He came in secret to the Feast of Booths when many people were debating whether He was good or a deceiver of people (John 7:10–13). When Jesus began to teach in the middle of the feast, the people marveled at what Jesus knew when they did not know He had a teacher. Jesus declared, “My teaching is not Mine, but His who sent Me. If anyone’s will is to do God’s will, one will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on My own authority” (John 7:16–17).

Jesus revealed who taught Him as He spoke, “He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who seeks the glory of the One who sent Him is true, and there is no injustice in Him” (John 7:18). In response to those who falsely judged Him, Jesus corrected those who falsely judged Him, “Do not judge according to appearances, but judge with right judgment” (7:24).

On the last great day of the feast, Jesus called out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. Whoever believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of His heart will flow rivers of living water.’” (John 7:37–38). When the people heard this, some believed that He was the Prophet and others said, “This is the Christ” (7:40).

Who do you say taught Jesus?