The Heart of a Servant pt. 2

Introduction

John 13 is the beginning of the last discourse Jesus would have with his disciples before his death.

The timing of this message is significant.

The act that Jesus did is not simply and act of service but one draped in humility.

Zech 9:9 shows his coming would be one marked in humility

Matt 18:4 shows that Jesus demanded it of His followers

Php 2:7 shows that Jesus also exemplified in it

Humility Defined

The basic sense of the word is to be “low”. Be humble means to be low. It means not too high off the ground.

It stands opposed to pride, haughtiness and love for prominence and greatness. Humility will always see others better than themselves. It understands that God is superior to all thus making submission easier. Sometimes the Lord does the humbling (Ps. 116:6; 119:71)

The significance of humility can be seen in the devastating effects of pride

It hardens the mind Dan 5:5

It deceives Obad 3

It is followed by a fall Prov 16:18

It leads one away from God Ps 10:4

It is further defined in the context of unity Php 2:3-4

Breakdown of Humility (John 13)

The nature of the deed

The nature of the one performing the deed

The nature of the recipients

Having a cultural understanding will help solidify one’s understanding of what was happening here.

Jn 13:5 “. . . and began to wash there feet. . .” (THE NATURE OF THIS DEED). 1 Sam 25:41

Jn 13:14 “. . .If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet. . .” (THE NATURE OF THE ONE PERFORMING THE DEED)

Jn 13:6 “. . .Lord, do you wash my feet. . .” (THE NATURE OF THE RECIPIENTS)

Benefits of being Humble

God is disposed to offer grace when one is humble - 1 Pet 5:5-6

God helps you battle the devil - James 4:7

Humble yourself today and submit to Jesus. Learn to obey him and receive salvation.