Maundy Thursday: Known By Love

Tonight’s text from Scripture are:

• John 13

Sermon Outline:

1. The Question We Can’t Avoid

• What are you known for?

• What are Christians known for?

• Cultural perception vs. Christ’s intention

2. The Love of Christ Rooted in What He Knew(John 13:1–3)

• Jesus knew His hour had come

• Jesus knew betrayal was coming

• Jesus knew His authority and identity

• Love is not naïve—it is chosen in full awareness

3. The Love of Christ Displayed in What He Did(John 13:4–11)

• Jesus washes feet—an act of humility

• Jesus washes Judas’ feet

• Love extends even to enemies

• True power expresses itself through service

4. The Love of Christ Explained After the Action(John 13:12–15)

• Understanding follows obedience

• The pattern of the Kingdom: act → understand

• Jesus gives an example, not just a command

5. The Invitation to Be Known by Love(John 13:34–35)

• The new commandment: love as Christ loved

• Love as the defining mark of discipleship

• Not noise, not positions—love

6. The Call to Respond

• Receive Christ’s love (He washes your feet)

• Extend Christ’s love (even to “them”)

• Step into obedience before full understanding

Application Questions…

Comprehension Questions

(These will help you open the scriptures and understand the text.)

1. What did Jesus know in John 13:1–3, and why is that significant?

2. Why is it important that Jesus washed Judas’ feet?

3. What does foot washing symbolize in the context of the disciples?

4. What command does Jesus give in John 13:34–35?

5. According to the sermon, when does understanding typically come in the Christian life?

   Life Application

1. If people around you answered honestly, what would they say you are known for?

2. What do you think Christians are currently known for in your community?

3. Who is a “Judas” in your life—someone difficult to love or serve?

4. What would it look like to “wash their feet” in a practical way this week?

5. Where are you waiting for understanding before taking action in obedience?

6. How does knowing that Jesus served in full awareness of betrayal challenge you?

7. Why is love toward enemies such a powerful witness to the world?

8. What keeps you from engaging others in humble, sacrificial love?

9. How have you personally experienced Christ “washing your feet”?

10. What is one concrete step you can take this week to be known more clearly by Christlike love?

If you have questions about this sermon, please don't hesitate to reach out to David.