Scripture Reading:

If I then your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet. –John 13:14

Summary: 

Jesus Christ instituted the ordinance of feet washing. All believers are commanded to follow this example. Saints of God are called to be servants. Feet washing is a physical reminder of the equality and humility that should exist in the body of Christ. (Read John 13:1-17).

I. Instituted by Christ

John 13:1-5 Jesus washed the disciples’ feet.

II. Commanded by Christ

A. Matthew 28:20 Observe all things.
B. John 13:14 Ye ought….

1. Ought: owe, bound, under obligation.
2. See Luke 18:1; Acts 5:29; I John 4:11.

III. Exemplified By Christ

John 13:15 Example of Christ.

IV. Practiced in the Apostolic Church

A. John 13:8 Fellowship with Christ.
B. I Timothy 5:9-10 Widows.

V. Lesson of Humility

A. John 13:16 The servant is not greater.
B. Philippians 2:3-7 Mind of Christ.
C. Matthew 18:1-4 Become as little children.
D. I Peter 5: 3-5 Clothed with humility.

VI. Called to be Servants

A. Luke 22:24-27 The chief as a servant.
B. Galatians 5:13 Serve one another.

VII. Lesson of Equality

A. Matthew 23:8-12 All are brethren.
B. Galatians 3:28 One in Christ.

VIII. Blessings to the Obedient

A. John 13:17 Happy are ye.
B. Isaiah 1:19 Eat the good of the land.

Conclusion:

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant….   

—Philippians 2:5-7