From Bethany, Jesus sent Peter and John ahead to the Upper Room in Jerusalem to make the preparations for the Passover Feast. That evening after sunset, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples as they prepared to share in the Passover. By performing this humble act of service, Jesus demonstrated BY HIS EXAMPLE how believers should love one another. Today, many churches practice foot-washing ceremonies. Because Jesus said it was OUR DUTY to do this.
Jesus poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded. Then He came to Simon Peter. And Peter said to Him, “LORD, ARE YOU WASHING MY FEET?” Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this.” (John 13:5-7)
Jesus explained to them, just obey me and it will be alright. “So, when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, YOU ALSO OUGHT (opheiló: one’s duties and responsibilities) TO WASH ONE ANOTHER’S FEET. For I have GIVEN YOU AN EXAMPLE, that you should do AS I HAVE DONE to you.” (John 13:12-15)
“Jesus was troubled in spirit and testified, “Very truly I tell you, one of you is going to betray me.” (John 13:21) They all began to ask, “is it I…” Jesus answered, “It is he to whom I shall give a piece of bread when I have dipped it.” And having dipped the bread, He gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. Now after the piece of bread, Satan entered him. Then Jesus said to him, “What you do, do quickly.” But no one at the table knew for what reason He said this to him.” (John 13:26-28)
So, Judas leaves the supper and goes to the Roman authorities who are looking to arrest Jesus. He accepts a bribe of 30 silver and AGREES TO TAKE THEM TO JESUS. Judas knew that Jesus and the disciples would go to a garden near Jerusalem.
Now Jesus give them one last instruction, “A NEW COMMANDMENT I give to you, that YOU LOVE ONE ANOTHER; AS I HAVE LOVED YOU, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another…Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, where are You going?” Jesus answered him, “Where I am going YOU CANNOT FOLLOW ME NOW, but you shall follow Me afterward.” (John 13:34-36)
Tomorrow Jesus would be horribly crucified.
Your Personal Pastor -Bill Stockham