What is the meaning of Matthew 21:25?

* The two F.O.G. Bibles & Commentary below are currently a work in progress.

What was the source of John’s baptism? Was it from heaven or from men?” They deliberated among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will ask, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’

Berean Standard Bible (BSB)

The baptism of John, where was it from? From heaven or from men?” They reasoned with themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will ask us, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’

World English Bible (WEB)

The baptism{G908} of John{G2491}, whence{G4159} was it{G2258}{(G5713)}? from{G1537} heaven{G3772}, or{G2228} of{G1537} men{G444}? And{G1161} they reasoned{G1260}{(G5711)} with{G3844} themselves{G1438}, saying{G3004}{(G5723)}, If{G1437} we shall say{G2036}{(G5632)}, From{G1537} heaven{G3772}; he will say{G2046}{(G5692)} unto us{G2254}, Why{G1302} did ye{G4100} not{G3756} then{G3767} believe{G4100}{(G5656)} him{G846}?

Strong's King James

(25) The immersion of John was from where? From above or from men?" Now they reasoned among themselves saying, "If we say, 'From above,' He will say to us, 'Then why didn't you believe him?'

The F.O.G*

[25] "John's baptism – was it from heaven or merely human?" They squirmed, debating among themselves: "If we say 'from heaven,' He'll ask why we didn't believe John."

The F.O.G Paraphrase

the baptism of John, whence was it?—from heaven, or from men?’ And they were reasoning with themselves, saying, ‘If we should say, From heaven; he will say to us, Wherefore, then, did ye not believe him?

Young's Literal Translation