Book of Luke - Chapter 20 - Verse 6

When exploring the meaning of the verse "But and if we say, Of men; all the people will stone us: for they be persuaded that John was a prophet," it is important to understand the context in which it was spoken. This verse comes from the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus is being questioned about his authority. The religious leaders knew that if they admitted that John the Baptist's authority came from God, they would be questioned as to why they did not believe in him. On the other hand, if they claimed that John's authority was from men, the people, who held John in high regard as a prophet, would turn against them. This dilemma highlights the political and social pressures faced by the religious leaders of that time. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder of the complexities of human nature and the challenges of navigating religious beliefs within a community.

One theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the fear that the people had of stoning the disciples if they stated that John the Baptist's authority was from men. This fear was grounded in the belief that John was a prophet sent by God, and therefore, any denial of his prophetic status would be met with severe consequences. This highlights the power of popular opinion and the influence of religious leaders in shaping the beliefs and actions of the masses. Additionally, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of discerning the true source of authority and standing firm in one's convictions, even in the face of potential persecution. Word studies of phrases such as 'Of men' and 'stone us' could provide further insight into the cultural and historical context surrounding this passage, shedding light on the significance of these actions within the narrative of John the Baptist's ministry and the reception of Jesus' message.