The Last Supper in John 13:17: Lessons in Humility and Wisdom

The passage in John 13:17, 'If you know these things happy you are if you do them,' presents profound lessons for Christians, particularly through the context of the Last Supper. This article explores the significance of this verse, its historical and cultural background, and its implications for modern Christian practice.

Historical and Cultural Background of the Last Supper

The Last Supper, as described in the Gospel of John, not only marks the culmination of Jesus' final days with his disciples but also sets the stage for ongoing Christian practice and understanding. Inbyterian culture, the Seder is a significant ritual connected to the Passover, a celebration of deliverance from slavery in ancient Egypt. However, it is important to understand the differences between a Seder and the Last Supper.

What is a Seder?

A Seder is a ritual meal held on the first and, in some communities, the second nights of Passover, commemorating the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt. The Seder typically includes a series of symbolic foods and rituals meant to retell the story of the Exodus. However, the Last Supper, as described in the Gospel of John, is not a Seder but a prepassover meal, where Jesus provides a different kind of teaching and example.

John 13:17 and Divine Instruction

John 13:17 directly ties the Last Supper to the disciple's ongoing practice of Jesus' teachings. The verse reads, 'If you know these things happy you are if you do them.' This verse emphasizes the importance of not just hearing the words but living them out in daily life. Jesus is highlighting the connection between divine instruction and true happiness.

The Value of Wisdom

The Book of Proverbs emphasizes the value of wisdom throughout its chapters. Psalm 107:43 and Proverbs 3:13-18 both underscore the worth of wisdom, stating that it is better than all that one can desire. Proverbs 3:17 describes wisdom as a tree of life, and those who hold firm to it are called happy. When Jesus says, 'If you know these things happy you are if you do them,' he is calling his disciples to live out the teachings they have received.

The Lesson in Humility

The act of Jesus washing his disciples' feet is a powerful demonstration of humility. By taking on this menial task, Jesus is illustrating the importance of serving others, something that should be part of a Christian's daily practice. The verse in John 13:16-17, 'A slave is not greater than his master nor is one that is sent forth greater than the one that sent him. If you know these things happy you are if you do them,' further emphasizes the necessity of living out these teachings.

Practical Examples of Christian Humility

Jesus' examples during the Last Supper are meant to guide Christians in their daily lives. They are encouraged to embrace humble tasks in their homes and in their community. The Sermon on the Mount, particularly Matt. 23:11, also emphasizes humility, stating, 'The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.' This verse reinforces the importance of Christian humility in all aspects of life.

Conclusion

John 13:17 teaches us that genuine happiness comes from putting divine instructions into practice, not just from hearing them. The Last Supper, through Jesus' example of humility and servant leadership, provides a powerful model for modern Christians. By living out these teachings, Christians can ensure that they are pleasing in God's sight and living a life filled with true joy.

These lessons from John 13:17 continue to be applicable in our modern world. The principles of humility, wisdom, and serving others remain essential for spiritual growth and personal happiness.

Keywords: Last Supper, John 13:17, Christian Humility