At a feast it was an Oriental custom for servants or slaves to wash the feet of guests. See 1 Sam. 25:40, 41. It was not the custom, however, of equals to wash the feet of equals, much less for superiors to wash the feet of inferiors. But this is the very thing that Christ did when He washed the disciples' feet, and instituted the ordinance of feet-washing. In this lies the lesson of humility and willingness to serve which He designed to teach.
8. What question did Peter ask concerning this proffered service?
“Then cometh He to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto Him, Lord, dost Thou wash my feet?” John 13:6.
9. What answer did Jesus make?
“Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter.” Verse 7.
10. How did Peter feel about the Saviour's washing his feet?
“Peter saith unto Him, Thou shalt never wash my feet.” Verse 8.
11. What was the Master's reply to Peter?
“Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with Me.” Same verse.
Note.—This ordinance is a type of a higher cleansing,—the cleansing of the heart from the stain of sin. It is a rebuke to all selfishness and seeking of place and preferment among Christ's professed followers, and a witness to the fact that, in God's sight, it is true humility and loving service which constitute real greatness.