1 And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these sayings, he departed from Galilee, and came into the coasts of Judea beyond Jordan; 2 And great multitudes followed him; and he healed them there. (Matthew 19:1-2 KJV)
Jesus moves from Galilee
We have here an account of Christ leaving Galilee. There he had been brought up and had spent most of his life in that remote and humble part of the country. It was only during the feasts that he went up to Jerusalem and made himself known there. Having no permanent residence in the capital, his preaching and miracles were more noticeable and welcome. It was part of his humility that he chose to be known as a Galilean, a man from the north—the least refined part of the nation. Most of Christ’s sermons and miracles up to this point had taken place in Galilee.
Now, having finished these teachings, he departed from Galilee in what would be his final farewell. He never returned there until after his resurrection, making this transition especially significant. Christ did not leave until his work was done. As Revelation 11:7 teaches, Christ’s faithful servants are not removed from any place until they have completed their testimony. This encourages those who follow God’s leading in their movements, knowing their assignment will be finished before they leave. And who would want to stay longer than the work God gave them to do?
He went into the region of Judea, beyond the Jordan, so they too could have their time of visitation, for they also were among the lost sheep of Israel. Christ often remained in parts of Canaan near Gentile regions—Galilee is called Galilee of the Gentiles, and Syrians lived beyond the Jordan. In this way, he showed that while staying within Israel’s borders, his mission was also moving toward the Gentiles.
Large crowds followed him. Where the Messiah is, the people gather. The redeemed are those who follow the Lamb wherever he goes (Revelation 14:4). It was a sign of respect to Christ to be followed, though it brought him constant pressure. Yet he did not seek comfort or public honor, even when followed by crowds some might view as lowly. He went about doing good, for it says he healed them there. This shows their reason for following him—to have their sick healed—and they found him just as able and willing here as in Galilee. Wherever this Sun of Righteousness rose, it brought healing with it. He healed them there because he did not want them following him to Jerusalem, to avoid giving offense. He shall not strive or cry out.