Question 24: Jesus Our Teacher

Read: John 13:12-17
Listen: John 13

Question: How should we respond to Jesus’s teachings?

Answer: We should follow Jesus as our teacher, obeying his commands and imitating his example.

“I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” John 13:15

After washing his disciples’ feet, Jesus explains he has given them a pattern to follow. This is at the heart of discipleship. Jesus calls his disciples to follow his example of humble, sacrificial service. Jesus called Matthew, Peter, James, John, and the other disciples by saying, “Follow me” (Matthew 9:9). Rabbis used this phrasing when they wanted younger men to spend time with them and learn from their wisdom. They are to pattern their lives after the rabbi’s. This call is another way of saying, “Come, be like me.” Jesus sets a high standard. Whoever wants to be his disciple must deny himself and take up their cross daily and follow him (Luke 9:23-24).

Jesus sets a high standard for us, too. Following Jesus’s example is a goal we pursue for the rest of our lives. Yet this isn’t about earning salvation—that’s a free gift. It’s about recognizing that following Jesus transforms every aspect of our lives. Jesus is our model of life and love. He shows us what it means to love sacrificially. As Peter encourages Jesus followers, “To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps” (1 Peter 2:21). Jesus calls us beyond a standard expectation to care for others. He calls us to serve and give our lives away, as he did for us.

TODAY: Consider one specific way you can follow Jesus’s example today. Ask God to help you imitate Jesus’s actions, whether through serving others, showing patience or demonstrating sacrificial love. Read John 13:1-17 and reflect on how Jesus’s example of humble service challenges your attitudes and actions. Learn more about Jesus as our teacher in our We Believe document HERE.