John Calvin Commentary John 6:5

"Jesus therefore lifting up his eyes, and seeing that a great multitude cometh unto him, saith unto Philip, Whence are we to buy bread, that these may eat?" — John 6:5 (ASV)

He says to Philip. What we here read as having been said to Philip alone, the other Evangelists tell us, was said to all. But there is no inconsistency in this, for it is probable that Philip spoke according to the opinion held by all, and therefore, Christ replies to him in particular, just as John, immediately afterwards, introduces Andrew as speaking, where the other Evangelists attribute the discourse to all alike.

Perceiving that they have no conception of an extraordinary remedy, he then arouses their minds, which may be said to be asleep, so that they may, at least, have their eyes open to behold what will be immediately exhibited to them.

The design of all that is alleged by the disciples is to persuade Christ not to detain the people; and perhaps, in this respect, they consider their own advantage, so that a part of the inconvenience may not fall upon themselves. Accordingly, Christ disregards their objections and proceeds with his design.