The Stilling of the Storm

On the evening of a specific day, Jesus instructed his disciples to cross to the other side of the sea (Mark 4:35). Leaving the crowd behind, the disciples took him in the boat just as he was, though the text does not say what his physical condition was at that moment (Mark 4:36). Other small boats accompanied them during the crossing. A great windstorm arose, causing waves to beat into the boat so that it was already filling with water, but Jesus remained in the stern asleep on a cushion (Mark 4:37-38).

The disciples woke Jesus and asked him if he did not care that they were perishing. Jesus then stood up and rebuked the wind, saying to the sea, 'Peace! Be still!' (Mark 4:39). Immediately, the wind ceased and there was a great calm. Jesus then questioned the disciples regarding why they were afraid and asked if they still had no faith (Mark 4:40). The text does not say how the disciples felt prior to being questioned, other than the implication of their words when waking him.

Following the cessation of the storm, the disciples were filled with great fear. They spoke to one another, questioning the identity of Jesus by asking who he was that even the wind and the sea obeyed him (Mark 4:41). The text does not say whether Jesus provided a verbal answer to their question or if the boat reached its destination immediately after the storm ceased.