Why Did Jesus Wash The 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. Jesus said in Matthew 18:4 that “whoever adopts the humble position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Humility, trust, simplicity, joy, full of wonder, and playfulness are all characteristics that may be associated with children. 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). His Word exhorts us to serve one another out of love for one another (Galatians 5:13).

In Matthew 5:38-40, Jesus instructs us that when we are harmed, we should not fight back, but instead instead offer our wrongdoers more of ourselves!
We live in a society where pride, greed, and ambition are the driving forces behind our economic and political institutions.
Jesus’ acts at the Last Supper are intended to serve as a model for how we are to behave as his disciples.
He makes it quite apparent that we are to serve as the foot washers for our local community.

When Jesus washes us clean, the prophet Isaiah prophesied, “Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are red like crimson, they shall be white as snow; though they are crimson like crimson, they shall become like wool.” The prophet spoke of Jesus’ cleansing power years before Jesus physically walked the earth.

When we confess our transgressions to the Lord, he is ready and able to cleanse us from our sins.
Never be ashamed of your “dirty feet”; instead, offer whatever you are to the Lord, and he will be ready and able to set you free.3.
Jesus did not live up to the expectations of the world.
In spite of the fact that Jesus possessed heavenly ability and performed numerous miracles, he never sought or achieved positions of worldly power or influence.
Meanwhile, Jesus’ disciples were preoccupied with the question of who would be assigned the greatest seat in Heaven next to Jesus.
When we think of what it means to be a Christ-Follower, do our expectations match up with the example of Jesus’ life?
God, according to the Bible, is not always willing to play by our rules.

The Gospels and studying who Jesus was are excellent resources for reminding ourselves of all the ways Jesus is never what we expect but, in every way, better than our expectations.Photo credit: Getty Images/carlosphotos Amanda Idleman is a writer with a passion for inspiring others to live joyfully.

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Then, how come the most magnificent period in human history is surrounded by scared fisherman, loathed tax collectors, marginalized women, wimpy politicians, and disloyal friends?

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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.

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.
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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

4 Significant Lessons We Can Learn from Jesus Washing Feet

There are various instances in the Bible that are recorded where Jesus is attempting to impart a valuable lesson to his listeners, particularly his disciples, with whom he spent the majority of his time. A good example of this may be seen in the book of John, when Jesus washes the feet of his followers. During that historical period, servants were frequently assigned to this task. It would have taken the disciples by surprise since they would not have anticipated someone like Jesus, who was their leader, to act in such a manner.

It would educate the disciples about a new way of life that he was about to usher in with his death and resurrection, a way of life that they would never forget.

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.

Those of us who know Jesus and have a personal relationship with him are to go into the role of a servant. 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

When Jesus washes the feet of the disciples, not only is he serving, but he is showing what sacrificial love looks like. He was about to be crucified on a cross and make the ultimate sacrifice with his life. The disciples did not understand what was about to happen, but Jesus was trying to set an example for them. After he washed the disciples’ feet, he said to them inJohn 13:15,“I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” Jesus expressed his love for the disciples when he humbly washed their feet, and we are to follow in his footsteps and do likewise to others.

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.

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. You can read more of her work at her website, and you can follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

Jesus Washes the Feet of His Disciples

In this passage from the Bible, Jesus is seen washing the feet of His followers before the Last Supper. Discover the events of the tale from the Bible in the sections below, as well as what we may learn from Jesus’ example. Here’s where you can get your FREE Holy Week Guide. Download and print an 8-DayScripture and Prayer Guide for your own personal study and devotional needs. 1. Jesus washing the feet of his disciples. Before the Last Supper, Jesus stood from His seat, threw His clothing aside, collected Himself with a towel, poured water into a basin, and started to wash and clean the feet of the apostles and other guests.

Peter’s Point of View.
Thou doest not comprehend what I do at this time; but, thou shalt understand it later.
Jesus Provides an Explanation.
“He who is bathed requires nothing more than to wash his feet,” Jesus responds.
4.

” If I, the Lord and the Teacher, have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash one another’s feet” (John 13:14), ” I have set an example for you, that ye also should do as I have done to you” (John 13:15), ” I have given you an example, that ye also should do as I have done to you” (John 13:16).

“If you know these things, you will be pleased if you put them into practice.” Through his service to others, Jesus illustrated the way we should conduct our lives, in the name of the Lord, and washed the feet of His disciples.

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.

Washing the Feet of Judas

It is in John 12 that the whole significance of John 13, in which Jesus is gathered with his followers for the Jewish Passover supper, is revealed. This chapter puts all of John’s writings on Jesus up until that time to a close, laying the stage for chapter 13 to follow. If we compare John’s presentation of Jesus in chapters 2–11 to the other gospel writers, we see that he does it through seven signs that lead to Jesus’ glory as the risen Son of God. Jesus transforms water into wine and cleanses the temple (chapter 2), heals the son of a Roman official (chapter 4), the lame man at the pool of Bethesda (chapter 5), feeds the 5,000 (chapter 6), heals the man born blind (chapter 9) and, finally, raises Lazarus from the dead (chapter 10), among other things (chapter 11).

However, John 12:37 laments that “despite the fact that he had done so many signs before them, they still did not trust in him.” As a result, in chapter 13, Jesus concludes his public ministry to his people and devotes his remaining time to a private ministry to his followers exclusively, as he approaches his crucifixion.

And the very first thing he teaches this new society is how to wash their feet, which is a lesson in humility.
2 During supper, after the devil had already implanted the desire to betray Simon into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, the two of them had a conversation.
He removed his outer clothing and wrapped a towel around his waist, tying it in place.
There have been many people who have pondered the importance of Jesus’ unexpected gesture.
However, Jesus fully immerses himself in the position of foot-washer, even discarding his outer garment and wrapping a towel over himself, giving him the appearance of a slave.
For a while, at least, until Peter breaks the stillness in order to express his displeasure (John 13:6–10)!
The bottom line is that he has bathed their feet to serve as an example for them to follow.

To serve others in a humble, compassionate, and selfless manner is the first lesson Jesus has taught the church, and it is the most important.

For the time being, let us contemplate the fact that Jesus not only bathed the feet of Peter, but that he also washed the feet of Judas, the disciple who was ready to betray the Son of God.

The fact that Judas is the elephant in the room has already been brought to the attention of the readers by John when Jesus enjoys the Passover meal with his followers and washes their feet.

Aside from that, as Jesus is washing Peter’s feet, he informs him, “You are all clean, but not every one of you” (13:10).

(13:11).

What if Judas already knew that Jesus was planning what he was about to do?

After washing their feet in verse 5, John states in verse 6 that he “came to Simon Peter.” This is after he had started washing their feet in verse 5.

In any case, it had to have been a very unpleasant situation for Judas.

He’s aware of this, and yet he continues to wash my feet.

When for what was going through Jesus’s thoughts as he leaned over the filthy feet of Judas Iscariot and bathed them with water and wiped them with the towel, we will never know.

He was washing the feet of one of his disciples, whom he had selected, instructed, and tended to over the course of several years.

He was present when Jesus calmed the storm, when he fed the 5,000, and when he resurrected Lazarus from the dead, to name a few highlights.

Later that night, while Jesus prays in the garden, he is thinking about Judas Iscariot.

As a result, Jesus was fully aware of what Judas was up to.

Furthermore, Judas Iscariot was considered one of “his own.” According to Scripture, Jesus removes Judas in verse 27 after notifying the disciples that they had a traitor among them.

Instead, Jesus waits until he has bathed Judas’s feet along with the rest of the disciples, as if to say, “You are still one of my disciples.

It’s difficult for us, I believe, to imagine such a passionate relationship.

And his final act of foot-washing would be to go to the cross for the sake of the entire world.

As well, it serves as a lesson on our ability to love others despite the fact that they are inherently undesirable or unlovable in return.

If our Lord Jesus can wash the feet of those who would disassociate themselves from him, those who would refuse him, and even those who would betray him—if he can washourfeet—then we can definitely wash the feet of one another. Recent Theological Perspectives|Recent Theology in 3D

JESUS WASHES THE DISCIPLES’ FEET

Throughout John 12, Jesus gathers his followers for the Jewish Passover feast, and throughout John 13, the whole meaning of the passage is revealed. This chapter puts all of John’s writings on Jesus up until that time to a close, laying the stage for chapter 13 of his gospel. If we compare John’s presentation of Jesus in chapters 2–11 to the other gospel writers, we see that he does it through seven signs that lead to his glory as the risen Son of God. Among other miracles, Jesus changes water into wine and cleanses the temple (chapter 2), cures the son of a Roman official (chapter 4), a lame man at Bethesda Pool (chapter 5), feeds the 5,000 (chapter 6), heals the man born blind (chapter 9), and lastly raises Lazarus from the dead (chapter 10).

In order to establish Jesus’ identity and inspire others to believe in him, the signs must be performed.

Jesus, as a result, ceases his public ministry to his people in Chapter 13 while continuing his private ministry to his followers until during the last hours before his crucifixion.

And the very first thing he teaches this new society is how to wash their feet, which he calls “foot washing.” After a few days, before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus realized that his time had come to go from this world and return to the Father, he loved his own who were still in the world to the point of death.

Three times throughout the meal, Jesus rose from his seat, knowing that the Father had placed all things in his hands, as well as that he had come from God and would be returning to God.
John 13:1–5 tells us that when he poured water into a basin, he started to wash the disciples’ feet and wipe them with a cloth that had been wrapped around him.
To wash feet is not only degrading, but it was deemed particularly condescending by the Jews who were subjected to such treatment.
When Jesus washes their feet in the upper room, the disciples were shocked and stunned stillness descended on the gathering.
Then, in 13:14–20, Jesus strikes the lesson’s main point home with a vengeance.
After all, if their Lord and Master can serve them by bending down to wash their feet, then they can undoubtedly serve one another in whatever way.
Because of Peter’s powerful reaction, we are hooked to Jesus and Peter when we read this incredible event.

In the course of the night, Judas would lead the temple officials to locate Jesus, allowing them to covertly capture him and transport him to the Roman capital, where he would be executed.

Judas’s heart had already been possessed by the devil, according to John’s account at the opening of the chapter (13:2).

“Because Jesus knew who was going to betray him, that is why he stated, ‘Not all of you are clean,'” John recounts, looking back on the scenario many years later.

While the Lord fell at his feet and performed the servitude of a slave, what was going through Judas’s mind?

What sequence the foot washing takes place in is dependent on the individual.

Was it before or after he washed Judas’ feet?

The only thing Judas could have been thinking when he heard Jesus declare, “You are all clean, but not every one of you,” was, “I know.” His eyes are on me and yet he continues to wash my shoes.

For his part, what was going through Jesus’s thoughts as he leaned over the filthy feet of Judas Iscariot and bathed them with water and wiped them with a towel remained unknown.

He was washing the feet of one of his disciples, whom he had selected, instructed, and tended to over the course of several years.

Judas was present when Jesus calmed the storm, fed the 5,000, and resurrected Lazarus from the dead, among other events.

When Jesus prays in the garden later that night, he is thinking about Judas.

Consequently, Jesus was fully aware of Judas’ activities.

If he had wanted to, he might have removed Judas from the Passover dinner earlier.

Moreover, the following day, Jesus would go to the cross and offer his life not only for the eleven, but also for Judas, his betrayer, in order to save them.

Jesus instructs the church to wash one another’s feet, which means to give of one’s time and resources to others in ways that we may consider beneath us.

Additionally, it serves as a lesson on our desire to love others, even those who are unlovely or unloving in return.

After all, if Jesus, our Lord, can wash the feet of those who would disperse from him, of those who would refuse him, and even of those who would betray him—indeed, if he can washourfeet—then certainly we can wash the feet of one another, don’t we? Theology in Three Dimensions: Recent Viewpoints

9. Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet (Matthew 26:14-39; Luke 22:24-27; John 13:1-17)

KEY POINT OF THE TITLEMain Point: Jesus desires that we do for others what He has done for us. Your feet have been cleansed by me, your Lord and Teacher, according to the key verse. As a result, you should also wash each other’s feet. I’ve provided you with an example. You should follow my lead and do what I have done for you. – John 13:14-15 (NASB) Props: a small bucket or basin, a towel, water, an adult volunteer who is willing to have their feet washed, a bicycle, and an adult volunteer who is willing to have their feet washed Create an inviting atmosphere by placing a low table in the center of the room.

Background/Review

To put it another way, we have been learning a great deal about Jesus. It was revealed to us last week that Jesus desires for us to remember Him. He left us with a “image” — the act of communion. It is our intention to remember Jesus and all that He has done for us as we partake in the sacrament of communion. Today, we’ll take a look at what Jesus was up to in the last hours before He died on the cross. Keep in mind that Jesus is God, and He is fully aware of everything! He was well aware that He would be laying down His life very shortly.

Jesus Washes The Disciples’ Feet (John 13:1-17)

For example, imagine that we are at the Last Supper on the night before Jesus realized that He was about to die. He was on the verge of being betrayed by Judas, one of His own followers. Jesus would be beaten, mocked, and crucified to a cross in the not too distant future. Despite the fact that Jesus was aware of all of these things, His followers could not comprehend that He was going to die and then rise again to life. When you consider what Jesus did for His followers on the very last night He spent with them, it’s rather remarkable.

Say:Jesus rose from his seat at the table.
He filled a huge dish halfway with water.
Using a towel that he had wrapped around himself, he dried them off.
The streets were strewn with dust and filth.
Sandals were worn without socks back then, and the feet of individuals who wore them may get quite filthy.
A foul scent during a meal makes it difficult to enjoy oneself, don’t you think?
Having your guests’ feet cleaned was a nice way to express your appreciation for them.

Simon Peter received a visit from (Jesus).

“However, you will come to understand later.” “No,” Peter stated emphatically.

“Lord,” Simon addressed the audience.

“I’m going to wash my hands and my head as well!” In response, Jesus said, “A person who has had a bath just needs to wash his feet.

And you’re completely clean.

Judas.

Jesus desires for us to be of service to others; he desires for us to think about others.

“Do you realize what I’ve done for you?” says the therapist.

“You address me as ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,'” I say.

That is exactly who I am.

As a result, you should also wash each other’s feet.

“You should follow my lead and do as I have done for you.” What I’m going to tell you is completely accurate.

Moreover, a messenger isn’t any more significant than the one who dispatches him.

So if you follow these instructions, you will be blessed.

As long as Jesus, who is Lord of all, is prepared to reduce Himself to the level of the least important servant by washing the feet of His companions, then we, too, should be willing to serve others in the same manner.

Jesus instructed us to follow in His footsteps. However, foot cleaning was quite frequent in biblical times, but it is not that common today. “Can you think of something you could do today to help someone else?” says the interviewer. Keep an ear out for responses.

Cleansing Of Sin (John 13:8-11)

The Lord is frequently teaching us more than one lesson during the course of a Bible tale, which is one of the many amazing aspects of the Bible story. The Bible is a treasure trove of information! With each reading, God has the opportunity to reveal something new about Himself and your relationship with Him. Another lesson we can take away from Jesus washing the feet of His disciples is that we all require daily cleaning through forgiveness in order to enjoy fellowship with the Lord in our lives.

It is my understanding that the individual is aware that he is repeating the same sin, but is reluctant to make an effort to quit doing so.

The youngster is aware that the Bible states, “All of you must show reverence for your mother and father,” among other things.

To put it another way, that boy’s feet are dirty symbolically!

“If you love Me, you will obey whatever I command,” Jesus declared.

The inverse is also true: if the child learns that the Bible teaches him to respect his mother and, as a result, goes to Jesus and asks for forgiveness as well as the grace to stop speaking negatively about his mother, the youngster is telling Jesus that he loves Him and wants to obey Him.

It’s entertaining to be familiar with vocabulary from another language.

In addition, the term “wash” is represented by two different words in these passages.

This is the phrase you might use to describe washing your hands before supper.

It was used to refer to a thorough cleaning of the complete person’s body.

Jesus used both terms in verse 10.

When a person recognizes his or her helpless, sinful state and turns to Jesus because He died to take away their sin, it is as if the person has had the greatest, most thorough wash imaginable.

Their transgression has been forgiven and forgotten (Hebrews 8:12).

Their wickedness will never be punished and they will never have to pay the price (John 10:28).

They are unable to live the triumphant kingdom life because of their sin.

Coming to Jesus, admitting our sins, and repenting of them is like washing our feet in the presence of the Lord.

Teacher: Maintain control of the bicycle next to you.

Do you think it’d be ridiculous for me to keep begging for a bicycle?

I already have this beautiful bicycle.

Everywhere I go, I’m still taking a stroll!

You have to get on the bike and peddle yourself!

Now all I have to do is get on with it and go!

Jesus has forgiven them, just as my parents gave me this bicycle as a birthday present.

(Ephesians 1:6-8; 2 Timothy 3:16) There is no need for them to beg for forgiveness again, just as there was no need for me to ask for a bike after my parents previously gave me one.

The Bible instructs us to acknowledge and repent of our sin (Acts 19:18, Revelation 2:5).

When I confess and repent, I am able to “let off” the sin that had a hold over me (Hebrews 12:1).

I am able to do the tasks that God has set before me because of God’s grace (Ephesians 1:4-14).

The forgiveness of Jesus is already available to all who put their confidence in Him, but if we do not confess and repent of our daily sins, we will not allow His forgiveness to transform our lives.

My life has changed dramatically; it is better in every aspect.

They were clean in the sense that they had received a “complete wash” of redemption from the punishment of sin.

Once, when Peter refused to let the Lord wash (niptw) his feet, the Lord answered by saying, “If I do not wash (niptw) your feet, then you have no share (fellowship) with Me.” Jesus was not implying that Peter could not place his confidence and faith in the Almighty.

Application: Having a heartfelt confession and repentance for your everyday sins is theiptw(washing part of oneself) that Jesus spoke about as being so extremely necessary.

It is essential that you visit Jesus on a daily basis for your “foot washing” in order to experience the complete kingdom life!