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Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Mark 6:30-44

The miracle of the loaves. The apostles, having returned to Jesus after their first tour of healing and preaching, relate to him "all things whatsoever they had done, and whatsoever they had taught." Touched with consideration for them, Jesus withdraws them "apart into a desert place, to rest a while." But they could not be hid. The people saw them departing, and gathered, "from all the cities, a great multitude." To the eye of the Merciful they were "as sheep not having a shepherd," and... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Mark 6:30-44

Parallel passages: Matthew 14:13-21 ; Luke 9:10-17 ; John 6:1-14 .— Miraculous provision. I. THE FEEDING OF THE FIVE THOUSAND . 1 . The vivid description of St. Mark. In connection with this miracle, St. Mark describes the recognition of our Lord by the multitude, their running together on foot, their outspeeding the Saviour, their arrival at the place of disembarkation before him, the compassion that moved him, the instruction he gave them. He describes,... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Mark 6:35-44

Feeding the five thousand: a miracle. One of the most signally demonstrative and masterly of Christ's miracles, whether we consider the circumstances in which it was wrought, the details of its carrying out, or the dimensions and absoluteness of the result. How carefully the evidence was accumulated by Christ of the truly miraculous nature of this work! It was a grand display of— I. WISDOM . 1 . A practical ( and symbolical ) discipline of the Church in its great function... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Mark 6:35-44

Feeding the five thousand: a parable. It is no less remarkable in this aspect; perhaps it was its suggestion of spiritual things which was its chief aim. It sets forth the physical and spiritual dependence of men upon God, and the Divine Father's willingness and power to provide for his children; or, the sufficiency of the kingdom of God for the sustenance of its subjects. The nature and principles of Divine mercy to mankind are also suggested. I. THE POVERTY OF THE CHURCH .... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Mark 6:35-44

The multitude fed. I. THE COMPASSION OF CHRIST . It is for the body as well as the soul. The foundation of work upon the soul is cure for the body. It is contrasted with the disciples' carelessness. Their spirit is that which leads men to get rid of irksome duty. "Send them away!" Let them shift for themselves. Christ's example teaches that where a want is seen, those who see it should be the first to seek to supply it. II. LOVE IS RICH IN RESOURCES . It seemed a... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Mark 6:41

All the synoptists give our Lord's acts in the same words. The taking of the food into the hands would seem to have been a formal act before the" blessing," or "giving of thanks," for it. Probably our Lord used the ordinary form of benediction. This is one amongst other instances showing the fitness and propriety of" grace before meat." In considering the miraculous action which followed the benediction, our reason is baffled. It eludes our grasp. It is best simply to behold in this... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Mark 6:41

Christian care for the needy. Observe the contrast between this feast on the mountain and the festival just alluded to in the palace of Herod. There self-indulgence, folly, and guilt prevailed; here the necessities of the body were generously met, and hungry souls were satisfied and gladdened. Describe the scene. let us learn some of the lessons here inculcated by him who on all occasions was an example to his disciples. I. WE SHOULD DEVOUTLY RECOGNIZE GOD IN THE SUPPLY ... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Mark 6:42-43

They did all eat, and were filled ( ἐχορτάσθησαν ). It might be rendered, were fulfilled , according to the old meaning of "fulfill." It is probable that the women and children were a considerable number; for they would be, if possible, even more eager then the men to see the great Prophet. When all had eaten and were satisfied, they took up broken pieces, twelve basketfuls, and also of the fishes. St. John tells us that this was done by the express command of Christ ( John 6:12... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Mark 6:43

Spiritual economy. From other accounts we learn that this measure was ordered by Christ. The power and the restraint of Christ are about equally demonstrative of his divinity. A strict and immediate economy is demanded in his kingdom. We are to appreciate the grace received; its very fragments are to be precious. The life and work of the Christian have to exhibit a wise and careful stewardship. This direction— I. IS A SOLUTION TO ONE OF THE GREATEST DIFFICULTIES IN ... read more

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - Mark 6:32-44

See this narrative explained in the notes at Matthew 14:13-21.Mark 6:32By ship - By a boat or a small vessel.Privately - Without making their plan known. They intended to go privately. It appears, however, that their intention became known, and multitudes followed them.Mark 6:33Afoot thither - On foot to the place where they saw them going.Out of all cities - All cities or large towns in the neighborhood.Mark 6:34Much people ...as sheep ... - They had no one to teach them and guide them. The... read more

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