The disciples now became more fearful than they had been when the wind and waves were swamping their boat. The Greek words Mark used, ephobethesan phobon, describe respectful awe that people feel in the presence of supernatural power (cf. Mark 16:8). They had seen Jesus perform many healings and exorcisms, but this was a new revelation of the extent of His authority. Still they did not understand who He really was, as is clear from their question. [source][source][source]
This story should encourage all Jesus" disciples with the knowledge that He can control the natural circumstances of life, including its storms, and keep them safe. This would have been an especially comforting revelation to Mark"s original readers in their persecutions. [source][source][source]
"It is not surprising that in early Christian art the Church was depicted as a boat driven upon a perilous sea; with Jesus in the midst, there was nothing to fear." [1][source]
"Assuredly, no narrative could be more consistent with the fundamental assumption that He is the God-Man." [2][source]
Context Summary
Mark 4:10-41 - Growth In God's Kingdom
How quick the Master was to observe the meaning of natural symbols! To Him all things were unfoldings of eternal mystery, and the ways of men unconsciously mirrored the unseen. Are there bushels in your life? Use them as lamp stands, not as coverings. All secrets come out; beware of what you say. All measures come back to us; take care how you mete. The mysterious co-operation of God in nature, and the gradual process of growth, are analogous to the co-working of the Holy Spirit with all faithful sowers of the Word, and the imperceptible stages through which the soul reaches maturity.
The stilling of the storm, Mark 4:35-41. They that bear Christ's company must prepare for squalls. Yet, why should we fear, when the Master is on board, who can impress His commands on wind and sea-to the wind, Peace; to the sea, Be still! "The Lord on high is mightier than the waves of the sea." A moment ago he was so weary as to sleep amid the storm, but at a word of appeal from those He loves, He shows Himself able to save to the uttermost. [source]
Chapter Summary: Mark 4
1The parable of the sower, 14and the meaning thereof 21We must communicate the light of our knowledge to others 26The parable of the seed growing secretly; 30and of the mustard seed 35Jesus stills the storm on the sea
Greek Commentary for Mark 4:41
They feared exceedingly [εποβητησαν ποβον μεγαν] Cognate accusative with the first aorist passive indicative. They feared a great fear. Matthew 8:27 and Luke 8:22 mention that “they marvelled.” But there was fear in it also. [source]
Who then is this? [Τις αρα ουτος εστιν] No wonder that they feared if this One could command the wind and the waves at will as well as demons and drive out all diseases and speak such mysteries in parables. They were growing in their apprehension and comprehension of Jesus Christ. They had much yet to learn. There is much yet for us today to learn or seek to grow in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. This incident opened the eyes and minds of the disciples to the majesty of Jesus. [source]
They feared exceedingly [ἐφοβήθησαν φόβον μέγαν] Lit., they feared a great fear. [source]
What manner of man is this? [τίς ἄρα οὗτός ἐστιν] The A. V. is rather a rendering of Matthew's ποταπός , what manner of(Matthew 8:27), than of Mark's τίς , who. The Rev. gives it rightly: Who then is this? The then ( ἄρα ) is argumentative. Since these things are so, who then is this [source]
Greek Commentary for Mark 4:41
Cognate accusative with the first aorist passive indicative. They feared a great fear. Matthew 8:27 and Luke 8:22 mention that “they marvelled.” But there was fear in it also. [source]
No wonder that they feared if this One could command the wind and the waves at will as well as demons and drive out all diseases and speak such mysteries in parables. They were growing in their apprehension and comprehension of Jesus Christ. They had much yet to learn. There is much yet for us today to learn or seek to grow in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. This incident opened the eyes and minds of the disciples to the majesty of Jesus. [source]
Lit., they feared a great fear. [source]
The A. V. is rather a rendering of Matthew's ποταπός , what manner of(Matthew 8:27), than of Mark's τίς , who. The Rev. gives it rightly: Who then is this? The then ( ἄρα ) is argumentative. Since these things are so, who then is this [source]