John 13:1-20

The Master as a Servant

Text: John 13:1-20

Introduction: Jesus’ earthly calling was to be the Saviour of man and an example of a servant. Here is John 13 we a beautiful and wonderful example of a servant -leader.

I. The context of the work. Verse 1

A. Before the feast of the Passover.

B. The approaching crucifixtion.

C. The greatness of God’s love.

II. The betrayal of Judas. Verse 2,3

A. The supper ended.

B. An unexpected guest - Satan

Satan took a personal interest attempting to thwart the crucifixtion.

C. What Jesus knew:

The Father had given him all things.

He was come from God.

He went to God.

III. The service of Jesus. Verses 4-11

A. The form of a servant. Philippians 2:5-8

Philippians 2:5–8 KJV 1900

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Laid aside his garments

Took a towel.

This is much like his first advent. He laid aside his divinity and took on humanity.

B. The signifigance of footwashing. Verse 5

It was an act of hospitality.

Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary Footwashing

FOOTWASHING An act necessary for comfort and cleanliness for any who have traveled dusty Palestinian roads wearing sandals. Customarily, a host provided guests with water for washing their own feet (Judg. 19:21; Luke 7:44, where the complaint was that Simon had not provided water). Footwashing was regarded as so lowly a task that it could not be required of a Hebrew slave. In this context the statement of John the Baptist that he was unworthy to untie the sandal (to wash the feet) of the One coming after him (Mark 1:7) indicates great humility. As a sign of exceptional love, a disciple might wash a master’s feet (contrast John 13:13–14). The initiative of the woman who was a “sinner” in washing Jesus’ feet (Luke 7:37–50) was more than expected hospitality. Hers was an act of great love that evidenced the forgiveness of her sins (7:47).

It was an act of ceremonial cleansing. Exodus 30:19-21

It was a requirement for widows before they were taken in. I Timothy 5:9-10

C. The request of Peter. Verses 6-11

Peter’s question. Verse 6

Jesus’ response. Verse 7

The importance of washing. Verses 8-11

Jesus taught Peter, and by extension us, that without cleansing we can have no part of Christ.

IV. The lesson of Jesus. Verses 12-18

A. The position of Jesus.

We must be reminded that we are still the servants and Jesus the Master.

B. The example of Jesus. Verses 14-21

The example of humble service. Verses 14-15

Our service towards each other AND towards our Saviour must be humble service. This is a recognition of God’s greatness and

The example of humble leadership. Verse 16

I Timothy 1:12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;

God put Paul in ministry and God put you and I in ministry and we must remember that He who put us there can remove us from there.

I Peter 5:3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.

We are commanded to treat God’s people with gentleness and care. We are not to be Lord’s and masters over the flock but as a shepherd.

Verse 17 - The Lord promises joy as we are obedient to the example of Christ.

V. Preparation in suffering. Verses 18-21

A. A prophesied betrayal. Verses 18-19

B. A prepared reception. Verses 20-21

Conclusion: As we seek to serve we must remember the example of Christ and seek to imitate Christ.