Matthew 14:28

What does Matthew 14:28 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 14:28 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 14:28 means

Peter, recognizing Jesus' voice, expressed both faith and doubt by requesting to come to Jesus on the water if it truly was the Lord. This bold request showcases Peter's impulsive yet earnest character, willing to step out in faith where others hesitate. It reveals a desire for a personal, tangible confirmation of Jesus' divine power, even amidst the terrifying circumstances. This challenges Jesus to show His power directly to Peter.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee upon the waters.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee upon the waters.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And Peter, answering, said to him, Lord, if it is you, give me the order to come to you on the water.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And Peter answering him said, `Sir, if it is thou, bid me come to thee upon the waters;'

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And Peter making answer, said: Lord, if it be thou, bid me come to thee upon the waters.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And Peter answering him said, Lord, if it be thou, command me to come to thee upon the waters.

Context

This verse immediately follows Jesus' reassuring words to the disciples. Peter's bold and unique request serves as a critical turning point, distinguishing him from the other disciples. This direct challenge to Jesus sets the stage for Peter's attempt to walk on water, revealing his character and initiating a powerful lesson on faith and doubt in the next verses.

v.27But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.

v.28This passage

v.29And he said, Come. And Peter went down from the boat, and walked upon the waters to come to Jesus.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • John 6:68

    Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.

  • Luke 22:31

    Simon, Simon, behold, Satan asked to have you, that he might sift you as wheat:

  • Luke 22:49

    And when they that were about him saw what would follow, they said, Lord, shall we smite with the sword?

  • Mark 14:31

    But he spake exceeding vehemently, If I must die with thee, I will not deny thee. And in like manner also said they all.

  • Matthew 19:27

    Then answered Peter and said unto him, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee; what then shall we have?

  • Matthew 26:33

    But Peter answered and said unto him, If all shall be offended in thee, I will never be offended.

Related questions readers ask

Keep reading

Want to dig deeper? Explore Matthew 14

Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Matthew 14.

Keep exploring

Follow this verse across Scripture

Topics, devotionals, original-language word studies, and figures connected to Matthew 14:28.