Mat 14:28-31 | RWP | e4.org | Upon the waters ( επ τα υδατα ). The impulsiveness of Peter appears as usual. Matthew alone gives this Peter episode.

‏ Matthew 14:28-31

Upon the waters ( επ τα υδατα ). The impulsiveness of Peter appears as usual. Matthew alone gives this Peter episode.

Seeing the wind ( βλεπων τον ανεμον ). Cf. Ex 20:18 and Re 1:12 "to see the voice" ( την φωνην ). "It is one thing to see a storm from the deck of a stout ship, another to see it in the midst of the waves" (Bruce). Peter was actually beginning to sink ( καταποντιζεσθα ) to plunge down into the sea, "although a fisherman and a good swimmer" (Bengel). It was a dramatic moment that wrung from Peter the cry: "Lord, save me" ( Κυριε, σωσον με ), and do it quickly the aorist means. He could walk on the water till he saw the wind whirl the water round him.

Didst thou doubt? ( εδιστασασ? ). Only here and 28:17 in the N.T. From δισταζω and that from δις (twice). Pulled two ways. Peter's trust in the power of Christ gave way to his dread of the wind and waves. Jesus had to take hold of Peter ( επελαβετο, middle voice) and pull him up while still walking on the water.