When, in order to avoid the high roads, they went through the barren district on the other side of Jordan, and endured all sorts of hardships and privations, the disciple Judas could not forbear uttering his thoughts.

He had nothing to do now as treasurer of the little band, so he had plenty of time to spread discouragement behind the Master's back.

Why should not the Messiah's train of followers appear in fitting brilliance?
He explained what Jesus taught about death as implying that when the beggar prophet died, the glorious Messiah would appear! But why first in Jerusalem?
Why should they not assume their high position in the interval; why were the honours of the new era not already allotted?
Jesus' popularity had increased once more, and in the more thickly inhabited districts the people hurried together.

"The Prophet is passing through!" They streamed forth bringing provisions with them, and the sick and crippled came imploring Him to heal them.

He accepted enough to meet His immediate needs from the store that was offered Him, but He did not work the desired miracles.