Mark 11:32

32 But what if we say, 'From men'?" They were afraid of the people. Everyone believed that John really was a prophet.

Mark 11:32 Meaning and Commentary

Mark 11:32

But if we shall say, of men
That John's baptism was an human invention, and he had no authority from God to preach and administer it,

they feared the people;
lest being enraged thereby they should, at once, rise up, and destroy them:

for all men counted John, that he was a prophet indeed;
a real prophet, one truly sent from God, and had his commission and credentials from him: this was the general sentiment of the people; (See Gill on Matthew 21:26).

Mark 11:32 In-Context

30 Was John's baptism from heaven? Or did it come from men? Tell me!"

31 They talked to each other about it. They said, "If we say, 'From heaven,' he will ask, 'Then why didn't you believe him?'

32 But what if we say, 'From men'?" They were afraid of the people. Everyone believed that John really was a prophet.

33 So they answered Jesus, "We don't know." Jesus said, "Then I won't tell you by what authority I am doing these things either."