Why Did Jesus Wash His Disciples Feet

What was the significance of Jesus washing the feet of the disciples?

QuestionAnswer The act of Jesus washing the feet of his followers (John 13:1–17) took place in the upper room, at the Last Supper, and bears significance in three different ways. It was a demonstration of Jesus’ humility and servanthood on the part of the crowd. For the disciples, the washing of their feet represented a stark contrast to the sentiments they held in their hearts at the time. Our duty as members of Christ’s body is symbolized by washing one other’s feet. Walking in sandals on the unclean highways of Israel in the first century made it very necessary to wash feet before a community meal, especially when individuals sat at a low table with their feet prominently displayed.

This gesture of humility and condescension on Christ’s part, that He, their Lord and master, should wash the feet of His disciples when it was their appropriate responsibility to have cleaned His, must have taken them by surprise.

Jesus stated in Matthew 20:28 that He came “not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (not to be served but to serve).

It was Jesus’ attitude of servanthood that stood in stark contrast to that of the disciples, who had only lately been debating among themselves over who was the greatest among them (Luke 22:24).

It was as though they had been startled into silence when the Lord Himself took on such a menial work.
“You shall never wash my feet!” Peter exclaimed, never one to be caught short of words.
When Jesus finished, He taught what it really meant to be washed by Him.
Unlike salvation, which is a one-time act of justification by faith, sanctification is a lifetime process that involves being washed clean from the stain of sin that we experience as we move through the world.
This is only one of the truths that Christians may take away from this occurrence and apply to their own lives.
The fact that our sin has been exchanged for the complete righteousness of Christ on the cross means that no deed can further purify us from our sin (2 Corinthians 5:21).
The ongoing washing of sanctification is accomplished via the power of the Holy Spirit, who lives within us, and is accomplished through the “washing of water by the Word” (Ephesians 5:26), which has been given to us in order to equip us for every good deed (2 Timothy 3:16–17).
As His disciples, we are to follow in His footsteps, serving one another with humility of heart and mind, and striving to lift one another up in love and humility as we serve one another.

We shall be abundantly blessed when we have the heart of a servant, as the Lord has promised to us (John 13:17). Questions about John (return to top of page) Is it important to understand why Jesus washed the feet of his disciples?

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Why Did Jesus Wash the Disciples’ Feet at Passover?

It is one of the most poignant depictions of our Savior’s heart of love for us that the tale of Jesus bending to the ground and gently handing his disciples feet so that they might comfortably dine together is told. So many elements of his disciples’ life were important to Jesus, it was unbelievable! He was willing to get his hands dirty in order to reach, teach, and demonstrate undeserved love to his motley crew of followers. Today, this is still the case. Jesus is concerned about even the smallest things of your life and is prepared to become dirty in order to demonstrate his affection for you.

He is concerned about everything, including our filthy feet!
The call on our lives is to be servants of others, to live with humility, and to love unconditionally in every situation.
More on what we may learn from the account of Jesus washing the feet of his followers at Passover will be discussed later.
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Where Does the Bible Talk about Jesus Washing the Disciples’ Feet?

The tale of Jesus washing the feet of his followers is described in the Gospels in Matthew 26:14-39, Luke 22:24-27, and John 13:1-17, among other places. This occurred in the upper room during the Last Supper, and it was witnessed by Jesus. According to the biblical story, when Jesus’ followers gathered at a special meeting, he meekly assumed the position of the house servant and began washing the feet of each of his disciples one by one. The Last Supper was a meeting that took place on the night of Jesus’ death.

It was at this supper that Jesus instituted the first communion with the disciples and revealed Judas as his betrayer, both of which occurred at the same time.

The men would have walked into the building with their shoes dusty and muddy from the roads.

It would have been required to clean the feet since the company would have most likely been reclining together at a low table and unclean feet would not have been accepted so near to their food. It was the servant of a household’s responsibility to wash the feet of guests who arrived at the door.

Why Did Jesus Do This and What Was the Significance of Washing Their Feet?

This personal moment in which Jesus washed the feet of his followers was filled with profound importance for both his disciples and for all Christians who endeavor to follow in Jesus’ footsteps and teach others to do the same. This act of selflessness demonstrated Jesus’ incredible humility! When it came time to wash the dusty and dirt-covered feet of his followers, Jesus assumed the position of a servant. Through his modest behaviors, Jesus was offering an outstanding example of what it means to be “Christ-like.” He was unafraid to roll up his sleeves and serve the men who had been by his side during the course of his ministry, regardless of their social standing, pride, or even filth.

Jesus was demonstrating to them in a very hands-on manner that in his Kingdom the last would be first and the first will be last (Matthew 20:16).
He is unambiguous in his belief that servanthood is fundamental to what it means to be his disciple.
Initially, Peter opposes to Jesus’ acts, but then Jesus rebukes him, noting that unless he bathed him, Peter had no involvement with him (John 13:8).
It is explained by Jesus that Peter does not require washing from head to toe since his acts were indicative of the cleaning power that following Jesus has in our life (John 13:10).
There is no need to repeat the washing process.

3 Lessons from Jesus Washing the Disciples’ Feet

1. God’s Kingdom operates in a reverse chronological order. The Bible says in Matthew 18:4 that “whoever accepts the humble position of this child will be regarded as the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Children can be described in a variety of ways, including using terms like as humility, trust, simplicity, joy, wonder, and playfulness, among others. In Jesus’ Kingdom, what appears to be rational to adults frequently runs counter to the way God operates. Jesus proclaims that the least shall be first (Matthew 20:16).

The Bible instructs us to bring ourselves before the Lord in submission (James 4:10).
This is in direct opposition to everything that appears rational, right, or justified in our world!
Money talks, looking out for oneself is highly regarded, and caring for people who are wounded so that one may move ahead is not typically taken into consideration.
He does this on purpose.
Our purpose as Believers is to be people who love unconditionally and without reservation at all times.

Jesus Washes Away Our Sins “Come now, let us reason together, declares the Lord: though your crimes are red like crimson, they shall be as white as snow; if they are crimson like crimson, they shall become like wool.” (Isaiah 1:18) Years before Jesus physically walked the world, a prophet warned of the purifying power of Jesus and his followers.

When we confess our transgressions to the Lord, he is ready and able to cleanse us from our sins.
Keep your “dirty feet” to yourself and bring it all to the Lord.
3.
Peter was taken aback by Jesus’ acts and pleaded with him to stop, believing that his king and Savior would never fall to the level of a feet-washing-servant in his opinion.
They were seeking for a political liberator, someone who would aid in the restoration of power to the Jewish people, and they believed that their Messiah would be strong in the same manner that the rest of the world evaluates power, which was by military might.
While teaching in the synagogues, Jesus criticized the Pharisees (Matthew 23), avoided political conflict (John 18:10-11), and maintained the posture of a servant throughout his career.
It wasn’t until after Jesus’ death and resurrection that the complete image of Jesus as a Messiah and their anticipated Savior could be grasped, because he never behaved in the manner in which people expected him to remain on Earth.

Putting God in a box, believing that he should act in ways that make sense to our earthly sensibilities, is a simple exercise.

Jesus came to show us what the Kingdom of Heaven is like in order for us to be able to become a member of it ourselves.

Photograph courtesy of Getty Images/Carlosphotos Amanda Idleman is a writer whose lifelong aim is to inspire others to live joyously in their own way.

You may learn more about Amanda by visiting herFacebook Page or by following her Instagram account.

What is the significance of Maundy Thursday?

What is the significance of Holy Saturday?

At Easter, the Son of God took on the sins of the world and beat the devil, death, and the grave in a single battle.

It is through the characters in The Characters of Easter that you will become familiar with the unusual group of regular people who were present to witness the mystery of Christ’s death and resurrection.

As a devotional or study for both individuals and groups, this FREE audio offers a fresh perspective on the Lenten season. It is available for download now.

Jesus Washing His Disciples’ Feet Was Much More Than Just a Lesson in Service and Humility

I am a disciple of Christ who is searching for truth in the midst of a sea of erroneous ideas that is rampant in our society today.

Why did Jesus wash the disciples’ feet?

I’ve heard a variety of explanations for why Jesus washed the feet of His followers at the Last Supper. I believe that the most frequently cited argument is because Jesus was teaching us about humility and devotion to our fellow man. While service and humility were important teachings that Jesus taught His disciples, I believe that there was a far deeper and more meaningful message underlying this action. Sole the Gospel of John records this deed of Jesus. In chapter 13, verse 7, John writes: “This is the only act of Jesus that has been recorded in the Scriptures.” In response, Jesus told him, “You do not comprehend what I am doing right now, but you will understand it in the future.” The majority of what Jesus said and did was not comprehended by the disciples when he was there among them, as we now understand it to be the case.

Peter’s attention was focused on the physical act that was being done, and he was shocked that His Master would serve as a servant to him, but Jesus continued redirecting his attention to a higher, more spiritual message that was being communicated.

What do you think?

In addition, he stated, “”He who has bathed needs just to wash his feet, but he is entirely clean; while you, on the other hand, are clean, but you are not completely clean.” Due to the fact that He recognized the individual who was betraying Him, He stated, “Not all of you are clean.” Again, the actual lesson that Jesus was teaching did not take place in the context of service or humility.

It was for this reason that Jesus assured them that they would comprehend later when the scriptures would be revealed more fully to them, demonstrating that all of Christ’s actions fulfilled all that had been written about Him.
In light of this, where may we locate the genuine significance of this washing, as originally prophesied in the Bible?
Psalm 51:2 (KJV) Wash away all of my wickedness and cleanse me of all of my transgression.
In addition, there is the prophet Ezekiel.
Later on, in the New Testament, this idea is carried on further.
Why are you taking so long?
1 Corinthians 6:11 (New International Version) In this case, there were some of us; nevertheless, we were washed, we were cleansed, and we were justified by our God in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

With this realization, the significance of the deed that Jesus performed begins to become clearer.

Jesus was implying that they would be unable to have any relationship with Him until their sins were forgiven.

They were still looking for an earthly, physical kingdom, completely oblivious to the fact that His kingdom was not of this world, but rather spiritual in nature.

It was at the very heart of Christ’s teachings that he preached the message of repentance and forgiveness.

6:14 (Matthew 6:14) Because if you forgive people for their misdeeds, your heavenly Father will forgive you for your own faults.

The apostle Paul reiterates and confirms this principle in the book of Ephesians: Paul writes in Ephesians 4:32 that Allow one another to be gentle and tender-hearted, and to forgive one another, just as God, through Christ, has forgiven you.

Continue reading through John’s account of the Last Supper until the end.

John 13:12 13 You refer to me as a teacher and a lord, and you are correct, since that is exactly what I am.

Once again, Jesus stated that they would not comprehend what He was doing to them until later in the evening hours.

Repentance and forgiveness of sins Certainly, offering service to others is vitally essential because it represents the very fruits of the spirit, but the major lesson that Christ was imparting and fulfilling was that until He wipes us clean from all impurity, we will be unable to have any role in His kingdom.

All of the texts that have been quoted are from the NASB 2017.
It is the gospel of peace that gives us the ability to be ready.
Because, once Jesus had died, they would set out to fulfill his mission with their crosses in hand.
Because of your trust in the blood of Jesus, you are declared righteous before God because of what he has done for you and on your behalf.
36:26 (Isa 36:26).
As a symbol of the death of the old man and the birth of a new life.
The reception of the holy spirit occurs as we call out to our heavenly Father.

Continue to walk the remainder of your days in the spirit, knowing that Jesus is with you.

It has given me a better understanding of Jesus and his disciples.

Thank you for your assistance.

Lydia Nangolo, Windhoekon, Namibia, 8 August 2020: It was only this morning that I discovered this.

Then I came across your really thorough explication of what I needed to know, and thank God for that, for we are truly serving a Loving Master who has forgiven us of our mistakes.

Yes, thank you so much for your participation and insight.

Norman Morrisonon is a fictional character created by author Norman Morrisonon.

Also, from the Lord Jesus Christ, the trustworthy witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over all the kings of the earth To Him who loved us and washed us clean from our sins in His own blood, 6 and who has raised us up as kings and priests before His God and Father, be glory and reign forever and ever throughout the earth.

NKJVT ony Muse (author) from Texas, United States of America on February 02, 2020: ” Greetings, Mike.
Seeing that people like yourself are looking for deeper meaning in the things that Jesus did is always encouraging.
Blessings!
February 02, 2020: I found this because I was Googling my own interpretation which was based on the same method you chose.
Most commentators agree that Christ’s encounter with Peter was about a continual cleansing that the believer needed as opposed to the “full washing” that happens at the point of salvation.
I was originally thinking it was a call to enter the sinful mess of people’s lives and serve them getting clean even though it highly inconveniences us.
So I think you may be on to something.
It’s definitely not a generic call to serve each other although that’s Biblical.
Isaac Alion December 16, 2019: The Disciples were already redeemedbecause he told them they were clean.

It appearsthatJesus was preparingthem for the darknessof thepassover Fredrick lukwago Igombeon December 14, 2019: As a minister of God what are you supposed to do before you patispate in washing people’s feet Brother in christon November 14, 2019: Just as I have wash your feet u should wash one another’s feet.

There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.
(Refer to the Great Commission) Tlhalosangon November 05, 2019: Thank you very much, now I understand why our Lord Jesus Christ washed His disciples feet.
The onlydisciplewho was not bathed was Judas.
Wash each others feet.
And consequently our need to Spiritually and physically Serve others Alma Paloson June 07, 2019:And.only by forgiving others may we be forgiven.
If I wash your feet you ought to wash others’ feet.
Nathanielon June 01, 2019: I just want to say thank you for writing this article.

The points about relating forgiveness to “washing” are well taken.

The dialogue that took place between Jesus and Peter was not about concluding their journey to Jerusalem or even the etiquette of a host making sure that the feet of their visitors were clean.

Blessings Smith Tetteyon is a fictional character created by author Smith Tetteyon.

This act of Jesus did not imply that he was granting pardon for sins.

The washing of one’s feet signified the completion of a journey in that culture.

period!?

Yes, it is significant, but I believe there is more to be said on this topic.

My Lord appears to want to teach me more about forgiveness, as I see it.

on the 18th of April, 2019: I was one of the 12 disciples that were chosen.

My feet were being cleansed by my father.

Is it okay if I wash your feet?

Ronnieon The 18th of April, 2019: Thank you so much for rekindling the flames of my spiritual life.

The 18th of April, 2019: It’s a straightforward history of Jesus Christ, which I find appealing.

I am delighted that you found the post informative.

TonySandypaon The 18th of April, 2019: Thank you very much for bringing this to my attention.

God’s blessings on you.

I believe that the Bible is the most important book in the history of mankind, and that no other book comes close.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article.

Tony Gabriel Suakollie is a Liberian citizen.

Tamarajoon The 31st of March, 2018: One more point: I believe that the position of the Laver, which was used for washing after the Sacrificial Altar, verifies your revelation and interpretation of the New Testament foot washing scenario.

I appreciate all of the checks and balances that are included in His Word.

Tamarajoon The 31st of March, 2018: Thank you very much, Tony.

Inquiring about the laver, I only found information about the service aspect, which I found to be a disappointment.

What a gracious and merciful God He is.

On March 31, 2018, Tony Muse (author) from Texas, United States of America wrote: Tamarajo (Tamarajo) – In fact, as you are already aware, the sanctuary was unquestionably a ritual that was performed over and over again in order to represent Christ and His ministry.

I greatly appreciate you bringing this to my attention!

Jesus lectured about the value of forgiveness on a consistent basis.

Is it possible for our faith to be real if we do not exhibit the fruits of the Spirit?

The fact that we are saved by our works does not imply that we are saved by our efforts; rather, our “works” are the fruits of the spirit, which are love, patience, generosity, compassion, and so on.

We Christians should feel responsible to assist people in need in whatever way that we are able, regardless of our religious affiliation.

Blessings!

Currently, I’m looking at the Brass Laver in the Old Testament Tabernacle, which was where the priesthood washed their hands and feet before entering the sanctuary.

It symbolizes our awareness and comprehension of what Christ has done for us via that Sacrifice in cleaning us from our sin by our participation in it.

Is what I’ve written correct?

While humility was at the heart of Christ’s mission, I think that the setting in which He washed the disciples’ feet was one of genuine forgiveness and grace on their part.

Christ, on the other hand, truly cleansed them from all unrighteousness.

Hxprofon The first day of March, 2018: That’s just right!

Our salvation is provided to us by Christ’s grace, which permits God to operate in us in order for us to “clear ourselves from every impurity,” as the Bible describes the process of “purifying ourselves from every pollution.” When we are wiped clean, it is essential that we learn how to cooperate with the Holy Spirit in that process, as it is said in Philippians 2:12-13, “Work out your own salvation with dread and trembling, because it is God who works in you both to will and to do for his good pleasure.” Many of us struggle with this important aspect of our faith, which requires us to truly die to our selfish and carnal motives of heart in order to be saved.

To be truly “washed” as Christ desires for us, we must learn how to fully and actively cooperate with God’s work in us, which is not accomplished when we are born again, and it does not happen magically afterwards.

In my opinion, much of what Christ taught had a lot deeper significance than what we can perceive on the surface.

His life was truly inspiring, and we should take time to reflect on it. Wishing you the best of luck! On February 22, 2018, G. Diane Nelson Trotter from Fontana wrote the following: This is quite interesting! Thank you very much!

Jesus Washes the Feet of His Disciples

At the last supper, I’ve heard a variety of explanations for why Jesus washed His disciples’ feet. I believe that the most frequently cited reason is that Jesus was teaching us about humility and service to our neighbor. While service and humility were important lessons that Jesus taught His disciples, I believe that there was a much deeper and more profound meaning behind this act of generosity. Only the Gospel of John records this act of Jesus. In chapter 13, verse 7, John writes: “This is the only act of Jesus that has been recorded.” “What I do, you do not understand now, but you will understand it in the future,” Jesus replied to the man.

It was not until later that it was revealed to them by the Holy Spirit that Jesus was carrying out the prophecies and psalms that had been written in the law, prophets, and psalms.
If you do not wash your hands before entering the kingdom of God,” Jesus said, “you have no part with Me.” What do you think?
Added to this was the statement “”He who has bathed needs only to wash his feet, but he is completely clean; and you, on the other hand, are clean, but you are not completely clean.
According to verse 8, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me,” the key to understanding the lesson being taught is found in what was said.
Practically everything that has been written about Christ’s life has been written to demonstrate that everything that has been written about Him in the Bible has been accomplished.
To the Psalms now, shall we?
51:7 in the book of Psalms I’ll be whiter than snow if you clean me with hyssop; if you wash me, I’ll be even whiter.

Ezekiel 36:25 is a verse from the Bible that says Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all of your filthiness and all of your idols, and you will be clean.

In Acts 22:16, the Bible says, ” What are you waiting for?

1 Corinthians 6:11 is a biblical passage that states This was the case with some of you; however, you were washed, you were sanctified, and you were justified in Jesus Christ’s name, and through the power of the Holy Spirit.

With this realization, the significance of the act that Jesus performed begins to become clearer.

Jesus was implying that they would be unable to commune with Him unless their sins were forgiven.

They were still looking for an earthly, physical kingdom, completely oblivious to the fact that His kingdom was not of this world, but rather was spiritual in character.

It was at the heart of Christ’s teachings that he preached a message of repentance and forgiveness.

The Bible says in Matthew 6:14, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” Because if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you for your own transgressions as well.

In the book of Ephesians, Paul reiterates and reinforces this idea: Paul wrote in Ephesians 4:32 that Allow one another to be kind and tender-hearted, and to forgive one another, just as God our Father in Christ has forgiven you.

Please continue reading the account of the Last Supper as recorded by John the Baptist.

John 13:12 You address me as a teacher and a Lord, and you are correct in your assessment, because that is exactly what I am.

Jesus stated once more that they would not comprehend what He was doing to them until later.

Repentance and forgiveness for sins Certainly, giving service to others is extremely important because it reflects the very fruits of the spirit, but the main lesson that Christ was imparting and fulfilling was that unless He washes us clean from all impurity, we will be unable to have any part in His Kingdom.

Everything you read here is from the NASB 2017 edition.
So they can put on the armor of God, they are washing their feet.
In order to carry your Cross, you must have solid ground in the Gospel.
When Jesus appears, surrender makes you more alert.
In order to be forgiven of your sins, you must undergo water baptism.
the annihilation of Satan’s seed Our prayers for Abba Father bring forth new seeds, which are filled with the spirit of God.
Continue to walk the rest of your days in the spirit, knowing that he is within you.

Why Did Jesus Wash the Feet of His Disciples?

The following is the whole transcript of the video above: “In John 13, Jesus is seen washing the feet of his followers. The act of washing feet is something we don’t see very often these days; yet, the message here is that He is serving. He was demonstrating to them that he was willing to be of assistance to them. It was the sort of thing a servant would have completed. What he was about to undertake was something that neither the creator of the world nor a monarch would do. However, Jesus, as the leader, stooped to do a filthy work in order to demonstrate His love for them and His willingness to serve them.

Moreover, when I consider what it means to be a leader, one of the most essential things we can do is to serve others.

And we are to serve one another, and I think that it is through this act of service that we will achieve success.

4 Significant Lessons We Can Learn from Jesus Washing Feet

The following is the whole transcript of the video: “When we read John 13, Jesus is washing the feet of his followers. The act of washing feet is something we don’t see very often these days; yet, the idea here is that He is serving. As a gesture of goodwill, he was extending himself to them. A servant would have done something like that. Nothing like this would be done by the creator of the planet, or even by a monarch. However, Jesus, as the leader, stooped to do a filthy work in order to demonstrate His love for them and His willingness to be of service.

While thinking about being a leader, one of the most essential things we can do is to help our communities as much as we possibly can.

Certainly, the disciples recognized that Jesus was serving them, but we can also apply this to the small things that we do, and we may serve Christ by embodying who He is in our lives via small acts of service.” Below you will find the complete Bible text of Jesus washing the feet of His disciples, as well as associated reading material.

What Is the Story of Jesus Washing Feet?

The tale of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples may be found in John 13:1-7 of the Bible. Passover was being celebrated by Jesus and his disciples. It is said in verse 1 that “Jesus recognized that the time had come for him to depart from this world and return to the Father.” As he approached the end of his time with his followers, Jesus realized that he had something important to impart to them before he left the planet. “So he got up from his supper, stripped off his outer garments, and wrapped a towel around his waist,” says the Bible in verse 4.

This was not something that was expected of a religious leader in that time period.
In response, Jesus tells Peter that just the soles of his feet must be washed because he is already “clean.” Peter concludes that this means that the rest of his body must be cleansed as well.
If the disciples were to follow him, they would have to adapt to a new way of doing things from the beginning.
All those who name Jesus “Lord” would now be transformed into servants who would work for the good of others.

Jesus’ washing of the disciples’ feet teaches us four important lessons.

1. Jesus Came to Serve, Not to Be Served

It’s difficult to conceive arriving into this world with the knowledge that you are not here only for your own advantage, but that you have come to serve others as their servant. This is precisely what Jesus came to do. Because of their position and rank, we tend to conceive of persons in positions of authority as people who are here to be served. Jesus was God manifested in the flesh, and he didn’t expect to be treated any differently than everyone else. Instead, he came to demonstrate a different approach.

In an ideal world, I would be able to claim that following the example of Jesus is simple, but in the real world, it can be difficult to do so.
We aspire to be in a position of leadership, to be recognized as celebrities, or to have a prominent position in society.
What Jesus demonstrates to us is diametrically opposed to what society expects.
This does not imply that others are more important than we are, but rather that we are to emulate our Savior, who did the very same thing for us on the cross.

2. We Are to Show Others the Same Kind of Love That Jesus Shows Us

In washing the disciples’ feet, Jesus is demonstrating what it means to love sacrificially, as well as helping them in the process. He was going to be nailed to a crucifixion and make the greatest sacrifice by giving his life for the sake of others. The disciples were completely oblivious to what was going to take place, but Jesus was attempting to set an example for them. John 13:15 says that when Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, he stated to them, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” By washing the disciples’ feet in humility, Jesus demonstrated his love for them, and we are commanded to follow in his footsteps and do the same for other people.

3. Jesus Had a Healthy Understanding of Who He Was, and Where He Came From

There was no doubt in anyone’s mind that Jesus was confident in his own identity. Jesus realized that the Father had placed all things under his control, and that he had come from God and was returning to God, according to John 13:3 of the Bible. With total confidence in the Father’s love and provision for the future, Jesus knew his sacrifice would serve a greater good than he could have imagined. Because he was confident in his own identity, he was able to love others flawlessly while without feeling inferior to them because he was serving them.

4. It Is Not True Humility to Deny Someone Who Wants to Serve Us

It might be difficult to step back and allow people to serve us. When Peter learned what Jesus was planning to do for them, he answered promptly, saying, “You shall never wash my feet.” (See also John 13:8) The same text goes on to explain that Jesus reacted by stating, “Unless I wash you, you have no share in me.” Peter’s response was not one of humility, but rather one of arrogance on his part. And he didn’t believe that he could possible accept what Jesus was going to accomplish. If he had refused to allow Jesus to serve him in this manner, he could have lost out on one of the most significant lessons that Jesus was attempting to teach him at the time.

If we are too proud to accept what others wish to do for us, we may entirely lose out on what Jesus has done for us as a result of our pride. To receive ministry from others, we must first be humble enough to accept their ministry to us.

How Can We Apply These Lessons to Our Lives?

The example that Jesus offers for us may teach us so much, but it is also crucial for us to understand how we might implement what we have learned into our own lives. Those who follow Jesus are called to grow more and more like him as time progresses. Because we are flawed human beings, it is not always easy to be like Jesus; nevertheless, the good news is that we are not required to do so on our own initiative. We may rely on the power of the Holy Spirit inside us to provide excellent service and love to others.

Another crucial lesson we may take away from Jesus washing our feet is just how much He cares about us.
When we don’t realize how much we are loved, it’s difficult to show true affection to others.
This is why we must spend quality time with Jesus and continue to develop our connection with him.
Finding practical methods to love people doesn’t have to be difficult; in fact, we may search for practical ways to do so.
This can be everything from sending a message to encourage someone to paying for a meal for someone else, opening a door for someone, or even minding someone’s children while they are away.
When we begin to serve and love people well, we will begin to see a positive influence on their lives.
We have a significant role to play in assisting others in coming to know Jesus.
Photograph courtesy of Getty Images/Steve Mason.
She enjoys both writing and speaking.
One of her greatest passions is to inspire people (particularly women) to discover how to live with Jesus on a daily basis.

Why Was it Important That Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet?

As a gymnastics coach, I spend a significant amount of time each day focusing on the feet of my gymnasts. For the tumbling and dance components in their floor and beam routines, as well as for running for vault and bars, these athletes require powerful feet. Gymnasts rely on their feet to express not only force, but also elegance and beauty in their performances. In light of the fact that so much of my gym training is done on my feet, one of the Scriptures that has particularly piqued my interest—especially during Lent—is John 13, in which Jesus washes the feet of his followers.

The rite of foot washing will be included in the Maundy Thursday service in many traditional churches.

Like Peter, I am adamant about not allowing anyone to wash my feet.

Jesus, on the other hand, is not fazed by the prospect of washing His followers’ feet ceremonially, as He does it with a solemn purpose in mind.

The resolve of Jesus compelled me to go further into the Scriptures. Here’s where you can get your FREE Holy Week Guide. You may have daily words of encouragement emailed to your inbox.

Why Was Washing Feet Important in Jesus’ Day?

Foot washings were conducted and received by priests before they entered the temple to worship in the Old Testament, according to the Bible. “Whenever they enter the Tent of Meeting, they shall wash their feet with water so that they will not die,” the Torah states of foot washing. A basin for foot washing would have been placed between the Tent of Meeting and the altar so Aaron and his sons could wash their feet before entering the Tent of Meeting (Exodus 30:20). A priest’s life would be forfeit if he did not observe the ceremonial cleaning.

All who come to the cross by the power of the Holy Spirit are made holy as a result of Jesus’ death on the cross and his resurrection.
Jesus washes the feet of his followers in order to purify and cleanse them in preparation for their devotion to God: “Unless I wash your feet, you have no part with me” (John 13:8).
Jesus ordains them in order for them to be able to serve His church when He departs this world and returns to the Father.
When teaching his students, Jesus emphasizes that His sanctity, redemption, and purity would all be realized through Him and His suffering.

What Does Jesus Show When He Washes the Disciples’ Feet?

Using a seemingly insignificant act of foot washing, Jesus explains to His followers both His everlasting duty as God’s High Priest and Mediator as well as their own role in the priesthood. Even though He must suffer and die, the disciples may rest certain that He will never abandon them or forsake them because they have confidence in Him. “During the days of Jesus’ earthly existence, he put up pleas and requests to the one who could save him from death with loud screams and tears, and he was heard because of his respectful obedience to the one who could save him.” Despite the fact that he was a son, he learned obedience by his suffering, and when he was perfected, he became the source of eternal salvation for those who obeyed him, and he was appointed by God to be a high priest in the order of Melchizedek” (Hebrews 5:7-10).

Jesus is the Most High Priest of the Most High God.

He will offer petitions on their behalf, since “he always lives to intercede for them” (Hebrews 7:25), and he will enable them to carry out their priestly responsibilities to the glory of God by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Who Does Jesus Call to Be A Priest?

The atoning act of the cross results in the salvation of the sinner and the expansion of the Church across the globe. Ultimately, the sinner is drawn to the altar, which is represented by the crucifixion of Christ, and his heart is washed and purified through the sacrifice of God’s flawless Lamb. In baptism, the sinner is cleansed from his or her sins. As a result of Christ’s death on the cross, the old creature is destroyed, and the new man is created by the living waters of the Word and committed to God’s service via the power of the Holy Spirit.

Because of Christ’s sacrifice, the new believer is able to cast off the garments of his old self, and these new priests are able to accept the holy garments of righteousness, godliness, and holiness.
As described in Exodus, these clothing include: “a breast piece, an ephod, an overcoat, a long, loose-fitting gown, a tunic with fringe, a hat, and a sash.” (28:4).
(See also Ephesians 6:14-17.) Their offerings of praise and thankfulness to God, as well as their prayers and requests to God, are performed while they are dressed in priestly robes.
From now until the day of the church’s victory, these clothes are to be worn whenever and wherever God summons the church to minister to the peoples of the globe.
Jesus, the High Priest of God, descended to the earth in order to ordain and consecrate His followers to serve as the Church throughout the world, as described in the Bible.
‘However, you are a predestined people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people who belong to God, that you may proclaim the praises of him who called you out of darkness and into his marvelous light’ (1 Peter 2:9-10).
She enjoys walking and spending time in the great outdoors, where she may take in God’s magnificent creation.
Denise earned with a Masters of Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary and served in inner-city ministry in Rochester, New York, for 10 years before moving to the United Kingdom.

Denise is a gymnastics coach in her spare time. She is married and the mother of two girls. Denise posts daily devotionals on her Facebook page, which you can see here. The date of publication is March 10, 2016. Featured image courtesy of Getty Images/Steve Mason

Why did Jesus wash the disciples feet?

Why did Jesus wash the feet of his followers at the start of his last Passover meal, you might wonder? The significance of holding a footwashing ritual at the annual memorial of Jesus’ death is a subject of much debate. During his last hours on earth, we see Jesus doing a simple act of washing with his followers in the thirteenth chapter of John. That it displays not just his actual character, but also the character that he wishes ALL Christians to develop He believes that his act of humility teaches so much and is so important to the life of a Christian that he requires others who follow him to do the same.

It’s possible that John, the last gospel writer, wished to provide material that had been left out by Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
Christians, following in the footsteps of Jesus, should conduct this modest deed during the yearly Passover ceremony.
If I, your Master and Rabbi, have bathed your feet, it is also your responsibility to wash the feet of your other students.
What a self-sacrificing act our Savior carried out!
Jesus also makes it very clear that he did not demand anything from his particular called-out ones (or from us, by extension) that he himself did not accomplish in the first place.

Peter’s objection

There is something strange about Jesus’ approach to the disciples in order to wash their feet, as we will see. Peter was the first person to benefit from this selfless gesture. Peter reacted with a response that appeared to be completely out of character just before he was to carry out this assignment. The disciple, on the other hand, when he arrived at Simon Peter’s house, inquired, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” ‘You don’t really comprehend what I’m doing right now,’ Jesus said, ‘but you will understand later’ (John 13:6 – 7) Peter, who appears to be skeptical of what Jesus has said, refuses to have his feet washed (verse 8).

If Jesus didn’t wash him, he informed him, ‘you don’t truly belong to me.’ He was right.

Jesus’ succinct response is both illuminating and replete with spiritual significance.

The act of baptism and the reception of the Holy Spirit result in a person becoming spiritually pure in God’s eyes and coming under his favor and mercy.

The pulls and temptations of human nature, on the other hand, continue to remain beyond baptism.

The disciples were clearly not innocent in the days leading up to the Passover – in fact, just after the ceremony, when Jesus was imprisoned and Peter denied him three times, they all fled from him.

They are still his spiritual offspring, according to him.

His children have just gotten themselves a bit dirty in his eyes, according to him. He teaches us humility by his simple act of footwashing, which is exactly what God desires for us to have.

Obedience brings happiness

As soon as he finished ceremonially wiping all of the disciples’ feet, Jesus sat down to explain what he had just accomplished. He concludes his explanation with a demand as well as a promise to the audience. If you are aware of all of this, you will be fortunate if you behave in accordance with it (John 13:17). True Christians are obliged to conduct the same ritual (also known as “footwashing”) during the yearly (not weekly or monthly!) celebration of the Christian Passover, just as Jesus did for his followers on the day of Pentecost.