Charles Ellicott Commentary John 7:3

"His brethren therefore said unto him, Depart hence, and go into Judaea, that thy disciples also may behold thy works which thou doest." — John 7:3 (ASV)

His brethren . . .—Compare to the note on Matthew 13:55. They are excluded here by their own words from the band of disciples, as they are by John's from the believers (John 7:5), and inferentially (John 7:7) by the words of Christ Himself from the Twelve. .

That your disciples also may see . . .—The last time the word “disciples” was used, it was to mark the departure of many from Him (John 6:60; John 6:66). The months that have passed since have been a time of comparative retirement. He did not go to the Passover, where many would have expected to see Him (John 7:11), but within the narrowed circle continued His works and words.

The prophet has no honor in His own home, and His brethren, who have seen these works and do not believe, challenge Him to an open demonstration of them. There is another great feast near, and His disciples from all parts will be at Jerusalem, where the rulers will test His claims. If He is the Messiah, no conspiracy to kill Him can prevail; and if these works are really divine, let the great body of disciples see them, and amid the joyous feast, and in the royal city, proclaim Him king.