EGW
“Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would. When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.” RH April 4, 1907, par. 1
By this miracle Christ has shown how missionary work is to be bound up with the ministry of the word. Not only did the Master give the people spiritual food; by a miracle he also provided temporal food to satisfy their physical hunger. This merciful provision helped to fasten in the minds of the people the gracious words of truth which he had spoken. Following his example, his disciples are to take the bread of life and the water of salvation and give to those who are longing for spiritual help. And as there is need, they are to feed the hungry and clothe the naked. The beauty and utility of the work we do for God consists in its symmetry and harmony, and in its all-round adaptability and efficiency. RH April 4, 1907, par. 2
This miracle is an object-lesson for us. It contains lessons of deep import, which, though they lie beneath the surface, will be discerned and appreciated by those who have cultivated their perceptive faculties. By this miracle Christ desires to teach us the truth of the words, “Without me ye can do nothing.” He is the source of all power, the giver of all temporal and spiritual blessings. He employs human beings as co-workers, giving them a part to act with him as his helping hand. We are to receive from him, not to hoard for self-gratification, but to impart to others. And as we do this work, let us not suppose that we are to receive the glory. All the glory is to be given to the great Master-Worker. The disciples were not to receive the glory for feeding the five thousand. They were only the instruments used by the Lord. RH April 4, 1907, par. 3
Those who work for Christ are never to think that the credit for their success belongs to them. God's name is to receive all the glory. He it is who accomplishes the work. He, the great Master-Worker, slumbers not. Constantly he is working for the harmonious accomplishment of his purposes. He entrusts talents to human beings that they may co-operate with him. They are ever to remember that they are but instruments in his hands. “He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.” “The Lord reigneth; let the people tremble; he sitteth between the cherubim, let the earth be moved. The Lord is great in Zion; and he is high above all the people. Let them praise thy great and terrible name; for it is holy.” RH April 4, 1907, par. 4
Christ gave the bread to the disciples, to be given by them to the multitude. By the part which the disciples acted in this miracle is illustrated the part which Christ's disciples in all ages are to act. From him they are to receive the precious truth to give to those who are fainting by the wayside. And as they empty their hands in imparting to the hungry, they receive more to impart. RH April 4, 1907, par. 5
Christ is the light of the world. Those who walk in this light are charmed by its beauty, and are filled with a desire to share it with others. Their hearts are illuminated by the grace of Christ, and they become light-bearers. Their light shines more and more unto the perfect day. RH April 4, 1907, par. 6
Thus it was with Philip. After he had been called by Christ, he could not keep to himself the knowledge he had found. Going to Nathanael, he said, “We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” “Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth?” Nathanael asked. But Philip did not stop to argue. “Come and see,” was all he said. As he thus showed his faith in the Saviour, he received increased light. RH April 4, 1907, par. 7
He who has really accepted Christ will not be satisfied to enjoy the divine favor without giving to others the joy that cheers his soul. The purest and holiest devotion is that which leads to persevering, unselfish effort for the salvation of those outside the fold. RH April 4, 1907, par. 8
Christ calls upon his followers to work earnestly for those for whom he has made such a wonderful sacrifice. When the mind, instead of being centered on self, is occupied in seeking to enrich poverty-stricken souls, the treasure of God's love—the golden oil from the two olive-trees—is poured into the heart. Those who impart to others of the riches of the grace of heaven, will be themselves enriched. The ministering angels are waiting, longing, for channels through which they can communicate the treasures of heaven. Men and women can reach the highest stage of mental and moral development only by co-operating with Jesus in unselfish effort for the good of others. We are never so truly enriched as when we are trying to enrich others. We can not diminish our treasure by sharing it. The more we enlighten others, the brighter our light will shine. RH April 4, 1907, par. 9