Mark saith, Mark 6:45, before unto, or over against, Bethsaida. Christ is said to have constrained them, to denote to us that they were not very willing to go. They were in a desert place, it was towards night, the day was far spent ere he wrought the miracle before mentioned; probably they were loath to leave Christ alone, in such a place, and at such a time. But his command was obeyed. Probably he commanded;
1. That he might better scatter the multitude, Mark 6:45.
2. That he might prevent a tumult, for St. John tells us, that the people had a design to take him by force and make him a king, 1 Thessalonians 6:15.
3. To make way for another miracle, to which their going by sea gave occasion, as we shall hear by and by.
4. To gain himself a private opportunity for prayer, for, Mark 6:46, When he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. So also saith our evangelist.