Charles Spurgeon Commentary Matthew 14:21-22

"And they that did eat were about five thousand men, besides women and children. And straightway he constrained the disciples to enter into the boat, and to go before him unto the other side, till he should send the multitudes away." — Matthew 14:21-22 (ASV)

And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children. And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.

He always takes the heavier task upon himself. They may go off by themselves, but he will remain to send the multitudes away.

Besides, no one but Christ could have done it, only he who had made them sit down to the feast could make them go to their homes.