John 10:40 - He went away again beyond the Jordan into the place where John was baptizing at first, and there he stayed.

Generated Verse: John 10:40

What does "John 10:40" mean?


John 10:40 says: "He went away again beyond the Jordan into the place where John was baptizing at first, and there he stayed."

This verse describes Jesus retreating from Judea, specifically Jerusalem, back to a location beyond the Jordan River. To understand its meaning, consider the following points:

Context: This verse comes after a confrontation in Jerusalem where Jesus claimed to be one with the Father (John 10:30) and the Jewish leaders tried to stone him for blasphemy. Jesus escaped their attempt to arrest him.

Beyond the Jordan: This refers to the eastern side of the Jordan River. It was a region outside of direct Jewish control and a relatively safer place for Jesus to avoid immediate persecution.

The place where John was baptizing at first: This likely refers to the area of Bethany Beyond the Jordan (mentioned in John 1:28). It was the site of John the Baptist's early ministry, a place of spiritual significance and where many people, including Jesus himself, had been baptized. Returning there could be symbolic of a return to the roots of his ministry and a place of refuge.

And there he stayed: This indicates that Jesus remained in this location for a period of time. It suggests a time of quiet retreat, teaching, and ministering away from the intense conflict in Jerusalem.

Possible Interpretations and Significance:

Seeking Safety: The most straightforward interpretation is that Jesus was seeking refuge from the hostility he faced in Jerusalem.
Continuing Ministry: Even in retreat, Jesus continued to minister to the people in this region. It was an opportunity to teach and heal in a less hostile environment.
Symbolic Return: Returning to the place of John's baptizing may be symbolic of returning to the basics of his message, and reaffirming the importance of repentance and faith.
Strategic Retreat: Some suggest that Jesus' retreat was a strategic move to preserve his life until the appointed time of his crucifixion. He knew his hour had not yet come (John 7:30, 8:20).

In summary, John 10:40 depicts Jesus retreating to a safer location beyond the Jordan, where John the Baptist had previously ministered. It was a strategic move to avoid persecution, a return to the roots of his ministry, and an opportunity to continue teaching and ministering in a less hostile environment.

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