What does "I have set you an example" teach about Christian behavior? The Verse in Focus John 13:15: “I have set you an example so that you should do as I have done for you.” Setting the Scene: Foot-Washing Before the Cross • Night before the crucifixion, Jesus knowingly possesses “all authority” (John 13:3). • Instead of claiming privileges, He strips to a servant’s towel and washes dusty feet—work assigned to the lowest household slave (John 13:4-5). • His act is not a symbolic suggestion; it is a literal, tangible model that He then interprets: “You also should wash one another’s feet” (John 13:14). Core Lessons for Christian Behavior • Humble Service – Greatness in Christ’s kingdom descends, not ascends (Luke 22:24-27). – No task is beneath a believer when love for others is at stake. • Sacrificial Love in Action – Foot-washing costs time, dignity, and comfort—mirroring Calvary’s cost (John 15:13). – Love is verified by deeds, not intentions (1 John 3:18). • Obedient Imitation – Jesus says “do as I have done,” not merely “admire what I have done” (1 John 2:6). – Disciples prove their allegiance by reproducing His pattern (James 1:22). • Holiness and Cleansing – Peter’s protest (“You will never wash my feet”) meets Jesus’ warning that without cleansing there is “no part” with Him (John 13:8). – Believers accepted by Christ are also continually cleansed and called to help one another stay pure (Galatians 6:1). • Servant Leadership – Authority is redefined: leaders stoop first, direct second (1 Peter 5:2-3). – Influence grows through example, not title. Living It Out Today • Look for undignified, behind-the-scenes tasks—volunteer before being asked. • Treat every believer, regardless of status or background, as worthy of personal attention. • Include physical acts of kindness that cost you convenience. • When given authority (home, church, workplace), lead by serving first. • Pursue ongoing spiritual cleansing through confession and mutual accountability. Scriptures That Echo the Call to Imitation • Philippians 2:5-8 — “Have this mind among yourselves… He emptied Himself.” • 1 Peter 2:21 — “Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps.” • 1 Thessalonians 1:6 — “You became imitators of us and of the Lord.” • Hebrews 12:2-3 — “Consider Him… so that you will not grow weary.” Summary Takeaways • Jesus’ model in John 13:15 sets the standard: humble, sacrificial, obedient, cleansing, servant-minded love. • Christian behavior is measured by how closely our daily choices trace the outline of His example. • When believers follow this path, the world sees the reality of the gospel made visible. |
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