used emphatically and absolutely, especially in the phrase *Egō eimi* (I am), it carries profound theological weight, echoing the divine name revealed to Moses in [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - God's Name 'I AM'"). In this context, it is far more than a simple identification; it is a declaration of Jesus' divine, self-existent nature and authority.
* **afraid (Greek, _phobéō_):** Derived from *phóbos* (fear), this verb means to be frightened, alarmed, or to be in awe of. Here, it describes the disciples' terror in the face of the storm and the mysterious figure on the water. Jesus' command to "be not afraid" directly addresses their deep-seated fear, offering divine peace and assurance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But he saith unto them,"**: This opening clause establishes Jesus as the speaker, interrupting the disciples' terrified reaction. The conjunction "But" (G1161, *dé*) indicates a transition or contrast, highlighting that Jesus' words are a direct response to their fear and the chaotic situation. His address is personal ("unto them"), signifying His direct engagement with their distress.
* **"It is I;"**: This is the profound core of the verse. In Greek, *Egō eimi* (ἐγώ εἰμι), literally "I am." As discussed in the key word analysis, this phrase is a direct echo of God's self-revelation ("I AM THAT I AM") in the Old Testament ([Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - God's Name 'I AM'")). It is not merely an identification ("It's me, your teacher") but a declaration of divine presence and authority. It asserts Jesus' absolute sovereignty over the storm, the darkness, and the disciples' fear, revealing His true identity as God incarnate.
* **"be not afraid."**: This is a direct imperative, a command to cease fearing. This phrase frequently accompanies divine encounters in Scripture, serving as an assurance of God's protective presence and a call to trust. In this context, Jesus' command is not a mere suggestion but an authoritative decree, immediately dispelling their terror by virtue of His divine identity and control over the situation. It signifies that the presence of the "I AM" is the ultimate antidote to fear.

#### Literary Devices
John 6:20 is rich in literary devices that amplify its theological significance. The most prominent is **Divine Self-Revelation** through the phrase "It is I" (*Egō eimi*). This is a direct **Allusion** to Yahweh's self-designation in the Old Testament, particularly [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - God's Name 'I AM'"), signaling Jesus' divine nature and identity as God. The storm itself functions as **Symbolism**, representing the chaos, uncertainty, and overwhelming challenges of life that often induce fear. Jesus' ability to walk on water and calm the disciples' fears demonstrates His **Sovereignty** over these symbolic "waters of chaos." The narrative also employs **Contrast** between the disciples' human vulnerability and terror in the face of the storm, and Jesus' calm, authoritative, and supernatural power. This contrast highlights the profound difference between human limitation and divine omnipotence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 6:20 stands as a powerful testament to Jesus' divine nature and His compassionate authority over all creation. The "It is I" declaration, *Egō eimi*, is a cornerstone of Johannine Christology, linking Jesus directly to the covenant God of Israel. This is not merely a statement of presence but of eternal being and sovereign power. Jesus' ability to walk on the tempestuous sea, a feat only God is described as capable of ([Job 9:8](/job/9-8 "Job 9:8 - God Walks on the Waves")), and to calm the disciples' fear with a word, underscores His absolute control over the natural world and the human heart. Theologically, it teaches that true peace and security are found not in the absence of storms, but in the presence of the sovereign Christ, who is able to transcend and subdue all that threatens to overwhelm humanity. This moment serves as a visible demonstration of the spiritual truth that Jesus is the ultimate source of comfort and deliverance in times of distress.

* [Matthew 14:27](/matthew/14-27 "Matthew 14:27 - Jesus' Words to Disciples on the Sea")
* [Mark 6:50](/mark/6-50 "Mark 6:50 - Jesus Calms Disciples' Fears")
* [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - God's Revelation as 'I AM'")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John 6:20 offers profound comfort and practical guidance for believers navigating the "storms" of life. Just as the disciples were overwhelmed by a literal tempest and their own fear, we often face anxieties, uncertainties, and challenges that feel beyond our control. This verse reminds us that Jesus knows our struggles and is present in our moments of deepest distress. His declaration, "It is I; be not afraid," is an invitation to recognize His sovereign presence and authority over every circumstance. When we are tempted to despair, to feel overwhelmed by financial pressures, health crises, relational conflicts, or global instability, remembering that the "I AM" is with us can transform our perspective. It calls us to shift our focus from the daunting waves to the one who walks above them, trusting in His power to calm both the external chaos and the internal turmoil of our hearts. This passage encourages us to cultivate a deep awareness of Christ's indwelling presence, allowing His peace to quell our fears and His power to strengthen our faith, even when the path ahead seems dark and uncertain.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "storms" are you currently facing in your life that cause you fear or anxiety?**
* **How does Jesus' declaration "It is I" speak to your specific fears or feelings of being overwhelmed?**
* **In what ways can you actively remember and trust in Christ's sovereign presence when circumstances seem out of control?**
* **How might recognizing Jesus' divine identity (the "I AM") empower you to "be not afraid" in your daily walk?**

### FAQ

**Why were the disciples so afraid if they had just witnessed Jesus feed thousands?**
Answer: The disciples' fear stemmed from a combination of factors. They were in a violent storm, struggling against strong winds for hours, which would naturally induce physical exhaustion and fear for their lives. Their fear intensified when they saw Jesus walking on the water, as they initially mistook Him for a ghost or an apparition. In their cultural context, such a sight would be terrifying, signifying something supernatural and potentially malevolent. While they had witnessed His power to feed the multitude, their understanding of Jesus' full divine identity was still developing. The storm and the unexpected appearance pushed them beyond their current comprehension, leading to a primal fear that Jesus' words directly addressed.

**What is the significance of Jesus saying "It is I" (Egō eimi)?**
Answer: The phrase "It is I" (Greek: *Egō eimi*) is one of the most significant declarations in the Gospel of John. It is far more than a simple identification. The absolute use of *Egō eimi* echoes God's self-revelation to Moses in [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - God's Name 'I AM'"), where God identifies Himself as "I AM THAT I AM." Throughout John's Gospel, Jesus uses this phrase in absolute terms (e.g., [John 8:58](/john/8-58 "John 8:58 - Before Abraham was, I am")) and in conjunction with metaphors (e.g., "I am the bread of life" in [John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life"); "I am the light of the world" in [John 8:12](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World")). By saying "It is I" in the midst of the storm, Jesus is not just saying "It's me, your friend," but "I AM the divine, sovereign Lord who controls the chaos; therefore, do not be afraid." It is a profound declaration of His deity and authority over all creation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 6:20, with Jesus' authoritative declaration "It is I; be not afraid," finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus as the incarnate God who has conquered sin, death, and all the forces of chaos. This moment on the Sea of Galilee is a powerful microcosm of the greater reality of Christ's redemptive mission. Just as He walked upon the turbulent waters, demonstrating His sovereignty over creation, so too did He enter into the turbulent waters of human sin and suffering. His "It is I" is the divine "I AM" who condescended to become flesh ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), not merely to identify with humanity's fears but to overcome them definitively. The command "be not afraid" anticipates His victory over the ultimate fear—death—through His crucifixion and resurrection ([1 Corinthians 15:55-57](/1_corinthians/15-55-57 "1 Corinthians 15:55-57 - Victory Over Death")). In Christ, believers are assured that the one who calms the storm is also the one who has disarmed the powers of darkness ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")), offering not just temporary comfort but eternal peace and security in His presence ([Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God")). His presence in our "boat" of life means that even in the most terrifying storms, the sovereign Lord is with us, and His ultimate triumph guarantees our safe arrival in His eternal kingdom.

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.

Cross-References

Matthew 14:27

But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.

Matthew 14:31

And immediately Jesus stretched forth [his] hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

Isaiah 43:1

¶ But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called [thee] by thy name; thou [art] mine.

Isaiah 43:2

When thou passest through the waters, I [will be] with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.

Isaiah 44:8

Fear ye not, neither be afraid: have not I told thee from that time, and have declared [it]? ye [are] even my witnesses. Is there a God beside me? yea, [there is] no God; I know not [any].

Isaiah 41:10

¶ Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Revelation 1:17

And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: