This verse is often misinterpreted as Jesus denying his own divinity or authority, suggesting he is merely a human prophet relaying borrowed teachings without personal divine insight, or as evidence of subordination that diminishes his equality with God; in reality, it affirms the inseparable oneness between Father and Son, where Jesus speaks precisely what the Father commands, as echoed in other passages like John 8:28 and 12:49, rather than implying inferiority or lack of originality.
John 7:16
King James Version (1769)
16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.
Jesus declares that his doctrine originates not from himself but from the Father who sent him, emphasizing his complete submission to and unity with God's will, positioning him as the perfect divine messenger whose teachings carry the full authority and truth of God Himself, inviting listeners to discern authenticity by obedience to His words.