The Gospel of John | Week 09 – PREPARING THE DISCIPLES
Week’s Passage: John 13
inTro
The Last Supper
As Jesus’ ministry neared its end, He prepared His disciples for the coming trials, demonstrating deep love and foreknowledge of His mission. John’s account (John 13–17) omits specifics like the Last Supper, making Jesus’ teachings universally applicable. Through His final acts and words, He revealed His ultimate love for His followers.
inGest
Washing the Disciples Feet
In John 13:1–20, Jesus demonstrates His complete love for His disciples by washing their feet, modeling humility and servant leadership. Despite knowing Judas would betray Him, He taught that true discipleship involves loving and serving others. This act reaffirmed His divinity and fulfilled prophecy.
inTepret
Judas, Jesus and the loved disciple
In John 13:10–30, Jesus reveals a betrayer among the disciples, deeply troubling Him despite His divine foreknowledge. Judas, seated in a place of trust near Jesus, was treated with acts of hospitality—foot-washing, bread, and honor—showing Jesus’ love even for His betrayer. While Judas’ betrayal shocked the disciples, it was part of the cosmic battle between Jesus and Satan. Judas’ departure into the night symbolized his complete separation from the light, embracing darkness.
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Instructions to the Disciples
After Judas left, Jesus taught His disciples about glorifying God through His death and resurrection, emphasizing love as the hallmark of discipleship (John 13:35). He urged them to reflect God’s love to the world and prepared them for His departure, promising a place in the “Father’s house” that begins now through abiding in Him. Jesus’ greatest desire is to dwell with His followers forever, calling us to reciprocate His love and live in readiness for eternity.
Insight
Heart issues
Before Passover, Judas secretly plotted betrayal but hid it from the disciples. Jesus, knowing his heart, still longed for his repentance and showed him love through the act of foot washing, though Judas resisted confessing.
Jesus washed the disciples’ feet to cleanse their hearts of pride and prepare them for communion with Him. This act brought humility and unity, except for Judas.
Christ’s life exemplified selfless service, revealing God’s love. John, deeply devoted to Jesus, reflected God’s character through his transformed life and Christlike love.
InQuire
- What reasons can you give for Jesus including Judas in the foot-washing service?
- How has studying John 13 affected your response to the foot-washing we practice in church?
- Why do you think we have difficulty accepting all that Christ wants to do for us?
- How would you explain the differences between the Synoptics’ description of the Last Supper and John’s account?
