Matthew 15:32 - Jesus summoned his disciples and said, “I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days and have nothing to eat. I don’t want to send them away fasting, or they might faint on the way.”

Generated Verse: Matthew 15:32

What does "Matthew 15:32" mean?


This verse, Matthew 15:32, reveals several important aspects of Jesus' character and ministry:

Compassion: The central theme is Jesus' compassion for the people following him. He sees their physical need - hunger - and is moved to act. He is not indifferent to their suffering.

Recognizing Needs: Jesus notices and cares about the crowd's basic needs. He is not only concerned with their spiritual well-being but also their physical well-being. He is aware that they have been with him for three days and are now without food.

Responsibility: He feels a sense of responsibility for their well-being. Having kept them listening to his teachings for three days, he doesn't want to simply send them away without considering the consequences of their hunger.

Concern for Consequences: Jesus anticipates the potential danger of sending them away hungry. He is concerned that they might faint on the way home, highlighting his practical concern for their safety.

In essence, this verse underscores Jesus' deep empathy, his awareness of human needs, and his willingness to act to alleviate suffering. It sets the stage for the miracle that follows, the feeding of the four thousand. It shows that Jesus' ministry was holistic, addressing both spiritual and physical needs, and driven by profound compassion.

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