John 13:15
What does John 13:15 mean?
A plain-English look at John 13:15 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 13:15 means
Jesus explains, “For I have given you an example, that ye also should do as I have done to you.” The language points to pattern, not mere ceremony. He wants them to imitate the spirit and practice of humble service He has displayed. This includes willingness to take the lowest place and to address the ordinary, even unpleasant, needs of others. The disciples are to measure greatness by likeness to their Master’s servanthood. The example is simple enough to copy and profound enough to shape a lifetime. The community Jesus forms will be recognized by this kind of love in action.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000For I have given you an example, that ye also should do as I have done to you.
KJV
King James Version · 1611For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901For I have given you an example, that ye also should do as I have done to you.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949I have given you an example, so that you may do what I have done to you.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862`For an example I gave to you, that, according as I did to you, ye also may do;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752For I have given you an example, that as I have done to you, so you do also.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890for I have given you an example that, as I have done to you, ye should do also.
Context
This statement concludes the core lesson of the footwashing and leads into two reinforcing truths in verses 16–17: the servant is not greater than his lord, and blessing comes in doing, not merely knowing. These principles will brace the disciples for the disillusionment of learning that one among them will betray Jesus (verses 18–21). The example stands regardless of who fails.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Matthew 11:29
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
- 1 Peter 3:17
For it is better, if the will of God should so will, that ye suffer for well-doing than for evil-doing.
- 1 Peter 2:21
For hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that ye should follow his steps:
- Romans 15:5
Now the God of patience and of comfort grant you to be of the same mind one with another according to Christ Jesus:
- 1 John 2:6
he that saith he abideth in him ought himself also to walk even as he walked.
- Ephesians 5:2
and walk in love, even as Christ also loved you, and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for an odor of a sweet smell.
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