John 6:17 – “By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet joined them.”

Extended Explanation

This verse describes a moment of waiting and uncertainty for the disciples. They had gone down to the lake (John 6:16), gotten into a boat, and started rowing across the Sea of Galilee. But now, darkness had fallen, and Jesus was not with them.

This verse carries both a literal and spiritual meaning.

• Literally, the disciples were in a physical darkness on the lake, without Jesus, and about to face a storm (John 6:18).
• Spiritually, it represents a moment of fear and uncertainty, something many of us experience when we feel like God is distant or when we don’t know what He’s doing.

The disciples had just witnessed the miraculous feeding of the five thousand earlier that day. But now, as the night deepened and the storm approached, they must have wondered: Where is Jesus? Why isn’t He with us?

This verse reminds us that faith is often tested in the dark—those times when we don’t immediately see Jesus or understand what He is doing.

Historical Context

The Sea of Galilee was known for its sudden, violent storms. Because of its location—surrounded by hills and valleys—winds could quickly stir up the water, creating dangerous conditions for small boats.

• The disciples were experienced fishermen, so they would have been familiar with the lake. However, they still would have felt vulnerable rowing in the dark without Jesus.
• Traveling at night was risky, especially on water. There were no modern navigational lights, and bad weather could make rowing nearly impossible.
• The phrase “Jesus had not yet joined them” suggests that they may have expected Him to meet them in some way—but He wasn’t there yet.

Theological Implications

1. Darkness Represents Uncertainty and Fear – The disciples were in the dark both physically and spiritually. God sometimes allows us to experience seasons of uncertainty to build our faith.
2. Waiting on Jesus Requires Trust – The disciples had to keep rowing even though they couldn’t see Jesus. Faith is trusting in God even when He seems distant.
3. Jesus’ Timing is Perfect – Though He was not yet with them, He would soon arrive at just the right moment. God is never late, even if He doesn’t act when we expect Him to.

Literary Analysis

John often uses light and darkness symbolically in his Gospel.

• “By now it was dark” – In John’s Gospel, darkness often symbolizes uncertainty, fear, or separation from Jesus (John 3:19-20, John 8:12).
• “Jesus had not yet joined them” – This phrase creates tension and anticipation. The disciples were probably waiting, wondering, “Where is Jesus?”

This moment builds drama and expectation, making Jesus’ entrance (walking on the water) even more powerful.

Biblical Cross-References

• Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” God is present even in the dark.
• Isaiah 50:10 – “Let the one who walks in the dark, who has no light, trust in the name of the Lord.” Faith is trusting even when we can’t see.
• John 8:12 – Jesus says, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness.”
• Matthew 14:24-25 – The parallel passage in Matthew tells us that the disciples were battling strong waves while waiting for Jesus.
• Mark 6:47-48 – In Mark’s version, Jesus saw them struggling and came to them at just the right moment.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. There Will Be Times When Jesus Feels Distant – Every believer faces moments when God seems silent or far away. This verse reminds us that those times are part of the journey, not the end of it.
2. Faith Means Rowing in the Dark – The disciples kept going even though they couldn’t see Jesus. Sometimes, we have to keep trusting and obeying, even when we don’t understand what God is doing.
3. Jesus Knows What We Are Facing – Even though He wasn’t in the boat yet, He was aware of what they were going through. God sees us even when we can’t see Him.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reminds us that God’s love does not always remove difficulties—but it does promise His presence.

• God allows us to grow in faith by waiting on Him. The disciples had to experience the uncertainty of the night before seeing His power.
• God’s timing is perfect. Jesus did not leave them forever—He was coming, just not yet.
• God never abandons His people. Even when we feel alone, we are never truly alone.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus is the Light in the Darkness – In John’s Gospel, Jesus is often called the Light of the World (John 8:12). This event shows that even when things seem dark, Jesus brings light and hope.
2. Jesus is Always Aware of Our Struggles – Though He was on the mountain praying, He knew the disciples were struggling. He knows our struggles too.
3. Jesus Shows Up at the Right Time – Though He was not there yet, He would come soon—just when they needed Him most.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you ever felt like you were in a “dark” season, waiting on Jesus? How did you respond?
2. Why do you think Jesus allowed the disciples to be in the boat alone for a while before coming to them?
3. What does this verse teach us about trusting God even when we don’t immediately see Him?
4. How can you encourage someone who is going through a time of uncertainty or spiritual darkness?
5. What are some ways we can keep rowing in faith, even when Jesus has “not yet” joined us?

John 6:17 is a reminder that darkness and waiting are part of the Christian life. But Jesus always comes at the right time. Even when we don’t see Him, He sees us. Even when we feel alone, He is near. Our job is to trust, obey, and keep rowing in faith until He makes His presence known.