Two Wills Involved In Salvation

Let us examine the following text:

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. (John 7:17 KJV)

17 If any man willeth to do his will, he shall know of the teaching, whether it is of God, or whether I speak from myself. (ASV John 7:17)

IF

This little word makes salvation conditional on man’s part. Becoming a Christian is conditional (Mark 16:16; Heb. 5:9; Rev. 22:17). Remaining a faithful Christian is conditional. (II Pet. 1:10; I Jn. 2:24-25)

any man

These two words powerfully indicate that the offer of salvation is universal in extent. god desires all to be saved. (II Pet. 3:9; I Tim. 2:4)

willeth to do

This phrase refers to man’s will. Man is a creature of volition or choice. (Jn. 5:40; 7:37)

his will

God’s will has been revealed to man. Man must respond to the will of God in the proper positive way. (Matt. 7:21; Eph. 6:6; Rom. 6:17)

he shall know

Truth is available and we can find it. It is within our reach if we would but put forth the effort to know it. (Matt. 7:7; Jn. 8:32)

RK