Bible Strands
John 6:20
But Jesus spoke up: “It is I; do not be afraid.”
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Jesus speaks to the terrified disciples in the boat while walking on the sea after they rowed three or four miles.
The words — The Greek ἐγώ εἰμι (egō eimi) literally means “I am,” identifying the speaker. The imperative μὴ φοβεῖσθε (mē phobeisthe) literally commands “do not fear.”
The thread — Jesus uses this identical reassurance in Matthew 14:27, echoing the divine declaration not to fear recorded in Isaiah 43:1 and Isaiah 44:8.
Why it lands — The text records a direct command to cease terror upon recognizing the speaker, requiring the disciples to take Him into the boat rather than remain paralyzed by the storm.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
But he saith unto them, It is I; be not afraid.
Cross-references
- Matthew 14:27 But Jesus spoke up at once: “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.”
- Isaiah 43:1 But now, this is what the LORD says—He who created you, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine!
- Isaiah 44:8 Do not tremble or fear. Have I not told you and declared it long ago? You are My witnesses! Is there any God but Me? There is no other Rock; I know not one.”
- Isaiah 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
- Isaiah 41:14 Do not fear, O Jacob, you worm, O few men of Israel. I will help you,” declares the LORD. “Your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel.
- Revelation 1:17 When I saw Him, I fell at His feet like a dead man. But He placed His right hand on me and said, “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last,
- Mark 6:50 for they all saw Him and were terrified. But Jesus spoke up at once: “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.”
- Psalms 35:3 Draw the spear and javelin against my pursuers; say to my soul: “I am your salvation.”
- Mark 16:6 But he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here! See the place where they put Him.