On their return the apostles told him all that they had done. And he took them and withdrew apart to a town called Bethsaida.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Instead of simply reporting their successes, the disciples' account to Jesus highlights their need for rest and private reflection. Jesus, sensing this, deliberately withdraws them to a secluded place, showing His care for their well-being amidst their ministry. This moment underscores Jesus' understanding of their human limitations and His intention to refresh them before the next significant event.
On their return the apostles told him all that they had done. And he took them and withdrew apart to a town called Bethsaida.
English Standard Version (ESV)
After a successful mission where the apostles preached and performed miracles, Jesus gathered them to withdraw for some rest and private time. They headed toward the area of Bethsaida, a place known for its desolate surroundings, but a large crowd followed them. Jesus, moved with compassion for the hungry masses, began to teach them and heal the sick.
The disciples return exhilarated from their mission, eager to share their successes. But Jesus, sensing their need, withdraws them from the crowds.
After their successful mission, the apostles are excited to report everything they've done. Luke 9:10 tells us they 'told him all that they had done.' This was a significant moment for them, a validation of their training and Jesus’ empowerment.
However, Jesus’ immediate response is not to celebrate or debrief at length. Instead, 'he took them and withdrew apart to a town called Bethsaida.' This highlights Jesus' deep understanding of human needs, both his own and his disciples'.
The destination, Bethsaida, was more than just a location; it was a setting for profound divine action and a symbol of Jesus' ministry.
The choice of Bethsaida is significant. This 'fishing town' (Vincent) was located on the northeastern shore of the Sea of Galilee. It was a place of transition, both geographically and spiritually.
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Understand the original words
apostolos · Greek Noun
One sent with a commission; specifically, the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus to represent Him and His authority in ministry.
This event happens shortly after the apostles' successful mission, highlighting Jesus' desire to consolidate their experiences and provide them rest, even as the needs of the crowds continue to draw him into ministry.
c. AD 28
Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Apostles
Jesus commissions his twelve closest disciples, sending them out in pairs to preach, heal, and cast out demons. This marks a significant step in their training and the expansion of Jesus' ministry.
c. AD 28— this verse
Apostles Return from Mission
The Twelve return from their successful mission, eager to report their experiences and the impact of their ministry to Jesus.
c. AD 28
Jesus and Disciples Retreat to Bethsaida
Jesus, seeking a private place for rest and reflection with his disciples, leads them to a deserted area near the city of Bethsaida.
c. AD 28
Crowds Follow Jesus
Despite Jesus' intention for solitude, large crowds learn of his whereabouts and follow him, seeking his teaching and healing.
c. AD 28
The Feeding of the Five Thousand
Jesus compassionately feeds over five thousand men, plus women and children, with only five loaves and two fish, demonstrating his divine power over nature.
This passage describes the very same event of Jesus feeding the multitude, offering a parallel account from Matthew's Gospel that can deepen our understanding of the disciples' role and Jesus' compassion.
Mark 6:30-44Mark's Gospel also recounts this feeding miracle, providing additional details about the disciples' concerns and Jesus' actions, highlighting the need for rest and Jesus' deep empathy for the crowds.
John 6:1-14John's Gospel presents this event with a theological focus, emphasizing Jesus' testing of Philip and Andrew and the miraculous multiplication of the loaves and fish as a sign pointing to Jesus' divine identity.
Luke 9:1-9This preceding passage details the sending out of the Twelve apostles, setting the context for their return and report to Jesus, emphasizing their initial mission and the impact of their work before their retreat.
Luke 9:18-27The verses immediately following describe Jesus' teaching on discipleship and the cost of following Him, providing a crucial contrast to the miraculous provision and highlighting the spiritual nourishment Jesus offers alongside physical sustenance.
barnesLuke 9:10: "And the apostles, when they were returned, told him all that they had done. And he took them, and went aside privately into a desert place belonging to the city called Bethsaida."
See the Matthew 14:13-21 notes, and Mark 6:30-44 notes. Luke 9:10 Bethsaida - A city on the east bank of the river Jordan, near where the river enters into the Sea of Tiberias. In the neighborhood of that city were extensive wastes or deserts.
ellicottLuke 9:10: "And the apostles, when they were returned, told him all that they had done. And he took them, and went aside privately into a desert place belonging to the city called Bethsaida."
(10-17) And the apostles, when they were returned. —See Notes on Matthew 14:13-21 , and Mark 6:30-44 .
Instead of simply reporting their successes, the disciples' account to Jesus highlights their need for rest and private reflection. Jesus, sensing this, deliberately withdraws them to a secluded place, showing His care for their well-being amidst their ministry. This moment underscores Jesus' understanding of their human limitations and His intention to refresh them before the next significant event.
After a successful mission where the apostles preached and performed miracles, Jesus gathered them to withdraw for some rest and private time. They headed toward the area of Bethsaida, a place known for its desolate surroundings, but a large crowd followed them. Jesus, moved with compassion for the hungry masses, began to teach them and heal the sick.
After a successful mission where the apostles preached and performed miracles, Jesus gathered them to withdraw for some rest and private time. They headed toward the area of Bethsaida, a place known for its desolate surroundings, but a large crowd followed them. Jesus, moved with compassion for the hungry masses, began to teach them and heal the sick.
"On their return the apostles told him all that they had done. And he took them and withdrew apart to a town called Bethsaida." — Instead of simply reporting their successes, the disciples' account to Jesus highlights their need for rest and private reflection. Jesus, sensing this, deliberately withdraws them to a secluded plac…
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Last reviewed October 2026