Mark 11:32

32 if we [shall] say of men, we dread the people; for all men had John, that he was verily a 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 Whether was the baptism of John of heaven, or of men? answer ye to me.

31 And they thought within themselves, saying, If we [shall] say of heaven, he shall say to us, Why then believe ye not to him [Why therefore believed ye not to him];

32 if we [shall] say of men, we dread the people; for all men had John, that he was verily a prophet.

33 And they answered, and said to Jesus, We know not. And Jesus answered, and said to them [And Jesus answering saith to them], Neither I say to you, in what power I do these things.