Pursuit Effect | John 6:16-21 – Sonrise Church

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Azcu0qY-fgc%3Fsi%3DttfRskahHOZJCrdI

This message centers on John 6:16–21, where the disciples find themselves rowing in chaos until Jesus comes walking on the water and declares, “It is I; do not be afraid.” The pastor describes this as the “pursuit effect”—Jesus actively seeking us out in the middle of our storms, using even the very things that cause fear, anxiety, or loneliness as the bridge to reach us. Just as God pursued Adam and Eve after the fall and Jesus sought peace for the man with dropsy in Luke 14, this story reminds us that God consistently comes after his people, not leaving them in shame, fear, or chaos but entering in with mercy, grace, and presence.

The application emphasizes that we are not meant to row alone. Jesus pursues us, but often he sends others into our “boat” to sit with us in grief, chaos, and hardship. The pastor highlighted testimonies from church staff and the joy of celebrating 33 baptisms as evidence of God’s pursuit in real lives. The call is for believers both to remember how Jesus has pursued them and to be willing to step into someone else’s storm, rowing alongside them in love. The message concludes with an invitation to respond—whether by celebrating God’s work, remembering his pursuit, seeking prayer, or taking the first step of faith to trust Jesus as Savior.