King James Version
What Does John 6:61 Mean?
“When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you? offend: or, scandalize, or, cause you to stumble”
Context
59
These things said he in the synagogue, as he taught in Capernaum.
60
Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?
61
When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you? offend: or, scandalize, or, cause you to stumble
62
What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before?
63
It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(61) **When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured.**—The tenses in the original describe the scene in the present: Jesus as *knowing,* the disciples as *murmuring.* The knowledge is in Himself, uninformed by them, and His teaching is addressed to the thoughts of their hearts. They were placing themselves in the position of the Jews (John 6:41), and were making the stepping-stone of spiritual knowledge, up which faith would have walked, into a rock of offence over which blindness fell.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
John 6:61 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to John 6:61
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge