In John 13:1-17, Jesus washes His disciples’ feet as an example of servant love. Jesus says love serves and calls them to serve one another; Jesus calls His followers friends.
SERMON OUTLINE
“After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet.” (John 13:5)
Servant Identity (John 13:1-3)
- Jesus knew the hour (13:1a)
- Jesus loved His own (13:1b)
- Jesus knew His power (13:3)
Servant Action (John 13:4-11)
- Foot washing as a foretelling of the Cross (13:4-6)
- The disciples’ lack of understanding (13:7)
- Jesus’ washing that brings ‘a part’ with Him (13:8)
- Jesus’ cleansing that comes from His word (13:9-11)
Servant Example (John 13:12-17)
- Jesus is the Lord and Teacher (13:13-14)
- Jesus shows the servant way (13:15)
- True blessing comes on those who serve like Jesus (13:16-17)
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- Who in your life would you describe as humble, servant-hearted, or sacrificially giving? Why do those words fit that person’s life?
- We are beginning a new series, “Chosen Words,” where we will follow Jesus’ extended teaching and prayer in John, chapters 13-17. This week we will study John 13:1-17. Before you read those verses aloud, take a moment to ask God to speak to you as you read His word. Perhaps use words like these: “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:9).
- The first few verses of this chapter tell us that Jesus is aware or knows about certain things. What does Jesus understand about what is unfolding in these first few verses? What do you think that means for what will follow in this chapter and beyond?
- As we approach the action of foot-washing, it is important to understand that this job was reserved for servants, particularly the lowest servants. Some Jews felt that Jewish servants should not be compelled to wash someone’s feet, but that it should be left for Gentiles. If this is the case, what do you think the disciples’ experience of Jesus washing their feet was like?
- Peter speaks what is likely on the disciples’ minds, first pushing back against Jesus’ breach of decorum (3:8) but then begging to be washed entirely (3:9). How does Jesus respond to Peter’s requests? What is Jesus trying to tell Peter and the rest of the disciples here?
- At least in part, Jesus is displaying ahead of time the humble, sacrificial death He will face at the Cross. What does the foot washing tell you about Jesus’ death?
- How does the presence of Judas the betrayer throughout this time (see 13:2, 11, 21, 27) change your understanding of Jesus’ actions?
- In verses 12-17, Jesus explains that the foot washing also serves an example to His disciples for how they should treat others. What would you say it practically means to “wash one another’s feet”?
- What person do you find it most difficult to serve in your life? Why? What do you think it looks like to appropriately serve that person like Jesus shows us here?
- How is God speaking to you right now about Jesus’ saving sacrifice or Jesus’ example of service? What is one specific way this will change how you live with God and others this week? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and pray for one another. If you are studying on your own, write it down and share it with someone.