Mark 11:33

33 So they answered Jesus, "We don't know." Jesus told them, "Then I won't tell you why I have the right to do these things."

Mark 11:33 Meaning and Commentary

Mark 11:33

And they answered and said unto Jesus
Being reduced by this dilemma to the greatest streight and difficulty;

we cannot tell:
they could, if they would, but they did not care to tell; they knew if they did, they should expose themselves one way or other:

and Jesus answering, saith unto them, neither do I tell you by what
authority I do these things; (See Gill on Matthew 21:27).

Mark 11:33 In-Context

31 They discussed this among themselves. They said, "If we say, 'from heaven,' he will ask, 'Then why didn't you believe him?'

32 But if we say, 'from humans,' [then what will happen]?" They were afraid of the people. All the people thought of John as a true prophet.

33 So they answered Jesus, "We don't know." Jesus told them, "Then I won't tell you why I have the right to do these things."