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Jesus’ Example In Humility, March 25
If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to
wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do
as I have done to you.
John 13:14, 15
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There is in man a disposition to esteem himself more highly than his brother,
to work for self, to seek the highest place; and often this results in evil surmisings
and bitterness of spirit. The ordinance preceding the Lord’s Supper is to clear
away these misunderstandings, to bring man out of his selfishness, down from
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his stilts of self-exaltation, to the humility of heart that will lead him to serve his
brother.
The ordinance of feet washing most forcibly illustrates the necessity of true hu-
mility. While the disciples were contending for the highest place, in the promised
kingdom, Christ girded Himself, and performed the office of a servant by washing
the feet of those who called Him Lord.
Reconciliation one with another is the work for which the ordinance of feet
washing was instituted.... Whenever it is celebrated, Christ is present by His Holy
Spirit. It is this Spirit that brings conviction to hearts.
As Christ celebrated this ordinance with His disciples, conviction came to the
hearts of all save Judas. So we shall be convicted as Christ speaks to our hearts. The
fountains of the soul will be broken up. The mind will be energized, and, springing
into activity and life, will break down every barrier that has caused disunion and
alienation. Sins that have been committed will appear with more distinctness than
ever before; for the Holy Spirit will bring them to our remembrance.
Having washed the disciples’ feet, He [Jesus]said, “I have given you an
example, that ye should do as I have done to you.” ... Christ was here instituting a
religious service. By the act of our Lord this humiliating ceremony was made a
consecrated ordinance. It was to be observed by the disciples, that they might ever
keep in mind His lessons of humility and service.
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