John 13:1–17 - Be an Example

In the thirty-third message of our series through the Gospel of John, Pastor Richard begins the second half of John’s Gospel in John 13:1–17, shifting our attention to one of Jesus’ final and most powerful demonstrations of love: washing His disciples’ feet.

As Jesus prepares to leave this world and return to The Father, John tells us that He “now showed them the full extent of His love.” Knowing that all things had been placed under His power, Jesus does something completely unexpected—He takes off His outer clothing, wraps a towel around Himself, and takes on the role of a servant.  

This message explores what Jesus’ willingness to wash His disciples’ feet reveals about the very nature of God. Throughout Scripture, God reveals Himself in different ways—as provider, healer, warrior, wisdom, glory, and friend. But now, in His final moments with His disciples, Jesus reveals Himself as a servant. The One who possesses all authority chooses humility, showing us that no position, title, or status places us above the call to serve.

Through Peter’s reaction and Jesus’ response, Pastor Richard reminds us that following Jesus means allowing Him to reshape our understanding of greatness. Jesus does not simply tell His disciples to admire His example—He calls them to follow it. If our lives have been transformed by Christ, then we are called to become servants who love, care for, and bear the burdens of others.  

This message also challenges us to consider the influence our environment can have on our hearts. When we surround ourselves with people who serve, love, pray, and care for one another, even those who are hurting and withdrawn can begin to experience the life-giving presence of Christ through His people. The church becomes a place where no one has to carry their burdens alone.

As Jesus says at the end of this passage, “Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.”  

Join us as we continue our journey through the Gospel of John — learning what it means to follow Jesus not only by believing in Him, but by becoming an example of His servant-hearted love to the world around us.