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 thought within themselves, saying, For if we [shall] say, Of heaven, he shall say, Why then believe ye not to him?
6
and if we say, Of men, all the people shall stone us; for they be certain, that John is a prophet.
7
And they answered, that they knew not, of whence it was.
8
And Jesus said to them, Neither I say to you, in what power I do these things.
9
And he began to say to the people this parable. A man planted a vineyard [Some man planted a vineyard], and hired it to tillers; and he was gone in pilgrimage long time.