Washing The Disciple's Feet

Why did Jesus wash His disciples' feet? In John 13:1-17, the Lord of all kneels down to wash the dirty feet of His disciples. Dr. Toby Holt explains the stunning humility — and deeper meaning — of that act. Foot-washing was the lowest servant's job, yet Jesus takes the towel and basin Himself. When Peter protests, Jesus says, "If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me," pointing to the deeper cleansing only He gives. Even Judas's feet were washed. Questions this study answers: 1. Why did Jesus wash the disciples' feet? To show that true greatness is humble service, and to picture the deeper cleansing from sin that only He provides. 2. What did Jesus mean by "you have no part with Me"? He pointed beyond dirty feet to the spiritual washing every person needs — to be cleansed by Christ. 3. How does this apply to us? Jesus calls His followers to serve one another humbly, just as He served them. "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet." — John 13:14 (NKJV) Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.