Bible Study Seattle

“When he had washed their feet, and taken his garments, and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord; and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.” John 13:12-17

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35

Jesus loved his disciples by washing their feet. The disciples represent Jesus’ bride. By washing their feet, was he submitting to them? No, for he says in verse 16 that a servant (the bride) is not above her master (Jesus). Parents love and serve their children, but they do not submit to them. It is the same in marriage. A husband can serve and love his wife, even lay his life down for her, but that is not submitting, for God’s order stands.

If we truly love one another, we will exhibit the fruits of the spirit: Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

We will not exhibit: Evil thoughts, fornication, theft, murder, Adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, pride, slander, and foolishness. We could also add controlling, nagging, faultfinding, bickering, contention, and bossyness.