Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 6:61

"But Jesus knowing in himself that his disciples murmured at this, said unto them, Doth this cause you to stumble?" — John 6:61 (ASV)

Jesus’ inward knowledge of the disciples enabled him to detect their attitude (cf. 2:25). His questions revealed his surprise that they were mystified. If they could not understand the meaning of eating his flesh and drinking his blood, how would they be able to interpret his resurrection (implied) and his ascension? If they were bewildered by his language, how much more difficult would they find the final event that would lead to his return to God?