Today’s reading: Num 5:1–31, John 13:1–20, Ps 6:1–10

Today’s theme: Our loving example

Jesus taught us a great lesson on love, service and humility by washing the disciples’ (including Judas’) feet. He calls us to walk in this type of supernatural love.

Numbers 5:1–31

Don’t break trust in God

“Speak to the people of Israel, When a man or woman commits any of the sins that people commit by breaking faith with the LORD, and that person realizes his guilt, Numbers 5:6 (ESV)

If we break faith with God it is itself a sin and leads unto more sin. It is like a type of adultery to turn our backs on the Lord and withdraw our trust from Him.

John 13:1–20

Our loving example

Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, John 13:3 (ESV)

Jesus, knowing who He is, where He has come from and where He is going to, makes His humble act of service even more remarkable. Jesus even washed Judas’ feet. This displayed His love and gave us an example to follow.

Don’t have false security in activity

I am not speaking of all of you; I know whom I have chosen. But the Scripture will be fulfilled, ‘He who ate my bread has lifted his heel against me.’ John 13:18 (ESV)

Jesus chose Judas to be a disciple knowing all things. He knew that Judas would choose to betray Him regardless of all the love shown to him by Jesus. This shows that someone being called or chosen for ministry, or used for God’s purpose does not equate to or guarantee that that person has been elected to eternal salvation.

Psalm 6:1–10

Pray for the persecuted

All my enemies shall be ashamed and greatly troubled; they shall turn back and be put to shame in a moment. Psalm 6:10 (ESV)

We can use this scripture as we pray for persecuted Christians.

Most of the above post is a copy of the original notes from the same date in 2014.

Additional resources

The Gospel Coalition on John 13