Matthew 15:38 – “The number of those who ate was four thousand men, besides women and children.”
Extended Explanation
This verse provides a summary of the miraculous feeding of the four thousand. It emphasizes the scale of the miracle by specifying that the count of four thousand only includes the men, with women and children uncounted. This detail highlights the enormity of Jesus’ provision, as the actual number of people fed would have been much greater.
The verse serves to remind readers of the sufficiency of Jesus’ provision. With just seven loaves and a few small fish, He fed thousands of people to satisfaction, demonstrating His divine power and compassion.
Historical Context
In the ancient world, large gatherings like this were rare, especially in remote areas. The fact that thousands of people followed Jesus, even in such challenging conditions, shows the draw of His teachings and miracles. Counting only men was a common cultural practice of the time, though it’s clear that families, including women and children, were present.
This event mirrors the earlier feeding of the five thousand (Matthew 14:13-21) but occurs in a different region, possibly including a mix of Jews and Gentiles. This setting underscores Jesus’ expanding mission to include all people.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights God’s ability to provide abundantly for all people. The sheer number of those fed reinforces the message that God’s grace and provision are sufficient for everyone, regardless of their background or situation.
It also points to the inclusiveness of Jesus’ ministry. The presence of women and children, often marginalized in ancient societies, demonstrates that no one is excluded from God’s care and blessing. The miracle reflects the heart of God, who desires to provide for and include all who come to Him.
Literary Analysis
Matthew’s inclusion of the specific number, along with the detail that women and children were not counted, emphasizes the magnitude of the miracle. The understatement—mentioning only the men—leaves the reader to imagine the even greater scale of Jesus’ provision.
This verse serves as a conclusion to the miracle, tying together the narrative by focusing on the results of Jesus’ actions. The contrast between the small amount of food at the beginning and the thousands fed underscores the miraculous nature of the event.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 14:21 – In the feeding of the five thousand, only the men are counted, with women and children also present.
- Psalm 145:15-16 – God provides food for all His creation, satisfying their needs.
- Exodus 16:16-18 – God provides manna in the wilderness, ensuring that everyone has enough.
- John 6:35 – Jesus declares Himself the bread of life, meeting both physical and spiritual hunger.
- Mark 8:19-20 – Jesus reminds His disciples of the abundance in both the feeding of the five thousand and the four thousand.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a powerful reminder of God’s ability to meet not just individual needs but the needs of many. It encourages believers to trust in His provision, even in overwhelming situations. The scale of the miracle also inspires confidence that no need is too great for God to handle.
This passage challenges Christians to think beyond their own needs and consider how they can be part of God’s work in providing for others. Just as Jesus provided for thousands, believers are called to share His blessings with those around them.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in the abundance of His provision. Jesus’ willingness to feed such a large crowd shows His compassion and care for both their physical and spiritual well-being. The inclusion of women and children reminds us that God’s love extends to everyone, regardless of status or position.
This verse also reflects the generosity of God’s love. He doesn’t just provide the bare minimum; He satisfies completely and leaves an abundance.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the source of all provision. His ability to feed thousands with such a small amount of food demonstrates His divine authority and His role as the provider for all who come to Him. This miracle points to His identity as the bread of life, who satisfies not just physical hunger but the deepest needs of the human heart (John 6:35).
The feeding of the four thousand also foreshadows the inclusiveness of Jesus’ mission. Just as He fed a diverse crowd, He offers salvation to all who believe in Him, regardless of background or circumstance.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage you to trust in God’s ability to provide for your needs, no matter how great they seem?
- What does the inclusion of women and children in this crowd teach you about God’s care for all people?
- In what ways have you experienced God’s abundance in your own life?
- How can you reflect Jesus’ generosity by sharing His blessings with others in your community?
- What does this miracle teach you about Jesus’ identity as the bread of life and His power to meet both physical and spiritual needs?