Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet- John 13:1-17

In today’s reading, Jesus demonstrates the importance of service and humility.

John begins today’s passage by saying that it was just before the Passover Feast and Jesus knew that his time had come to leave this world and return to his Father. Notice, that Jesus knew? Jesus was always a willing participant In God’s plan for him. John says that Jesus loved his disciples during his ministry and now loved them to the very end.

John uses the word love thirty-one times in chapters 13-17. John’s Gospel is also the only account of Jesus’ washing the disciple’s feet. Interestingly, he doesn’t give an account of “The Lord’s Supper,” that we celebrate today during communion. That’s why to get a full account of Jesus’ ministry, we really have to read all of the Gospels.

Before Jesus gets started, we are told that the devil had already prompted Judas to betray Jesus.

Although all of the disciples must have been surprised by Jesus washing their feet, none of them openly questioned him or objected. Maybe they had learned to never be surprised by Jesus’ actions. Maybe they were afraid to say anything, but we can always depend on Peter to speak up.

Peter is mortified. There’s no way he’s going to allow the Messiah to wash his feet. He strongly objects.

Jesus tells him, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”

If that’s the case, Peter replies, he wants his head and hands washed too. Jesus tells him that’s not necessary.

He tells the disciples they are clean, but not everyone of them. He was speaking of Judas because he knew he would betray him.

Jesus then returns to his seat and asks if they understand what he has done. He tells them he has set an example for them of how they are to treat each other, (and in the future, fellow Christians). He tells them they are to wash each other’s feet.

There are some Christian denominations that take Jesus literally at his word here. Most Christians believe that the act is meant to prompt us to serve one another in many, unselfish ways. Foot washing at the time, was a perfect example of humility. It was reserved for servants and a particularly lowly job.

Jesus says that no servant is greater than his master, “Now that you know these things, you will be blessed for doing them.”

Jesus demonstrates the necessity of service throughout his life. While this is a beautiful example of his love for his disciples, the ultimate example, will be the cross.

What do you think about John’s description of the Upper Room? I’d love to hear from you.

Have an awesome day!

Wendy 🙂