15:36 15:36

Matthew 15:37

15:38 15:38

Bible Versions

And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken [meat] that was left seven baskets full.
And {G2532} they did {G5315} all {G3956} eat {G5315}, and {G2532} were filled {G5526}: and {G2532} they took up {G142} of the broken {G2801} meat that was left {G4052} seven {G2033} baskets {G4711} full {G4134}.
Every one ate his fill, and they took seven large baskets full of the leftover pieces.
They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.
And they all ate, and were filled: and they took up that which remained over of the broken pieces, seven baskets full.

Matthew 15:37 concludes the account of Jesus miraculously feeding a large multitude, often referred to as the "feeding of the four thousand." This verse highlights the astonishing abundance and complete satisfaction experienced by those present, along with the significant amount of leftovers collected.

Context

This event occurred in a remote area, likely near the Decapolis region, after Jesus had been ministering to the crowds for three days (Matthew 15:32). Jesus had compassion on them, knowing they had nothing to eat. Despite the disciples' skepticism about finding enough food in such a desolate place, Jesus took a few loaves and fish, gave thanks, and distributed them. This miracle demonstrates Jesus' divine power and deep concern for the physical needs of His followers.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Provision and Abundance: The core message is Jesus' ability to provide miraculously and abundantly. "They did all eat, and were filled" emphasizes that everyone had enough, and more. This points to God's limitless resources and His willingness to meet the needs of His people.
  • Compassion of Christ: This miracle is rooted in Jesus' profound compassion for the hungry multitude, echoing His earlier concern for the five thousand (Matthew 14:14). He didn't want to send them away faint.
  • Sufficiency and Leftovers: The collection of "seven baskets full" of broken pieces underscores that God's provision is not merely sufficient but overflowing. These leftovers serve as tangible proof of the miracle's magnitude and the divine generosity.
  • Distinction from the Feeding of the Five Thousand: While similar, this miracle is distinct from the feeding of the five thousand (Matthew 14:20). The numbers differ (four thousand vs. five thousand, seven baskets vs. twelve baskets), and the types of baskets used also vary, suggesting two separate, though similarly powerful, acts of Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The term "broken [meat]" refers to the pieces of bread and fish that were left over. The KJV adds "meat" for clarity, but the original Greek simply refers to the broken fragments. An interesting linguistic detail lies in the word for "baskets." Here, the Greek word used is spuris (σπυρίς), which denotes a large provision basket, sometimes even large enough to hold a person (as seen in Acts 9:25 where Paul escaped in one). This contrasts with the kophinos (κοφίνος), a smaller, hand-held basket, used in the feeding of the five thousand. This subtle difference reinforces the distinct nature of these two great miracles of provision.

Practical Application

Matthew 15:37 encourages believers to trust in God's unfailing ability to provide for all their needs, both physical and spiritual. Just as Jesus met the hunger of the crowd, He continues to sustain His people. This verse reminds us that God's generosity often exceeds our expectations, providing not just enough, but an abundance. It also teaches us the value of stewardship, collecting the leftovers as a testament to God's blessing and to avoid waste.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Mark 8:19

    When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? They say unto him, Twelve.

  • Mark 8:21

    And he said unto them, How is it that ye do not understand?

  • Matthew 14:20

    And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full.

  • Matthew 14:21

    And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.

  • Matthew 15:33

    And his disciples say unto him, Whence should we have so much bread in the wilderness, as to fill so great a multitude?

  • Luke 1:53

    He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.

  • Mark 8:8

    So they did eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken [meat] that was left seven baskets.
 Back

Search Scripture