The teaching of Jesus

So Jesus answered them, “My teaching is not mine, but his who sent me. If anyone’s will is to do God’s will, he will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on my own authority (John 7:16-17)

Only a few who are committed to doing the will of God understand the teaching of Jesus because Jesus teaches only what he has received from God his Father.

My teaching…his who sent me

1. Teachings refers to doctrines expounded
2. The doctrines Jesus taught originate from God who sent him (Jesus)
   1. Jesus was not taught by men
   2. Jesus was taught by God Himself (Cf. John 6:45)
3. The authority of Jesus therefore also stems from God his Father
   1. Prophets of the Old has God as their source of authority
   2. Jesus too has God as his authority

If anyone’s will is to do God’s will

1. This is a conditional sentence
2. The sentence construction implies
   1. Not everyone is willing to do what God wants
   2. Only some people indeed will to do God’s will
3. The end-result of course is applied only to those who are willing to do what God wants them to do
4. Obviously such people will seek to understand the will of God (Eph.5:10)

He will know whether the teaching…

1. A person seeking to do God’s will is granted wisdom
   1. To understand the truth of the teaching of Jesus
   2. To discern the will of God our Father
2. This person will know the doctrines well
   1. As to where they come from in terms of authenticity
   2. As to who they represent in terms of authority
   3. As to how they benefit people in terms of eternal significance (John 6:68)
3. This is the end-result promised to ones who are committed to doing God’ will

REFLECTIONS

1. Our reading of the Scriptures will bring us to Jesus –the eternal life (John 5:39-40,46-47); our appreciation of Jesus as our Rabbi-Messiah will be deepened
2. Let us be fully committed to doing what God wants! This is the way to comprehend the teaching of Jesus.