What to Do
The sermon encourages believers to emulate Jesus' example of humility and service in their daily lives.
Joseph Parker preaches about the supreme consciousness of Jesus Christ, highlighting His humility and servanthood as an example for us to follow. He emphasizes the contrast between the desire for greatness in human consciousness and the humility displayed by Jesus in washing His disciples' feet, despite knowing His divine authority and power.
Text
"For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you" (John 13:15).
What will he do in the moment of supreme consciousness? He will show his diadem now; with his right hand he will take away the cloud which veiled it, and the shining of that diadem shall put out the sun. What will he do in this summer time?
We have analogous times in our own consciousness, when we feel what we are, when the divinity stirs within us, when we feel the blood of a hundred kings burning in our veins. What is our wish under the pressure of such heroic and tempting consciousness? Surely to do some great thing; surely to vindicate our right to be called by brilliant names.
What did Jesus Christ do? Mark the time: the whole pith of this part of the discourse is in the point of time--"Jesus knowing"--in modern words, the consciousness of Jesus urged to its highest point, realising its utmost sensitiveness, receiving into itself the full revelation of the divine meaning. "Jesus knowing"--that his right hand was full, and his left hand--yea, "that the Father had given all things into his hands"--what did he do? He arose from supper, he laid aside his garments, he took a towel and girded himself, he poured water into a basin, "and began to wash the disciples' feet."
Sermon Outline
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I
- Understanding the example set by Jesus
- The significance of humility in leadership
- The act of service as a reflection of divine love
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II
- Recognizing moments of divine consciousness
- Responding to our inner calling
- The importance of action in faith
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III
- The symbolism of washing feet
- Lessons in servanthood
- Applying Jesus' example in our lives
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IV
- The role of consciousness in decision making
- Understanding our gifts and responsibilities
- Living out our faith through actions
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V
- The call to greatness through service
- Transforming our desires into actions
- Encouraging others to follow Christ's example
Key Quotes
“For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.” — Joseph Parker
“What did Jesus Christ do? Mark the time: the whole pith of this part of the discourse is in the point of time--'Jesus knowing'.” — Joseph Parker
“He arose from supper, he laid aside his garments, he took a towel and girded himself, he poured water into a basin, 'and began to wash the disciples' feet.'” — Joseph Parker
Application Points
- Look for opportunities to serve others in your community.
- Practice humility in your leadership roles and interactions.
- Reflect on your own divine calling and take action to fulfill it.