The Feeding of the Five Thousand
(T.L. Reese, Pastors
Meeting, Oct. 11, AD 2014)
TEXT: Mark 6:30-44 (Matt. 14:13-20, Lk. 9:10-17, John 6:1-14).
Introduction.
a. Testimony to its importance: found
within all four Gospels.
b. Monumental devotional import—not
simply a miracle story.
I. Backdrop, Time, & Location.
A. A lot of things are happening at the
same time...
B. They depart to a remote area for
refreshment (Mk. 6:31-32)
II. But no opportunity affords itself for
personal needs (Mk
6:33)
III. The Lord’s response to the people.
A. He was always prepared to minister!
B. His focus was outward; upon others,
not Self.
C. What He does:
1. He has compassion for them
(Matt. 14:14 & Mark 6:34).
2. He welcomes them (Luke 9:11).
3. He ministers to them in various
ways (Matt., Mark, Luke).
D. WHY Messiah pitied & empathized
with them: Mark 6:34.
IV. The Problem: how to feed a multitude (Mark 6:35-36)?
A. The Disciples observe the lateness of
the hour (vv. 35-36).
B. Their solution: walk away from
responsibility & human need
C. A characteristic response for them:
cf., Matt. 15:23, 19:13.
V. Our Lord’s shocking solution
(v. 37a)!
1. “BUT…” (a
contrast between Jesus and His Disciples);
2. “YOU [emphatic]
give them something to eat!”
VI. The Disciples’ response: Mark 6:37b (cf., John 6:7-9).
Their
overall responses summarized & paraphrased:
1. “Send
them away:” absolve ourselves of responsibility.
2. “Let
them go to the villages:”
i.e., someone else will
surely
assume responsibility here!
3. “They
can buy themselves food:”
i.e., self-help.
4.
“Let’s not get too extravagant, here!”
200 denarii?!?!
VII. The Lord provides—starting with what we have (v. 38)!
Viii. The need is met (vv. 39-44)…
A. God has resources that we know
nothing about.
B. TODAY, He issues impossible
directives (Mt. 28:19-20a).
C. But…He is with us! (Matt. 28:20b,
Heb. 13:5-6)
