Paul complained often that he had come by a more direct and a better way with Timothy, but Jesus insisted that the way they were going was not many miles longer than the way Paul had come by. Moreover, the way he was taking was safer to follow. The Jews of Jericho had had many hours in which to lay plans for his capture, but Jesus thought that if Paul would believe in him he would be able to get him in safety to the village of Bethennabrio, where Paul thought he would be safe; the Jews would not dare to arrest a Roman prisoner, one who had been ordered by Festus to Italy to receive Cæsar’s judgment within a few miles of Cæsarea. Thou’lt be within two hours of Cæsarea, Jesus said, and can look forward to seeing your comrade Timothy the next day. Jesus’ words brought comfort to Paul’s heart
