Jesus washed the disciples’ feet to demonstrate humility, servant leadership, and the cleansing power of His sacrifice. In doing so, He reversed worldly expectations of authority and showed that greatness in His kingdom is found in serving others, not being served.
John records this act in detail:
“He rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself… and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.”
(John 13:4–5)
This was normally the task of the lowest servant in a household. Jesus, their Master and Lord, stooped to perform it. Peter was shocked:
“Then He came to Simon Peter. And Peter said to Him, ‘Lord, are You washing my feet?’”
(John 13:6)
Jesus answered with spiritual meaning:
“If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.”
(John 13:8)
This act symbolized more than hospitality. It pointed to the deeper cleansing that only Christ can provide. Though they were already clean in their standing with Him, they still needed daily cleansing from sin, just as our feet get dirty walking through life.
After finishing, Jesus said:
“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.”
(John 13:14)
He established a pattern of humility and love. True spiritual leadership is marked by self-denial and service.
This moment also pointed forward to the cross. Just as He took off His garments to serve, He would soon lay down His life. The foot washing prefigured the greater cleansing He would accomplish through His blood.
“For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.”
(John 13:15)
Jesus washed their feet to teach that no task is beneath a servant of God. Every believer is called to serve in love, just as He did.
