Text: John 13:1-17
Before the feast of Passover, Jesus knew His hour had come. He not only knew His betrayer was at hand, but also his identity. Surprise was not an element in His life. Jesus knew His purpose, that He had come from God, and was going back to God.
In this text Jesus and the disciples are celebrating the Passover. No one hosted this Seder, so there were no servants to perform the lowly task of washing the disciples' feet. Jesus stunned His followers by getting a basin and towel and washing their feet.
Peter, ever the outspoken one, objects, but Jesus tells him he must be washed or he cannot have part in Him. He then goes to the other extreme, telling Jesus to wash his face and hands as well. The Lord calms him down, saying it's not necessary. Only his feet need to be washed.
Jesus told Peter he wouldn't understand what was happening now, but he would later. This was an odd thing to say because foot washing was a common practice. However, Jesus was using this as an object lesson, which would stick in their minds.
Peter wasn't the only one to have his feet washed. Even Judas, the betrayer, had his feet washed in spite of the fact he was about to commit the most heinous deed imaginable. We get hung up on imitating Jesus' actions instead of understanding His intent. Jesus was giving Judas an opportunity for restoration, but Judas didn't take it.
To hear the entire message, check out the Sermon Player at our website. This small space cannot begin to contain the fullness of the teaching. We pray you and your loved ones enjoyed Resurrection Sunday.
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