Gene’s Daily Scriptural Postings

The Not-So-Insignificant Gift: Matthew 15:32-39

Focus Passage: Matthew 15:32-39 (NLT)

During the lesser famous miracle of the feeding of the 4,000, we see a unique detail that makes this event distinctly different from the more famous miracle where 5,000 were fed. This detail comes in the form of a question. Jesus asks the disciples: “How much bread do you have?” (v. 34a)

This detail doesn’t seem significant or unique on the surface, except that we have more details about the miracle where 5,000 were fed, and we can use this additional information to determine some unique aspects of this seemingly less significant miracle.

In the feeding of the 5,000 miracle, all four gospels tell us that the entire miracle was prompted by the disciples suggesting to Jesus that He should send the crowd away. In our feeding of the 4,000 miracle, the disciples don’t question Jesus, but Jesus realizes that some of those in the crowd are in trouble. This is a difference worth considering.

Next, we learn from John’s gospel that the initial food that was provided for the miracle where 5,000 were fed originated with a boy who happened to be the only one left in the crowd who had food. It is this detail and difference that I will focus in most closely on: While the feeding of the 5,000 happened because food came from an outside source (i.e. a young boy), the feeding of the 4,000 happened because the disciples gave all the food that they had left.

When Jesus asks the disciples, “How much bread do you have?” the disciples reply saying, “Seven loaves, and a few small fish.” (v. 34)

The miracle where the crowd of over 4,000 people is fed is prompted by the generosity of those who are followers of Jesus. While the feeding of 5,000 happens using an insignificantly-sized gift from an outside source, the feeding of the 4,000 happens because Jesus’ closest followers choose to be generous with what they have and Jesus uses it to bless those present.

Regardless of where we are at in life or the amount we feel we can offer, Jesus can use our gifts (however insignificant we feel they may be) for His glory!

This thought was inspired by studying the Walking With Jesus “Reflective Bible Study” package. To discover insights like this in your own study time, click here and give Reflective Bible Study a try today!

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