TEXT: John 13:1-35
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Here Jesus gives the foundational command for the Christian life - love as Christ has loved you. In this passage, we see an example of such love as Jesus humbly washes the feet of his disciples. Such love is contrasted by Judas who leaves to betray Jesus. Will we be defined by the sacrificial love of Christ that serves others and holds out the gospel to a watching world? Or will we, like Judas, be consumed with self, rejecting the love of Christ?
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
HEAD: Questions aimed at our minds to help us understand God’s word.
Jesus serves his disciples by washing their feet (a job reserved only for household servants) - even the feet of Judas who would soon betray him. What does this scene teach us about Jesus? What sticks out to you the most about this scene?
This is not the first time we read of love in the Gospel of John. So then, how is the command to love one another new (v.34)?
Read verses 31-35. How do the two previous scenes relate to this command?
HEART: Questions aimed at our affections to help us love God
Consider Judas for a moment. What dispositions of the heart would lead him to betray Jesus? What did he love and cherish? What did he fail to recognize?
How is the story of Judas a warning to those who “follow” Jesus?
Verse 34 says, “..just as I have loved you.” How has Jesus loved you? Spend some time reflecting on the depths of Christ’s love for you, and you will be moved to love as he loves.
HANDS: Questions aimed at our hands to help us live for God (Personally, Communally, and Missionally).
How does Jesus want us to love one another? What may practical demonstrations of this love look like in the church?
How does loving one another relate to the mission of God in this world? (v.35)
What are some practical ways you can love one another (start with your Gospel Community) in a way that displays Christ to those who do not yet know him?