I. Background Information
Luke 9: 10 When the apostles returned, they reported to Jesus what they had done. Then he took them with him and they withdrew by themselves to a town called Bethsaida, 11 but the crowds learned about it and followed him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing. 12 Late in the afternoon the Twelve came to him and said, “Send the crowd away so they can go to the surrounding villages and countryside and find food and lodging, because we are in a remote place here.” 13 He replied, “You give them something to eat.” They answered, “We have only five loaves of bread and two fish — unless we go and buy food for all this crowd.” 14 (About five thousand men were there.) But he said to his disciples, “Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each.” 15 The disciples did so, and everybody sat down. 16 Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke them. Then he gave them to the disciples to set before the people. 17 They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.
III. Label the Text
- Circle all of the numbers in the story.
- Underline Jesus’ actions and words.
- Write a word in left column for each verse that describes the emotion or feel of what is happening.
- Mark other details in the story -- or write any questions you have.
IV. Reflect on the Text
Pretend you are one of the 12 disciples. Write a short entry in your journal about your experience today.
V. Personal Application
Do you believe that Jesus/God can do a miracle through you?
Would you like to be involved God’s work? Why or Why not?
What opportunities to be involved in God’s work has Jesus led you to these days?
Do you have any fears or reasons to hesitate?
