But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.
But {G1161} the ship {G4143} was {G2258} now {G2235} in the midst {G3319} of the sea {G2281}, tossed {G928} with {G5259} waves {G2949}: for {G1063} the wind {G417} was {G2258} contrary {G1727}.
But by this time, the boat was several miles from shore, battling a rough sea and a headwind.
but the boat was already far from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
But the boat was now in the midst of the sea, distressed by the waves; for the wind was contrary.
-
Mark 6:48
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. -
John 6:18
And the sea arose by reason of a great wind that blew. -
Matthew 8:24
And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep. -
Isaiah 54:11
¶ O thou afflicted, tossed with tempest, [and] not comforted, behold, I will lay thy stones with fair colours, and lay thy foundations with sapphires.
Matthew 14:24 vividly describes the challenging situation the disciples faced after Jesus had sent them ahead across the Sea of Galilee. The KJV text portrays their boat, far from the safety of the shore, being violently battered by waves, with the wind aggressively opposing their progress. This verse sets the stage for one of Jesus' most remarkable miracles.
Context
This verse occurs immediately after the miraculous feeding of the five thousand. Having dismissed the crowds, Jesus then "constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away" (Matthew 14:22). Jesus Himself then went up into a mountain alone to pray. Thus, the disciples were alone in the boat, in the dark, facing a severe storm, highlighting their vulnerability and isolation.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Greek word translated "tossed" is basanizomenon (βασανιζόμενον), which conveys a sense of being "tormented," "distressed," or "harassed." It's a strong term indicating that the ship was not merely rocking, but undergoing severe and agonizing struggle, reflecting the intensity of the storm. The "contrary" wind comes from the Greek enantios (ἐναντίος), meaning "opposite," "adverse," or "hostile," emphasizing that the wind was directly fighting against their efforts to move forward.
Related Scriptures
This verse directly precedes the account of Jesus walking on the water to meet His disciples, illustrating His power over nature and His commitment to His followers. Another parallel storm narrative where Jesus calms the storm while physically present in the boat with them provides a contrast in His method of intervention. The experience of facing "contrary winds" can be likened to the various trials and tribulations believers endure, which are often opportunities for faith to grow.
Practical Application
Matthew 14:24 offers profound relevance for believers today. It reminds us that even when we are obeying Christ's commands and are exactly where He wants us to be, we may still encounter formidable "contrary winds" and storms in life. These difficulties can make us feel overwhelmed, isolated, and unable to make progress. However, this verse also builds anticipation for the next part of the story: Jesus' timely intervention. It encourages us to remember that God is aware of our struggles, even when He seems absent, and that He often allows such trials to draw us closer to Him and reveal His power in unexpected ways. It is a call to persevere and trust in His ultimate control over all circumstances.