Note 1 at Mt 14:16: The disciples were using natural reasoning (see note 5 at Mr 2:6) and recognized that they didn't have the ability to minister to the multitude's need for food. However, Jesus did have the ability and the will to minister to their needs, and so the multitude did not need to depart. All of their needs could be met through Jesus.

The same thing is true now. Some disciples today are sending the multitudes to the world to meet their physical needs (health, finances, counseling, etc.) and proclaiming that God only meets spiritual needs. But "they need not depart." The Lord is willing and able to heal their bodies (1Pe 2:24 and 3Jo 2), prosper them financially (2Co 8:9), and/or counsel them from His Word on any area of their lives where they might have need (Php 4:19). All that is needed is someone with the faith to "break the bread" and give it to them.