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When Jesus and his closest disciples gather for the Passover meal, Jesus performs a task usually done by servants. He is their teacher, but he demonstrates true service and love by washing his disciples' feet. He then goes on to teach them that they should show this kind of love to others.
Bible verses used in this episode:
John 13:1-19, 31-35
Outline:
- The heart and mind of Jesus (John 13:1-3)
- Jesus washes the disciples’ feet (John 13:4-11)
- Jesus explains what it means (John 13:12-19)
- The common to love (John 13:31-34)
Tips for teaching:
- In a children's class, make a craft with footprints.
- Memorise John 13:34-35
- When teaching children or adults, teachers can wash the feet of students. Use a bowl of warm water, a towel or cloth for washing and another for drying. Adding fragrance to the water or using lotion is also good. While you are washing their feet, speak words of encouragement to them and tell them what an honour it is to serve them. Verbally affirm your love for them. If appropriate, then offer students the opportunity to wash the feet of other class members.
- As the teacher, think about how Jesus washing his disciples’ feet and his death on the cross are illustrations of “loving them to the end” (v.1) and loving as Jesus loved (v.34). Ask the class to discuss how these are parallel. And give examples from their life when “they laid down their life for someone else” and “washed another’s feet.” How were the others’ lives impacted?
Full teaching instructions available free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Jesus Washes the Disciple's Feet
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com
For questions or comments email: mary@missionbibleclass.org
