But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat.

MATTHEW 14:16KJV
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Matthew 14:16 (KJV)

What does Matthew 14:16 mean?

Matthew 14:16 shows Jesus telling his disciples that the crowd does not need to leave to find food; instead, he instructs the disciples to give the people something to eat themselves. This verse highlights Jesus’ expectation that his followers take responsibility for the immediate needs of those around them.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking directly to his disciples after they suggest sending the large crowd away to buy food. Instead of agreeing, Jesus challenges them to meet the need right where they are. This sets up the miracle of feeding the five thousand, emphasizing both Jesus’ compassion and his call for active involvement from his followers.

The Greek behind Matthew 14:16

  • The word "depart" (ἀπελθεῖν, apelthein) means to go away or leave. Jesus is saying the people do not need to go elsewhere, which stresses his intention to provide for them in that moment and place.
  • The command "give" (δότε, dote) is a direct instruction from Jesus to the disciples, not just a suggestion. The Greek form is imperative, showing Jesus’ authority and expectation that they act.
  • The word "eat" (φαγεῖν, phagein) is a simple term for eating, but in this context, it highlights the basic, practical need Jesus wants addressed.

Why Matthew 14:16 matters

  • This verse corrects the idea that spiritual leaders or followers should always send people elsewhere for help, showing instead that Jesus often calls his followers to act directly.
  • Matthew 14:16 sets the stage for the miracle that follows, making it clear that Jesus involves his disciples in his work, not just as observers but as participants.
  • The verse emphasizes Jesus’ compassion and practical care, connecting spiritual teaching with meeting everyday needs.

Where else these words appear

“need” Greek G5532 · used in 47 verses

  • Matthew 3:14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?
  • Luke 22:71 And they said, What need we any further witness? for we ourselves have heard of his own mouth.
  • Philippians 2:25 Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.

“eat” Greek G5315 · used in 90 verses

  • Matthew 6:25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
  • Luke 7:36 And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to meat.
  • John 18:28 Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment: and it was early; and they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might eat the passover.

“depart” Greek G565 · used in 118 verses

  • Matthew 2:22 But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee:
  • Mark 5:20 And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.
  • Luke 24:12 Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.