Simon Peter’s Night Vision 

Often debated among theologians, the miraculous account of Simon Peter and his vision of walking on water with Jesus has been labeled by some as the most puzzling of Christ's purported miracles. This event was not a real or physical occurrence, but it was a profound, symbolic dream that Peter had, vividly illustrating the strength of faith to sustain one amidst life’s tumultuous storms.

Peter's vision serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith, offering insights into the apostles' struggles and spiritual victories. It encapsulates the core themes of fear, courage, and redemption, providing a rich metaphorical layer to the understanding of Peter's relationship with Jesus and his own inner conflicts.

The events leading up to the vision began on a significant day atop a mountain, where a multitude had gathered, excitedly anticipating that Jesus would declare himself king following a miraculous feeding. However, instead of proclaiming earthly sovereignty, Jesus directed the crowd’s attention to a heavenly kingdom, leading to widespread disillusionment. His followers felt a profound sense of disappointment. Theologians and followers view this as a pivotal moment where earthly expectations clashed dramatically with spiritual realities.

The apostles, especially the overly enthused Simon Peter, stood aghast. Jesus went off alone to the hills, instructing Andrew to return with the apostles to Zebedee’s house and pray with them, especially for Simon Peter.

The apostles, who were in a park south of Bethsaida-Julias, got in their boat to cross over to Bethsaida. Simon Peter was in the worst shape, mentally crushed and downcast. To top things off, Jesus left, seemingly refusing to accompany them in the boat. As darkness descended, a strong and opposing wind arose, making rowing nearly impossible. Peter grew weary, physically and mentally exhausted, and fell into a deep sleep. Andrew and James carried him to the cushioned seat in the back of the boat, then quickly returned to fight against the blowing wind and high waves.

In his dream, Peter saw Jesus approaching them on the water. When Jesus seemed to pass by, Peter, in a mix of fear and longing, imagined himself walking towards Jesus on the water, only to falter. During this vision, he dreamed Jesus said, “Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid,” which soothed his troubled spirit. Motivated by these words, Peter cried out in his dream, “Lord, if it really is you, bid me come and walk with you on the water.” As he attempted to walk upon the water, the boisterous waves frightened him, leading him to cry out, “Lord, save me!” His envisioned Jesus then saved him, admonishing, “O, you of little faith, wherefore did you doubt?” This powerful dream deeply impacted Peter, compelling him to step out of the boat, leading to his awakening and rescue by Andrew, James, and John.

For Peter, the dream was indistinguishable from reality, shaping his future actions and understanding of faith and doubt. The vision served as a spiritual anchor, reminding him of the necessity of steadfast faith even when the physical presence of Jesus was absent. This incident profoundly influenced not only Peter but also the early Christian narrative, as recounted differently by his followers and the gospel writers.

Simon Peter partially convinced John Mark that Jesus walked to the apostles’ boat during the storm. Luke, the physician, who did his due diligence, refused to include this night vision of Peter in his Gospel.