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Scott's Reference Library
Matthew 14:13 through Matthew 14:21 (NIV)
13When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a
solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns.
14When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed
their sick.
15As evening approached, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a remote
place, and it’s already getting late. Send the crowds away, so they can go to
the villages and buy themselves some food.”
16Jesus replied, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.”
17“We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered.
18“Bring them here to me,” he said. 19And he directed the people to sit down on
the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he
gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the
disciples gave them to the people. 20They all ate and were satisfied, and the
disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.
21The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and
children.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible
When Christ and his word withdraw, it is best for us to follow, seeking the
means of grace for our souls before any worldly advantages. The presence of
Christ and his gospel, makes a desert not only tolerable, but desirable. This
little supply of bread was increased by Christ’s creating power, till the whole
multitude were satisfied. In seeking the welfare of men’s souls, we should have
compassion on their bodies likewise. Let us also remember always to crave a
blessing on our meals, and learn to avoid all waste, as frugality is the proper
source of liberality. See in this miracle an emblem of the Bread of life, which
came down from heaven to sustain our perishing souls. The provisions of Christ’s
gospel appear mean and scanty to the world, yet they satisfy all that feed on
him in their hearts by faith with thanksgiving.
See also Matthew 15:32-39