Consequences of Divine Condescension (John 13:1-30)

Introduction
Have you ever looked out your side-view mirror in your car and tried to judge actual distance? The label, "Warning: Objects are closer than they appear", means that the task is more challenging than if the mirror was just a "normal" mirror.

In John chapter 13, John presents us with a view of reality that does not align well with our natural view of things. In this chapter, things are upside down and inside out -- the King is a servant and the servants are to move outside themselves and seek the good of others.

It might behove the reader to read Philippians 2 as a parallel passage for in that chapter, Paul is admonishing the believers to take on the same selfless attitude that Christ took on in his incarnation.

Upside Down (John 13:1-11)
No one can serve Jesus without Jesus first serving him.
What is God trying to do in your life that you are refusing to let him do?
How is your response like that of Peter, “Never Lord!”?
Do you have a part with Jesus or is your pride keeping him from you?
What do you have on your “feet” that needs to be removed? Will you bring that to Jesus tonight?

Inside Out (John 13:12-20)
Willing service is a good indicator of one's view of Jesus.
What does it say about you when you refuse to serve others as Jesus did?
Do you have a low view of Jesus or a high view of yourself?
Who has God placed in your life that you need to be serving?
What is it that motivates you to serve others? Are these valid motivations as Jesus defines valid?

Into the Dark (John 13:21-30)
Darkness awaits those who reject the truth.
What teachings from the Bible are you unwilling to accept?
What teachings about the person or deity of Jesus are you rejecting?
What has God called you to do but you are unwilling to obey?
Do you realize that the more you and I reject the light God has given us, the more open we are to the influences of darkness?
How have you been betraying Jesus by your actions, attitudes, or any other rebellion?
What are you going to do this week with the light you've received from Jesus?