Jesus is speaking to the religious authorities who are questioning Him, highlighting their unwillingness to engage in genuine dialogue. They are not open to His teachings or claims, and their hearts are hardened against Him. This interaction underscores a recurring theme in the Gospels: the resistance of religious leaders to Jesus' message and their refusal to acknowledge His authority. By stating that they would not answer if He asked them, Jesus is pointing out their closed-mindedness and lack of sincerity in seeking truth.
This passage invites reflection on the importance of openness and sincerity in our spiritual journey. It challenges us to consider how we respond to truth and whether we are truly open to hearing and understanding messages that may challenge our existing beliefs. The verse serves as a reminder to approach our faith with humility and a willingness to listen, ensuring that we do not become like those who are unable to see the truth because of their own biases and preconceptions.