The Washing of the Disciples’ Feet

Text: John 13:1-20

 

I.          The night of Jesus’ betrayal found the disciples gathered to partake of a supper

             A.         Luke gives more details of preparations - Luke 22:7-13

                          1.          Notice that this takes place on the day the Passover lamb was to be killed. A representation of Jesus being our Passover lamb

             B.         John tells us that Jesus loved his disciples to the end, even though Satan had already snared the heart of Judas.

             C.         While it may not look this way in the upcoming events, Jesus had everything in his hands (under his authority and control).

             D.         Again, we turn to looks account of the supper itself - Luke 22:14-23

II.         Sometime during the supper, a disagreement arose concerning their places within the kingdom - Luke 22:24

             A.         Jesus’ answer was to arise from the table.

                          1.          He laid aside his outer garment, so that his dress was like that of a low servant.

                          2.          He wrapped a towel around himself and taking a basin, began to wash each disciple’s feet, using his own “clothing” (the towel) to dry their feet.

                          3.          This was upsetting. Jesus was the host, the honored person, yet he was acting as the lowest of slaves.

             B.         Peter did not want his Lord washing his feet.

                          1.          Jesus answered that it was because he did not understand what was going on, but he would understand later.

                          2.          If he continued to refuse, Jesus warned that he would have no part of Jesus. (Recall that they were arguing on who would be the greatest in the kingdom.)

                          3.          Hearing this, Peter offered his whole self to be bathed, but Jesus said that only his feet needed to be cleaned

                                       a.          It is indicating that for the most part the disciples were righteous, and just need a bit of improvement.

                                       b.          However, Jesus indicated there was one who was corrupt among them.

             C.         When he was done, Jesus took up his garments again and asked if they understood why he had done this thing.

                          1.          He as the teacher took on the role of a servant.

                          2.          He urged his disciples to do the same.

                          3.          They cannot be greater than Jesus, and Jesus took on the role of the humblest servant.

             D.         Further teaching is found in Luke 22:25-27

III.        Jesus again warns that there is a betrayer among them - John 13:18-19

             A.         The things he is teaching does not apply to all of them because one would betray Jesus.

             B.         Jesus is telling these things so that when it happens, they would know that Jesus understood all things.

             C.         Jesus tell us that whoever receives his apostles, would receive him and his Father. - John 13:20