The Dim-Witted Disciples Forgot their Bread—Sort Of…

Sometimes we miss what the Bible is saying because we tend to read it in short bursts of verses and passages, rather than read any of its 66 books straight through or in large portions. For example, if you read Matthew in a few sessions, you’ll see the hilarious story of, “The Dim-Witted Disciples Forgot their Bread—Sort Of…”

PART 1: Matthew 14:13-21 – Jesus wants his disciples to feed over 5,000 people and they’re like, “But all we have is five loaves of bread and two fish!” Jesus then multiplies these 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish into a giant banquet and even makes enough to gather leftovers when it’s all done.

PART 2: Matthew 15:32-38 – Jesus wants to feed a crowd of 4,000 people and the disciples in their short-term memory are like, “Where we going to get enough bread to do that!?” Jesus (who was probably seen rolling his eyes) then multiplies 7 loaves of bread and a few small fish into a giant banquet and even makes enough to gather leftovers when it’s all done.

PART 3: Matthew 16:1-12 – Jesus gets into a quarrel with some Pharisees and Saducees and then gets into a boat and sails to other side of the Sea of Galilee. When he gets to land he tells the disciples a quick analogy: “Beware the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” This triggers a train of thought for the disciples. “Leaven? Like in bread? Wait, we forgot to bring any bread with us! Jesus is asking for bread and we don’t have any! Is there a new Pharisee and Sadducee brand? Have you guys seen that at the market anywhere? Don’t buy it if you do!”

Matthew doesn’t write it, but I’m pretty he could have added, “And Jesus facepalmed,” right here. First off, if they need bread, Jesus has proved without a doubt that he can find some, as evidenced by the McDonald’s ticker sign hovering behind him that said, “Over 9,000 supernaturally served!” Secondly, “It was an analogy you guys! Come on!” To which the disciples probably replied, “Oooooooooooooooh.”