King James Version

What Does John 13:15 Mean?

John 13:15 in the King James Version says “For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.” — study this verse from John chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.”

John 13:15 · KJV

Context

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.

17

If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

Read John 13 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
For I have given you an example (ὑπόδειγμα, hypodeigma)—not merely illustration but pattern to be followed. Jesus explicitly states His purpose: modeling replicable behavior. The perfect tense "have given" indicates lasting effect—this example stands as permanent template for Christian conduct.

That ye should do as I have done to you (καθὼς ἐγὼ ἐποίησα, kathōs egō epoiēsa)—the comparative "as" demands conformity to Christ's standard. This is imitatio Christi, imitation of Christ, as ethical foundation. Jesus doesn't merely teach servanthood abstractly; He embodies it, then commands: "do likewise." The pronoun emphasis ("I" have done) underscores that Christ's own action validates the command. This principle extends beyond foot-washing to all Christian ethics—believers must pattern their lives after Christ's self-giving love demonstrated supremely at the cross.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient moral philosophy used exempla (examples) for teaching, but typically cited legendary heroes. Jesus offers Himself as the pattern—unprecedented claim to moral perfection. Paul later develops this theology extensively (Philippians 2:5-8, Ephesians 5:1-2). This verse became foundational for monastic traditions emphasizing humble service and for Protestant ethics of imitating Christ's character.

Reflection Questions

  1. What specific aspects of Jesus' character in this passage should shape your daily conduct?
  2. How does following Christ's example require self-sacrifice in your current relationships?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
ὑπόδειγμα1 of 12

“an example”

G5262

an exhibit for imitation or warning (figuratively, specimen, adumbration)

γὰρ2 of 12

“For”

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ἔδωκα3 of 12

“I have given”

G1325

to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)

ὑμῖν4 of 12

“to you”

G5213

to (with or by) you

ἵνα5 of 12

“that”

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

καθὼς6 of 12

“as”

G2531

just (or inasmuch) as, that

ἐγὼ7 of 12

“I”

G1473

i, me

ποιῆτε8 of 12

“have done”

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

ὑμῖν9 of 12

“to you”

G5213

to (with or by) you

καὶ10 of 12
G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ὑμεῖς11 of 12

“ye”

G5210

you (as subjective of verb)

ποιῆτε12 of 12

“have done”

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

Study Guide

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 13:15 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 13:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 John 2:6Matthew 11:291 Peter 2:211 Peter 3:17-18Ephesians 5:2Romans 15:5

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