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Tag: Peter

  • Matthew 16 – Peter’s Confession and Jesus Foretells His Death

    The Rock of Faith: Understanding Peter’s Confession and Jesus’ Foretelling in Matthew 16

    Executive Summary ✨

    Matthew 16 holds a pivotal place in the Gospel, marking a turning point in Jesus’ ministry and the disciples’ understanding of His identity. The chapter begins with the Pharisees and Sadducees testing Jesus, demanding a sign from heaven. Jesus rebukes their hypocrisy, pointing to the signs they already ignore. He then moves to Caesarea Philippi, a region steeped in pagan worship, and poses the crucial question: “Who do people say that I am?” Peter, inspired by divine revelation, declares, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus affirms Peter’s confession, declaring him the “rock” upon which He will build His Church. However, this triumph is immediately followed by Jesus foretelling His suffering, death, and resurrection, a truth Peter vehemently rejects, prompting a sharp rebuke from Jesus. This chapter beautifully illustrates the tension between human understanding and divine wisdom, faith and doubt, and the glorious paradox of the Messiah’s path to victory through sacrifice. Indeed, understanding Peter’s Confession and Jesus’ Foretelling in Matthew 16 reveals the very heart of Christian belief.

    Matthew 16 offers profound insights into Christ’s identity, the nature of the Church, and the paradoxical path of suffering and glory that defines Christian discipleship. We will delve into each verse, exploring its historical context, theological significance, and practical applications for our lives today.

    Commentary Sections

    Matthew 16:1-4 – The Demand for a Sign 📖

    1 The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. 2 He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. 3 And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowering. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? 4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.

    The Pharisees and Sadducees, despite their opposing ideologies, unite in their rejection of Jesus. Their demand for a “sign from heaven” is not a genuine seeking of truth, but a deliberate attempt to trap Him. They are unwilling to acknowledge the numerous miracles He has already performed, preferring to cling to their preconceived notions. Jesus’ rebuke highlights their hypocrisy: they are adept at interpreting natural phenomena but blind to the spiritual realities unfolding before them. He calls them a “wicked and adulterous generation,” echoing Old Testament condemnations of idolatry and unfaithfulness to God (Hosea 9:1). The “sign of the prophet Jonah” refers to Jesus’ death and resurrection, a sign they will ultimately reject.

    Spiritual Application: We, too, can fall into the trap of demanding signs from God before we believe. True faith is not contingent upon miraculous displays but rests on a foundation of trust and obedience. Let us pray for open hearts and minds to discern the signs of God’s presence in our daily lives. If you’re struggling to manage your own site, you could consider using our WordPress hosting solution.

    Matthew 16:5-12 – Beware the Leaven 🍞

    5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. 6 Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. 7 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. 8 Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? 9 Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? 10 Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? 11 How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? 12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

    This passage illustrates the disciples’ spiritual immaturity. They are preoccupied with physical concerns (the lack of bread) and fail to grasp Jesus’ symbolic language. “Leaven” represents the corrupting influence of the Pharisees and Sadducees’ teachings, which are characterized by legalism, hypocrisy, and a rejection of the Messiah. Jesus reminds them of the miraculous feedings, demonstrating His power to provide for their needs, both physical and spiritual. Their lack of understanding reveals a “little faith.”

    Ἀναγνωρίζετε τοὺς καρποὺς αὐτῶν. (Anagnōrizete tous karpous autōn) – “You will recognize them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). This saying of Jesus reminds us that we must judge teachings by their fruits, not by their outward appearance or popularity.

    Spiritual Application: We must be vigilant against the “leaven” of false teachings that can subtly corrupt our faith. This requires discernment, a deep knowledge of Scripture, and a willingness to test all things against the truth. Let us examine our own beliefs and practices, ensuring that they are rooted in Christ and not in worldly philosophies.

    Matthew 16:13-20 – Peter’s Confession and the Rock 🪨

    13 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I am? 14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. 15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 20 Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.

    This is the climactic moment of Matthew 16. Jesus brings His disciples to Caesarea Philippi, a region dominated by pagan temples dedicated to various gods, including Pan. The area was notorious for its cave that was believed to be an entrance to the underworld. This setting heightens the significance of Peter’s confession. Jesus asks a direct question: “Who do you say that I am?” Peter, inspired by divine revelation, declares, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

    Jesus affirms Peter’s confession, stating that it was revealed to him by God the Father. He then declares, “You are Peter (Petros), and upon this rock (petra) I will build My Church.” The distinction between Petros (a small stone) and petra (a large rock or bedrock) is important. While Peter is a stone, the “rock” upon which the Church is built is Peter’s confession of faith in Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God. This confession is the foundational truth of Christianity. The “gates of hell” (the power of death and evil) will not prevail against the Church built upon this rock. Jesus also gives Peter the “keys of the kingdom of heaven,” symbolizing the authority to declare God’s will and to forgive or retain sins.

    Ἐπὶ ταύτῃ τῇ πέτρᾳ οἰκοδομήσω μου τὴν ἐκκλησίαν (Epi taute te petra oikodomēsō mou tēn ekklēsian) – “Upon this rock I will build My Church.” St. John Chrysostom interprets this “rock” as Peter’s faith, not merely Peter himself. (Homilies on Matthew, 54).

    Spiritual Application: Our faith must be rooted in the same confession as Peter’s: that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. This confession is not merely an intellectual assent but a heartfelt commitment that transforms our lives. We are all called to be “living stones” in the building of the Church, contributing our gifts and talents to the furtherance of God’s Kingdom. Understanding Peter’s Confession and Jesus’ Foretelling in Matthew 16 can deepen our faith.

    Matthew 16:21-23 – The Rebuke of Peter 🕊️

    21 From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. 22 Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee. 23 But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.

    Immediately after affirming Peter’s confession, Jesus reveals the true nature of His Messiahship: He must suffer, die, and be raised again. This is a jarring contrast to the disciples’ expectations of a triumphant, earthly king. Peter, unable to accept this reality, rebukes Jesus, saying, “This shall never happen to You!” Jesus’ response is shockingly harsh: “Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.” Peter, who was just praised for his divine revelation, is now rebuked as an instrument of Satan. This highlights the constant struggle between human understanding and divine will.

    Spiritual Application: We, like Peter, often struggle to accept God’s will when it clashes with our own desires and expectations. We may be tempted to reject the path of suffering and sacrifice, preferring comfort and ease. But Jesus’ words remind us that true discipleship requires a willingness to embrace the cross and follow Him, even when it leads us through difficult and painful experiences. Embracing our own crosses may bring us closer to God, and perhaps even make you want to start your own online ministry through the assistance of our website builder.

    Matthew 16:24-28 – The Way of the Cross ✝️

    24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. 26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? 27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. 28 Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.

    Jesus lays out the cost of discipleship: “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” “Denying oneself” means surrendering our own will and desires to God’s will. “Taking up our cross” means embracing the suffering and challenges that come with following Christ. This is a paradoxical teaching: we must “lose our life” (our selfish ambitions and desires) in order to “find it” (true life in Christ). Material possessions and worldly success are ultimately worthless if we lose our souls. Jesus promises that He will return in glory and reward everyone according to their works. He also states that some of those present will witness His coming in His kingdom, likely referring to the transfiguration, which occurs in the next chapter.

    Spiritual Application: Discipleship is not a passive activity but an active commitment that requires sacrifice and self-denial. We must be willing to prioritize God’s will above our own desires and to embrace the suffering that comes with following Christ. The reward is eternal life and the joy of knowing that we are fulfilling God’s purpose for our lives. Understanding Peter’s Confession and Jesus’ Foretelling in Matthew 16 allows us to understand the demands of discipleship.

    Subtopic Sections

    Let’s explore some key reflections on this pivotal chapter:

    • The Importance of Confession: Peter’s confession is a model for all believers. It is a declaration of faith in Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God.
    • The Paradox of Suffering: Jesus’ foretelling of His suffering and death challenges our expectations of a triumphant Messiah. It reminds us that true glory comes through sacrifice.
    • The Cost of Discipleship: Following Jesus requires self-denial, a willingness to embrace the cross, and a commitment to prioritizing God’s will above our own.
    • The Power of Revelation: Peter’s confession was not based on human reasoning but on divine revelation. We, too, need the Holy Spirit to open our eyes to the truth.
    • The Church as a Building: Jesus uses the metaphor of a building to describe the Church. We are all “living stones” being built upon the foundation of Christ.
    • The Keys of the Kingdom: The authority given to Peter represents the power to declare God’s will and to forgive or retain sins.

    FAQ ❓

    Here are some frequently asked questions about Matthew 16:

    • Q: What is the significance of Caesarea Philippi in this chapter?

      A: Caesarea Philippi was a center of pagan worship, making Peter’s confession even more powerful. It highlighted the contrast between the false gods of the region and the true God revealed in Jesus Christ.

    • Q: What does it mean to “take up your cross” in Matthew 16:24?

      A: “Taking up your cross” means embracing the suffering and challenges that come with following Christ. It involves sacrificing our own desires and ambitions for the sake of the Gospel.

    • Q: What is the “rock” that Jesus refers to in Matthew 16:18?

      A: The “rock” is primarily Peter’s confession of faith in Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God. While Peter himself is a stone (Petros), the foundation of the Church is the truth of Jesus’ identity.

    • Q: Why does Jesus call Peter “Satan” in Matthew 16:23?

      A: Jesus calls Peter “Satan” because Peter was speaking against God’s will, echoing the temptations Satan offered Jesus in the wilderness. He was prioritizing human comfort over divine purpose.

    Conclusion

    Matthew 16 is a chapter that challenges and inspires us. It reveals the true identity of Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God, and calls us to a life of radical discipleship. We must embrace the paradox of suffering and glory, deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. Understanding Peter’s Confession and Jesus’ Foretelling in Matthew 16 is key to unlocking a deeper understanding of our faith. May we, like Peter, be bold in our confession and unwavering in our commitment to Christ, allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal the truth to us, and may we walk in the light of His grace all the days of our lives. Ultimately, let the Rock of Ages be our foundation.

    Tags

    Peter’s Confession, Jesus Foretelling, Matthew 16, discipleship, suffering, cross, faith, rock, church, Caesarea Philippi

    Meta Description

    Explore Matthew 16’s powerful message on Peter’s Confession & Jesus’ Foretelling. Discover the meaning of discipleship, suffering, & the true identity of Christ.

  • Matthew 14 – The Feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus Walks on Water

    Jesus Feeds the 5,000: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Matthew 14

    Executive Summary ✨

    Matthew 14 recounts two profound miracles: the feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus walking on water. This chapter highlights Christ’s divine power and compassion. After hearing of John the Baptist’s martyrdom, Jesus seeks solitude, but the crowds follow Him. Moved by compassion, He miraculously feeds thousands with only five loaves and two fish, demonstrating His ability to provide abundantly for our needs. Later, He walks on water, a display of dominion over nature, and calms the storm, reassuring His disciples of His presence and power even amidst life’s trials. Peter’s attempt to walk on water, and subsequent doubt, serves as a powerful lesson on the importance of unwavering faith in Christ and the dangers of succumbing to fear. This chapter underscores the importance of faith, compassion, and trust in God’s unfailing power, reminding us that Jesus feeds the 5,000 spiritually and physically, and He is always with us, even when we feel overwhelmed by life’s storms. Remember, with the help of services like website hosting, we can share these messages of hope and faith with the world.

    Matthew 14 reveals the boundless compassion and divine power of Jesus Christ. This chapter narrates two awe-inspiring miracles – the multiplication of loaves and fishes to feed five thousand people, and Jesus’s remarkable walk on the water of the Sea of Galilee. We see not only Christ’s capacity to provide physical sustenance, but also a profound demonstration of His authority over the natural world, ultimately prompting reflection on our own faith and reliance on God’s provision in times of trouble.

    Commentary Sections 📖

    Matthew 14:1-2 – Herod’s Reaction to Jesus

    Matt 14:1-2: Ἐν ἐκείνῳ τῷ καιρῷ ἤκουσεν Ἡρῴδης ὁ τετράρχης τὴν ἀκοὴν Ἰησοῦ, καὶ εἶπεν τοῖς παισὶν αὐτοῦ· Οὗτός ἐστιν Ἰωάννης ὁ βαπτιστής· αὐτὸς ἠγέρθη ἀπὸ τῶν νεκρῶν, καὶ διὰ τοῦτο αἱ δυνάμεις ἐνεργοῦσιν ἐν αὐτῷ. (In that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus, and said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead, and therefore these powers are at work in him.”)

    Herod’s reaction reveals a guilty conscience. He perceives Jesus as a resurrected John the Baptist, highlighting his fear and superstition. This passage demonstrates how even those in positions of power can be tormented by their sins. The “powers” mentioned suggest that Herod recognized something extraordinary in both John and Jesus, though he misinterpreted its source.

    • Spiritual Application: Reflect on our own conscience. Are there unresolved issues or sins that cause us unease? Seek forgiveness and reconciliation to find true peace.

    Matthew 14:3-12 – The Death of John the Baptist

    Matt 14:12: καὶ προσελθόντες οἱ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ ἦραν τὸ σῶμα καὶ ἔθαψαν αὐτόν, καὶ ἐλθόντες ἀπήγγειλαν τῷ Ἰησοῦ. (And his disciples came and took away the body and buried it, and went and told Jesus.)

    This section details the tragic and unjust death of John the Baptist. John’s unwavering commitment to truth, even when it meant confronting Herod’s sin, ultimately led to his martyrdom. His death foreshadows the suffering that awaits Jesus and the early Christians. The disciples’ respectful burial of John and their reporting to Jesus is a model of piety and loyalty. It reminds us of the value of honoring those who have lived righteous lives.

    Patristic Insight: St. John Chrysostom comments on the courage of John the Baptist, saying, “Οὐκ ἔδεισεν Ἡρῴδην, ἀλλὰ ἀντεῖπεν τῇ ἀνομίᾳ, κἂν μέλλῃ ἀποθανεῖν.” (Ouk edeisen Hērōdēn, alla anteipen tē anomia, kan mellēi apothanein. “He did not fear Herod, but spoke against the lawlessness, even if he was about to die.”) (Homilies on Matthew, 48.2)

    • Spiritual Application: Be courageous in speaking truth, even when it’s difficult. Stand firm in your faith, even in the face of opposition. Remember that faithfulness is rewarded in eternity.

    Matthew 14:13-21 – Feeding the 5,000

    Matt 14:20: καὶ ἔφαγον πάντες καὶ ἐχορτάσθησαν, καὶ ἦραν τὸ περισσεῦον τῶν κλασμάτων δώδεκα κοφίνους πλήρεις. (So they all ate and were filled, and they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments that remained.)

    This miracle is a powerful demonstration of Jesus’s divine power and His compassion for the multitudes. The disciples initially question how they could possibly feed so many people with so little, highlighting the contrast between human limitations and divine possibilities. Jesus’s actions—taking the loaves and fish, looking up to heaven, blessing them, and breaking them—mirror the Eucharist, foreshadowing the spiritual nourishment He offers to believers. The abundance of leftover fragments emphasizes God’s overflowing provision.

    Coptic Tradition: The Coptic Church views this miracle as a prefiguration of the Holy Eucharist, where the bread and wine are transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ, providing spiritual sustenance to believers. The “twelve baskets” are interpreted as symbolizing the twelve apostles, representing the fullness of the Church.

    • Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s provision, even when resources seem scarce. Offer what you have to God, and He will multiply it to meet the needs of others. Seek spiritual nourishment through prayer, Scripture, and participation in the sacraments.

    Matthew 14:22-33 – Jesus Walks on Water

    Matt 14:30-31: βλέπων δὲ τὸν ἄνεμον ἰσχυρὸν ἐφοβήθη, καὶ ἀρξάμενος καταποντίζεσθαι ἔκραξεν λέγων· Κύριε, σῶσόν με. εὐθέως δὲ ὁ Ἰησοῦς ἐκτείνας τὴν χεῖρα ἐπελάβετο αὐτοῦ καὶ λέγει αὐτῷ· Ὀλιγόπιστε, εἰς τί ἐδίστασας; (But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!” And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”)

    Jesus walking on water is a powerful manifestation of His divinity, demonstrating His control over nature. Peter’s initial faith allows him to also walk on water, but his fear and doubt cause him to sink. This incident illustrates the importance of unwavering faith in Christ and the dangers of succumbing to fear and doubt. Jesus’s immediate rescue of Peter underscores His unwavering love and support for His followers, even when they falter. The calming of the storm after Jesus enters the boat reaffirms His power and brings peace to the disciples. This narrative demonstrates the transformative power of faith and the ever-present support of Christ in the face of adversity.

    Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria writes, “Ὁ τὴν θάλασσαν πατήσας, τὴν τῶν παθῶν θάλασσαν καταπατεῖ” (Ho tēn thalassan patēsas, tēn tōn pathōn thalassan katapatei “He who walked on the sea, tramples down the sea of passions”) (Commentary on John, Book 4, Chapter 4). This highlights that Christ’s dominion over the natural world extends to our inner struggles and passions.

    • Spiritual Application: Fix your eyes on Jesus, especially when facing trials and temptations. Don’t let fear and doubt overwhelm your faith. Trust in God’s power to overcome any obstacle. Know that Christ is always there to rescue you when you stumble.

    Matthew 14:34-36 – Healings at Gennesaret

    Matt 14:36: καὶ παρεκάλουν αὐτὸν ἵνα μόνον ἅψωνται τοῦ κρασπέδου τοῦ ἱματίου αὐτοῦ· καὶ ὅσοι ἥψαντο διεσώθησαν. (and begged Him that they might only touch the hem of His garment. And as many as touched it were made perfectly well.)

    This passage demonstrates the widespread belief in Jesus’s healing power. The people’s faith, evidenced by their desire to touch even the hem of His garment, resulted in miraculous healings. This highlights the power of faith and the compassionate nature of Jesus, who was always willing to heal those who came to Him. It also demonstrates the tangible presence of God’s grace in the person of Jesus Christ. This echoes the story of the woman with the issue of blood who was healed by touching Jesus’s garment (Matthew 9:20-22), solidifying the idea that even physical contact with Christ could bring about healing through faith.

    • Spiritual Application: Approach God with unwavering faith, believing in His power to heal and restore. Recognize that God’s grace is accessible to all who seek Him. Pray for healing – both physical and spiritual – and trust in God’s perfect will.

    Subtopic Sections

    Here are some key reflections and teachings from Matthew 14:

    • The Power of Compassion: Jesus’s miracles are often motivated by His compassion for those in need. Emulate Christ’s compassion by showing kindness and generosity to others.
    • The Importance of Faith: Faith is essential for receiving God’s blessings and overcoming challenges. Cultivate a strong and unwavering faith through prayer, Scripture study, and participation in the sacraments.
    • The Dangers of Doubt: Doubt can hinder our faith and lead us astray. Combat doubt by focusing on God’s promises and remembering His faithfulness in the past.
    • God’s Abundant Provision: God is able to provide abundantly for all our needs, both physical and spiritual. Trust in His provision and be grateful for His blessings.
    • Christ’s Sovereignty: Jesus’s miracles demonstrate His power over nature and His dominion over all creation. Recognize Christ’s sovereignty in your life and submit to His will.

    FAQ ❓

    Let’s address some frequently asked questions about Matthew 14:

    • Q: Why did Jesus withdraw after hearing of John the Baptist’s death?
      • A: Jesus likely sought solitude to grieve and pray, and also to prepare for the increasing hostility towards Him. It was a time for reflection and strengthening before continuing His mission. He needed a moment of quiet to process John’s death and gather strength for the challenges ahead.
    • Q: What is the significance of the twelve baskets of leftover food?
      • A: The twelve baskets can represent the twelve tribes of Israel or the twelve apostles, symbolizing the fullness of God’s provision for both the Jewish people and the Church. It is a sign of God’s abundant grace and how He more than provides for those in need.
    • Q: Why did Peter doubt and begin to sink?
      • A: Peter’s doubt stemmed from taking his eyes off Jesus and focusing on the storm around him. This highlights the importance of maintaining focus on Christ during trials and resisting fear and doubt. Peter’s fear became his downfall when he shifted his gaze.

    Conclusion

    Matthew 14 serves as a powerful testament to the divine nature and boundless compassion of Jesus Christ. The feeding of the 5,000 demonstrates God’s ability to provide abundantly for our needs, both physically and spiritually. Jesus’s walking on water and calming the storm reminds us that He is always with us, even in the midst of life’s challenges. Peter’s experience teaches us the importance of unwavering faith and the dangers of succumbing to fear and doubt. Ultimately, this chapter calls us to trust in God’s power, seek His provision, and remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that Jesus feeds the 5,000 and is always present to guide and protect us. Let us strive to emulate Christ’s compassion and to share His love with the world.

    Tags

    Matthew 14, Feeding of the 5000, Jesus Walks on Water, Miracle, Faith, Compassion, Doubt, Provision, Coptic Orthodox, Patristic, Healing, Peter

    Meta Description

    A Coptic Orthodox commentary on Matthew 14: Feeding the 5,000 and Jesus walking on water. Explore themes of faith, compassion, doubt, and God’s abundant provision. Learn how Jesus feeds the 5,000 today.