John 13:12-17

Follow His Example

Daily S.O.A.P. Prompts

S – What verse stands out to me today?

O – What is God revealing about Jesus?

A – How should this change my life today?

P – What is my prayer in response?

Scripture

(John 13:12-17, NLT) 12 After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing? 13 You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am. 14 And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. 15 I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. 16 I tell you the truth, slaves are not greater than their master. Nor is the messenger more important than the one who sends the message. 17 Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them. 

Observation

• These verses explain and instruct. Jesus makes sure they understand why he washed their feet and then instructs them to do the same. 

• The term “ought” is a moral imperative. This is not a suggestion. It is a moral injunction to do exactly what Jesus has done. 

• If the reader was confused at all, Jesus says, “I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.”

• Two examples are given: masters and slaves; and messengers and message. 

• We are told that we will be blessed if we follow this example. 

Application

• This slave-like way of living is not a suggestion. It is a moral imperative that Jesus gives his disciples to follow. 

• I will be blessed if I live this way. 

Prayer

Blessed Jesus, my Savior and Lord, thank you for the example you have given us. I desire to live this moral imperative. Crucify my pride and bring forth humility. As I serve you and people in this way, I receive the blessings that you promise. In Jesus' name, amen.

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