John 13:14

In the third place, we have Christs doctrine inferred upon this ground, and the exposition of his carriage in washing their feet; Namely, that by his doing thereof, who was their Lord and Master, to them his servants, he would teach them their duty, to condescend so low, as to wash one anothers feet. Whereby we are not to understand only this particular service to be mutually done, (as some do formally and superstitiously imitate him herein) but under this one abject peace of service, all duties of love and condescendence, how base soever, are required. Neither yet are outward actions of love to be understood, as only comprehended under this; but includes also all the internal ingredients thereof in the heart, such as humility toward God, a low esteem of our selves, an high esteem of others, &c. And by this direction inforced from his own example, he would obviate the great emulation among his Apostles, which (if not cured) might do so much hurt after his departure. From this purpose, (leaving the force of his example till the following verses.) Learn, 1. Humility, love, and condescendence, are most necessary among the members of Christ; Therefore doth he so seriously presse these here. See 1 Pet 5.5. 2. True humility doth not consist in external shewes, but will stoop to the meanest service, wherein one may be steadable to another; were it even to wash one anothers feet. See 1 Cor. 9.19, 20, &c. Gal. 5.13. 3. Albeit it bring rich advantage to the man himselfe who is humble and condescending, though none other should joyne with him in it; Yet it is necessary for the general good of the Church, that mutual subjection to performe basest duties, be the bond to binde Saints one to another; for, they should wash one anothers feet. The Church doth then live in true peace, when every one of her members becometh a servant to another. 4. Albeit men be ready to look on this humility and mutual condescendence as a free-will offering, for omitting whereof they are not convinced, and in performing of it they are much puffed up; Yet it is a commanded duty, not to be omitted without sin, and in the performance whereof we are still unprofitable servants; for, ye ought to wash one anothers feet. 5. Humility and mutual condescendence are especially necessary in Ministers, that their pride and emulation do not marre the work of the Gospel; Therefore, Christ stooped so low, as, by his own example, to binde this upon his Apostles. I have washed your feet, that ye may wash one anothers feet. 6. The Lord alloweth of no superiority in any of his Ministers over the rest, and requireth also that they lay aside any personal preeminence or prerogative, and by love serve one another; for, they are all to wash one anothers feet.