"Then those men, when they had seen the sign that Jesus did, said, “This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world” (John 6:14).
The feeding of the 5,000 is recorded in each of the gospels. But it is significant that in this gospel, John places the miracle directly after Jesus’ conversation with the Pharisees. The feeding of the 5,000 actually occurred up to a year after Jesus talked with the Jews, which is recorded in chapter five. Remember, John assumed that his readers were familiar with the other gospels so he was not interested in a strict chronological record. What he wanted to do was emphasize the majesty and power of Christ.
Jesus told the Jews in chapter five that they would have known Him if they had seen Him foreshadowed in the life of Moses. It is no accident that John records the feeding of the five thousand next because in this miracle Jesus parallels Moses. The crowds followed Jesus as they did Moses. Jesus went up on the mountain as Moses went up on Mount Sinai. Jesus asked where the people might obtain food just as Moses inquired of God concerning the wandering Israelites (Num. 11:13). Jesus provided food when none was available just as Moses (by the power of God) provided food in the wilderness (Num. 11). And lastly, the people make the connection between Jesus and Moses when they said, “This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world.” They were quoting from Deuteronomy 18:15, where God promised to send a prophet like Moses.
By recording this miracle on the heels of Jesus’ comments to the Pharisees, John is emphasizing the fulfillment of prophecy in Christ. He was the Messiah, and the miracles He performed were signs of His divine, majestic nature. Jesus wanted His disciples to grasp this truth, which is why He tested Philip by inquiring about the food. Philip should have known by the power Jesus had already displayed that He could provide. But Philip’s faith was weak, just as our faith is despite the many testimonies we have in Scripture, in history, and in our own lives of His power. Jesus patiently revealed, once again, His power as the Prophet who came to feed His people not only physically—as Moses did—but spiritually by the renewing power of His Spirit.
Is there some difficulty in your life that you do not think you can handle? Financial problems, failing health, struggles with sinful desires, etc.? Does Christ have the power to overcome these obstacles and give you strength? Though He might not answer your prayers as you want, trust in Him, knowing that He will provide.
