WEEK 32.7 Discussion questions below.

Episode Summary

In this Week 32 explore episode, Nick and Jamie unpack Jesus's shocking act of washing the disciples' feet in John 13:1-19. Jamie, who led the meditations this week based on her master's research, explores the multiple layers of meaning in this passage - from the practical act of foot washing in ancient culture to the profound theological implications of Jesus' kenosis (self-emptying). They examine the Passover timing that positions Jesus as the ultimate Passover lamb, Peter's resistance to being served, and how this scene models both radical humility and love for enemies through Jesus's treatment of Judas.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Welcome 

02:06 Personal Experience with Foot Washing 

03:27 Jesus' Final Moments with Disciples 

05:55 Significance of Passover and Timing 

12:26 Jesus Washes the Disciples' Feet 

27:47 Peter's Reaction to Foot Washing 

28:53 Peter's Struggle with Jesus' Actions 

33:30 The Concept of Sanctification 

36:14 Jesus' Example of Humility and Service 

42:20 Loving Your Enemies: The Example of Judas 

48:13 Practical Applications of Jesus' Teachings 

51:18 Final Reflections and Takeaways

Key Points

• Passover Timing Significance: John places Jesus's death on Nissan 14, the exact day Passover lambs were slaughtered, making Jesus the ultimate Passover lamb who covers sin

• Cultural Context of Foot Washing: In ancient times, this was the task of the lowest servant - washing the filthy feet of guests who traveled dusty roads in sandals

• Multiple Layers of Meaning: The foot washing serves as object lesson within object lesson - demonstrating kenosis, prefiguring the cross, showing love for enemies, and modeling daily sanctification

• Peter's Resistance: His protest reveals discomfort with receiving rather than giving love, and inability to conceive of his Lord acting like a slave

• Sanctification Process: "Those who have bathed need only their feet washed" - we're already clean in Christ but need daily cleansing from life's dust and dirt

Discussion Questions

• Receiving vs. Giving Love: Like Peter, many find it easier to serve Jesus than be served by him. Why do you think receiving love is often harder than giving it? How comfortable are you with letting Jesus "wash your feet"?

• Modern Foot Washing: Jamie suggests the foot washing ethic means doing "little annoying, messy things" others hope someone else will handle. What are some modern equivalents of foot washing in your workplace, home, or community?

• Daily Sanctification: Jesus says those who are bathed only need their feet washed - we're clean but get dusty from life's journey. What "dust and dirt" do you regularly need Jesus to wash from your life through confession and forgiveness?

• Loving Enemies Like Jesus Loved Judas: Jesus served Judas knowing he would betray him, treating him with dignity and protecting his identity. How can you maintain integrity and Christ-like character when dealing with people who have hurt or betrayed you?

• The Kenosis Challenge: Jesus "emptied himself" of status and privilege to serve. What status, privileges, or comforts might God be calling you to lay aside in order to better love and serve others?

Takeaways

• Adopt a Foot Washing Ethic: Look for opportunities to do the small, unglamorous tasks that others hope someone else will handle - this demonstrates Christ-like love in action

• Don't Give Enemies Power Over Your Character: Love your enemies not because they deserve it, but because holding to Christ-like integrity is who you are - don't let others determine your character

• Start Small with Whoever Crosses Your Path: Rather than being overwhelmed by all the world's needs, simply practice love and kindness with whoever God brings across your path each day

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