Compassion and Responsibility (Matthew 14:13-21)

"When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick" (Mt 14:14). "You give them something to eat" (Mt 14:16).

• How can I know the depth of God's compassion and of my responsibility?

1.   What preceded this miracle (Mt 14:13, 8-12)?

• How might Jesus have felt (Isa 53:3)?
• What does his response (Mt 14:14) show about him (Mt 9:36; 15:32)?
• Have you experienced Jesus’ love and compassion (Jer 31:3)?
• Do you serve others when you’re hurting?

2.   Was the disciples' proposal reasonable (Mt 14:15)? Why does Jesus command them to feed them (Mt 14:16; 1 Pet 5:2)? What responsibility has Jesus given you? 

• What does this teach you (Mk 11:22; Jn 14:1)?
• Who is Jesus (Jn 6:35; Isa 25:6; Ps 107:9; 23:1ff; Phil 4:19)?

3.   What “loaves and fish” can you bring to Jesus (Mt 14:17)? What limitations (inadequacies, sins) might hinder you from serving God?

• How can you practically participate in God’s work of meeting needs today? 

4. What does Jesus instructions to his disciples show about him (Mt 14:18-19; 26:26; Gen 1:28)?

• Do you know how Jesus became broken bread for you (Jn 6:35)?
• Are you broken bread and poured out wine for others (2 Tim 4:6)?

5.   What are the results of the miracle (Mt 14:20-21; 2 Ki 4:42-44)?

• Have you experienced God’s abundant provision beyond what seemed possible (Jn 10:10)?

** Is there an area of need--in your life, family, church, community--where God might use you (with what little you have)?