Preparing for Sunday - Matthew 14:22-36

April 17, 2014 by Bret Capranica Preparing for Sunday

Read Matthew 14:22-36
How does this relate to the feeding of the 5,000 (Matt 14:13-21)? What lessons should the disciples learned from that episode that would have helped them in 14:22-36?
What was Jesus' purpose for sending the disciples and the crowds away?
What was the reaction of the disciples when they saw Jesus walking on the water?
How would you describe Peter's faith for stepping out of the boat into the water? How did Jesus describe Peter's faith? Why?
How did the disciples respond once Jesus got in the boat with them?
What was the response of the people in Gennesaret? How was it different and/or similar to the disciples' response? How would you describe their faith in Jesus?

What was Jesus teaching the disciples through the miracle of walking on the water? Did the disciples learn it? What would he be teaching us?
What was Jesus seeking to teach the people in Gennesaret about himself through his healing? Were they learning that lesson?
What about Peter's faith and lack of faith should you learn about yourself? About Jesus?
What most prompts your worship of Jesus? How is it similar or dissimilar to what prompted the disciples' worship or the responses of the crowds in Gennesaret?

How should you be encouraged by this passage? What sin does it confront? What confidence does it inspire? What lessons are most applicable for you this week?
This Sunday is Resurrection Sunday. Pray for all who will be in attendance. Pray that non-Christians who attend will have their eyes opened to their need for Jesus. Pray that believers will be encouraged to greater confidence in Christ.
Pray for those who will be leading the service to edify and encourage the congregation: Dawson Bryant, music; Mark Krystyniak, Elders' Prayer and Scripture reading; Bret Capranica, teaching.
Listen to the songs we will sing on Sunday and prepare yourself to sing with understanding and zeal when we gather this Lord's Day.