When Jesus wrought miracles, healed the sick, and cast out demons in Galilee, his apostles were well received, and respected. They were welcomed and met with faithful hospitality that they needed nothing. However, in the capital city Jerusalem, Jesus did not have many friends, for those who liked him were afraid of confessing him openly, since Jesus was persecuted and fought by the high council, and his name was mentioned in the list of those who were wanted. Jesus was worried about his disciples after his death. He commanded them to be economical, and preserve their provision. He even suggested to them that they should buy two swords in order that the enemy should be afraid of attacking them. Christ did not command them to strike with the sword, but to love their enemies, just frighten them, and rather die than shed blood. The disciples did not understand that the call to buy two swords was in the first place a call for spiritual striving that they might get ready within their hearts to fight, and ask their Lord for the sword of the Spirit that they might be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Jesus knew that his bitter hour was coming. The Holy One had to die as a thief, and be called a rebel blasphemer. But Christ knew that he should die despised by all men that he might redeem them while they were his enemies. He saw the wave of evil rolling against him and ready to cover him. Yet, he did not flee, but cared for his disciples even to the last moment.