Luke 20:3

Luke 20:3, in plain English

Jesus says, 'Let me ask you a question first.' He doesn't dodge — He redirects. And His question is about to expose everything.

Why it's here

Jesus isn't avoiding their question. He's showing that the answer to His question IS the answer to theirs. If they're honest about John, they'll have their answer about Jesus.

Who's speaking

Jesus takes control of the conversation by posing His own question.

Where it sits in the story

They came with a trap; He answers with a mirror. Before He'll answer their question, they have to answer His — and His question is the one they're most afraid of.

The scholarly reading

Jesus counter-questions them, a standard rabbinic debate technique. By asking His own question first, He retains control of the dialogue and exposes the inconsistency in their position.

Language and setting

The counter-question technique (she'elah) was recognized in rabbinic discourse as a legitimate response. Jesus doesn't refuse to answer — He establishes that they must first demonstrate intellectual honesty.

Voice

Jesus responds to the leaders' challenge with a strategic counter-question.

Significance

Instead of walking into their trap, Jesus sets one of His own. His counter-question will force them to reveal either their dishonesty or their cowardice — and they know it.

1One day as Jesus was teaching the people in the temple courts and proclaiming the gospel, the chief priests and scribes, together with the elders, came up to Him.

2“Tell us,” they said, “by what authority are You doing these things, and who gave You this authority?”

3“I will also ask you a question,” Jesus replied. “Tell Me:

4John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or from men?”

5They deliberated among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will ask, ‘Why did you not believe him?’

Read all of Luke 20 — The religious leaders challenge Jesus' authority. He answers with a parable about murderous tenants that leaves them furious and afraid.