A.T. Robertson Commentary Mark 11:32

"But should we say, From men--they feared the people: for all verily held John to be a prophet." — Mark 11:32 (ASV)

But should we say (αλλα ειπωμεν). Deliberative subjunctive with aorist active subjunctive again. It is possible to supply εαν from verse 31 and treat it as a condition as there. So Mt 21:26 and Lu 20:6. But in Mark the structure continues rugged after "from men" with anacoluthon or even aposiopesis--"they feared the people" Mark adds. Matthew has it: "We fear the multitude." Luke puts it: "all the people will stone us." All three Gospels state the popular view of John as a prophet. Mark's "verily" is οντως really, actually. They feared John though dead as much as Herod Antipas did. His martyrdom had deepened his power over the people and disrespect towards his memory now might raise a storm (Swete).