John 13:8

Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet · John 13:1–17
Read John 13

Translations

Modern
“Never shall You wash my feet!” Peter told Him. Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with Me.”
Traditional
Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me.
Literal
Peter says to Him, “Never shall You wash my feet, to the age!” Jesus answered him, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with Me.”
Latin
Dicit ei Petrus: Non lavabis mihi pedes in æternum. Respondit ei Jesus: Si non lavero te, non habebis partem mecum.

Original

Greek
English
“Never shall You wash my feet!” Peter told Him. Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with Me.”

Notes

Knowing how committed Peter was to Jesus, it makes sense that he protested. However, Jesus was not just showing Peter how to serve. This was a symbolic introduction of the greater sacrifice Jesus would make on the cross (13:7). Receiving spiritual cleansing from Jesus is necessary for discipleship. If Peter could not accept this act, he could not be a disciple of Jesus.

The setting is the final Passover meal of Jesus on Thursday evening. During this meal, Judas Iscariot betrays Jesus. John does not describe the meal itself like the Synoptic Gospels do (Matthew 26:17–29; Mark 14:12–25; Luke 22:7–20; see also 1 Corinthians 11:23–26). John focuses on other activities at the event, such as:

Events

People

Jesus: The Son of God and Savior of the world Peter: Apostle of Jesus, leader in the early church

Glossary

Bathe, Bathing Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Humility Jesus Christ John, Gospel of Lord’s Supper, the Peter, the Apostle Simon

Topics

Ablution: Figurative Apostles: Fail to Comprehend the Nature and Mission of Jesus Feet: Washing of, As an Example, by Jesus Foot Washing Jesus, the Christ: Washes the Disciples' Feet (In Jerusalem) Peter: His Presumption in Refusing to Let Jesus Wash Peter's Feet Presumption in Objecting to Jesus Washing Peter's Feet Regeneration: General Scriptures Concerning Reproof: On Account of not Understanding The Feet: Washing for Others, a Menial office Washing Feet