Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 6:24

"when the multitude therefore saw that Jesus was not there, neither his disciples, they themselves got into the boats, and came to Capernaum, seeking Jesus." — John 6:24 (ASV)

The people knew that the disciples had used the only boat that was available and that Jesus had not departed with the disciples. They were interested in seeing him again, but did not know where to find him. When boats became available (v.23), they went to Capernaum to look for Jesus (v.24). They were surprised to find Jesus with the disciples once again, so they asked, “When did you get here?” (v.25). Apparently Jesus’ miracle of walking on the water was only for his disciples, for he did not tell the people how he had arrived at Capernaum.