The Gospel of John features 7 short stories that offer a sampling of the miracles Jesus performed during his time of public ministry. These were written so that his readers would come to “believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing [they] may have life in his name” (John 20:31b).
Here is the plot of the fourth short story:
Feeding the 5,000 (John 6:1-15, 26)
- Setting:
- On the Eastern side of the Sea of Galilee. (6:1)
- Conflict:
- A huge crowd was following Jesus and He wanted to do the impossible- provide them with something to eat. (v. 6)
- Jesus asked Philip where they could buy bread “so that all these people can eat?” (v. 6)
- Philip did a quick calculation and determined it would be pretty close to impossible, because of the cost. (v. 7)
- Rising Action:
- Andrew found a boy with 5 barley loaves and 2 small fish and offered them to Jesus, doubting he could do much with them. (v. 9)
- Jesus told his disciples to “have the people sit down” and they did- an act of faith. (v. 10)
- Climax
- Jesus took the loaves and fish, gave thanks, and distributed them to those who were seated- and everyone ate their fill. (v.11)
- Falling Action:
- Jesus had his disciples collect leftovers- 12 baskets full. (vv. 12-13)
- Resolution:
- When the people saw the sign, they said, “truly this is the Prophet who is com into the world.” (v. 14)
- But, Jesus knew that the wanted to make him their king and so he withdrew from them. (v. 15)
- Jesus wanted their hearts, not just their stomachs. (v. 26)
With Wills 