Luke 20:6

6 But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ all the people will stone us, because they are persuaded that John was a prophet.”

Luke 20:6 in Other Translations

6 But and if we say, Of men; all the people will stone us: for they be persuaded that John was a prophet.

6 But if we say, 'From man,' all the people will stone us to death, for they are convinced that John was a prophet."

6 But if we say it was merely human, the people will stone us because they are convinced John was a prophet.”

6 if we say 'humans,' the people will tear us limb from limb, convinced as they are that John was God's prophet."

6 But if we say, 'From men,' all the people will stone us, because they are convinced that John was a prophet."

Luke 20:6 Meaning and Commentary

Luke 20:6

But and if we say of men
. Which they had a good will to, against the dictates of their own consciences:

all the people will stone us;
meaning the common people, that were then in the temple about Christ, hearing him preach; who would be so enraged at such an answer, that without any regard to their character and office, they would rise and stone them. The Ethiopic version adds, "whom we fear"; see ( Matthew 21:26 ) for it seems that they had not so behaved as to have the good will and esteem of the people, at least they did not pin their faith on their sleeve:

for they be persuaded that John was a prophet;
they were fully assured of it; and the sentiments and authority of the chief priests could have no weight and influence upon them to weaken their faith in this point; the evidence was so strong, and their faith so firm and sure.

Luke 20:6 In-Context

4 John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or of human origin?”

5 They discussed it among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will ask, ‘Why didn’t you believe him?’

6 But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ all the people will stone us, because they are persuaded that John was a prophet.”

7 So they answered, “We don’t know where it was from.”

8 Jesus said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”

Cross References

• 1. Luke 7:29
• 2. S Matthew 11:9