Basic HTML Version
A Proof of Loyalty, October 20
If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.
John 13:17
.
This ordinance of feet washing was made a religious service.... It
was given as something to test and prove the loyalty of the children
of God. When modern Israel observes the sacramental ordinance, this
ceremony should precede the partaking of the emblems of the Lord’s
death.
This ordinance was given for the benefit of Christ’s disciples. And
Christ meant all that He said when His lips uttered the words, “I have
given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.... If ye
know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.” He designed by this to
test the true state of the heart and mind of those who participated.
Christ gave His disciples to understand that the washing of their feet
did not cleanse away their sin, but that the cleansing of their heart was
tested in this humble service. If the heart was cleansed, this act was all
that was essential to reveal the fact. He had washed the feet of Judas;
but He said, “Ye are not all clean.” Judas brought a traitor’s heart to this
scene, and Christ revealed to all that He knew him to be the betrayer
of his Lord, and that the washing of his feet was not an ordinance to
cleanse the soul from its moral defilement.
When believers assemble to celebrate the ordinances, there are
present messengers unseen by human eyes.... Heavenly angels ... are
present. These unseen visitants are present on every such occasion....
Christ by the Holy Spirit is there to set the seal to His own ordinance.
He is there to convict and soften the heart. Not a look, not a thought
of contrition, escapes His notice. For the repentant, brokenhearted one
He is waiting. All things are ready for that soul’s reception. He who
washed the feet of Judas longs to wash every heart from the stain of
sin.... All who come with their faith fixed upon Him will be greatly
blessed.
[300]
311