The Gospel of John- Part 21: Jesus Washes The Disciples' Feet | John 13:1-17// October 4th, 2026
Teaching overview
This past Sunday, Pastor Riley taught from John 13, where Jesus showed us what love looks like through humble service, spiritual cleansing, and sacrificial action. Jesus’ love does more than speak the truth, or affirm people—it serves them, calls them toward transformation, and sends his followers to embody both the truth and grace of the gospel in their lives and into the world.
Our prayer for the Community
Jesus, help us receive your transforming love and become secure enough in you to humbly serve the people you have placed around us. Send us out this week to love others through both our actions and our words, reflecting your grace and truth wherever we go.
Group questions and further meditations:
Love Kneels — Humble Service
Meditation:
Jesus knew exactly who He was, yet He willingly took the lowest position and washed His disciples’ feet. His secure identity allowed Him to serve others without needing recognition or status. Where might pride, insecurity, or the need to be noticed keep me from serving others?
DiscussionQuestions:
Who has God placed in my life that I can intentionally serve this week?
What is one practical act of humility I could do that might not be noticed or rewarded?
How does knowing who I am in Christ change the way I serve others?
Love Cleanses — Love That Transforms
Meditation:
Jesus’ love did not simply affirm Peter; it invited him to be changed. God’s love meets us where we are, but it also calls us to become more like Jesus.
DiscussionQuestions:
Is there an area of my life where I resist God’s invitation to change?
How have I experienced God’s love leading me toward growth or transformation?
How can I lovingly encourage someone else toward Jesus without becoming judgmental or controlling?
3. Love Sends — Love in Word and Deed
Meditation:
Jesus commanded His disciples to follow His example by serving others, showing that our love should be both practical and missional. We can miss the fullness of Jesus’ example when we serve without sharing the gospel or speak truth without demonstrating love. Does the way I love people point them toward Jesus, in actions as well as in words?
DiscussionQuestions:
Where is God giving me an opportunity to show Christ’s love through practical service?
Who is someone I can intentionally love while also looking for an opportunity to share what Jesus means to me?
Which tendency do I lean toward more: serving without speaking about Jesus or speaking truth without practical love?
