John 6:5

Come. Literally, “was coming.” The form of the verb in Greek implies that Jesus addressed His question to Philip while the crowd was gathering. The synoptic reports of this miracle, on the other hand, all portray the disciples as bringing the problem to Jesus late in the day. It appears reasonable to conclude that Jesus Himself raised the question of food when the crowd first appeared, and several hours later, finding no solution, Philip and the other disciples returned to their Master with the problem, suggesting that Jesus send the people away without feeding them.

Philip. John is the only gospel writer to mention Philip specifically in connection with this miracle. Since he was from Bethsaida (see ch. 1:44), it was natural for Jesus to turn to him for advice on how and where food might be obtained. However, see on ch. 6:6,8.

Whence? Gr. pothen. “From where?” or, if understood logically rather than geographically, “How?” Philip’s answer, which concerns the means of obtaining food rather than the place from which it might be had, makes it likely that he understood Jesus to be inquiring how it would be possible for them to feed such a multitude.