John 13:13

Context

This powerful declaration by Jesus comes immediately after He has performed the deeply symbolic act of washing His disciples' feet during the Last Supper. The disciples, accustomed to Jesus' role as their Teacher and spiritual leader, would have been astonished by this act of profound humility, typically reserved for the lowest servant. By stating, "Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am," Jesus affirms His divine authority and identity, not despite His act of service, but precisely in conjunction with it. He prepares them for the profound lesson in servant leadership that follows.

Key Themes

• Jesus' Divine Authority and Identity: The verse unequivocally states Jesus' rightful claim to be both "Master" (Teacher) and "Lord" (Sovereign). This is not a mere title of respect but an affirmation of His true nature and position above all others.
• Paradox of Service and Sovereignty: John 13:13 highlights a central paradox of Christ's ministry: His ultimate authority is demonstrated through ultimate humility and service. His act of washing feet does not diminish His Lordship but exemplifies the very character of God. This concept is further explored in passages like Philippians 2:5-8, which speaks of Christ emptying Himself.
• Disciples' Right Acknowledgment: Jesus validates their recognition of Him. Their calling Him "Master" (διδάσκαλος, didaskalos) and "Lord" (κύριος, kurios) is accurate and fitting, emphasizing the importance of rightly understanding who He is.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses two significant terms: "Master" and "Lord."

• Master (διδάσκαλος - didaskalos): This Greek term literally means "teacher" or "instructor." It was a common and respectful way to address a rabbi or spiritual guide. The disciples frequently used this term for Jesus, acknowledging His profound wisdom and teaching authority.
• Lord (κύριος - kurios): This term carries much greater weight. While it can simply mean "sir" or "master" (owner), in the context of the New Testament, especially when applied to Jesus, it often signifies divine sovereignty and authority. In the Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament), kurios is the primary word used to translate the divine name Yahweh. By affirming "so I am," Jesus claims an identity that transcends mere human teaching, positioning Himself as truly divine and sovereign over all.

Practical Application

For believers today, John 13:13 serves as a foundational truth and a call to action:

• Rightly Acknowledge Christ's Authority: To call Jesus "Master and Lord" means more than just a verbal acknowledgment; it implies submission to His teachings and His reign in our lives. It's a recognition of His supreme authority over all creation and personal affairs.
• Embrace Servant Leadership: Just as Jesus, the supreme Lord, humbled Himself to serve, so too are His followers called to a life of humble service. This verse, coupled with the preceding foot-washing, emphasizes that true greatness in the Kingdom of God is found in serving others, not in being served.
• Obedience and Discipleship: Recognizing Jesus as Master and Lord compels us to obey His commands and follow His example. This includes living out the new commandment to love one another, as taught later in this very chapter.