Conservative Friends Bible Study of The Gospel of John #23

John 13:12–38

We read this passage in Greek and English, tracking how small translation choices shape big theological conclusions. We sit with Jesus’ humility in foot washing, the shock of betrayal, and the new commandment to love in ways the world can recognize.

• Word study linking whole, heal, wholesome, holy, holiness, sozo, soteria, savior, healer
• Foot washing as a pattern of humility rather than a mere ritual
• “Lifted his heel against me” and its Psalm background
• Why we translate “servant” as slave in this context
• Debate over “I am he” versus expanded “I Am Who I Am” readings
• “Receive” versus “accept” and what it implies about welcoming Christ
• Judas, the beloved disciple, and the social dynamics at the table
• Questions about bias toward the Twelve and differences among the Gospels
• “Love one another” as an inward bond and an outward witness
• Examples of costly love from Le Chambon and righteous Gentiles
• Peter’s impulsiveness, denial, and the meaning of psyche as life or soul