This is the 4th lesson in Mike’s series on “A Living Church.”

Why did Jesus wash the disciples’ feet? Clearly, there are many lessons to learn from this humble act, but the reason he washed their feet is because they needed to be washed!

In the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) Jesus teaches the importance of using our gifts in service to others, and the consequences of failing to do so.

Jesus teaches us to serve others, and the true definition of a servant is someone who sees a need and fills it. And the amazing part of serving is that the smallest selfless act can influence others far into the future.

Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over everything and that he had come from God and would return to God. So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel he had around him.

You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am. And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. I tell you the truth, slaves are not greater than their master. Nor is the messenger more important than the one who sends the message. Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them.

John 13:3-5, 13-17 (NLT)

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

1 Peter 4:8-11 (NIV)