Word In Life Study Bible
THE ORDER OF THE TOWEL
John13:1-20
Leadership is a fascinating topic. Business books offer models of leadership as diverse as Attila the Hun, Oriental warlords, and Abraham Lincoln. But Jesus painted a different picture of leadership.
As He wrapped up His work, Jesus held a dinner for his closest associates. Instead of delivering a state-of-the-union address or naming a successor, He chose to leave His seat at the head of the table and pick up some household servant’s equipment—a basin of water and a towel. He then washed the feet of every person at the table—even Judas, His betrayer (John 13:1–20). Foot-washing was usually performed by household servants as an act of hospitality to weary, dusty guests (compare Luke 7:44). Leaders and hosts did not stoop to such a menial task. But Jesus did.
Seated once again at the table, the Lord asked whether His followers understood what He had done (John 13:12). He then exhorted them to adopt the same posture of serving others, thereby following His example. He assured them that they would be blessed if they did (13:15–17).
Jesus still calls believers today to become members of the “Order of the Towel.” As Christ’s followers, we need to lead others by serving them.
Study notes from the Word In Life Study Bible, copyright 1993,1996, by Thomas Nelson, Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission. The study notes from the Word In Life Study Bible appearing at this web site are for personal use only.
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