John 7:17

17 "1If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself.

John 7:17 Meaning and Commentary

John 7:17

If any man will do his will
Meaning, not one that perfectly fulfils the law, which is the good, and perfect, and acceptable will of God; for there is no man that does this, or can do it; nor is it so said here, "if any man do his will", but "if any man will do" it; that is, is desirous of doing it; who has it wrought in him both to will and do, of the good pleasure of God, by his grace and Spirit; with whom to will is present, though, he has not power to perform, and so is a spiritual man; and who believes in the Lord Jesus Christ, which is one branch of the will of God; and who depends upon the Spirit and grace of God, and acts from a principle of love to God, and in the exercise of faith on Christ:

he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or [whether] I
speak of myself;
not a man of mere natural knowledge and learning, or a man of theory and speculation, is a judge of doctrine; but he that leans not to his own understanding, and implores the assistance of the Divine Spirit, and who is for reducing doctrine into practice: he knows by the efficacy of the doctrine upon his heart, and the influence it has on his life and conversation; by its coming not in word only, but in power; and by its working effectually in him, whether it is divine or human, of God or of man.

John 7:17 In-Context

15 The Jews then were astonished, saying, "How has this man become learned, having never been educated?"
16 So Jesus answered them and said, "My teaching is not Mine, but His who sent Me.
17 "If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself.
18 "He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who is seeking the glory of the One who sent Him, He is true, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.
19 "Did not Moses give you the Law, and yet none of you carries out the Law? Why do you seek to kill Me?"

Cross References 1

  • 1. Psalms 25:9, 14; Proverbs 3:32; Daniel 12:10; John 3:21; John 8:43
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