John Gill Commentary John 6:12

"And when they were filled, he saith unto his disciples, Gather up the broken pieces which remain over, that nothing be lost." — John 6:12 (ASV)

When they were filled

Had not only eaten, but had made a full meal, and were thoroughly satisfied, having eaten as much as they could, or chose to eat:

he said unto his disciples, gather up the fragments that remain ,

that nothing be lost ;

this he said, partly that the truth, reality, and greatness of the miracle might be clearly discerned; and partly, to teach frugality, that, in the midst of abundance, care be taken that nothing be lost of the good things which God gives; and which may be useful to other persons, or at another time.