Sunday, October 11, 2026

Pastor Julie Lehman

Following Jesus

Pick Up the Towel

John 13:1-17

In John 13, Jesus does something extraordinary: knowing that He has come from the Father, that He is returning to the Father, and that all authority has been entrusted to Him, He kneels to wash His disciples' feet. His willingness to serve flows from the security of His identity. Jesus has nothing to prove and nothing to protect.

This same security is available to us through our relationship with Christ. When we allow God, rather than our accomplishments, abilities, preferences, or other people's opinions, to define who we are, we become free to serve without needing recognition, step forward despite our inadequacies, and humbly receive help from others. Becoming like Jesus means allowing what we know about Him to reshape how we love and serve one another.

Group Discussion Questions:

1. Jesus knew who He was, where He came from, and where He was going. How did that security allow Him to take on the role of a servant, and what can we learn from His example?

2. How can our need for recognition, comfort, or having things our way keep us from humbly serving others?

3. Sometimes we hesitate to serve because we believe we aren't qualified, gifted, or capable enough. How can insecurity keep us from responding to something God may be calling us to do?

4. Peter resisted Jesus' attempt to wash his feet. Why can receiving help, care, or service from others require just as much humility as offering it?

5. Jesus told His disciples, “Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” Where might the Holy Spirit be inviting you to put Jesus' example into practice this week?