ACC ~ Matthew 14 v15 - 16

YOU GIVE THEM

CHRYSOSTOM: Note carefully the Teacher’s skill. Observe with what discretion he draws them toward believing. Observe how deliberately this unfolds. For he did not simply say, “I will feed them.” The deeper significance of that would have not been easily understood. So what does he say? “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.”

He did not say “I give them” but “you give them.” For at this point their regard for him was essentially as to a man. They said to him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.” At this point Mark adds, “They did not understand the saying, for their heart was hardened.” [1] For they were continuing to crawl like babies. THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW, HOMILY 49. [2]

[1] Mk 6:52.

[2] PG 58:497; NPNF 1 10:304.

SEND THEM AWAY?

CYRIL OF ALEXANDRIA: Let us examine carefully what this sending away of the crowds is all about. Some of those who followed Christ were afflicted by evil spirits and begged to be delivered from them. Others were afflicted with various sicknesses from which they sought relief. Therefore, because the disciples knew that Jesus had only to consider what those who were suffering longed for and it would be accomplished, “they sent them away.” They did this not so much because they thought Jesus’ time was too valuable but because they had a love for the crowds and, as though already having an understanding of pastoral care, they began to care for the people. FRAGMENT 175. [1]

[1] MKGK 210.