The "Return to Galilee" refers to several significant events in the New Testament where Jesus Christ and His disciples journey back to the region of Galilee. This area, located in the northern part of ancient Israel, plays a crucial role in the life and ministry of Jesus. Galilee is not only the place where Jesus grew up but also where He performed many of His miracles and teachings.

1. Early Ministry in Galilee:

After His baptism by John the Baptist and the temptation in the wilderness, Jesus returned to Galilee to begin His public ministry. Matthew 4:12-17 states, "When Jesus heard that John had been imprisoned, He withdrew to Galilee. Leaving Nazareth, He went and lived in Capernaum, which is by the sea in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali, to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah." This move to Galilee marks the beginning of Jesus' proclamation of the Kingdom of Heaven.

2. Post-Resurrection Appearances:

The return to Galilee is also significant in the context of Jesus' post-resurrection appearances. In Matthew 28:7 , the angel at the tomb instructs the women, "Then go quickly and tell His disciples, 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see Him.'" This directive underscores the importance of Galilee as a place of revelation and commissioning for the disciples.

3. The Great Commission:

One of the most pivotal events associated with the return to Galilee is the giving of the Great Commission. In Matthew 28:16-20 , it is recorded, "Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had directed them. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him, but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.'" This commission in Galilee sets the stage for the global mission of the Church.

4. Symbolic and Theological Significance:

Galilee holds symbolic and theological significance in the Gospels. It is often seen as a place of new beginnings and divine revelation. The return to Galilee after the resurrection signifies a renewal of mission and purpose for the disciples. It is a reminder of Jesus' humble origins and His outreach to the marginalized and the Gentiles, as Galilee was a region with a diverse population.

5. Fulfillment of Prophecy:

The return to Galilee also fulfills Old Testament prophecies. As mentioned in Matthew 4:14-16 , Jesus' ministry in Galilee fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah: "The people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death, a light has dawned." This highlights Jesus as the promised Messiah who brings light and salvation to all people.

In summary, the return to Galilee is a multifaceted event in the New Testament, rich with historical, theological, and prophetic significance. It marks the beginning of Jesus' ministry, the confirmation of His resurrection, and the commissioning of His disciples to spread the Gospel to all nations.