Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Luke 9:10

"And the apostles, when they were returned, declared unto him what things they had done. And he took them, and withdrew apart to a city called Bethsaida." — Luke 9:10 (ASV)

The return of the disciples is the occasion for Jesus’ withdrawal to Bethsaida (perhaps to rest, see Mk 6:31). This town was on the northeast side of the lake outside Herod’s territory. But crowds followed him to that place, and Jesus “welcomed” all who came, telling them about the kingdom (cf. 4:43) and healing many.