Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 14:12

"And his disciples came, and took up the corpse, and buried him; and they went and told Jesus." — Matthew 14:12 (ASV)

And his disciples, etc. The head was with Herodias. The body, with pious care, they buried.

And went and told Jesus. This was probably done for the following reasons:

1. It was an important event, and one particularly connected with the work of Jesus. John was the forerunner; and it was important that Jesus should be informed of his death.

2. It is not unreasonable to suppose that in their affliction they came to him for consolation; nor is it improper in our affliction to follow their example, and go and tell Jesus.

3. Their master had been killed by a cruel king; Jesus was engaged in the same cause; and they probably supposed that he was in danger. They therefore came to warn him of it, and he sought a place of safety (Matthew 14:13).