There were many pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. Especially after the miracle-working ministry of the 12 and the beheading of John the Baptist, they would have been only too happy to turn aside to see what wonders this famous Jesus would perform. It is interesting to note that they are neglecting the Passover in Jerusalem to attend to the real Passover for which the other was just a shadow. (1 Cor 5:7)

1 Co 5:7  Get rid of the old yeast that you may be a new batch without yeast—as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.