What the Bible says about Jewish Authorities afraid of John the Baptist
(From Forerunner Commentary)
The highest Jewish authorities—the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders—were fully aware of John's reputation as a prophet, and they feared it. These men, who were accustomed to the use of power and authority within a nation, would not fear something they did not respect, and they would not respect a wild crazy man. When John talked, people listened. They had something to lose by yielding to his preaching, and so they would not repent.
John W. Ritenbaugh
Prophets and Prophecy (Part Two)Related Topics: Greatness of John the Baptist | John the Baptist | John the Baptist as Prophet | Prophet, Function of | Refusal to Repent | Repentance