Scripture: John 6:7 (ESV) – “Philip answered him, ‘Two hundred denarii worth of bread would not be enough for each of them to get a little.’”
Philip responds to Jesus’ test with a realistic calculation, not with faith. His answer is honest and practical—he tallies the cost and concludes the situation is hopeless. Even with two hundred denarii (about eight months’ wages), it wouldn’t be enough to give the crowd more than a bite. He sees only the math of lack, not the presence of the Provider.
Martin Bucer observes that Philip’s response reflects a natural but spiritually short-sighted reaction. “Caro semper inops, etiam ubi Dominus adest”—“The flesh is always impoverished, even when the Lord is present.” In other words, when we rely on our own ability, we always come up short—even if Jesus is standing right beside us.
This verse teaches that faith is not naive optimism—it’s a refusal to limit God to the boundaries of human reason. Jesus had already performed miracles, had already shown His divine power. Yet Philip, like us so often, looks first to resources rather than the Redeemer.
The test here isn’t about money or planning—it’s about the heart’s posture. Do we instinctively trust Christ when the need is great, or do we immediately calculate how far our own strength will take us?
Reflection Questions:
- Why do you think Philip immediately turned to a financial solution rather than remembering Christ’s power?
- Are there situations in your life right now where you’re measuring the problem but forgetting the presence of Jesus?
- How can you begin retraining your heart to look to Christ first rather than to your own resources?
Prayer:
Lord, when I face overwhelming needs, I confess that I often start counting instead of trusting. Teach me to look first to You—not as a last resort, but as my ever-present help. Let me measure my circumstances not by what I have, but by who You are. Amen.
This devotional is based on John 6:7, with theological reflection from Martin Bucer’s exposition on the Gospel of John.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 