John 7:17

“If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.”

Context:Understanding the context of a verse is crucial to grasp its meaning fully. In John 7, Jesus is in Jerusalem during the Feast of Tabernacles. He has been teaching in the temple, and the people are divided in their opinions about Him. Some believe in Him, while others doubt and question His authority.

Seeking God’s Will:The verse begins with the phrase, “If any man will do his will.” This highlights the importance of seeking and doing the will of God. Jesus is pointing out that a person who desires to know the truth should have a sincere willingness to submit to God’s will and follow His teachings. Genuine obedience to God opens the door to understanding His truth.

Knowing the Doctrine:Jesus continues, “he shall know of the doctrine.” Here, “doctrine” refers to the teachings of Jesus, the truth He proclaims. Jesus is saying that those who are willing to do God’s will can discern whether His teachings are from God or not. Their obedience is the key that unlocks the understanding of spiritual truths.

Discerning Truth:Jesus emphasizes that the willingness to do God’s will is a prerequisite for discerning truth. It implies that our hearts must be aligned with God’s desires, and we must have a genuine desire to obey Him. Such a heart posture enables us to recognize the authenticity of Jesus’ teachings and distinguish them from mere human opinions.

Testing Jesus’ Authority:In the latter part of the verse, Jesus adds, “whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” This statement acknowledges the skepticism and doubt among the people regarding His authority as a teacher. Jesus invites them to test His teachings against the will of God, assuring them that those who genuinely seek God’s will can discern that His words are from God.

Application:This verse challenges us to examine our hearts and motivations. Are we sincerely seeking and doing God’s will? Are we willing to submit to His teachings? It reminds us that true understanding of God’s truth comes through a surrendered heart, willing to obey Him. When we align ourselves with God’s will, we can discern the truth of His Word and the teachings of Jesus.

• In conclusion:John 7:17 highlights the importance of having a heart that is aligned with God’s will and desires. Through a sincere willingness to obey Him, we can discern the truth of His teachings and recognize Jesus’ authority. Let us strive to seek God’s will, submit to His Word, and grow in understanding and obedience to Him.