Matthew Henry Commentary John 11:54-57

"Jesus therefore walked no more openly among the Jews, but departed thence into the country near to the wilderness, into a city called Ephraim; and there he tarried with the disciples. Now the passover of the Jews was at hand: and many went up to Jerusalem out of the country before the passover, to purify themselves. They sought therefore for Jesus, and spake one with another, as they stood in the temple, What think ye? That he will not come to the feast? Now the chief priests and the Pharisees had given commandment, that, if any man knew where he was, he should show it, that they might take him." — John 11:54-57 (ASV)

Before our gospel passover, we must renew our repentance. Thus, by voluntary purification and religious exercises, many, more devout than their neighbors, spent some time before the Passover at Jerusalem. When we expect to meet God, we must solemnly prepare.

No human schemes can alter the purposes of God: and while hypocrites amuse themselves with forms and disputes, and worldly men pursue their own plans, Jesus still orders all things for his own glory and the salvation of his people.