Jesus Teaches by His Example

John 13:1-20

The Big Idea

Jesus teaches us to notice ways to help others humbly. Knowing what is right matters, and Jesus also calls his followers to do it.

The Bible Story

Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet

John 13:12-17 records what Jesus taught after washing the disciples’ feet. He asked whether they understood what he had done. Jesus affirmed that he was their Teacher and Lord, yet he had served them in this humble way. He taught the disciples to serve one another and gave them his example to follow. A servant is not greater than the master. Jesus also said they were blessed if they both knew these things and did them. This teaching belongs within the supper setting before the Passover feast. Earlier in the passage, Jesus had washed and dried the disciples’ feet with water, a basin, and a towel. The passage also says that the disciples were clean, but not all, because Jesus knew that one of them would betray him. The selected teaching ends with Jesus’ instruction about knowing and obeying his example.

Themes

Belief and receiving Betrayal known by Jesus Humble service Jesus’ authority and example Jesus’ cleansing Obedient action Practical kindness Scripture fulfilled Servant leadership

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

Show Jesus standing again in his outer garments and addressing the disciples after washing their feet. The disciples listen attentively, with the basin and towel nearby as visual reminders of his example.

Talk together

Talk about it

How did Jesus show humble service?
What kind thing could you do for someone today?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page after reading John 13:1-20, especially verses 12-17. Invite children to notice the towel and basin, then explain that Jesus’ lesson was about humble, practical service. Help them connect knowing Jesus’ teaching with doing it, without turning the discussion into a performance or adding details from other Gospel accounts.

Source note