Mark 11:32

32 But if we shall say `Of men'" -- they feared the people, for all men counted John that he was a prophet indeed.

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 The baptism of John: was it from Heaven, or of men? Answer Me."

31 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, "If we shall say `From Heaven,' he will say `Why then did ye not believe him?'

32 But if we shall say `Of men'" -- they feared the people, for all men counted John that he was a prophet indeed.

33 And they answered and said unto Jesus, "We cannot tell." And Jesus answering, said unto them, "Neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things."