Matthew 14:31 (KJV)

What does Matthew 14:31 mean?

Matthew 14:31 shows Jesus immediately reaching out to save Peter when he began to sink after walking on the water, then gently questioning Peter’s lack of faith and asking why he doubted. The verse highlights both Jesus’ readiness to help and his concern about Peter’s wavering trust.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking directly to Peter, who had stepped out of the boat to walk toward Jesus on the water but became afraid and started to sink. Jesus’ words, “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” point to Peter’s momentary uncertainty, even after witnessing Jesus’ power. The verse sits within a dramatic moment that reveals both human fear and Jesus’ compassionate response.

The Greek behind Matthew 14:31

• The word for “immediately” is εὐθύς (euthys, G2112), which emphasizes how quickly Jesus acted to help Peter, showing urgency and care.
• The phrase “of little faith” comes from ὀλιγόπιστος (oligopistos, G3640), often understood as describing someone whose trust is real but not yet strong or steady.
• The word for “doubt” is διστάζω (distazō, G1365), which carries the sense of wavering or being divided in mind, not just simple disbelief but a kind of hesitation or uncertainty.

Why Matthew 14:31 matters

• Matthew 14:31 clarifies that even someone close to Jesus, like Peter, can struggle with doubt in the midst of extraordinary experiences.
• The verse highlights Jesus’ immediate help, showing that his response to human weakness is both practical (saving Peter) and personal (addressing his faith).
• This moment connects to the larger story by showing that faith is not just about belief in miracles, but about steady trust in Jesus, especially when fear arises.