This is the only miracle that all four evangelists recorded. It is important because it is the climax of Jesus' miracles that authenticated His person as divine (cf. Ps. 146:7). It was perhaps the most forceful demonstration to the disciples of Jesus' deity. Jesus performed this miracle primarily for their benefit though also out of compassion for the people. Luke recorded no crowd reaction to it. His account contrasts the inadequacy of the disciples with Jesus' ability to help the crowd. Jesus' compassion for the people also contrasts with the disciples' unconcern.
9:10 This verse marks the end of the special mission of the Twelve (vv. 1-6). Luke now called them "apostles"again (cf. 6:13) probably in anticipation of their ministry in Acts as Jesus' authorized representatives. They reported to Jesus as their authority (cf. Acts 14:26-28). Jesus then took them privately to the region of Bethsaida Julius for rest (Mark 6:31) and further instruction. This town stood near the northeast shore of Lake Galilee.
9:11 Luke is the only evangelist who wrote that Jesus welcomed the crowds that came to him. By doing so he pictured Jesus as the ever available Savior who was ready and willing to help those who came to Him.
9:12-13 Jesus undoubtedly used this suggestion as a teaching device to face the Twelve with the inadequacy of their resources so they would turn to Him for help (cf. 2 Kings 4:42-44). They failed this test and thought instead of buying food. The non-local people would need lodging for the night, a detail that only Luke recorded.
9:14-17 Luke's account here does not differ from the others significantly. The miracle shows that when believers become partners with Jesus in the execution of His mission, He can enable them to provide greater blessing for others than they can by themselves. The absence of reference to the crowd's reaction in the synoptic accounts focuses attention on the results of the miracle. It must have elicited another question: Who is Jesus?
