4. What did the Saviour say of His own position?
“For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.” Verse 27.
5. Notwithstanding that He was their Lord and Master, what example of humility and willing service did Christ give?
“He riseth from supper, and laid aside His garments; and took a towel, and girded Himself. After that He poureth water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith He was girded.” John 13:4, 5.
6. What was the custom anciently respecting feet-washing?
“Let a little water, I pray you, be fetched, and wash your feet.” “And he said, Behold now, my lords, turn in, I pray you, into your servant's house, and tarry all night, and wash your feet.” “And the man brought the men into Joseph's house, and gave them water, and they washed their feet.” Gen. 18:4; 19:2; 43:24. See also Judges 19:21; 2 Sam. 11:8.
7. How did Christ reprove Simon for misjudging Him in permitting a woman who was a sinner to wash His feet?
“And He turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest Me no water for My feet: but she hath washed My feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head.” Luke 7:44.
Notes.—From the scriptures just cited, it appears that the usual custom in Christ's time was for the guests to wash their own feet.
“As sandals were ineffectual against the dust and heat of an Eastern climate, washing the feet on entering a house was an act both of respect to the company and of refreshment to the traveler.”—Complete Dictionary of the Bible, by Smith and Barnum, article “Washing the Hands and Feet.”