Devotionals

Why Did Jesus Wash Peters Feet?

by Michael Edwards 
01/24/23
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Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” “Never shall You wash my feet!” Peter told Him. Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with Me.” John 13:7-8 BSB

When we hear sermons about Jesus washing Peters feet, we normally hear about being humble and of service. I do not disagree with that message, but as many of us know, scripture often continues to open to us, offering a greater revelation after years of study.

When Jesus washed Peters feet, He told Peter that he would not realize at that moment why he was doing it, but one day he would. At the moment of the washing, Peter was thinking like we usually do, only in terms of the flesh. But like usual, Jesus was presenting a much greater spiritual truth.

The understanding that Jesus promised Peter came to me the other day. Jesus was telling Peter and us, that anyone who refuses to allow Him to cleanse their sins, thus sanctifying and making them holy, can have no part in Him.

But for a second time the voice answered out of heaven, 'What God has cleansed, you do not call unholy. Acts 11:9 BLB

The washing of Peters feet is one of many pictures, a shadow of the true reality that is found only in Jesus’ sacrifice, death and resurrection. The washing is a picture of Jesus blood washing away the sins of anyone who will receive Him as their Lord and Savior. Anyone who desires to be saved from their sins can come to our humble and loving Savior. His desire is that all will come and ask for cleansing.

Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin! Psalm 51:2 ESV

Don’t let eternal separation from the love and protection of God be your destiny, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with Me.” Turn to Jesus today and be cleansed once and for all, believe and trust in Him for forgiveness and eternal life.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 ESV

Many New Covenant Bible Studies HERE. Jesus poured out His blood for the New Covenant of grace and truth, replacing the Old Covenant law of Moses. Believers are exclusively under the New Covenant, the last will and testament of Jesus that began after the cross. 

And in the same way He took the cup after they had eaten, saying, "This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in My blood.” Luke 22:20