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John 13

38 verses

TL;DR

Jesus prepares his disciples for his imminent departure by washing their feet, revealing his forthcoming betrayal, and issuing a new commandment of love.

Summary

The chapter opens with Jesus anticipating his departure for the Passover and the looming betrayal of Judas. He washes the disciples’ feet, symbolizing humility and service, and instructs them to emulate this act. Peter objects but is rebuked, and Jesus explains the significance of the act. Jesus then foretells the betrayal, identifies Judas, and calls for obedience to his teachings. He declares that love is the defining mark of his followers, issuing a new commandment. The chapter ends with Peter’s pledge and Jesus’ warning that Peter will deny him thrice.

Outline
  1. Jesus prepares for Passover and foretells betrayal.
  2. Foot washing as a lesson in humility and the new commandment of love.
  3. Revelation of Judas, exhortation to disciples, and Peter’s pledge.
Themes
Humility and servanthoodBetrayal and foreknowledgeLove as a defining commandment
Keywords
Jesusdisciplesfoot washinglovecommandmentbetrayalJudasPeterservantlord
People
JesusJudas IscariotSimon Peterthe disciples
Places
Passover feasttable
Things
waterbasintowelgarmentssop (spoon)feet
Key Verses
  • John 13:1: Sets the context of Jesus’ impending departure and betrayal.
  • John 13:5: Illustrates Jesus’ act of humility by washing disciples’ feet.
  • John 13:14: Jesus commands disciples to wash each other’s feet, establishing the new commandment.
  • John 13:16: Highlights the principle that a servant is not greater than his lord.
  • John 13:34: Introduces the new commandment of loving one another as a mark of discipleship.
  • John 13:38: Peter’s pledge and Jesus’ warning foreshadow Peter’s later denial.
Questions
  • What does the act of foot washing teach us about leadership and service?
  • How does Jesus’ foreknowledge of betrayal affect our understanding of free will?
  • In what ways can we embody the new commandment of love in our daily lives?
  • Why does Peter pledge to follow Jesus even after witnessing the betrayal, and what does that say about commitment?
Sentiment

mixed
The narrative contains both solemn instruction and tragic foreshadowing.