26 But if we shall say, Of men; we fear the people; for all hold John as a prophet.
26 But if we say, 'Of human origin'-we are afraid of the people, for they all hold that John was a prophet."
26 But if we say, 'From man,' we are afraid of the crowd, for they all hold that John was a prophet."
26 if we say 'humans,' we're up against it with the people because they all hold John up as a prophet."
26 But if we say, 'From men,' we fear the multitude, for all count John as a prophet."
26 But if we say it was merely human, we'll be mobbed because the people believe John was a prophet."
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Matthew 21:26
Commentary on Matthew 21:23-27
(Read Matthew 21:23-27)
As our Lord now openly appeared as the Messiah, the chief priests and scribes were much offended, especially because he exposed and removed the abuses they encouraged. Our Lord asked what they thought of John's ministry and baptism. Many are more afraid of the shame of lying than of the sin, and therefore scruple not to speak what they know to be false, as to their own thoughts, affections, and intentions, or their remembering and forgetting. Our Lord refused to answer their inquiry. It is best to shun needless disputes with wicked opposers.