John 13:3 – “Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God.”

Extended Explanation

This verse reveals something profound about Jesus’ identity and His mindset just before one of the most powerful acts of humility in Scripture—washing His disciples’ feet.

First, it tells us that Jesus knew exactly who He was. He was fully aware that God the Father had given Him absolute authority over everything. This means that Jesus was not just a teacher or a prophet—He was in full control over all creation, history, and even the events about to unfold.

Second, Jesus knew where He came from and where He was going. He wasn’t uncertain or afraid about His mission. He had come from the Father and would soon return to Him. This verse reminds us that Jesus was not a victim of circumstance. Even though He was about to be betrayed and crucified, He was acting according to God’s sovereign plan.

What makes this even more powerful is what happens right after. Knowing He had all power and authority, Jesus chose to do something unexpected—He humbled Himself and washed the feet of His disciples (John 13:4-5). This shows that real leadership in God’s kingdom is not about power or position but about service and love.

Historical Context

This event takes place during the Last Supper, just hours before Jesus’ arrest. At this time, foot washing was a task usually reserved for the lowest servants in a household. People wore sandals and walked on dusty roads, so their feet were often dirty. Normally, a host would provide a servant to wash guests’ feet upon arrival, but in this case, no one had done it.

The disciples had been arguing among themselves about who was the greatest (Luke 22:24), yet Jesus, the one with all authority, took on the role of a servant. In doing so, He turned the world’s idea of power and leadership upside down. Instead of using His authority to dominate others, He used it to love and serve.

Theological Implications

1. Jesus’ Divine Authority – This verse affirms that Jesus has complete authority over all things. He is not just a wise teacher or moral example—He is the Lord of heaven and earth (Matthew 28:18).
2. Jesus’ Eternal Nature – Knowing He “had come from God and was returning to God” reminds us that Jesus was not just beginning His existence at birth. He existed before time, came to earth for a mission, and would return to the Father (John 1:1-2).
3. True Leadership is Humble Service – Even with all power, Jesus chose humility. This shows that greatness in God’s kingdom is measured by service, not status (Mark 10:42-45).

Literary Analysis

This verse acts as a bridge in the passage. It transitions from the betrayal plot (John 13:2) to Jesus’ act of washing the disciples’ feet (John 13:4-5). The structure of John’s Gospel often presents contrasts—light and darkness, belief and unbelief, humility and pride. Here, the contrast is between power and servanthood.

The phrase “the Father had put all things under his power” echoes the themes found in John 3:35, where it says, “The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands.” This repeated idea shows that Jesus had complete authority, yet He used it in a way that defied human expectations.

Biblical Cross-References

• Matthew 28:18 – “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.’”
• Philippians 2:6-7 – “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.”
• John 17:5 – “And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For believers today, John 13:3 teaches us two key things:

1. Our Identity in Christ – Just as Jesus knew who He was, we should remember who we are in Him. If we belong to Christ, our purpose, security, and future are all in God’s hands. We do not have to seek approval from the world.
2. The Call to Humility – If the Lord of all creation was willing to serve others, we have no excuse for pride. True greatness comes from loving and serving people, even in the simplest ways.

It also reminds us that Jesus’ authority extends to every area of our lives. No matter what we face, He is in control.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse shows that God’s love is not about control or dominance but about humble service. The fact that Jesus had all power and yet chose to serve proves that God’s love is not self-serving but sacrificial.

Many people imagine a powerful God as one who rules with an iron fist, demanding obedience. But Jesus shows us a different picture—one of a God who kneels down to wash the feet of His followers. This is the kind of love God has for us.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse directly connects to Jesus’ mission and identity.

• Jesus as the Sovereign Lord – He has all power and authority, as seen throughout Scripture (Colossians 1:16-17).
• Jesus as the Humble Servant – He willingly laid aside His divine rights to serve others (Mark 10:45).
• Jesus as the Returning King – Just as He came from God, He would return to God, fulfilling His mission (John 14:1-3).

Ultimately, this verse reminds us that Jesus’ path to glory came through humility. He is both the King of Kings and the servant of all.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does knowing that Jesus has all authority affect the way you trust Him in your life?
2. What does Jesus’ example in this passage teach us about leadership and service?
3. In what ways can you follow Jesus’ example of humility and love in your daily life?
4. How does this verse challenge the world’s idea of power and success?
5. If Jesus was not afraid to serve, how should that change the way we view our own roles in our families, workplaces, and churches?

John 13:3 is a powerful reminder that true strength is found in humility and that Jesus, who has all authority, used it to serve and love. It challenges us to do the same.