The Reason for Service

John 13:1-3

The disciples had been arguing over who would hold the leading positions in the government Jesus was about to set up (cp. Lk.22:24; Mk.10:35-45, esp. v.41). The discussion was heated. They were caught up in the ambition for position and power and authority.

How the heart of Jesus must have been cut! He had so little time left for them to learn that the way to glory is through service and not through position and authority. How could He get the message across forcibly enough so that they would never forget the truth?

It was this that led Jesus to wash the disciples feet and to demonstrate what true greatness is: serving others. Three things drove Jesus to wash the disciples’ feet and to demonstrate the basis of service and ministry.

I. He knew His hour had come.

II. The same three things should drive every believer to serve and to serve now.

What is the reason for our service, or why do we do what we do? If we are to follow the example of our Savior, we serve because we know the time, because we love, and because we know the enemy. These facts motivated our Lord, and they should drive us to stick to our service, to be faithful, laboring, persisting, and persevering. Note: 1 Co. 15:58