Devine Scripture

Matthew 14:30

What does Matthew 14:30 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 14:30 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 14:30 means

However, when Peter saw the strong wind, he became afraid, and as a result, he began to sink into the water. In his panic, he cried out to Jesus for salvation. This illustrates the danger of focusing on external circumstances rather than on Christ. Peter's fear overshadowed his faith, causing him to falter. It teaches a vital lesson: even initial faith can waver when distractions and fear overcome trust in the Lord.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

But when he saw the wind, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried out, saying, Lord, save me.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

But when he saw the wind, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried out, saying, Lord, save me.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

But when he saw the wind he was in fear and, starting to go down, he gave a cry, saying, Help, Lord.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

but seeing the wind vehement, he was afraid, and having begun to sink, he cried out, saying, `Sir, save me.'

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But seeing the wind strong, he was afraid: and when he began to sink, he cried out, saying: Lord, save me.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

But seeing the wind strong he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, Lord, save me.

Context

This verse immediately follows Peter's successful, albeit brief, walk on water. It illustrates the consequence of shifting his focus from Jesus to the stormy winds, leading to his moment of doubt and sinking. This dramatic turn sets the stage for Jesus' swift intervention and His direct rebuke of Peter's little faith, which unfolds in the very next verse.

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

v.30This passage

v.31And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and took hold of him, and saith unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

Cross references

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

  • 2 Corinthians 12:7

    And by reason of the exceeding greatness of the revelations, that I should not be exalted overmuch, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, that I should not be exalted overmuch.

  • Lamentations 3:54

    Waters flowed over my head; I said, I am cut off.

  • Mark 14:66

    And as Peter was beneath in the court, there cometh one of the maids of the high priest;

  • Mark 14:38

    Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

  • 2 Timothy 4:16

    At my first defence no one took my part, but all forsook me: may it not be laid to their account.

  • Jonah 2:2

    And he said, I called by reason of mine affliction unto Jehovah, And he answered me; Out of the belly of Sheol cried I, And thou heardest my voice.

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 14:30.

Browse every hub

BibleTopicsBible answersDevotionalsFamous passagesWord studiesPeoplePlacesVerses for…Reading plansCommentary