If the real theme of the bread of life discourse is discipleship, it is not surprising that the real (though hidden) audience turns out to be Jesus’ disciples, not mentioned since 6:22. What is surprising is that their reaction to the discourse corresponds closely to that of “the Jews” who grumbled about Jesus (v. 41) and argued among themselves over his claims (v. 52). It is not self-evident that Jesus’ disciples in this passage are a well-defined group firmly committed to following him—except for the Twelve, who emerge as a distinct entity in verses 67–71. The term disciples is perhaps used loosely to refer to all who traveled with Jesus (for however short a period) and listened to his teaching. When questioned later “about his disciples and his teaching,” Jesus emphasized that he always…