A.T. Robertson Commentary John 6:14

"When therefore the people saw the sign which he did, they said, This is of a truth the prophet that cometh into the world." — John 6:14 (ASV)

Saw the sign which he did (ιδοντες α εποιησεν σημεια). "Signs" oldest MSS. have. This sign added to those already wrought (verse 2). Cf. 2:23; 3:2.

They said (ελεγον). Inchoative imperfect, began to say.

Of a truth (αληθως). Common adverb (from αληθης) in John (7:40).

The prophet that cometh (ο προφητης ο ερχομενος). There was a popular expectation about the prophet of De 18:15 as being the Messiah (John 1:21; John 11:27). The phrase is peculiar to John, but the idea is in Acts (3:22; 7:37). The people are on the tiptoe of expectation and believe that Jesus is the political Messiah of Pharisaic hope.