Commentary on John 13:4

Verse: "He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself."

Introduction

This pivotal moment in the Gospel of John reveals the humility and servitude of Jesus Christ. In John 13:4, Jesus demonstrates profound lessons on leadership, service, and love. Various commentaries highlight the significance of this act within the larger narrative of the Last Supper.

Exegesis and Interpretation

According to Matthew Henry, this act of Jesus signifies His humility. His actions break cultural norms, as He, the Teacher, and Lord, assumes the role of a servant. Henry emphasizes that Jesus’ laying aside of garments symbolizes the relinquishing of status and pride, a call for His followers to adopt a similar disposition.

Albert Barnes reflects on the physical act of Jesus rising from supper. He notes that this demonstrates initiative—Christ willingly takes on a posture of service. Barnes proposes that the act of girding oneself with a towel indicates readiness to serve, thus teaching His disciples about the essence of true leadership that embraces humility and readiness to assist others.

Adam Clarke delves into the socio-cultural implications of this verse. He explains that washing feet was typically a task reserved for the lowest servant, and by performing this act, Jesus radically redefines authority in His kingdom. Clarke asserts that the act embodies sacrificial love and sets an example that believers are to follow in their interactions with one another.

Theological Insights

From the commentary of Matthew Henry, there are several theological insights derived from this situation:

• Servanthood of Christ: This verse portrays Jesus' deep desire to serve humanity, culminating in His sacrificial death.
• Call to Discipleship: Followers of Christ are urged to emulate this humility and service in their daily lives.

Albert Barnes adds that the act of washing feet signifies the spiritual cleansing that Christ offers. This serves as a metaphor for the washing away of sin, reinforcing the need for humility in accepting this gift of grace.

Practical Applications

Younger believers, leaders, and seminary students can draw several practical implications from John 13:4:

• Embrace Humility: Effective leadership within the Church is marked by a servant's heart. Recognizing one’s role as a servant, rather than a lord, fosters community and strengthens relationships.
• Acts of Service: Regularly engage in acts that may seem menial or beneath one’s position. This could involve serving the poor, helping in church activities, or simply listening to someone in need.
• Modeling Christ: As Christians, we are called to be Christ-like in our daily lives. This action of Jesus serves as a model for how we should treat others, regardless of status or position.

Conclusion

In this succinct yet powerful verse, John 13:4 encapsulates the heart of the Gospel. The call to servanthood, humility, and love is ever-present as theologians like Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke demonstrate. It is a challenge to all believers to reconsider the nature of greatness in the Kingdom of God. As we reflect on Jesus’ actions at the Last Supper, may we continually aspire to serve others with the same grace and humility, embodying the teachings of Christ in our lives.