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The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Stilling a Storm
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsTwo miracles of Jesus Christ recount His calming of storms on the Sea of Galilee, with the first appearing in Matthew 8:23-27, Mark 4:35-41, and Luke 8:22-25. On a day filled with significant teaching and testing, Jesus, wearied by incessant interruptions and accusations, seeks respite by instructing His disciples to sail to the quieter region of Perea across the Sea of Galilee. Once aboard, He falls asleep on a pillow, displaying complete trust in His Almighty Father's care and His own God-given power over the winds and sea, remaining peacefully asleep even as a sudden, terrifying storm arises. The waves beat into the boat, filling it, and the disciples, in urgency, cry out, "Master, Master!" Jesus rebukes His disciples for their fearfulness and little faith, as they have not yet fully developed trust in Him, feeling at ease only when He speaks or acts directly. Though they call on Him to save them, recognizing His supernatural power, they fail to realize that whether He is asleep or awake, He remains the Son of God. As the Son of God, with only the power of His word, Jesus speaks, and the wind ceases, bringing a great calm after the fierce storm. He addresses the storm and sea as if they were antagonistic forces under a dominating power, commanding the sea with "Peace, be still!"—a phrase meaning to be muzzled or gagged, as though restraining a maniac. The result of this miracle leaves Jesus' disciples in awe, gaining newfound understanding of the power and glory of their Lord and Master. His mighty word dwarfs the power of earthly elements, stirring them deeply with reverence, wonder, and godly fear. This event reveals what the full measure of God's Spirit can accomplish through a faithful human being, showing that the waves of the world may rage against Christ's disciples, yet they will never be overwhelmed because He is with them.

Avoiding the Ruts of Puny Faith
Sermon by Bill OnisickWhen we have severe trials, we can experience a divided mind, exercising a puny faith. Does God find us willing to surrender to Him in all circumstances?

The Genuineness of Your Faith
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIn the Bible, character is not affirmed until action takes place-namely obedience to God's commands in which faith or trust in God is the dominant ingredient.
Faith versus Doubtful Things
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsFaith falters when our attention moves to ourselves. God periodically allows storms to test our faith. We are driven back to God when there is nowhere else to turn.
Peace With God
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsLike the restless motions of the sea, man will always have conflict without God's intervention and without the guiding influence of God's Holy Spirit.
Passing By in Glory
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughJesus' walking on the water in the pitch-black darkness of early morning, revealing Himself to the disciples, alludes to the time God passed by Moses.
Prevailing Winds
'Ready Answer' by Gary MontgomeryThe steady, contrary winds of this world's way of life can be overcome by adjusting our sails to make spiritual headway.
The Sovereignty of God (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod not only upholds, but also guides and propels His creation, periodically overruling man's mismanagement with floods, fires, winds, and earthquakes.
Holiness (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughHoly things are set apart from the rest, consecrated, sanctified, and transcendentally separate. God wants to transform us into that very image.