John 13:16

KJV

Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.

KJV (with Strong's)

Verily {G281}, verily {G281}, I say {G3004} unto you {G5213}, The servant {G1401} is {G2076} not {G3756} greater than {G3187} his {G846} lord {G2962}; neither {G3761} he that is sent {G652} greater than {G3187} he that sent {G3992} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yes, indeed! I tell you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is an emissary greater than the one who sent him.

Berean Standard Bible

Truly, truly, I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.

American Standard Version

Verily, verily, I say unto you, A servant is not greater than his lord; neither one that is sent greater than he that sent him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 13:16 serves as a pivotal declaration by Jesus Christ, delivered immediately after His profound act of washing His disciples' feet. This verse articulates a foundational principle of the Kingdom of God, emphasizing that true leadership and spiritual authority are not found in dominance or self-exaltation, but rather in humble service and faithful representation. It underscores the intrinsic relationship between the sender and the sent, establishing that those commissioned by Christ are to embody His character of servanthood, never aspiring to a status greater than their Lord.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a direct interpretive key to the preceding narrative in [John 13:1-15](/john/13-1-15 "John 13:1-15 - Jesus Washes His Disciples' Feet"). Jesus, knowing His hour had come to depart from the world and return to the Father, demonstrated His love for His disciples "to the end" ([John 13:1](/john/13-1 "John 13:1 - Jesus' Love for His Disciples")). He then performed the astonishing act of washing their feet, a task typically reserved for the lowest servant or even a non-Jewish slave. This act, profoundly symbolic, was met with Peter's initial resistance, which Jesus overcame with a promise of future understanding ([John 13:6-8](/john/13-6-8 "John 13:6-8 - Peter's Resistance to Foot Washing")). After completing the washing, Jesus explained the significance of His actions, stating, "If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you" ([John 13:14-15](/john/13-14-15 "John 13:14-15 - The Example of Servanthood")). Verse 16 then follows as a general, yet profound, aphorism that undergirds the entire lesson, reinforcing the idea that disciples are to emulate their Master's humility and service.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, foot-washing was a common and necessary practice due to dusty roads and open sandals. It was a task of hospitality, but one typically performed by a household slave or the lowest-ranking servant. For a master, especially a revered teacher like Jesus, to perform such a menial task for his disciples was an act of profound condescension and humility, completely subverting the social hierarchy of the time. The relationship between a "lord" (κύριος, _kýrios_) and a "servant" (δοῦλος, _doûlos_) or "slave" was one of absolute authority and submission. Similarly, an "apostle" (ἀπόστολος, _apóstolos_), or "one who is sent," carried the authority and message of the one who sent him, but never surpassed the sender in status or power. Jesus' actions and words in [John 13](/john/13 "John 13 - The Last Supper and Foot Washing") challenged the prevailing notions of power, status, and leadership, presenting a radically different paradigm centered on self-sacrificial service.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within [John's Gospel](/john/1 "The Gospel of John - Prologue") and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **humility and servanthood**, asserting that true greatness in God's kingdom is diametrically opposed to worldly ambition and self-exaltation. Jesus Himself, as the ultimate Lord, exemplifies this by taking on the role of a servant ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility and Exaltation")). Secondly, it reinforces the theme of **discipleship and imitation of Christ**, calling followers to emulate their Master's character and actions, particularly in selfless service. A disciple is not above his teacher, but is called to be like him ([Luke 6:40](/luke/6-40 "Luke 6:40 - Disciple Like His Teacher")). Thirdly, it speaks to the **nature of apostolic mission and representation**. Those who are "sent" by Christ (the apostles and, by extension, all commissioned believers) are representatives of the Sender. Their authority and message derive entirely from Him, and they are to faithfully embody His character and purpose, never seeking to surpass or overshadow the one who sent them. This theme is crucial for understanding the authority and role of the apostles throughout the New Testament, as seen in passages like [Matthew 10:40](/matthew/10-40 "Matthew 10:40 - Receiving Christ's Messengers").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Verily (Greek, _amḗn'_):** From G281, meaning "firm, i.e. (figuratively) trustworthy; adverbially, surely (often as interjection, so be it)." The repetition "Verily, verily" (ἀμὴν ἀμήν, _amēn amēn_), unique to John's Gospel, serves as a solemn and emphatic declaration, signaling that what follows is a profound truth of utmost importance and certainty. It demands the listener's full attention and assent, underscoring the absolute reliability of Jesus' statement.
* **Servant (Greek, _doûlos'_):** From G1401, meaning "a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency):--bond(-man), servant." This term denotes a bondservant, one who is completely owned by and devoted to their master. It signifies a position of absolute submission and obedience, highlighting the stark contrast with the "lord" (κύριος, _kýrios_). Jesus, the Lord, deliberately embodies the role of the _doûlos_ to teach His disciples the true nature of greatness in His kingdom.
* **Lord (Greek, _kýrios'_):** From G2962, meaning "supreme in authority, i.e. (as noun) controller; by implication, Master (as a respectful title):-- God, Lord, master, Sir." This word denotes one who possesses ultimate authority and ownership. In this context, it refers to Jesus Himself, the Master and Teacher, who paradoxically took on the role of a servant. The contrast between _doûlos_ and _kýrios_ is central to the verse's meaning, emphasizing the radical reversal of expected roles.
* **He that is sent (Greek, _apóstolos'_):** From G652, meaning "a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner of Christ ("apostle") (with miraculous powers):--apostle, messenger, he that is sent." This is the root word for "apostle." It describes one who is dispatched with a specific commission and carries the authority of the sender. The second part of the verse extends the principle of servanthood to those who are commissioned by Christ, reminding them that their mission and authority are derived entirely from Him, and they are never to consider themselves superior to the one who sent them (G3992, _pémpō_).

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Verily, verily, I say unto you,"**: This emphatic double "Amen" (ἀμὴν ἀμήν) is characteristic of Jesus' teaching in John's Gospel. It serves as a solemn and authoritative introduction, signaling that the statement to follow is a profound and unshakeable truth, demanding the disciples' full attention and belief. It underscores the divine origin and absolute certainty of the principle being laid forth.
* **"The servant is not greater than his lord;"**: This clause establishes a fundamental principle of hierarchy and submission. A servant (δοῦλος, _doûlos_), by definition, is subservient to his lord (κύριος, _kýrios_). This is a self-evident truth in any master-slave relationship. Jesus applies this universal truth to the spiritual realm, implicitly equating Himself with the "lord" and His disciples with the "servant," thereby setting the expectation that His followers should not expect a status or privilege greater than His own, especially in matters of humble service.
* **"neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him."**: This second clause reiterates and expands the principle, specifically addressing those commissioned for a mission. "He that is sent" (ἀπόστολος, _apóstolos_) refers to a messenger or delegate who acts on behalf of another. Their authority and purpose are entirely derived from the one who sent them. This applies directly to the disciples, whom Jesus was about to send into the world, emphasizing that their mission was to represent Him faithfully and embody His character, not to surpass His example of servanthood and humility. It reinforces the idea that the delegated authority is always subordinate to the ultimate authority of the sender.

#### Literary Devices
John 13:16 employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Aphorism**, a concise, pithy statement of a general truth. Jesus presents two such aphorisms: "The servant is not greater than his lord" and "neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him." These are universal truths, easily understood, which Jesus applies to the specific context of His relationship with His disciples and their future mission. The use of **Repetition** in "Verily, verily" (ἀμὴν ἀμήν) serves as a powerful emphasis, drawing the listener's attention to the absolute certainty and solemnity of the truth being declared. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Contrast** by juxtaposing "servant" with "lord" and "he that is sent" with "he that sent him." This highlights the inherent hierarchy and the surprising reversal of roles demonstrated by Jesus. Finally, the entire statement functions as a **Metaphor** or **Analogy**, drawing a parallel between common social structures (master-servant, sender-messenger) and the spiritual reality of discipleship, where the disciples are called to imitate the humble servanthood of their divine Master.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 13:16 is a cornerstone teaching that profoundly reshapes the understanding of power and greatness within the Kingdom of God. It directly challenges worldly paradigms that equate authority with dominance and status with privilege. Theologically, it asserts that the very nature of God, as revealed in Christ, is one of self-giving love and humble service. Jesus, who is God incarnate and the ultimate Lord, willingly embraced the form of a servant, thereby redefining true leadership as an act of condescension and self-sacrifice for the benefit of others. This principle is not merely an ethical guideline but a theological truth rooted in the very character of God. It implies that genuine spiritual authority is exercised through humility, and discipleship is fundamentally about embodying the servanthood of Christ, reflecting His character to a world that desperately needs to see it.

* [Matthew 20:25-28](/matthew/20-25-28 "Matthew 20:25-28 - Greatness Through Service")
* [Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility and Exaltation")
* [Luke 22:26-27](/luke/22-26-27 "Luke 22:26-27 - The Greatest Among You")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John 13:16 calls every believer to a radical reorientation of their understanding of greatness and purpose. In a world that often values self-promotion, power, and individual achievement, Jesus' words serve as a counter-cultural mandate for humble service. For us today, this means actively seeking opportunities to serve others, especially those who are marginalized, overlooked, or in need, without expecting recognition or reward. It challenges us to relinquish our perceived rights and privileges, embracing the posture of a servant, just as our Lord did. Furthermore, as those "sent" by Christ into the world to bear witness to His truth, we must constantly remember that our authority and effectiveness derive solely from Him. We are His representatives, not independent agents, and our mission is to faithfully reflect His character and message, never seeking to elevate ourselves above Him or His teachings. This verse compels us to redefine success not by what we accumulate or achieve for ourselves, but by how faithfully and humbly we serve God and others, reflecting the very heart of Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I tend to seek recognition or status, rather than opportunities for humble service?**
* **How does Jesus' example of being "not greater than he that sent him" challenge my understanding of my own role and mission as a follower of Christ?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to embody the spirit of a servant, even in tasks or relationships that seem mundane or beneath me?**
* **How might embracing the principle of servanthood redefine my definition of "success" in my personal, professional, or spiritual life?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Jesus saying "Verily, verily" (Amen, Amen) in this verse?**

Answer: The double "Verily, verily" (Greek: ἀμὴν ἀμήν, _amēn amēn_) is a unique and emphatic phrase found frequently in [John's Gospel](/john/1 "The Gospel of John - Prologue"). It serves as a solemn and authoritative declaration by Jesus, signaling that the statement which follows is of utmost importance, absolute truth, and requires particular attention and belief. It underscores the divine certainty and unshakeable nature of the principle He is about to articulate, much like a divine oath.

**How does this verse relate to the concept of apostleship?**

Answer: The second part of the verse, "neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him," directly relates to the concept of apostleship. The Greek word for "he that is sent" is ἀπόστολος (_apóstolos_), from which we derive "apostle." An apostle is a delegate or messenger commissioned by another, carrying the authority and message of the sender. This verse teaches that even those with a divine commission, like the apostles, are always subordinate to the one who sent them. Their authority is derived, not inherent, and their mission is to faithfully represent Christ, never to elevate themselves above Him or His example of servanthood. This principle applies not only to the original apostles but also, by extension, to all believers who are "sent" by Christ to bear witness to Him in the world ([John 20:21](/john/20-21 "John 20:21 - Jesus Sends His Disciples")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 13:16 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ Himself. He is the supreme "Lord" (κύριος, _kýrios_) who willingly became the ultimate "servant" (δοῦλος, _doûlos_) for humanity's salvation. Though God in the highest sense, He did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bondservant and being born in human likeness ([Philippians 2:6-7](/philippians/2-6-7 "Philippians 2:6-7 - Christ's Humility")). He, the one "sent" by the Father into the world ([John 3:17](/john/3-17 "John 3:17 - God Sent His Son")), never sought to be greater than the One who sent Him, but perfectly obeyed His Father's will, even to the point of death on a cross ([John 5:30](/john/5-30 "John 5:30 - Jesus Does the Father's Will")). His act of washing the disciples' feet, immediately preceding this verse, is a living parable of His entire earthly ministry: the Lord of glory humbling Himself to serve, to suffer, and ultimately to lay down His life as a ransom for many ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). Thus, John 13:16 is not merely a moral teaching, but a profound Christological statement, revealing the very heart of God's redemptive plan embodied in the Son who came to serve and to save, demonstrating that true divine power is manifested through sacrificial love and humble servanthood.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 6:40

The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.

John 15:20

Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.

Matthew 10:24

The disciple is not above [his] master, nor the servant above his lord.

Matthew 10:25

It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more [shall they call] them of his household?

John 3:5

Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and [of] the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

John 3:3

Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.