Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 20:17

"And as Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples apart, and on the way he said unto them," — Matthew 20:17 (ASV)

And Jesus going up to Jerusalem. That is, doubtless, to the Passover. This journey was from Galilee, on the east side of Jordan, probably to avoid the Samaritans (Matthew 19:1). At this time he was on this journey to Jerusalem, probably not far from Jericho. This was his last journey to Jerusalem. He was going up to die for the sins of the world.

Took the twelve disciples apart. All the males of the Jews were required to be at this feast (Exodus 23:17). The roads, therefore, on such occasions, would probably be thronged. It is probable also, that they would travel in companies, or that whole neighbourhoods would go together . By his taking them apart is meant his taking them aside from the company. He had something to communicate which He did not wish the others to hear.

Mark adds, And Jesus went before them: and they were amazed; and as they followed, they were afraid, (Matthew 10:32). He led the way. He had told them before (Matthew 17:22) that he should be betrayed into the hands of men and be put to death. They now began to be afraid that this would happen, and to be solicitous for his life and for their own safety.