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John 13 – Our Serving God
The washing of feet mirrors the crucifixion in so many ways most notably Jesus is the last person who should be washing feet. He is the master, and yet He serves. Also, Jesus even washes the feet of Judas (13:18), for whom He also died. And, if Jesus did not wash their feet, they could have no part with Him (13:8). Plus, they did not understand what Jesus was really doing (13:7); and they would not understand the cross. Both actions though, they would understand afterwards. Here are some more similarities:
- Jesus lays aside His robe (Jn.13:4);
- Jesus’ robe is taken away from Him (Jn.19:27).
- Jesus pours water to wash their feet (Jn.13:5);
- Jesus’ side is pierced and out comes water and blood (Jn.19:34).
- Jesus washes the feet of the apostles (Jn.13:5);
- Jesus’ feet were nailed to the cross (Lk.24:39).
- Jesus is denied by Peter to allow Him to wash his feet (Jn.13:8).
- Jesus is denied by Peter that he know Him (Lk.22:54-62).
As a chronological contrast, the washing happens before the betrayal while the crucifixion happens afterwards. In explaining the washing, Jesus prophesies His betrayal and says, “I am telling you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe that I am He” (Jn.13:19). The ability to prophesy is a divine action. The word “He” is not in the Greek and so serves as another “I AM” statement. The crucifixion and resurrection is the ultimate I AM act. Our God serves in His life, in our lives, and in His death.
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