What does John 13:18 mean?
Earlier, Jesus referred to the difference between being "bathed" spiritually, to those who are spiritually "washed" (John 13:8–10). In context, the meaning is that salvation makes a person "clean," leaving only a need to maintain good fellowship with God through confession of sin (1 John 1:8–10). In that same statement, Jesus pointed out that not all of those present for the foot-washing were "clean." This was a reference to Judas, who has already begun the process of betraying Jesus to local religious leaders (Matthew 26:14–16).Here Jesus refers to His prior comment about the happiness of obedience (John 13:17) by saying this does not apply to everyone present. In making this remark, Jesus also emphasizes that Judas' betrayal is not a surprise. Nor did Jesus make a mistake when adding Judas to the inner circle of twelve men. Jesus knew what He was doing and who He was choosing. That, in part, was meant to fulfill the prophetic statement of Psalm 41:9. An even deeper fulfillment of that prophecy will happen in the next moments, as Jesus literally shares food with Judas (John 13:26).
John 13:12–20 is Jesus' explanation of His humble act: washing the feet of the disciples. Christ freely accepts His role as Lord and master, using those concepts to drive home His main point. Those who claim the name of Jesus ought to follow His example. That means humility and service for others—if the Lord serves others, so too should those who follow Him. Jesus also points out that not everyone at this event truly follows Him. This prediction is given to strengthen the faith of true believers once everything has been revealed. The following passage expands on the impending betrayal.
Jesus meets with a smaller group, possibly only the twelve disciples, in a private setting. Before eating a meal, Jesus performs the work of a lowly servant, washing the feet of the disciples. He explains that this is an object lesson. Their Lord is willing to serve in humility, so they are obligated to do the same. Jesus also predicts His impending betrayal, subtly telling Judas to leave and complete His conspiracy. The disciples don't realize what's happened, however. Peter foolishly brags about his loyalty. Jesus responds with a cutting prediction: Peter will deny his relationship to Christ three times in the next few hours.
