Differing Interpretations

Scholars aim to discover the truth, both literal and symbolic, behind biblical passages. Through keen study of the text, language, historical context and culture, they present their theories. Clearly, miracle material is challenging and it is not surprising that it attracts a variety of interpretations. More recently liberal and feminist interpretations have been added to the traditional conservative ones. It should be said that these interpretations also depend on the individual faith position of the scholars.

Christology

Mark's aim is not to amaze his readers as if by magic. What he wishes to do (and it is amazing in a different way) is to reveal God's power at work in Jesus. So this narrative raises the important issue of the identity of Jesus. 'Who then is this?' The disciples focus on Jesus, not the event itself. On whose authority and with whose power was this accomplished? As it was a common belief that God had created the seas and alone was in control of them (Psalm 65: 7; 89:8f; 104:7) it followed that God's power was at work in Jesus. This pointed to Jesus as the Messiah, the Christ, whom God was going to send to inaugurate a new age.

Miracles

Miracles in the Gospels were never exhibitions of power. They were, as the 4^th Gospel actually calls them, 'signs' for people to enable spiritual discernment of the new age of God's kingdom, which came into being with Jesus. Jesus' teaching described the kingdom of God and his actions made it real. Most modern scholars recognise that Jesus performed healings and exorcisms; often they wish to explain them psychosomatically. But they view 'nature miracles' like this one as myth or legend. However, Western prejudice against nature miracles and increasingly miracles in general, may reveal more about the presuppositions of Western society than about the accuracy of 1^st century history. See the 'Context' section for interpretations of this miracle.

Discipleship

As stated above in commentary on Mark 4:40, a common theme in the gospels is the difficulty the disciples have in understanding who Jesus is and the significance of what he does. They often misunderstand what he is talking about and, instead of faith, show fear and mistrust. This highlights how difficult it was to grasp the underlying meaning of Jesus' words and actions, even in his presence. It remains a timeless challenge.

Fear and Faith

Faith brings courage and confidence; fear results from a person's inability to trust in God's power to provide. Jesus here is the example. He trusts God's power. No mere storm can defeat God's purpose. The disciples should have been reassured by Jesus' presence but their fear overtook their faith. Faith does not just happen. It has to be struggled for and needs to be constantly reapplied. Again, this narrative seeks to reassure those whose faith wavers and courage fails.