New Testament
Matthew 15:33
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
His disciples said, "Where could we possibly find enough bread out here in this remote place to feed such a huge crowd?"
Compare translations
And his disciples say unto him, Whence should we have so much bread in the wilderness, as to fill so great a multitude?
What Matthew 15:33 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the disciples express their concern about feeding a large crowd in a desolate area. They are puzzled and worried about the lack of resources, specifically bread, to satisfy the hunger of so many people. This moment highlights their doubt and the challenge of providing for others in difficult circumstances. The disciples have witnessed Jesus perform miracles before, yet they still struggle to see how a solution can be found in such a remote place. Their question reflects a common human tendency to focus on limitations rather than possibilities. This scenario sets the stage for Jesus to demonstrate His power and compassion, as He will soon perform a miracle to feed the multitude, showing that with faith, even the most impossible situations can be addressed. The disciples' concern also serves as a reminder for believers today to trust in God's provision, even when circumstances seem dire or resources appear insufficient.
How to apply Matthew 15:33 to your life
When faced with overwhelming challenges, remember to trust in God's ability to provide. Like the disciples, we may feel inadequate in our resources, but we should look to God for solutions. This encourages us to have faith and seek divine help in difficult situations.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Andrew Brings Simon to Jesus (John 1:40–42)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Peter

Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Matthew 15:33
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Matthew 15:33
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 15:33 mean?
Matthew 15:33 shows the disciples' concern about feeding a large crowd in a remote area. They express doubt about finding enough bread, highlighting their struggle to see how Jesus could provide in such a situation.
What is the meaning of the phrase 'remote place' in Matthew 15:33?
The phrase 'remote place' in Matthew 15:33 refers to a desolate area where resources are scarce. It emphasizes the challenge the disciples face in trying to feed a multitude without access to sufficient food.
How does Matthew 15:33 relate to faith?
Matthew 15:33 relates to faith by showing the disciples' struggle to trust in Jesus' ability to provide. Their doubt contrasts with the miracles Jesus is capable of performing, encouraging believers to have faith in God's provision.
What lesson can we learn from Matthew 15:33?
From Matthew 15:33, we learn to trust in God's ability to provide even in difficult circumstances. It reminds us to look beyond our limitations and seek divine help when faced with overwhelming challenges.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.