Though it was early in Jesus' ministry, crowds were already beginning to gather and to follow him wherever he went. They were eager for his personal interest and ministry to their particular needs. Jesus knew that there was more to ministering to people than the acts of pastoral care and compassion. Without basic learning through teaching and preaching, spiritual foundations are hard to lay and concepts of enduring meaning are neglected. Jesus had earlier made friends with Peter when his brother Andrew brought him to meet Jesus at his residence, according to a story found in John 2:35-42. On that occasion he saw great potential in Peter, and called him "the Rock." It seems natural that he would use Peter's boat to separate himself enough from the press of the people to do some meaningful t…