Mark 11:32

32 But shall we say, ‘From man’? ”— ¹they were afraid of the people, for they all held that John really was ²a 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 the baptism of John from heaven or from man? Answer me. ”

31 And they discussed it with one another, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven, ’ he will say, ‘Why then did you not believe him? ’

32 But shall we say, ‘From man’? ”— they were afraid of the people, for they all held that John really was a prophet.

33 So they answered Jesus, “We do not know. ” And Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things. ”

Cross References

• 1. 11:32 Matt. 14:5; 21:46
• 2. 11:32 [John 5:35]; See Matt. 11:9