John Calvin Commentary Matthew 11:1

"And it came to pass when Jesus had finished commanding his twelve disciples, he departed thence to teach and preach in their cities." — Matthew 11:1 (ASV)

And it happened that when Jesus had made an end. In this passage, Matthew means nothing more than that Christ did not cease from the exercise of his office while the Apostles were working elsewhere. Therefore, as soon as he sent them away with the necessary instructions to travel through Judea, he performed the duties of a teacher in Galilee. The word commanding, which Matthew uses, is emphatic; for he means that they did not receive a commission to do what they pleased, but were restricted and instructed regarding the statements they should make and how they should conduct themselves.