Is the washing of feet in John 13:1-17 a commandment? By Jack Kettler
“It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” “Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!” Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean. When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly, I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” (John 13:1-17) (Uderlinnig emphasis mine)
Having heard a sermon on this text recently, it seemed prudent to address some questions individuals may have.
Is the washing of feet in John 13:1-17 a commandment, or is it a culturally conditioned directive?
The washing of feet in John 13:1-17, where Jesus washes the disciples' feet, is often debated in terms of whether it constitutes a direct commandment for all Christians or if it's more of a culturally conditioned act meant to convey a broader principle.
Here are some points to consider:
1. Jesus' Example and Command: Jesus explicitly says in John 13:14-15, "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 just as I have done to you." This can be interpreted as a direct command to perform the act of foot washing.
2. Cultural Context: In the time of Jesus, foot washing was a common act of hospitality and humility, especially necessary due to the dusty roads and the wearing of sandals. It was often done by the lowest servant in a household. Therefore, Jesus' act was profoundly symbolic of humility and service.
3. Symbolic Interpretation: Many scholars and theologians argue that while the literal act of washing feet might not be directly applicable in all cultures today due to different social norms, the underlying principle of humility, service, and love is what Jesus intended to emphasize. This interpretation suggests that while the act itself might be culturally conditioned, the commandment to serve others in humility is universal.
4. Practical Application: Some Christian denominations have taken this passage to institute foot washing as a regular practice (like some Anabaptist groups or during Maundy Thursday services in various churches). However, for many, the principle is applied in acts of service and humility in various forms, not necessarily through literal foot washing.
5. Biblical Interpretation: There's a spectrum in biblical interpretation. Some might argue for a literal application of all biblical directives, while others might see Jesus' actions and words as illustrative of a broader ethic of love and service.
Given these points:
· If it's a Commandment: Jesus does use imperative language, suggesting a command to emulate his act of service. However, whether this command is to be taken literally or symbolically can vary.
· If it's Culturally Conditioned: The act of foot washing was culturally specific, but the principle of serving others in humility transcends cultural boundaries. Thus, while the literal act might not be universally practiced, the principle it represents is seen as a commandment.
What was John Calvin’s position on John 13: 1-17?
John Calvin, the prominent Protestant Reformer, provided extensive commentary on various passages of the Bible, including John 13:1-17, which describes Jesus washing the disciples' feet. Here's a summary of Calvin's position on this passage:
1. Humility and Service: Calvin emphasizes that Jesus washing the disciples' feet is a profound example of humility and service. He sees this act as Jesus demonstrating that no service is beneath the dignity of a Christian, no matter how lowly or menial it might seem. This act serves as a model for all believers to follow, showing that true greatness in the Kingdom of God is measured by one's willingness to serve others.
2. Spiritual Cleansing: In his commentary, Calvin discusses the dialogue between Jesus and Peter, particularly focusing on Jesus' words about being clean. He interprets this not just as physical cleanliness but as spiritual purity. Calvin points out that while the disciples were generally clean (justified by faith), they still needed ongoing sanctification, symbolized by the washing of their feet. This highlights the need for continual repentance and cleansing from daily sins.
3. The Role of Christ: Calvin also uses this passage to discuss the role of Christ as the servant who cleanses his people. He connects this act to Christ's ultimate act of service on the cross, where he cleanses believers from all sin.
4. The Example for Disciples: Calvin stresses that Jesus did not just perform this act for its own sake but as an example for the disciples to emulate. He argues that Christians are called to serve one another in love, humility, and without seeking personal glory.
5. Theological Implications: Beyond practical application, Calvin sees theological depth in this act. It underscores the doctrine of grace, where Christ, the Lord, stoops to serve, illustrating the nature of divine love and grace that is freely given, not earned.
Calvin's commentary often goes into great detail, linking practical Christian living with deep theological truths. For John 13:1-17, he weaves together the themes of humility, service, spiritual cleansing, and the exemplary life of Christ for believers to follow. If you're looking for a direct quote or a more detailed analysis, you might want to refer to Calvin's "Commentary on the Gospel According to John," where he expounds on these verses in depth.
In summary, while Jesus' directive can be seen as a commandment, many interpret it as commanding the spirit of the act rather than the act itself, due to cultural shifts. Therefore, it might be more accurate to say it's both: a culturally conditioned act that conveys a timeless commandment of love and service.
The above study was Groked and perfected with Grammarly AI.
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15)
Mr. Kettler is a respected author who has previously published articles in the Chalcedon Report and Contra Mundum. He and his wife, Marea, are active Westminster, CO, RPCNA Church members. Mr. Kettler's extensive work includes 18 books defending the Reformed Faith, which are available for order online at Amazon.