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 say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes.

18 He said , Bring them hither to me.