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Jesus teaching the disciples during a meal about receiving the one he sends, with one disciple listening prominently among the group.

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Receiving the One Jesus Sends

John 13:1-20

The Big Idea

Listen to Jesus, trust his teaching, and welcome those he sends. Following Jesus includes humble service and obedient action.

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The Bible Story

Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet

John 13:18–20 comes at the end of Jesus’ teaching during supper. Jesus has washed the disciples’ feet and explained that, although he is their Lord and Teacher, they should follow his example of humble service. He says he is not speaking about all of them, refers to Scripture being fulfilled, and tells them these things beforehand so that they may believe when it happens. Jesus then teaches that receiving one whom he sends is receiving him, and receiving him is receiving the One who sent him. The passage ends with these statements; it does not identify the betrayer or describe a later messenger or event.

Themes

Belief and receivingBetrayal known by JesusHumble serviceJesus’ authority and exampleJesus’ cleansingObedient actionPractical kindnessScripture fulfilledServant leadership

Bible moment

The Bible moment

John 13:18–20 comes at the end of Jesus’ teaching during supper. Jesus has washed the disciples’ feet and explained that, although he is their Lord and Teacher, they should follow his example of humble service. He says he is not speaking about all of them, refers to Scripture being fulfilled, and tells them these things beforehand so that they may believe when it happens. Jesus then teaches that receiving one whom he sends is receiving him, and receiving him is receiving the One who sent him. The passage ends with these statements; it does not identify the betrayer or describe a later messenger or event.

Look closely

What children can notice

Create a respectful teaching composition with Jesus addressing the disciples and one disciple listening prominently among the group. The concept can visually emphasize welcome and attentive receiving while remaining within the passage’s sending-and-receiving statements.

Talk together

Talk about it

  • What does Jesus teach about receiving the one he sends?
  • How can you listen carefully and serve someone humbly today?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page with John 13:1–20 to discuss humble service, belief, and receiving. Invite children to remember Jesus’ example and consider one practical, kind action they can do. Keep the reference to the betrayer brief and do not add later events.

Source note

From this passage

John 13:18-20 · Foot Washing

Create a respectful teaching composition with Jesus addressing the disciples and one disciple listening prominently among the group. The concept can visually emphasize welcome and attentive receiving while remaining within the passage’s sending-and-receiving statements.

Continue the Story

Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet

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