Charles Ellicott Commentary Matthew 21:25

"The baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven or from men? And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say unto us, Why then did ye not believe him?" — Matthew 21:25 (ASV)

They reasoned with themselves — This internal debate was highly characteristic. In dealing with John’s mission, the priests and scribes had halted between two opinions. At one time they came to his baptism (Matthew 3:7); at another they said, He hath a devil (Matthew 11:18). They watched the ebb and flow of public reverence, which John’s death had deepened, and dared not reject his identity as a prophet. They were reluctant to acknowledge him as such, for this would have required them to accept the testimony he had given concerning the work and office of Jesus.