John 13:15 – “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Jesus makes it clear that His act of washing the disciples’ feet was not just a one-time event but an example for them to follow. He had just performed an act of deep humility—something completely unexpected from a leader. Now, He tells His disciples that they, too, must live in this same spirit of service and humility.

The key phrase here is “I have set you an example.” Jesus did not simply command His followers to serve—He demonstrated it with His own actions. This is not just about washing feet, but about a lifestyle of putting others before ourselves.

Jesus is teaching that true leadership and greatness come through serving others. If He, the Son of God, was willing to humble Himself in this way, then His followers have no excuse to be proud or unwilling to serve.

Historical Context

During Jesus’ time, foot washing was a necessary but lowly task. Because people wore sandals and walked on dusty roads, their feet would become dirty throughout the day. It was customary in Jewish culture for a servant to wash the feet of guests, but a rabbi or teacher would never do such a thing.

The disciples had been arguing about who among them was the greatest (Luke 22:24-26), so Jesus’ action directly confronted their mindset. He showed them that in God’s kingdom, true greatness comes not from power or position but from humility and love.

By saying, “you should do as I have done for you,” Jesus was not instituting a ritual, but a principle—His followers must live lives of humble service, just as He did.

Theological Implications

1. Jesus is the Perfect Example – He does not ask us to do anything He was unwilling to do Himself. Instead, He shows us how to live through His own actions (Philippians 2:5-7).
2. True Leadership is Found in Serving Others – The world defines greatness as having authority and power, but Jesus teaches that true greatness is found in humility and service (Mark 10:43-45).
3. Obedience to Jesus Means Imitating His Actions – If we claim to follow Christ, we must not only listen to His words but also live according to His example (1 John 2:6).

Literary Analysis

John 13:15 is a straightforward yet powerful statement. Jesus is not merely teaching a lesson—He is calling His followers to action.

The structure of the verse is important:

1. “I have set you an example” – Jesus establishes that His actions are meant to teach.
2. “That you should do” – This is a command, not just a suggestion.
3. “As I have done for you” – Jesus makes Himself the model for how His disciples should live.

Throughout the Gospel of John, Jesus frequently uses actions to illustrate deeper spiritual truths. This is another example of how He teaches by doing, not just by speaking.

Biblical Cross-References

• Mark 10:43-45 – “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
• Philippians 2:5-7 – “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant.”
• 1 John 2:6 – “Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.”
• Luke 6:40 – “The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.”
• Galatians 5:13 – “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

John 13:15 challenges us to look at our own lives and ask: Are we following Jesus’ example?

It is easy to talk about humility and service, but actually living it out requires a change of heart. Many people seek recognition, power, or comfort, but Jesus calls His followers to a different way of living—one that values service over status.

This verse teaches that being a Christian is not just about attending church or believing the right things. It’s about actively loving and serving others in our daily lives. This might look like:

• Helping a neighbor in need.
• Choosing kindness over personal gain.
• Serving in your church, even in unnoticed roles.
• Loving others through simple acts of humility.

True discipleship means imitating Jesus, not just in words but in action.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is not just a concept—it is something that is demonstrated through action. Jesus’ willingness to serve His disciples, even though He was their Lord and Teacher, is a picture of God’s heart for His people.

God’s love is active. He does not simply tell us He loves us—He shows us through Jesus. The ultimate act of service was when Jesus gave His life on the cross for our sins. His entire life was an example of what true love looks like.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus as the Humble Servant – His life was characterized by selflessness and love (Matthew 20:28).
2. Jesus as the Perfect Model for Living – He shows us how to live, love, and serve (1 Peter 2:21).
3. Jesus as the One Who Calls Us to Follow Him – To truly follow Jesus means to live as He lived (John 12:26).

Jesus did not just wash feet—He washed away sin. His act of service in this moment pointed to the greater cleansing He would provide through His death and resurrection.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does it mean to follow Jesus’ example in your daily life?
2. Are there ways in which pride or self-interest keep you from serving others?
3. How does Jesus’ example of humility challenge our ideas about leadership and greatness?
4. In what areas of your life can you practice selfless service this week?
5. How does Jesus’ ultimate act of service on the cross deepen your understanding of this verse?

John 13:15 is a simple but profound reminder that following Jesus means following His example. He calls us not to seek status, but to serve. May we live each day in a way that reflects His humility, love, and grace.