King James Version
What Does John 13:14 Mean?
“If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.”
Context
12
So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you?
13
Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.
14
If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.
15
For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.
16
Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(14) **Ye ought also to wash one another’s feet.**—The argument is *à fortiori.* If He had so humbled Himself as to do the work of a servant for them, much more ought they to humble themselves for each other. To make his words as striking as possible, they are prefaced by the emphatic *I*, and “Master and Lord” is repeated from the previous verse, but in the inverse order, to give special prominence to the word of greater dignity.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
John 13:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to John 13:14
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge