Miracles in All Four Gospels: The Feeding of the Five Thousand

As Thomas Panicker pointed out, the miracle of feeding the multitude is noted in all four Gospels. An important lesson rises up in John’s account in chapter 6. In the second gathering of thousands, Jesus notes the real reason many had come out is recorded in verse 26: 'Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me not because you saw the signs I performed, but because you ate the loaves and had your fill.' In other words, a large number came because they heard that a source of 'fast food' was on the menu. Their real passion was not necessarily spiritual but physical.

However, Jesus had a different intent which he noted in verse 27: 'Do not work for food that spoils but for food that endures to eternal life.' Then he begins his 'hard teaching' on spiritual bread and eating his flesh. Because many were focused on their physical desires, they could not take in the spiritual truth, and their demands of verse 34 morphed into grumbling, arguing, and finally in 6:66 came this tragic statement... The focus on material satisfaction overshadowed the depth of spiritual understanding.

Understanding the Multitude's Appeal for Material Satisfaction

The feeding of the five thousand recorded in Matthew 14:13–21 is probably the most well-known of all of Jesus' miracles. It is the only one recorded by all four of the gospel writers, as seen in Mark 6:30–44, Luke 9:10–19, and John 6:1–14.

A skeptic might argue that the miracle was prompted by the generosity of the little boy who shared his bread and fish, and others followed his example. While this perspective has merit, it does not fully capture the depth of the miracle. Skeptics have tried to belittle the miracle, but let's consider the truth it conveys. A miracle is a miracle. Jesus proved that He could change water into wine, give sight to the blind, and bring the dead to life. In the miracle of multiplication of bread and fish, He proved that He is able to change whatever little we may have to enough and more.

We need not worry about how much money we are making. Even with one dollar, God is able to satisfy all our needs when we surrender it in the hands of Jesus. Let's not discourage the skeptics. Sometimes their questions help bring out the truth. So, let's consider their argument. If the people had already some food with them but were hesitant to share the same, the little boy's generosity prompted them to share what they had with others.

A Miracle of Abundance and Generosity

But what the people had was prepared early in the morning and not fresh. What Jesus provided was fresh and hot with a heavenly taste. Who would like to eat stale food when such divine food Jesus multiplied was available? No doubt the disciples gathered twelve baskets of leftovers, as recorded in Matthew 14:20–21: '20 They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 21 The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children.'

This miracle is more than a historical event; it is a powerful call to faith and generosity. Jesus' act of multiplying the food demonstrated not only His power but also His desire for us to share what we have. It portrays a story of faith, humility, and the abundant grace of God.

Conclusion

The feeding of the five thousand and the miracle of feeding the multitude in all four Gospels are profound reminders of Jesus' power and love. They challenge us to look beyond physical needs and seek the eternal life that He offers. The miracles also teach us the value of generosity and faith, encouraging us to trust God even when we have just a little and to share with others.