Mark 6:43 Commentary and Bible Study

There are fragments left over. In John’s Gospel, Christ says, ‘Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.’ So they weren’t thrown away. They fill twelve baskets. Why twelve? Surely it is obvious. Twelve apostles! Hadn't the apostles-to-be, just been sent on a mission and been told, ‘You mustn't take a spare coat; you mustn't take a spare staff; you mustn't take money in your purse. You're not here for comfort, riches, and support. You mostly live humbly and modestly’, and they did, all of them. To their dying day, till their martyrdom, they were the models of pastors and preachers throughout the centuries. They lived modestly and reasonably; they didn't amass riches. So immediately after they return from that mission, the feeding of the five thousand takes place and it shows them that God will look after the preachers. He will provide for them. So when the multitude is fed, then there are twelve baskets of ample provision to sustain and to keep them.