Basic HTML Version
Chapter 35—The Stilling of the Storm
This chapter is based on
Matthew 8:23-34
;
Mark 4:35-41
;
5:1-20
;
Luke 8:22-39
.
It had been an eventful day. Beside the Sea of Galilee Jesus had
spoken His first parables, explaining the nature of His kingdom and
the manner in which it was to be established. He had likened His
work to that of the sower; the development of His kingdom to the
growth of the mustard seed and the effect of leaven in meal. The
final separation of the righteous and the wicked He had pictured in
parables of the wheat and tares and the fishing net. The precious
truths He taught had been illustrated by the hidden treasure and the
pearl of great price.
As evening came on, the crowds still pressed upon Him. Day
after day He had ministered to them, scarcely pausing for food or
rest. Now the close of day found Him so utterly wearied that He
sought retirement in some solitary place across the lake. He bade
His disciples accompany Him thither.
After He had dismissed the multitude, they took Him into the
boat and hastily set off. But other fishing boats lying near the shore
were quickly crowded with people who followed Jesus, eager still to
see and hear Him.
The Saviour, overcome with weariness and hunger, lay down
in the stern of the boat and soon fell asleep. The evening had been
calm and pleasant, but suddenly darkness overspread the sky, and a
fierce tempest burst upon the lake.
The waves, lashed into fury by howling winds, dashed fiercely
over the boat and threatened to engulf it. Those hardy fishermen had
[224]
guided their craft safely through many a storm, but now their strength
and skill availed nothing. Helpless in the grasp of the tempest, they
saw their boat filling.
198