OLD TESTAMENT REFERENCES

            Throughout this passage, many Old Testament references are made in connection with this miracle.  The most prominent reference is Jesus fulfilling the promise made by God to provide a shepherd for his people.  He fulfills this role by tending to the flock by teaching and feeding them.  He reunified the scattered sheep and kept them from harm which counters the failure by the leaders of this people in their shepherding due to their selfishness. (Ezek. 34:1-24; Duet. 30:3-4; Tob. 13:5; Num. 27:17; 1 Kgs 22:17)

Also, there are many similar stories of miraculous feedings in the Old Testament.  During the time in exodus by the Israelites, God nourished them when they were hungry  in the deserted place through the leadership of Moses, just as Jesus nourished the crowd when they were hungry in the deserted place (Exod. 16).  Plus, God provided food for a widow and her son through Elijah (1 Kgs. 17:8-16).  While working through Elisha, God fed a hundred men on only twenty loaves (2 Kgs. 4:42-44). Overall, God has always had the power to fed his people till they are all satisfied (Ps. 132:15; 37:19; 78:29; 22:26; Joel 2:26).