The Book Of John | The 7 "Signs" And The 7 "I AM's" Of JesusMinta

“Feeding of the 5,000”

In the time of Elisha’s ministry, a man came from Baal-shalishah, bringing with him bread of the firstfruits, twenty loaves of barley and fresh ears of grain in his sack. Elisha said to him, “Give to the men, that they may eat.” But his servant said, “How can I set this before a hundred men?”

Little did the man know that he was in for a surprise, as Elisha was about to make the food multiply to feed the entirety of the men. Jesus’ feeding of the 5,000 proves to be a much bigger and more meaningful miracle that brings fulfillment to the works of Elisha’s ministry.

Like Jesus’ miracles, his healings, and the miracle of the feeding also demonstrate the presence of the kingdom of God. It echoes the familiar story of God providing manna for the children of Israel as they were wandering in the wilderness (Exo. 16:1-36), and it begins to fulfill Old Testament prophetic promises, such as are found in Isaiah 25:6-8 and 40:10-11.

As you read, also notice how Jesus did not just snap his fingers to make food appear, but rather his kingdom worked through his disciples as they passed out the food. Jesus’ next sign, shows not only that he is the bread of life, but that he works through the simple acts of his people to provide for his world.