Matthew 14:16

16 But Jesus said unto them, "They need not depart. Give ye them to eat."

Matthew 14:16 Meaning and Commentary

Matthew 14:16

But Jesus said unto them
the disciples,

they need not depart;
meaning so long as he was with them, who had power enough to provide a sufficient meal for them, as well as by a word speaking, to heal their diseases; however, to try their faith, and make way for the working of the following miracle, he says to them,

give ye them to eat;
such provisions as you have along with you.

Matthew 14:16 In-Context

14 And Jesus went forth and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and He healed their sick.

15 And when it was evening, His disciples came to Him, saying, "This is a desert place and the time is now past. Send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages and buy themselves victuals."

16 But Jesus said unto them, "They need not depart. Give ye them to eat."

17 And they said unto Him, "We have here but five loaves and two fishes."

18 And He said, "Bring them hither to Me."