Definition: If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or [whether] I speak of myself.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 7:17. It’s a really interesting and slightly mysterious passage that touches on themes of obedience and understanding. Here's my explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that obedience to God’s will is the key to truly understanding who He is. It’s about going beyond just following rules; it’s about understanding the reason behind those rules. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “If any man will do his will…” : This sets up a scenario – someone is trying to live in accordance with God’s purpose, or what He wants for their life. “…he shall know of the doctrine…” : This means he'll be able to understand something profound about God. It’s not just about simple rules; it's about a deeper understanding of His nature and plan. "...whether it be of God, or [whether] I speak of myself." : This is where it gets a little more complex. The "whether it be of God" part suggests that understanding God isn’t just about knowing about Him – it's about experiencing Him. And the "whether I speak of myself" part adds a layer of mystery. It implies that understanding God might require reflection and introspection . Possible Interpretations - It's Open to Debate: There are different ways to interpret this verse, and it’s been debated for centuries: God's Will is the Truth: Some believe that true understanding of God comes from fulfilling His will. If we truly live according to what He wants, then we start to grasp the very essence of His being and purpose. A Test of Faith: It could be seen as a test – are we truly committed to living in a way that honors God? If we consistently act in accordance with His plan, we’ll begin to understand Him more deeply. Seeking Divine Revelation: Perhaps it's about seeking a deeper connection with God through contemplation and reflection. In essence, the verse is suggesting that true knowledge of God isn’t just about knowing facts; it’s about experiencing His character and purpose through living in accordance with His will. Do you want me to elaborate on any part of this explanation or perhaps delve into a specific interpretation? For example, are you interested in: A deeper look at the context of the verse? How it relates to the idea of divine revelation?