John 6:5-6

John telescoped the events of the day. He omitted mention of Jesus’ teaching and healing ministry (Matthew 14:14; Mark 6:34; Luke 9:11) as well as the disciples’ concern for food (Matthew 14:15; Mark 6:35-36; Luke 9:12). Instead he focused on the miracle. His account also shows Jesus’ initiative in solving the food problem. Only John recorded that Jesus approached Philip about the need. This would have been normal since Philip was from Bethsaida, the nearest sizable town (John 1:44). John also explained that Jesus’ question was a test in Philip’s discipleship training, not an indication that Jesus wondered what to do initially.