Ver. 7 And they answered, that they could not tell whence it was. ] Whether from heaven, or of men; in this, no doubt, they told an untruth: but they chose rather to sacrifice their consciences than their interest, and pretend ignorance rather than profess the truth, when they saw they should be put to confusion, or be exposed to the resentments of the people.
5
And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say, Why then believed ye him not?
6
But if we say, From men; all the people will stone us: for they are persuaded that John was a prophet.
7
And they answered, that they could not tell whence [it was].
8
And Jesus said to them, Neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things.
9
Then he began to speak to the people this parable; A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time.