Jesus said these things in the synagogue, as he taught at Capernaum.
59. He spoke these things in the synagogue. John points out the place, that we may know that there were many present, and likewise, that a sermon was delivered as on a weighty and important subject. But it immediately follows that out of so great a multitude there were scarcely to be found a very few who profited by it; and — what is worse...
Christ let them question Him freely, no small condescension. The wise teacher listens swiftly and turns even foolish questions toward what profits. These Galileans asking "What shall we do?" show a teachable mind, unlike the Judean critics who came only to cavil. He answers the sincere request, not the impertinent quibble.
AI summary
Commenting on John 6:28-59
When Jesus knew in himself,.... And of himself, without any intelligence from others, or hearing what was said, being the omniscient God: that his disciples murmured at it; at the doctrine he had delivered, looking upon it as absurd, incredible, and contrary to sense and reason: he said unto them, does this offend you? or trouble you? cannot you get over this? cannot you understand it? or account for it?