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John 13:14
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Ye also ought to wash one another feet - That is, ye should be ready, after my example, to condescend to all the weakness of your brethren; to be willing to do the meanest offices for them, and to prefer the least of them in honor to yourselves.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
If I then--the Lord. have washed your feet--the servants'. ye--but fellow servants. ought to wash one another's feet--not in the narrow sense of a literal washing, profanely caricatured by popes and emperors, but by the very humblest real services one to another.
John Gill Bible Commentary
If I then your Lord and Master,.... Christ argues from these titles and characters, which his disciples rightly gave him, and from what he had done to them, though he stood in such a superior relation to them, to their duty one towards another; that since, says he, I have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash one another's feet: by which he does not mean barely, that they should perform this single action; but as this was an instance of humility and condescension, and doing a good office to strangers and travellers, and was afterwards an expression of love to the saints, see Ti1 5:10, so he would teach them hereby, to behave in a spirit of humility and condescension to one another, to do every kind and good office, and by love to serve one another in all things.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:14-15 Jesus’ acts of service, such as washing feet and dying on the cross, provided an example of personal sacrifice to follow. • wash each other’s feet: Foot washing was so commonplace that Jesus might have intended a literal repetition of his act, or he might have seen it as symbolic. Either way, Jesus wants similar servanthood and sacrifice to characterize his followers.
John 13:14
Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet
13You call Me Teacher and Lord, and rightly so, because I am.14So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.15I have set you an example so that you should do as I have done for you.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Through the Bible) John 16-17
By Chuck Smith1.5K1:24:46ISA 11:6JHN 13:14JHN 14:16JHN 16:16JHN 17:26HEB 2:8In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of God's plan for the world and the current state of rebellion against God. He emphasizes that although we do not yet see all things in subjection to Jesus, there is hope for a future world that God intended. The preacher describes the marvelous descriptions of this future world in the Old Testament, where there will be peace, joy, and no physical maladies. However, the disciples were initially discouraged by the idea of striving for perfection, but Jesus reassures them that through his death on the cross, he has completed the work of redemption, allowing mankind to have close communion with the Father once again.
Paul Before Agrippa - Part 8
By Joshua Daniel98106:36MAT 16:24JHN 13:14ACT 1:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of true discipleship and genuine witness for Jesus Christ, highlighting the story of a martyr who praised God even in the face of severe persecution and death. It challenges believers to move beyond superficial faith and empty words, seeking a deep, sacrificial love and devotion to Jesus, willing to serve others selflessly and share the Gospel boldly with both the small and great.
The Appearing of Resurrection and the Giving of Power
By Newman Sze8201:22:11MAT 28:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 24:44JHN 20:19JHN 21:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Consider Others as More Important Than Yourself
By Zac Poonen0ServanthoodHumilityLUK 2:51JHN 13:14EPH 3:8PHP 2:3Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of humility and considering others as more important than ourselves, drawing on Jesus' example of servanthood. He highlights how Jesus, despite being sinless and superior, willingly took on the role of a servant by washing His disciples' feet, demonstrating that true greatness comes from serving others. Poonen warns against the pride that leads us to feel superior based on education or social status, urging us to adopt Christ's mindset of humility. He illustrates that humility allows us to submit to others, regardless of their status, and reminds us that everything we have is a gift from God. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a radical shift in how we view ourselves and others, aligning our thoughts with Christ's humility.
In the Upper Room
By G.W. North0Love in ActionDiscipleshipJHN 13:14G.W. North emphasizes the significance of love and servanthood in the life of a disciple as demonstrated by Jesus in the Upper Room. He explains that true discipleship is marked not by titles or positions, but by the love that disciples show to one another, reflecting the love of Christ. North highlights that Jesus washed the feet of His disciples, including Judas, to exemplify humility and service, urging His followers to love as He loved. The sermon stresses that the test of one's love for God is evidenced by their love for others, and that discipleship involves a personal recognition of God's love for each individual. Ultimately, North calls for believers to embody love in action, as this is the true hallmark of being a disciple of Christ.
Choose Humility
By K.P. Yohannan0PrideHumilityPRO 16:18MAT 6:1MAT 15:14LUK 15:30LUK 18:11JHN 13:14PHP 2:3PHP 2:8JAS 4:6REV 3:17K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the critical importance of choosing humility over pride, sharing his personal journey of recognizing his own prideful thoughts and attitudes towards others. He illustrates how pride blinds us to our faults and hinders our ability to love and serve others, using biblical examples such as King Nebuchadnezzar and the older brother in the parable of the prodigal son. Yohannan warns that pride leads to destruction and that true humility is essential for a life that honors God. He encourages believers to follow Jesus' example of servanthood and obedience, reminding us that humility is the key to maintaining a right relationship with God and others. Ultimately, he calls for a mindset that reflects Christ's humility to experience God's blessings.
The Lesson of Service
By J.R. Miller0ServiceHumilityMAT 20:26MRK 10:45LUK 22:27JHN 13:14J.R. Miller emphasizes the profound lesson of service as exemplified by Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve others selflessly. He illustrates that true greatness in the Christian life is measured by our willingness to perform even the most humble acts of service, just as Jesus washed the feet of His disciples. Miller challenges the notion of dignity, urging believers to embrace serving others without hesitation, regardless of the task's perceived menial nature. The sermon highlights that our resemblance to Christ is reflected in our love and service to others, reinforcing that every act of kindness, no matter how small, is significant in the eyes of God.
The Gospel of Mark
By A.W. Pink0Compassion in MinistryServanthoodMAT 11:28MRK 1:1LUK 22:27JHN 13:141CO 15:582TI 2:24A.W. Pink explores the distinct characteristics of Mark's Gospel, emphasizing its focus on Jesus as the humble Servant of Jehovah, contrasting it with Matthew's portrayal of Christ as the King. He highlights the omissions in Mark, such as the genealogy and the Sermon on the Mount, which reflect the Gospel's purpose of showcasing Christ's servanthood rather than His royal lineage. Pink notes the frequent use of the term 'immediately' in Mark, illustrating the urgency and promptness of Jesus' ministry. He encourages believers to emulate Christ's example of selfless service, compassion, and dedication to God's work, reminding them that true service is often unrecognized and requires sacrifice.
Serving One Another
By William MacDonald0ServanthoodLove in ActionJHN 13:14GAL 5:13William MacDonald emphasizes the profound impact of serving one another through love, illustrating this principle with powerful examples of selfless acts. He recounts the story of a Gospel singer who cared for a dying friend, a Bible instructor who humbly cleaned the men's room, and a basketball player who prioritized service over personal gain. Each example highlights that true greatness lies in love-driven service, contrasting the self-serving nature prevalent in society. MacDonald encourages believers to embrace opportunities for sacrificial service, reflecting Christ's love in their actions.
Being Merciful
By Zac Poonen0MercyForgivenessPSA 66:18MAT 6:12MAT 18:21MRK 11:25LUK 6:37JHN 13:14EPH 4:32COL 3:13JAS 2:13Zac Poonen emphasizes the necessity of mercy and forgiveness among believers, highlighting that our human nature often leads to unintentional harm to one another. He warns that harboring unforgiveness creates a 'little bit of hell' within us, which can hinder our relationship with God and even affect our physical health. Poonen stresses that true forgiveness requires brokenness and a desire for reconciliation, urging us to pray for the forgiveness of others as we seek our own. He reminds us that without forgiving others, our prayers may go unheard by God. Ultimately, the call to forgive is a reflection of our own need for mercy and a vital step towards spiritual healing.
Mutual Refreshing
By Watchman Nee0Mutual EncouragementSpiritual RefreshmentJHN 13:14Watchman Nee emphasizes the importance of mutual refreshment among believers, drawing from the example of Jesus washing His disciples' feet in John 13. He explains that while sin requires repentance, the daily 'dust' we accumulate from the world necessitates mutual support and encouragement to restore our spiritual freshness. Nee encourages Christians to actively minister to one another, highlighting that this refreshing is a shared responsibility and essential for maintaining a vibrant relationship with God. He concludes that through this mutual ministry, believers can combat the weariness of the world and experience the joy of divine communion.
In the Teaching of Jesus
By Andrew Murray0ServanthoodHumilityMAT 5:3LUK 9:46LUK 14:11LUK 18:14LUK 22:26JHN 13:14Andrew Murray emphasizes the profound humility of Jesus, urging believers to learn from His example of meekness and servanthood. He highlights that true greatness in the Kingdom of Heaven is found in serving others, as Jesus demonstrated through His life and teachings. Murray points out that humility is the key to receiving God's blessings and that self-abasement leads to exaltation in God's eyes. He calls for a deep desire for humility among Christians, reminding them that true nobility lies in becoming servants to one another. Ultimately, Murray encourages believers to seek a heart filled with humility, as it opens the way for Christ's presence and power in their lives.
The Feet of Jesus-the Place for Personal Ministration
By Philip Bennett Power0PSA 56:8MAT 25:40MRK 5:27LUK 7:37JHN 13:14Philip Bennett Power preaches on the profound act of love and service displayed by a sinful woman towards Jesus, emphasizing the deep reasons behind God's unexpected revelation of His Son in humility before glory. The sermon delves into the significance of Christ's human nature in enabling our communion with Him, the importance of offering our feelings and infirmities to Jesus, and the encouragement to aim for the highest form of service driven by love. It highlights the perfection and energy found in the woman's ministry to Jesus' feet, urging believers to seek personal happiness and refreshment in serving Christ and His people.
Only Jesus Can Fix Us!
By Phil Beach Jr.0MAT 7:3MRK 2:1JHN 13:14GAL 6:2HEB 12:2Phil Beach Jr. preaches on the story of the paralytic man brought to Jesus by his friends, emphasizing the importance of bringing our loved ones to Jesus for healing and restoration instead of trying to fix them ourselves. He highlights the need for a humble and faith-filled approach in guiding others to the feet of Jesus, who alone can fix our broken and ailing hearts. The sermon stresses the significance of recognizing our own brokenness and need for Jesus' healing touch before helping others, encouraging a spirit of meekness and love in our interactions. Ultimately, the message centers on the transformative power of God's love to mend our brokenness and lead us to reflect His moral character.
The Practical Results of His Present Work in the Christian's Life
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0MAT 11:28JHN 13:14GAL 6:2PHP 4:6COL 3:13COL 3:17HEB 7:251PE 1:15Arno Clemens Gaebelein emphasizes the importance of living a holy life that glorifies the Lord Jesus Christ, who constantly watches over us and represents us before God. As Christians, we are called to manifest Christ and His presence in heaven makes such a life possible through His intercessory work. Gaebelein highlights the significance of being occupied with the Person and work of Christ, allowing His presence and service to impact our daily lives on earth, leading us to walk worthy of the Lord. He encourages believers to find encouragement in prayer by sharing all their troubles with the Lord, who is interested in every aspect of their lives, and to find deliverance from worry by trusting in His care and faithfulness. Additionally, Gaebelein reminds us of our role in sharing in Christ's work through intercession, serving one another, and forgiving as Christ forgave us.
Our Great Example
By H.J. Vine0JHN 3:35JHN 13:14ROM 8:17PHP 2:5HEB 13:8H.J. Vine preaches about the incomparable perfection of our Lord Jesus Christ, emphasizing His unchanging excellency that distinguishes Him from all others, whether in exaltation or in lowly circumstances. Jesus Christ remains the same yesterday, today, and forever, displaying His great glory and love through acts of humility and service. He desires His followers to partake in His glory and emulate His example of humility, meekness, and love, as seen in the washing of His disciples' feet.
(Needed-Men of God) 3. a Servant
By Zac Poonen02KI 3:112CH 7:14MAT 20:28LUK 22:25JHN 13:142CO 4:5PHP 2:3PHP 2:7Zac Poonen preaches on the importance of being servants of others, drawing from the example of Elisha who was introduced as a servant despite performing remarkable miracles. He emphasizes the need to avoid desires for fame, recognition, and a bossy attitude, highlighting Jesus' humility as the ultimate example of servanthood. Poonen warns against seeking popularity, statistics, and positions of leadership, urging believers to embrace humility, brokenness, and the spirit of the Cross as distinguishing marks of true servants of God.
(One Body in Christ) 4. Helping One Another
By Zac Poonen0PRO 10:17PRO 20:19ECC 7:5JHN 13:14ACT 14:221CO 1:42CO 4:12GAL 6:1EPH 4:151TH 5:14HEB 3:13Zac Poonen preaches on the importance of speaking the truth in love and growing in all aspects into Christ, emphasizing the responsibility of every believer to minister life to the Body of Christ. He highlights the significance of bearing the Cross, dying to self, and engaging in a mutual ministry of encouragement and admonition within the Body. Poonen stresses the need for honest fellowship, where believers refresh and cleanse one another through encouragement and correction, ultimately building up the Body of Christ.
Jesus Washes His Disciples' Feet John 13:1-17
By David Servant0MAT 20:26MRK 10:45LUK 22:27JHN 13:14GAL 5:13PHP 2:31PE 4:10David Servant preaches on the significance of Jesus washing His disciples' feet, highlighting how Jesus, as their Lord and Teacher, demonstrated true greatness through servanthood. By performing a task typically reserved for servants, Jesus showed that in God's kingdom, greatness is found in serving others. He challenges believers to follow Jesus' example by serving one another in practical ways, emphasizing the importance of humility and selflessness.
Christians of Both Sexes
By Clement of Rome0GEN 18:4JHN 13:141CO 14:341TH 5:111TI 2:8Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of hospitality and service within the brotherhood, highlighting the care and provisions offered to travelers and guests, including the act of washing feet and anointing with ointment as acts of humility and love. He specifies the separation of men and women during certain gatherings for prayer and exhortation, with a focus on modesty and purity in interactions. The sermon encourages mutual edification through sharing the truth of God's word and respectful salutations among believers.
Twee Koninkrijken - 3 (Dutch)
By Anton Bosch0MAT 18:3MAT 20:25MRK 9:35JHN 13:14PHP 2:8Anton Bosch preaches on the stark differences between the Kingdom of God and the kingdoms of the world, emphasizing the Kingdom's focus on servanthood over the pursuit of power. He highlights how worldly authorities and organizations seek power and status, contrasting with the humility and servanthood required in God's Kingdom. Jesus taught His disciples to embrace humility and servanthood, showcasing through His own actions the essence of serving others selflessly.
Letter 79
By James Bourne0PSA 99:6ECC 9:12ECC 10:1ECC 10:8JHN 13:14James Bourne encourages his friend to be vigilant in their spiritual walk, warning against the deceitfulness of the heart and the dangers of breaking through the hedge of God's protection. He emphasizes the importance of seeking a clear work of grace in their hearts, being watchful of temptations, and avoiding spiritual complacency. Bourne uses biblical references to illustrate the consequences of straying from God's path and the need for a genuine fear of God in all aspects of life.
Losing Our Communion.
By Gareth Evans0JHN 6:60JHN 13:14JHN 13:34JHN 14:151CO 10:16Gareth Evans preaches on the challenging teachings of Jesus, particularly the call to communion through eating His flesh and drinking His blood, symbolizing identification with one another in the Body of Christ. Jesus emphasized the importance of serving one another, loving one another, and obeying His word, culminating in the institution of the Lord's Supper as a covenant meal. Despite the offense some may feel in following these commands, true communion with Christ is found in wholeheartedly embracing these principles.
Jesus - the Greatest!
By Gareth Evans0MAT 20:28JHN 13:14PHP 2:3Gareth Evans preaches on the humility and obedience of Christ Jesus, who, despite being in the form of God, chose to make Himself of no reputation and took on the form of a servant, ultimately giving His life on the cross. Jesus did not assert His divinity forcefully, was not motivated by worldly ambitions, and fully embraced humanity. As a result of His obedience and sacrifice, God exalted Him above all, declaring that every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, showcasing His supreme greatness.
Epistle 5
By Cyprian of Carthage0LUK 14:11JHN 13:14PHP 2:3JAS 4:101PE 5:6Cyprian of Carthage addresses the presbyters and deacons, urging them to care for the poor and especially the confessors who have stood firm in their faith. He advises them to provide for the needs of those in want, reminding them to be humble, modest, and peaceable, following the examples of Jesus washing His disciples' feet and Apostle Paul's humility despite his sufferings. Cyprian expresses concern over some members running wickedly and proudly, defiling themselves and tarnishing the honorable glories of other confessors, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a righteous and humble character.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Ye also ought to wash one another feet - That is, ye should be ready, after my example, to condescend to all the weakness of your brethren; to be willing to do the meanest offices for them, and to prefer the least of them in honor to yourselves.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
If I then--the Lord. have washed your feet--the servants'. ye--but fellow servants. ought to wash one another's feet--not in the narrow sense of a literal washing, profanely caricatured by popes and emperors, but by the very humblest real services one to another.
John Gill Bible Commentary
If I then your Lord and Master,.... Christ argues from these titles and characters, which his disciples rightly gave him, and from what he had done to them, though he stood in such a superior relation to them, to their duty one towards another; that since, says he, I have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash one another's feet: by which he does not mean barely, that they should perform this single action; but as this was an instance of humility and condescension, and doing a good office to strangers and travellers, and was afterwards an expression of love to the saints, see Ti1 5:10, so he would teach them hereby, to behave in a spirit of humility and condescension to one another, to do every kind and good office, and by love to serve one another in all things.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:14-15 Jesus’ acts of service, such as washing feet and dying on the cross, provided an example of personal sacrifice to follow. • wash each other’s feet: Foot washing was so commonplace that Jesus might have intended a literal repetition of his act, or he might have seen it as symbolic. Either way, Jesus wants similar servanthood and sacrifice to characterize his followers.