Matthew 14:29 (KJV)

What does Matthew 14:29 mean?

Matthew 14:29 describes how Jesus told Peter to come to Him, and Peter responded by stepping out of the boat and actually walking on the water toward Jesus. This verse shows Peter beginning to do something extraordinary because he trusted Jesus’ invitation.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking directly to Peter, who is in a boat with the other disciples during a stormy night on the Sea of Galilee. Peter asks Jesus if he can come to Him on the water, and Jesus simply says, “Come.” Peter then leaves the safety of the boat and walks on the water, heading toward Jesus, showing a moment of bold faith in response to Jesus’ call.

The Greek behind Matthew 14:29

• "Come" (Ἔρχου, erchou): This is a direct invitation from Jesus. The Greek word carries the sense of an open, welcoming call, not just permission but encouragement to take action.
• "Walked" (περιεπάτησεν, periepatēsen): This word means to walk around or to walk about. The Greek emphasizes that Peter was actually moving on the surface of the water, not just standing still.
• "On" (ἐπὶ, epi): This preposition means “on” or “upon.” The Greek makes it clear that Peter was physically on top of the water, not just near it or beside it.
• "To Jesus" (πρὸς τὸν Ἰησοῦν, pros ton Iēsoun): The phrase shows Peter’s direction and purpose—he was going specifically toward Jesus, not just wandering on the water.

Why Matthew 14:29 matters

• Matthew 14:29 highlights Peter’s willingness to leave the boat and trust Jesus, even in a situation that defies normal experience, which sets the stage for what happens next in the story.
• The verse draws attention to Jesus’ authority and the power of His word, as Peter is able to walk on water only after Jesus calls him.
• This moment connects to the larger theme in Matthew of faith and doubt, showing both the possibilities and the challenges of trusting Jesus in difficult circumstances.