Definition: Jesus therefore walked no more openly among the Jews; but went thence unto a country near to the wilderness, into a city called Ephraim, and there continued with his disciples.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that passage from John 11:54. It’s a really important and slightly mysterious verse! Here's an explanation in simple terms: Basically, this verse tells us about Jesus’s final moments. Here’s what it means: “John 11:54” : This is the key part – it’s a specific phrase that marks a crucial moment. “Jesus therefore walked no more openly among the Jews…” - This means after his resurrection, Jesus wasn't freely going around and being seen by people like we typically think of him doing. He was hidden or avoided. “…into a country near to the wilderness…” – He went somewhere a little further away from the main cities and places where people were familiar with him. “The wilderness” suggests a place of isolation and perhaps a bit of danger. “into a city called Ephraim…” – This is where he ended up going. Ephraim was a small, coastal town in the region near the edge of the wilderness. “…and there continued with his disciples.” - Jesus wasn't alone anymore. He was with his followers, continuing to teach and live among them. What does this all tell us about Jesus’s situation? This is often interpreted as a sign that Jesus is in a state of preparation for his final act – his resurrection and ascension into heaven. It suggests: He was hiding: He wasn't actively seeking attention or being seen. He was moving to a place where he could be with his disciples: This was a move away from the public life, preparing them for what’s coming. Important Note: It’s a complex passage and has been interpreted in many ways throughout history. Different people have different ideas about what it means. But this is the generally accepted understanding based on biblical scholarship. --- Do you want to delve deeper into any aspect of this verse? For example, would you like me to: Explain a specific interpretation? Talk about the historical context (like when this was written)? Discuss what it might mean in terms of Jesus’s role in the story of salvation?