◄ John 13 ►
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Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet 1It was now just before the Passover Feast, and Jesus knew that His hour had come to leave this world and return to the Father. Having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the very end.a 2The evening meal was underway, and the devil had already put into the heart of Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. 3Jesus knew that the Father had delivered all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was returning to God. 4So He got up from the supper, laid aside His outer garments, and wrapped a towel around His waist. 5After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and dry them with the towel that was around Him. 6He came to Simon Peter, who asked Him, “Lord, are You going to wash my feet?” 7Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” 8“Never shall You wash my feet!” Peter told Him. Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with Me.” 9“Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not only my feet, but my hands and my head as well!” 10Jesus told him, “Whoever has already bathed needs only to wash his feet, and he will be completely clean. And you are clean, though not all of you.” 11For He knew who would betray Him. That is why He said, “Not all of you are clean.” 12When Jesus had washed their feet and put on His outer garments, He reclined with them again and asked, “Do you know what I have done for you? 13You call Me Teacher and Lord, and rightly so, because I am. 14So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. 15I have set you an example so that you should do as I have done for you. 16Truly, truly, I tell you, no servant is greater than his master,b nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17If you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. Jesus Predicts His Betrayal (Psalm 41:1–13) 18I am not speaking about all of you; I know whom I have chosen. But this is to fulfill the Scripture: ‘The one who shares My bread has lifted up his heel against Me.’c 19I am telling you now before it happens, so that when it comes to pass, you will believe that I am He. 20Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever receives the one I send receives Me, and whoever receives Me receives the One who sent Me.” 21After Jesus had said this, He became troubled in spirit and testified, “Truly, truly, I tell you, one of you will betray Me.” 22The disciples looked at one another, perplexed as to which of them He meant. 23One of His disciples, the one whom Jesus loved, was reclining at His side.d 24So Simon Peter motioned to him to ask Jesus which one He was talking about. 25Leaning back against Jesus, he asked, “Lord, who is it?” 26Jesus answered, “It is the one to whom I give this morsel after I have dipped it.” Then He dipped the morsel and gave it to Judas son of Simon Iscariot. 27And when Judas had taken the morsel, Satan entered into him. Then Jesus said to Judas, “What you are about to do, do quickly.” 28But no one at the table knew why Jesus had said this to him. 29Since Judas kept the money bag, some thought that Jesus was telling him to buy what was needed for the feast, or to give something to the poor. 30As soon as he had received the morsel, Judas went out into the night. Love One Another (Romans 12:9–13; 1 John 3:11–24) 31When Judas had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man is glorified, and God is glorified in Him. 32If God is glorified in Him,e God will also glorify the Son in Himself—and will glorify Him at once. 33Little children, I am with you only a little while longer. You will look for Me, and as I said to the Jews, so now I say to you: ‘Where I am going, you cannot come.’ 34A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another. 35By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial (Matthew 26:31–35; Mark 14:27–31; Luke 22:31–38) 36“Lord, where are You going?” Simon Peter asked. Jesus answered, “Where I am going, you cannot follow Me now, but you will follow later.” 37“Lord,” said Peter, “why can’t I follow You now? I will lay down my life for You.” 38“Will you lay down your life for Me?” Jesus replied. “Truly, truly, I tell you, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times. Footnotes: 1 a Or He showed them the full extent of His love. 16 b Cited in John 15:20 18 c Psalm 41:9 23 d Greek was reclining in the bosom of Jesus 32 e WH does not include If God is glorified in Him. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub John 13 Summary Jesus Washes His Disciples' Feet Verses 1–3 – Prelude to the Passover Jesus knows His hour has come. He loves His own to the very end, even while Judas plots under Satan’s influence. Verses 4–11 – The Unexpected Footwashing Rising from supper, Jesus lays aside His outer garment, wraps a towel, and washes the disciples’ feet. Peter protests, but Jesus explains the cleansing that comes from Him alone. Verses 12–17 – A Living Lesson in Service After washing, Jesus asks if they understand. Master and Teacher has become Servant; therefore, they must serve one another and will be blessed if they do so. Verses 18–30 – Betrayal Revealed Jesus cites prophecy, identifies His betrayer by giving him bread, and Judas departs into the night to carry out the deed. Verses 31–35 – The New Commandment With Judas gone, Jesus speaks of glory and gives a fresh command: “Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another” (v. 34). Verses 36–38 – Peter’s Bold Promise and Foretold Failure Peter vows loyalty unto death, but Jesus foretells the rooster will crow before Peter denies Him three times. John 13 introduces the Last Supper, providing a remarkable picture of Jesus' humility, love, and knowledge of upcoming events. This chapter is significant as it showcases Jesus washing His disciples' feet, predicting Judas' betrayal and Peter's denial, and issuing the new commandment of love. Historical Setting: Passover in Jerusalem John places these events “before the Feast of the Passover” (13:1). Jerusalem’s population swelled as pilgrims arrived to remember God’s deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 12). The city buzzed with expectation and tension, for the leaders were already plotting against Jesus (11:53–57). The Upper Room and Archaeological Clues Early Christian tradition locates the Upper Room on Mount Zion. Excavations reveal first-century ritual baths (mikva’ot) nearby, showing how seriously purity laws were taken during feast days. Such baths highlight the shock value of Jesus—rather than insisting on their ritual washing, He personally scrubs their dusty feet. The Significance of Footwashing • Footwashing was the lowliest household task, assigned to Gentile or female slaves. • Jesus “laid aside His garments” (13:4), a deliberate echo of Philippians 2:6-7 where He “emptied Himself.” • Peter’s protest (“You shall never wash my feet!” v. 8) underscores the disciples’ struggle to accept a Messiah who serves. • “Unless I wash you, you have no part with Me” (v. 8) points to the deeper cleansing of sin foreshadowed by His impending cross (1 John 1:7). Servant Leadership Modeled by the Messiah Jesus frames footwashing as an example (v. 15). True greatness is found in humble service (Matthew 20:26-28). The early church echoed this model: deacons (literally “servants”) were appointed to meet tangible needs (Acts 6:1-4). Prophetic Fulfillment: Betrayal by a Friend Jesus quotes Psalm 41:9, “He who eats bread with Me has lifted up his heel against Me” (13:18). David’s pain with Ahithophel prefigures Christ’s pain with Judas. By citing Scripture first, Jesus shows that even treachery cannot derail God’s plan. Judas Iscariot: Motive and Responsibility • John previously noted Judas’s love of money (12:4-6). • Satan “entered into him” (13:27), yet Judas remains accountable; James 1:14-15 explains how desire gives birth to sin. • His departure “into the night” (v. 30) is more than a time stamp—John’s motif of light versus darkness (1:5; 8:12) underscores spiritual reality. Satanic Influence and Human Choice Verse 2 links the devil’s prompting with Judas’s own heart. Scripture balances unseen forces (Ephesians 6:12) with human responsibility (Galatians 6:7). Jesus remains sovereign: “What you are about to do, do quickly” (v. 27). The New Commandment of Love • Love is now measured “just as I have loved you” (v. 34)—self-giving, sacrificial, unconditional. • This love becomes the family trait: “By this everyone will know that you are My disciples” (v. 35). • Later writers pick up the theme: 1 John 3:16, “We ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.” Peter’s Zeal and Human Weakness Peter’s pledge (v. 37) collides with reality before dawn (18:25-27). Luke 22:31-32 records Jesus praying that Peter’s faith would not fail. After resurrection, Jesus reinstates Peter with a threefold call to “feed My sheep” (21:15-17), showing failure is not final for those who return. Connections to the Larger Gospel Narrative • Footwashing parallels the incarnation (1:14) and anticipates the cross. • Judas’s betrayal sets the stage for the arrest in chapter 18. • The call to love bridges into chapters 14–17, where love and unity dominate Jesus’ farewell teaching. • Peter’s coming denial proves Jesus’ foreknowledge, bolstering trust in His later promise of the Spirit (14:16). Practical Applications for Believers Today • Choose the towel over the throne: greatness in God’s kingdom is measured by service. • Guard the heart against small compromises that open doors to larger betrayals. • Let every relationship—home, church, workplace—be marked by Christ-like love, which has power to persuade a watching world. Connections to Additional Scriptures Philippians 2:5-7 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. 1 John 4:7-8 Beloved, let us love one another, because love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. Matthew 20:26-28 It shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. Teaching Points The Setting of the Last Supper John 13:1 sets the stage, It was just before the Passover Feast, and Jesus knew that His hour had come to depart from this world to the Father. This highlights the significance of the moment and the love Jesus had for His disciples. Jesus Washes the Disciples' Feet In verses 4-5, Jesus performs a humble act of service: So He got up from the supper, laid aside His outer garments, and wrapped a towel around His waist. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and dry them with the towel that was around Him. Peter's Reaction Peter initially resists Jesus' act of washing his feet, saying in verse 8, You shall never wash my feet. Jesus responds, Unless I wash you, you have no part with Me, emphasizing the necessity of spiritual cleansing. A New Commandment In verses 34-35, Jesus gives a new commandment: A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another. The Betrayal Foretold Jesus predicts Judas' betrayal in verses 21-30, demonstrating His foreknowledge and the fulfillment of Scripture. Practical Applications Embrace Humility Follow Jesus' example by serving others selflessly, even in tasks that seem beneath you. Seek Spiritual Cleansing Recognize the importance of allowing Jesus to cleanse you from sin, as symbolized by the washing of feet. Love One Another Actively practice love towards others, as this is the defining mark of a true disciple of Christ. Be Prepared for Trials Understand that betrayal and challenges may come, but trust in God's sovereign plan. People 1. Jesus The central figure in John 13, Jesus is depicted as the teacher and Lord who demonstrates humility and love by washing the feet of His disciples. This act serves as a powerful lesson in servanthood and love. The Greek term used for "Lord" (κύριος, kyrios) emphasizes His authority and divinity. 2. The Disciples The group of Jesus' followers present at the Last Supper. They are the recipients of Jesus' teachings and the foot-washing demonstration. The term "disciples" (μαθηταί, mathētai) in Greek refers to learners or students, highlighting their role in learning from Jesus. 3. Simon Peter One of Jesus' closest disciples, known for his impulsive nature. In this chapter, Peter initially resists Jesus washing his feet but then asks for his hands and head to be washed as well. His interaction with Jesus highlights themes of misunderstanding and eventual submission. 4. Judas Iscariot The disciple who betrays Jesus. In John 13, Judas is identified as the one who will betray Jesus, and he leaves the supper to carry out his plan. The Greek term for "betray" (παραδίδωμι, paradidōmi) indicates handing over or delivering up, underscoring the gravity of his actions. 5. The Beloved Disciple Traditionally understood to be John, the author of the Gospel. He is described as reclining next to Jesus during the meal, indicating a position of closeness and intimacy. The Greek phrase "whom Jesus loved" (ὃν ἠγάπα ὁ Ἰησοῦς, hon ēgapa ho Iēsous) reflects a special relationship. Places 1. The Upper Room The events of John 13 occur in the Upper Room, where Jesus shares the Last Supper with His disciples. This setting is significant as it is the place where Jesus washes the disciples' feet and delivers important teachings. The Upper Room is traditionally understood to be in Jerusalem, though the specific location is not detailed in the text. The Greek term used for "room" (ἀνώγεον, anōgeon) suggests an upper-level space, often used for gatherings or meals. The focus of John 13 is on the actions and teachings of Jesus during the Last Supper, rather than on multiple geographical locations. Events 1. Jesus Washes the Disciples' Feet In John 13:1-17, Jesus demonstrates humility and servanthood by washing the feet of His disciples. This act occurs during the Last Supper, and Jesus uses it to teach a lesson on serving others. The Greek word "νίπτω" (nipto) is used for "wash," emphasizing the act of cleansing. 2. Jesus Predicts His Betrayal In verses 18-30, Jesus foretells that one of His disciples will betray Him. He identifies Judas Iscariot as the betrayer by giving him a piece of bread. The Greek term "παραδίδωμι" (paradidomi) is used for "betray," indicating a handing over or delivering up. 3. The New Commandment In verses 31-35, after Judas leaves, Jesus gives His disciples a new commandment: to love one another as He has loved them. This commandment is central to Christian ethics and is rooted in the Greek word "ἀγαπάω" (agapao), which denotes selfless, sacrificial love. 4. Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial In verses 36-38, Jesus predicts that Peter will deny Him three times before the rooster crows. This prediction highlights Peter's forthcoming weakness and the fulfillment of Jesus' foreknowledge. The Greek word "ἀρνέομαι" (arneomai) is used for "deny," meaning to disown or reject. Lessons from John 13 1. The Power of Humble Service In John 13, Jesus sets a profound example by washing His disciples' feet, demonstrating that true greatness comes through humble service. As He says, "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet" (John 13:14). This act teaches us that no task is beneath us when it comes to serving others, and that humility is a cornerstone of Christian living. 2. Love as the Defining Mark of Discipleship Jesus emphasizes the importance of love, stating, "By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another" (John 13:35). This lesson reminds us that love is not just an emotion but an action that should define our interactions with others. It is through love that we reflect Christ to the world. 3. The Call to Follow Christ’s Example Jesus instructs His disciples to follow His example, saying, "For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done for you" (John 13:15). This is a call to live out our faith actively, modeling our lives after Christ’s selflessness and compassion. It’s a reminder that our actions speak louder than words. 4. The Reality of Betrayal In this chapter, Jesus predicts Judas’s betrayal, highlighting the painful reality that not everyone will remain faithful. "Truly, truly, I tell you, one of you will betray Me" (John 13:21). This teaches us to be vigilant and discerning, understanding that challenges and betrayals are part of the journey, but they do not define our faith. 5. The Assurance of God’s Sovereignty Despite the impending betrayal, Jesus remains calm, showing His trust in God’s sovereign plan. "I am telling you now before it happens, so that when it comes to pass, you will believe that I am He" (John 13:19). This reassures us that God is in control, even when circumstances seem dire, and encourages us to trust in His divine purpose. 6. The Importance of Spiritual Cleansing When Peter initially refuses to let Jesus wash his feet, Jesus responds, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with Me" (John 13:8). This highlights the necessity of spiritual cleansing and renewal, reminding us that we must continually seek forgiveness and purification through Christ to maintain a close relationship with Him. 7. The Role of Obedience in Faith Jesus’s actions in John 13 underscore the importance of obedience to God’s commands. "If you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them" (John 13:17). This lesson encourages us to not only hear God’s Word but to actively live it out, as obedience brings blessings and strengthens our faith. 8. The Promise of Christ’s Presence In the midst of foretelling His departure, Jesus assures His disciples of His ongoing presence. "Where I am going, you cannot follow now, but you will follow later" (John 13:36). This promise offers comfort and hope, reminding us that Christ is always with us, guiding us through life’s journey. 9. The Necessity of Faithful Witness Jesus’s interactions in this chapter highlight the importance of being a faithful witness to His teachings. "Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever receives the one I send receives Me" (John 13:20). This encourages us to be bold in sharing the Gospel, knowing that our witness can lead others to Christ. 10. The Hope of Redemption Even as Jesus predicts Peter’s denial, there is an underlying message of redemption. "Will you really lay down your life for Me? Truly, truly, I tell you, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times" (John 13:38). This reminds us that failure is not the end; through repentance and God’s grace, there is always hope for restoration and renewal. Topics 1. Jesus Washes the Disciples' Feet In John 13:1-17, Jesus demonstrates humility and servanthood by washing His disciples' feet. This act is a profound lesson in love and service, as Jesus states in verse 14, "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet." The Greek word for "wash" (νίπτω, niptō) emphasizes the cleansing aspect of this act, symbolizing spiritual purification. 2. The Prediction of Judas' Betrayal Verses 18-30 detail Jesus' foreknowledge of Judas Iscariot's betrayal. Jesus quotes Psalm 41:9, "He who shares My bread has lifted up his heel against Me," highlighting the fulfillment of prophecy. The Greek term for "betray" (παραδίδωμι, paradidōmi) conveys the idea of handing over or delivering up, underscoring the gravity of Judas' actions. 3. The New Commandment In verses 31-35, Jesus gives His disciples a new commandment: "Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another" (John 13:34). The Greek word for "love" (ἀγαπάω, agapaō) is used here, indicating a selfless, sacrificial love that mirrors Christ's love for humanity. 4. Peter's Denial Foretold The chapter concludes with Jesus predicting Peter's denial in verses 36-38. Despite Peter's protestations of loyalty, Jesus tells him, "Truly, truly, I tell you, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times" (John 13:38). The Greek word for "deny" (ἀρνέομαι, arneomai) suggests a strong repudiation or disowning, highlighting the forthcoming trial of Peter's faith. Themes 1. Servanthood and Humility In John 13:4-5, Jesus washes the disciples' feet, demonstrating servanthood and humility. The Greek word "diakonia" (service) underlines the importance of serving others selflessly. Jesus says in verse 14, "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet." 2. Love and Commandment Jesus introduces a new commandment in John 13:34, "A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another." The Greek word "agape" signifies unconditional love, emphasizing the depth and commitment of love expected among believers. 3. Betrayal and Foreknowledge The theme of betrayal is evident as Jesus predicts Judas Iscariot's betrayal in John 13:21, "Truly, truly, I tell you, one of you will betray Me." The Greek term "paradidomi" (to hand over) highlights the act of betrayal, and Jesus' foreknowledge underscores His divine omniscience. 4. Divine Glory In John 13:31-32, Jesus speaks of being glorified, "Now the Son of Man is glorified, and God is glorified in Him." The Greek word "doxa" (glory) refers to the honor and majesty of God, which is revealed through Jesus' actions and forthcoming sacrifice. 5. Peter’s Denial Foretold Jesus predicts Peter's denial in John 13:38, "Truly, truly, I tell you, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times." This theme highlights human weakness and the need for reliance on God's strength, as well as Jesus' understanding of human frailty. Prayer Points Pray for a heart of humility and a willingness to serve others as Jesus did. Ask for spiritual cleansing and renewal in your walk with Christ. Seek God's help in loving others genuinely and sacrificially. Pray for strength and faithfulness in the face of trials and betrayals. As we reflect on John 13, may we be inspired to live out the love and humility that Jesus exemplified, impacting the world around us for His glory. Answering Tough Questions 1. In John 13:1, why does the timing of the “last supper” differ from accounts in the Synoptic Gospels? 2. In John 13:27, how can Judas be possessed by Satan, and why is this scenario omitted in other Gospels? 3. In John 13:34, why call it a “new commandment” when the Old Testament already teaches love for others? 4. In John 13:2, how did the devil prompt Judas, and is there any historical or textual evidence for such an event? 5. In John 13:24–26, why did the other disciples not intervene when Jesus revealed Judas as His betrayer? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Jesus' act of washing the disciples' feet challenge your understanding of leadership and service? 2. How does Peter's reaction to Jesus washing his feet reveal his understanding of Jesus' mission? 3. What does Jesus' prediction of Judas' betrayal reveal about His omniscience and His handling of the situation? 4. How does Jesus' new commandment of love redefine the disciples' (and our) duty to one another? 5. What insights do you gain from Jesus' prediction of Peter's denial? 6. How can Jesus' act of foot washing influence your approach to serving others in your life? 7. How does Jesus' foreknowledge of Judas' betrayal affect your understanding of free will and divine providence? 8. How does the new commandment of love challenge the norms of your present society? 9. In what ways can you apply the lessons from this chapter in dealing with betrayal or denial in your life? 10. How does Jesus' instruction to Peter about following Him later reflect His understanding and compassion? 11. How does this chapter deepen your understanding of Jesus' character and mission? 12. What does Jesus' dialogue with Peter teach you about human promises and God's understanding of human frailty? 13. How does this chapter inspire you to demonstrate Christ-like love in your life? 14. How do Jesus' words and actions in this chapter challenge societal norms of power and hierarchy? 15. How does Jesus' interaction with Judas inform your understanding of dealing with difficult people or situations? 16. In what ways does Jesus' foreknowledge of Peter's denial affect your understanding of His grace and forgiveness? 17. Reflecting on the new commandment, how can you manifest love in your interactions with others? 18. How does the theme of misunderstanding (between Jesus and His disciples) in this chapter apply to your spiritual journey? 19. How can the disciples' inability to fully understand Jesus' words inform your approach to studying scripture and seeking understanding? 20. Reflect on the entire chapter. How does the story of the Last Supper inspire you to live out your faith with love, humility, and a servant heart? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions