John Calvin 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)

But Jesus knowing. Christ knew indeed that the offense which the reprobate had harbored could not be removed; for, to tell the truth, the doctrine does not so much wound them as it exposes the putrid ulcer which they inwardly nourished in their hearts. But He wished by all methods to try if any of those who were offended were not yet beyond the reach of cure, and to stop the mouths of the rest. By putting the question, He means that they have no reason to be offended, or, at least, that the ground of offense does not lie in the doctrine itself. Thus we should repress the wickedness of those who, urged on by nothing but the rage of mastiff dogs, slander the word of God; and thus too we should chastise the folly of those who inconsiderately attack the truth.

Knowing in himself. He says that Jesus knew in himself because they had not yet declared openly what gave them uneasiness, but secretly murmured and groaned within themselves; therefore, He anticipates their open complaints. If it is objected that the nature of those complaints was not difficult to understand, because in express terms they rejected the doctrine of Christ, I acknowledge that the words which John has previously related are plain enough; but still I say that, like persons who are disgusted at anything, they whispered those words to each other in low murmurs. For if they had spoken to Christ, there would have been better ground for hope, because the way would have been opened for teaching them; but now, when they indulge in secret murmurings, they close off to themselves the way to gain instruction. So then, when we do not immediately perceive the Lord’s meaning, there is nothing better than to go straight to Him, so that He may solve all our difficulties.

Doth this offend you? Christ appears here to increase the offense instead of removing it; but if any person examines very closely the ground of offense, there was in the following statement what should have pacified their minds.