What does John 6:61 mean?

Jesus' use of symbolism has caused enormous controversy in the synagogue. He has claimed to be the "true bread from heaven," above and beyond the manna provided to Israel in the wilderness (Exodus 16). Jesus has taught that belief in the One sent by God, not adherence to good works, is what gives a person eternal life (John 6:27–29). He has also overtly claimed to be the Bread of Life, and used the analogy of consuming His flesh and blood in order to explain salvation (John 6:47–58).

Those who have been learning from Jesus might not have been as upset as the rest of the crowd in Capernaum (John 6:24). But they are certainly unhappy and have begun to mumble under their breath about it. The term disciples comes from the Greek mathētōn, meaning "students." As used here, this can refer to any or all of the people who were following Jesus, and learning from Him. Jesus will not specifically address the core twelve members of His group until later (John 6:67). This group is still bothered by what they have heard. For some, this might have been simple confusion. For others, it might have been unease at the idea that the Messiah was not a conquering warrior-king.

Jesus asks if these men are offended, using the Greek root word skandalizo. This has come through more or less intact, in English, in words such as "scandalize." As used in this context, the word means something which completely disrupts a person's thoughts and intentions. The concept of a "stumbling block" relates to this word as well. In short, Jesus asks His followers if this newly-explained teaching is "tripping them up."

The continuation of Jesus' words in the next verse shows that He assumes this is the case. In other words, Jesus is saying, "well, if this offends you, then…"