The Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes
Matthew 15:32-39
Then Jesus called his disciples to him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days…


economy: — Want in men moves Christ's whole nature. His help leaves no injury. Here generosity and frugality meet. Observe in this miracle two principles.

I. CONTINUITY. That which is comes out of that which has been.

II. FRUGALITY. There is no waste.

1. These two principles are exhibited in nature. Mere spontaneity nature disowns. The field says, "Give me seed, and I will give you back harvest." Nature disowns waste, all things are utilized.

2. These principles are found in history. God does not fling loaves from the sky; they are growths. Not one life is lost.

3. These principles are seen in the moral world. There is no dropping of truths than of great men from heaven. Hence out of the few loaves grow the feast. He who holds in sincerity a little truth has the promise of all.In applying the truth of the text we learn —

1. To hope. The less will become more.

2. The effect of this law upon character. Your future must come out of your past.

3. A lesson in helping others. We help by bringing the better out of some good in men. How many loaves have you? One has a feeble resolution; that, with the blessing of God, may be sufficient.

(P. Brooks, D. D.)



Parallel Verses
KJV: Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way.

WEB: Jesus summoned his disciples and said, "I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days and have nothing to eat. I don't want to send them away fasting, or they might faint on the way."




The Compassion of Jesus
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