Easy Bible・John 13

Jesus demonstrates humility and servanthood by washing his disciples' feet

Key Passages

About this Chapter

In this chapter, Jesus and his disciples gather together for the Passover meal. During the meal, Jesus takes on the role of a servant and washes his disciples' feet, setting an example of humility and servanthood. Peter initially refuses to let Jesus wash his feet, but Jesus explains that unless Peter allows him to wash his feet, he has no part with him. Peter then asks Jesus to wash not only his feet, but also his hands and head. Jesus tells him that a person who has bathed only needs to wash his feet, as he is already clean. After washing their feet, Jesus explains that he has set an example for them and they should do the same for one another. Jesus then reveals that one of his disciples will betray him. He dips a piece of bread and gives it to Judas Iscariot, indicating that he is the one. After Judas leaves, Jesus tells his disciples that he will be with them only a little longer and gives them a new command: to love one another as he has loved them. He assures them that by this love, people will know that they are his disciples. Peter asks Jesus where he is going, and Jesus explains that he is going to the Father's house and that Peter cannot follow him now, but will follow him later. Peter insists that he will lay down his life for Jesus, but Jesus predicts that Peter will deny him three times before the rooster crows.