SERVE: The Example of Jesus!
Notes
Transcript
It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love.
This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.
I. The Possible Motives behind Our Lords Act of Washing the Disciples’ Feet – (13:1-5)
1. To ENCOURAGE His disciples – (v.1a)
He was preparing them to minister in His behalf after He would ascend to heaven.
2. To EXPRESS His love – ”(v.1b)
3. To EXPLAIN the betrayal of Judas – (v.2) (cf. v.11)
Judas’ problem: unclean heart!
4. To EMPHASIZE His incarnation & mission – (v.3) (cf. Phil 2:5-8)
5. To EXHORT His disciples to be servants by His own example – (vv.4-5) (cf. Luke 22:24-27)
Interesting observation:
· John 12 - feet of Jesus are anointed
· John 13 - feet of disciples are washed
II. The Meaning of This Act of Jesus – (13:6-11)
1. When we do not understand…REST in His knowledge – (vv.6-7)
2. When we say “never”…REALIZE that He has a reason – (v.8)
3. When we think we know what He means… RELY upon His instruction – (vv.9-11)
The issue of cleansing is as important as the issue of humility and service!
he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit,
You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you.
III. The Message We Are To Apply – (13:12-17)
1. His SOVEREIGNTY requires our obedience – (vv.12-14)
2. His EXAMPLE encourages our obedience – (vv.15-16)
3. His PROMISE motivates our obedience – (v.17)
Conclusion: (James 2:14ff)