The Significance Of Feet Washing

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF FEET WASHING

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 13:14

"If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet."

Supporting Texts:

Exodus 30:18-21, Psalm 119:133, John 13:4-17, 1 Corinthians 6:11, Ephesians 5:26

INTRODUCTION

Feet washing is a biblical practice with deep spiritual significance. It was a common cultural practice in biblical times, especially in the Middle East, where people walked long distances in sandals, and their feet would gather dust. Servants usually performed the task of washing guests' feet upon arrival at a home. However, when Jesus washed the feet of His disciples, He introduced a deeper spiritual meaning to this act.

Jesus used feet washing as a symbol of humility, service, cleansing, and spiritual renewal. He told His disciples that unless He washed them, they had no part with Him. This reveals that feet washing is not just about physical cleanliness but also spiritual purification. The act carries significant lessons for every believer about holiness, humility, and our daily walk with God.

In this study, we will explore the importance of feet washing, its spiritual significance, and how it applies to our Christian lives today.

1. FEET WASHING SYMBOLISES SPIRITUAL CLEANSING

a) Jesus cleanses us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:7-9)

His blood washes away our sins, making us pure before God.

b) It represents sanctification (Ephesians 5:26)

Just as water cleanses the body, God’s Word cleanses our spirit.

c) We need daily spiritual purification (Psalm 119:133)

As we walk through life, we encounter sin and need constant cleansing.

d) It signifies readiness for service (Exodus 30:18-21)

The priests in the Old Testament had to wash before ministering before God.

e) Biblical Example: Peter’s Response to Jesus (John 13:6-10)

Peter initially refused but later understood the importance of spiritual cleansing.

2. FEET WASHING DEMONSTRATES HUMILITY AND SERVICE

a) Jesus set an example of servant leadership (John 13:13-15)

He, being Lord, humbled Himself to serve His disciples.

b) True greatness is in serving others (Matthew 23:11-12)

God exalts those who humble themselves.

c) It removes pride and promotes unity (Philippians 2:3-4)

When we serve one another, we cultivate love and unity in the body of Christ.

d) It teaches us to love one another practically (Galatians 5:13)

Serving others is an expression of love in action.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus Washing the Disciples' Feet (John 13:3-5)

He willingly took on the role of a servant to teach His disciples a lesson on humility.

3. FEET WASHING REPRESENTS OUR WALK WITH GOD

a) Our Christian journey is a spiritual walk (2 Corinthians 5:7)

We walk by faith, not by sight, and must be careful where we step.

b) God orders the steps of the righteous (Psalm 37:23)

When our feet are washed spiritually, we walk in God's ways.

c) We must avoid defilement on our journey (Proverbs 4:26-27)

The world is full of pollution, and we need God’s cleansing daily.

d) It reminds us to remain holy (Leviticus 11:44)

God calls us to live a consecrated and set-apart life.

e) Biblical Example: The Israelites’ Journey (Deuteronomy 8:4)

God kept their feet from swelling in the wilderness, showing His care over their walk.

4. FEET WASHING PREPARES US FOR KINGDOM SERVICE

a) It equips us for divine assignments (Ephesians 6:15)

Our feet must be prepared to spread the Gospel of peace.

b) It signifies being set apart for God’s use (2 Timothy 2:21)

Just as vessels in the temple were consecrated, our lives must be sanctified.

c) It empowers us for spiritual victory (Luke 10:19)

God has given us authority to trample upon the enemy.

d) It keeps us steadfast in our calling (1 Corinthians 15:58)

A clean and firm spiritual footing enables us to stand unshaken in faith.

e) Biblical Example: The Disciples’ Commission (Matthew 28:19-20)

Jesus commanded them to go into the world and make disciples, signifying their readiness.

CONCLUSION

Feet washing is not just a symbolic act; it carries deep spiritual meaning for believers. It represents cleansing, humility, service, and our daily walk with God. Jesus performed it to teach His disciples an important lesson about love, service, and spiritual purification.

As believers, we must apply the lessons of feet washing in our daily lives by remaining spiritually clean, serving others with humility, and walking in the path that God has set for us. May the Lord help us to walk in purity and serve Him faithfully.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, cleanse me from every defilement and make me pure before You.

2. Father, give me a humble heart to serve others as You did.

3. Lord, guide my steps and order my path according to Your will.

4. Father, prepare me for kingdom service and empower me for Your work.

5. Lord, help me to walk in holiness and remain steadfast in my faith.