What does John 6:1 mean?

Scripture was originally written without chapter and verse divisions as used in modern translations. Even so, there is a definite break between the end of chapter 5 and the beginning of chapter 6. Based on events listed here and in the other Gospels, at least five or six months have passed since Jesus' healing at the Pool of Bethesda. So, the phrase "after this" is something of an understatement.

The gospel of John is framed around proof that Jesus is the Son of God. To do this, John focuses on seven particular miracles, which he refers to as "signs." These are events meant to send a particular message, or to elicit a certain response. According to the next few verses, Jesus' ministry is gaining significant public notice. The miracles Jesus has been doing, according to verse 2, are the primary reason He is now drawing a crowd.

Unfortunately, as the events of this chapter will explain, the crowd's interest in Jesus' miracles is misplaced. Rather than seeking truth, these people are only seeking excitement and handouts. When Christ explains the meaning of His miracles, and the importance of His ministry, most of these same people will turn and walk away (John 6:66).