John 7-9

It took me 17 minutes to read this passage. In verse 15 of chapter 7 the Jewish leaders asked a very important question that Jesus didn't bother to answer. The question was asked because of the way Jesus taught; with the understanding of someone with years of scriptural study in his life. But Jesus was far too young and was known not to be a former student of any great teacher. There are two possible answers to the question; he is a prophet or he is Messiah. Neither of these answers would satisfy the Jewish leaders. My question is; why didn't Jesus answer the question? Or did he answer it?
Stuart