Devine Scripture

Mark 11:32

What does Mark 11:32 mean?

A plain-English look at Mark 11:32 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Mark 11:32 means

Conversely, the religious leaders also considered the consequence of denying John's baptism was from heaven. They feared the potential backlash from the common people, who universally regarded John as a true prophet. Their concern was not about truth or divine will, but about maintaining their popular standing and avoiding public condemnation, showcasing their political motivations over spiritual integrity.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

But should we say, From men—they feared the people: for all verily held John to be a prophet.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

But if we shall say, Of men; they feared the people: for all men counted John, that he was a prophet indeed.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

But should we say, From men—they feared the people: for all verily held John to be a prophet.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

But if we say, From men--they were in fear of the people, because all took John to be truly a prophet.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

But if we may say, From men,' --they were fearing the people, for all were holding John that he was indeed a prophet;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

If we say, From men, we fear the people. For all men counted John that he was a prophet indeed.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

but should we say, Of men — they feared the people; for all held of John that he was truly a prophet.

Context

This verse continues the internal deliberation of the religious leaders from verse 31, presenting the second half of their dilemma regarding Jesus's question. It highlights their fear of the people's reaction more than their pursuit of truth, directly preceding their conclusion to avoid giving a direct answer and ultimately undermining their own credibility.

v.31And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say, Why then did ye not believe him?

v.32This passage

v.33And they answered Jesus and say, We know not. And Jesus saith unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Mark 6:20

    for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and kept him safe. And when he heard him, he was much perplexed; and he heard him gladly.

  • Matthew 11:9

    But wherefore went ye out? to see a prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet.

  • Acts 5:26

    Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them, but without violence; for they feared the people, lest they should be stoned.

  • Luke 20:6

    But if we shall say, From men; all the people will stone us: for they are persuaded that John was a prophet.

  • Matthew 21:31

    Which of the two did the will of his father? They say, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, that the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.

  • Matthew 14:5

    And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.

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