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Matthew 8:23-27 – A Living Analogy of Discipleship
Following Jesus is an important aspect of the story of Jesus calming the storm (Mt 8.23-27). Matthew places stories together that help to interpret each other, one setting up the other. Matthew uses a literary technique called a “catchword” to tie these themes. I sometimes refer to these as “power words.” A catchword is where the same term is repeated in successive verses in order to connect those verses together thematically. Note the use of “follow” (8.19, 22, 23); and “disciple” (8:21, 23) in the two stories of Matthew. Then connect the stories of Matthew 8.18-22 and 8.23-27. Matthew’s account (8.23-27) of stilling the storm is a living allegory about discipleship. Jesus rebukes the disciples with “oh you of little faith” and then rebukes the wind (Mt 8.26). According to Vine, “Oh you of little faith” is a “gentle rebuke.” If so, Jesus rebukes nature and the nature of men which is fear. And then there is “a great calm” (Mt 8.26). May I suggest that is what should happen to us if we apply the rebuke, “oh me of little faith?” A renewed trust in God should calm us so we can follow Jesus and be His disciple.
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