ACC ~ Matthew 14 v28

PETER’S BOLDNESS

JEROME: Peter is found to be of ardent faith at all times. When the disciples are asked who people say that Jesus is, Peter declares him to be the Son of God. Though mistaken in wanting to follow Christ to his Passion, he is not mistaken in his affection. He does not desire the death of him who a short time before he declared to be the Son of God. Peter is among the first to go up the mountain with the Savior and is the only one to follow him in his Passion. With bitter tears he immediately washes away the sin of denial that sprang up from fear. After the Passion when they were fishing in Lake Gennesaret, the Lord was standing on the beach, while the others were slowly sailing in the boat. He hesitated not for a moment. He put on his overgarment and plunged into the sea. And now, with the same ardor of faith he always had, the other apostles gazing in awe, he believes that he can do by the will of the Master what the latter could do by nature. “Bid me come to you on the water.” Just say the word, and immediately the waves will become solid. The body which of itself is heavy will become light. COMMENTARY ON MATTHEW 2.14.28. [1]

[1] CCL 77:125.

LORD, IF IT IS YOU, BID ME COME

AUGUSTINE: What is signified by the fact that Peter dared to come to him upon the water? Peter indeed has the principal role in the church. And what is the meaning of those other words: “Lord, if it is you, bid me come to you on the water,” if not, Lord, if you are truthful and never lie at all, let your church be glorified also in this world, for prophecy declared this about you? Let it walk upon the water, and it shall come to you, to whom it was said, “The rich among the people shall entreat your favor.” [1] SERMON 75.10. [2]

[1] Ps 45:13 (44:13 LXX).

[2] PL 38:418; NPNF 1 6:339 (Sermon 25).