The verb used here often suggests a drawing back in dangerous situations. If it only said that Jesus withdrew with his disciples, then one could still think of a retreat in general (Acts 23:19; Acts 26:31). But that is not the case here, for we read that many from Galilee followed him. The verb withdraw must therefore be understood in connection with the preceding verse (Mark 3:6): Jesus moves away from the threat of the conspirators in Capernaum and turns again to the shore of the Sea of Galilee.¹