Luke 8:22-25

Luke 8:22-25

1. We see that our Lord Jesus Christ was really man as well as God.
2. We see what fears and anxiety may assault the hearts of true disciples of Christ.
3. We see how great is the power of our Lord Jesus Christ.
4. We see how needful it is for Christians to keep their faith ready for use.

"The mighty High Priest, who is living for us at God's right hand, has had personal experience of all the sinless infirmities of the body. He has himself hungered, and thirsted, and suffered pain. He has himself endured weariness, and sought rest in sleep. Let us pour out our hearts before him with freedom, and tell Him our least troubles without reserve."

"It is only too true that sight, and sense, and feeling, make men very poor theologians."

"It is a blessed and comfortable thought, that all this almighty power of our Lord Jesus Christ is engaged on behalf of His believing people. He has undertaken to save every one of them to the uttermost, and He is "mighty to save.""

"Where was the benefit of trusting, if they were to trust their Master in sunshine only, but not in storms? The lesson now before us is one of deep practical importance. To have true saving faith is one thing. To have that faith always ready for use is quite another."

Questions:

1. Do we believe that Jesus really does care to hear from us about our infirmities, or those of others? Do we think such requests to be unspiritual?

2. Ryle says that the disciples give us an example that should give a modest expectation from believers. When a professing believer is struggling or afraid – especially in areas where we feel strong - are we quick to call them an unbeliever or doubt their salvation?

3. Ryle helpfully says that this great power that stops the waves is engaged on behalf of His people. Is this one of the truths that brings us comfort and strength in times of difficulty?

4. Consider the last trial you faced. How quick were we to respond in faith? Is there evidence that we have, as Ryle says, a stock of faith ready to use at a moments notice?