After Jesus began his public ministry with three miraculous healings, Matthew 8:18-27 records how would-be followers came to Him seeking to join His disciples. He responded to these requests by pointing out the cost of such commitment, demanding total allegiance to Him over everything and everyone. Then, taking while His disciples across the Sea of Galilee (to meet the demon possessed men of Matthew 9), in the boat which was about to sink, He pointed out to His disciples that to trust Him continually is vital.