William Burkitt on John 4:1

The former part of this chapter accquaints us with our Saviour's removal from Judea into Galilee. The occasion of it was this: Christ hearing that John was cast into prison, and understanding how the Pharisees were enraged at the increasing of the number of disciples; to decline their fury, and prevent danger to himself, he leaves Judea, and departs into Galilee for his own preservation.

Hence learn, That when the faithful ministers of Christ do meet with eminent success in their Masters service, they must expect to meet with a mighty shock of malice and envy from Satan and his wicked instruments. Christ himself experienced it, and prepare for it.

That it is neither unlawful nor unbecoming for the ministers of Christ to flee when prosecution threatens them; their Lord and Master having fled before them: commanded also, When they prosecute you in one city, to flee another.