AN EXAMPLE OF HUMILITY

JOHN 13:12–17

“For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you”

(John 13:15).

As we have already seen, Jesus’ feet-washing was an essential element in His humiliation and a symbol of that humiliation (the water that washed away physical filth was a true symbol of Christ’s suffering during His entire life on earth and especially on the cross, whereby He not only atones for the guilt of His people but also merits for them the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit) In addition, the feet-washing was also a lesson in humility, or in other words, an example that we are expected to follow.

Jesus asked, “Do you know what I have done for you?” Did they grasp the positive, practical teaching that He had just imparted to them by example? This question is an implied rebuke. It was a loving exhortation for the disciples to seriously consider what Jesus had done and to commit themselves to doing likewise.

They had called Him Rabbi, for He taught with authority. And they had called Him Lord, which meant that He was sovereign over all things. They did right in calling Him this. Now comes the application. It is an argument from the greater to the lesser: “If, therefore, I, your Lord and Teacher—the terms are reversed now, for it is especially as Lord that Jesus can claim the right to obedience—have washed your feet, you also ought to wash each other’s feet.” Surely, if the Lord of glory is willing to be “girded around” with a towel, having taken the form of a servant by washing the feet of those who are so very far below Him, it ought to be easy for mere disciples to render loving service to one another in the spirit of genuine humility!

Is Jesus instituting a new ordinance of feet-washing? We do not think so. He is not commanding the disciples to do what He has done, but He has given them an example in order that they, of their own accord, may do as He has done: that they might humble themselves. Jesus did not have in mind an outward rite, but an inner attitude, one of humility and eagerness to serve.

Hendriksen writes, “If humility is the proper attitude for the Lord and Sender, how unremittingly should not the servant and commissioned individual exercise himself in this grace and grow in it.” This is the promise: blessing flows from the root of humility.

CORAM DEO

Psalm 78

Romans 7

If you were to die today, and someone wanted to write your biography, how would those who know you describe you? Would “humble” be at the top of the list? Be honest. Ask a trusted friend whether he or she thinks you are humble. If the answer is “no,” confess your pride and ask God for more humility.

For further study: Matt. 10:24–26 • Luke 6:40; 22:27 • John 15:18–25

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