Summary Jesus Feeds the 5,000

In the quiet hillside community of Bethsaida, darkness was falling and stomachs were grumbling. The disciples were beginning to panic, but Jesus had a plan (John 6:6).

Another of his disciples spoke up. It was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He said, “Here is a boy with five small loaves of barley bread. He also has two small fish. But how far will that go in such a large crowd?” – John 6:8-9

Can you picture the young boy standing beside Jesus with his meager offering? He didn’t have much, but he had enough faith to bring it to Jesus. Jesus told the disciples to have the people sit down in large groups.

He took the five loaves and the two fish. He looked up to heaven and gave thanks. He broke the loaves into pieces. Then he gave them to the disciples. And the disciples gave them to the people. – Matthew 14:19

Jesus miraculously multiplied the little boy’s food. Jesus looked toward heaven and thanked His Father for the food that was given up by the child. That evening, 5,000 men, plus women and children, ate until they were full! They didn’t just get a little snack. The Bible says, “They all ate and were satisfied.” (Luke 9:17)

Previously, in Matthew 6, Jesus had told his disciples, “Do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’…But seek first His (God’s) kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:31,33) The disciples saw this truth lived out that day. The crowd, including that little boy, came seeking Jesus, and Jesus gave them more than they needed.

Through this lesson and accompanying family devotional, kids will see that even a lunch box can hold a miracle if we are willing to hand it to Jesus.

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