Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 10:40

"And he went away again beyond the Jordan into the place where John was at the first baptizing; and there be abode." — John 10:40 (ASV)

Having eluded their attempt to capture him, Jesus retreated to Perea, on the east side of the Jordan, which was the domain of Herod Antipas and where the rulers in Jerusalem had no authority. There he would be comparatively safe from arrest. There also he found a better reception, for “many believed on him.” The Jews’ allusion to the testimony of John the Baptist indicates that his ministry had enduring influence, and they accepted Jesus on that basis. As in the case of the woman of Samaria, faith in Christ was preceded by the witness of another.