Jesus went up a mountainside with His disciples, and a large crowd followed Him because they had seen His miracles and heard His teaching. He spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and the day grew long as the people continued to listen.

As evening approached, the crowd became hungry, and there was no food nearby. Jesus turned to Philip and asked, “Where can we buy bread for these people to eat?” He asked this to test him, for He already knew what He would do.

Philip replied that even a large amount of money would not be enough to feed such a crowd. The disciples suggested sending the people away to nearby villages to buy food.

But Jesus said, “You give them something to eat.”

The disciples were overwhelmed. Andrew then brought forward a young boy who had five barley loaves and two small fish. He said, “But how far will this go among so many?”

Jesus replied, “Bring them to Me.”

He took the bread and fish, gave thanks, and blessed them. Then He gave them to His disciples to distribute to the people.

Everyone ate as much as they wanted. Over five thousand men were fed, not including women and children. When they had all finished, Jesus instructed them to gather what was left. The disciples collected twelve baskets full of leftovers.

The people were amazed and said, “Surely this is the Prophet who was to come into the world.” Some even began to think of making Him king.

But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, withdrew from them and went up the mountain alone to pray.