Instruction Concerning Humility

Instruction Concerning Humility John 13:1-17 

John 13 starts a section in John’s gospel devoted to Jesus’ ministry to the disciples. 

In chapter 13 we see Jesus the disciples. 

In the first half of the book, the signs were followed by and now we see things that will help us understand the death and resurrection of Jesus — “precources” if you will. 

Jesus has a for everything that He does!

Something missing and something added:

a. The ordinance or sacrament of the Lord’s Supper is  

b. The institution of foot washing in the life of the church is sometimes  

The purpose of John’s gospel is to point the reader to Jesus in order that they might . 

Jesus’ instruction concerning foot washing concerned inner humility, not an outward . 

Jesus, knowing that he would die (and how He would die), didn’t live with a on His shoulder but molded true . 

Habakkuk 1:1-4

The word WORLD: 

The word world highlights the between the disciples and the unbelieving world around them. 

Note: The disciples (just as you and I are) were called out of the (unbelieving humanity). 

A. A Great Display of Love

in these chapters (13-17) must be seen in the context of Jesus’ and resurrection. 

Everything in these chapters (13-17) must be understood in the context of Jesus’ great for those who are His. 

The Love of God for His own has its origin before the of the world and is manifested in the death of Christ. The of Jesus’ work extends into eternity’s future. 

B. A symbol of Cleansing from Sin

When it comes to service: what some view as , others view as an honor. 

What about our service in the life of the church: are there things that we are willing to do because they are “ us.” 

Jesus took the posture of a and washed the feet of His disciples. 

Service isn’t about the specific as much as it is about how we care for . 

Philippians 2:5-8

Why would Peter protest? 

a. The task of washing feet was Jesus

b. Peter was for Jesus

Jesus’ words: “If I do not wash your feet, you have no share with me.” These words must be understood in light of the . 

This all happens in the context of the Passover, and ceremonial or purification would have been on the disciples’ minds. 

Exodus 30:17-21

There was a great emphasis placed on .

True spiritual cleanliness only comes through . 

C. An Exhortation to Follow Jesus’ Example

What Jesus has changes how we live. 

Those who live this way recognize what Christ Jesus has for them.

The more we understand and contemplate what Jesus has for us the more eager we are to His example.

Humility is a natural fruit of a heart that sees itself as a complete beneficiary of Christ’s atoning work.