by MarryEdwardd | 9 January 2020 08:46 am01
Blessed be the name of our Lord Jesus Christ! By His grace, we have been given another day to witness His mercy. Let us take this moment to thank Him and reflect deeply on His Word.
In previous teachings, we saw how essential it is for every Christian to observe the Lord’s Supper and practice foot washing according to God’s Word. While foot washing is a simple act of service, the enemy has distorted its purpose, turning it into a vehicle for pride, lust, or worldly indulgence.
Jesus teaches that true greatness in the kingdom of God is measured by humility. Pride can block even the most devoted believer from entering heaven:
Matthew 18:3–4 (ESV):
“Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
Here, Jesus shows that salvation is not merely about knowledge or ritual—it is about a transformed heart. Humility, demonstrated even in small acts such as serving others, is a visible marker of genuine faith.
Foot washing is more than a physical act; it is a spiritual exercise in humility and service. Jesus modeled this during His ministry:
John 13:12–17 (NIV):
“When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. ‘Do you understand what I have done for you?’ he asked them.
‘You call me “Teacher” and “Lord,” and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.’”
Theologically, this demonstrates that service is inseparable from discipleship. A Christian who refuses to humbly serve fellow believers shows a lack of alignment with Christ’s example.
Satan works persistently to mislead Christians and rob them of salvation. He does this by:
Distorting righteous practices: He tempts people to engage in sinful acts under the guise of spiritual activity. For example, attending secular foot-washing salons, where lustful thoughts may arise.
Encouraging idleness in prayer and worship: Christians may spend long hours on social media, entertainment, or worldly pleasures, neglecting spiritual disciplines.
Targeting vulnerability: Even small compromises, repeated over time, can weaken one’s spiritual defenses.
1 Peter 5:8 (KJV):
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”
Foot washing, when practiced correctly, strengthens humility and fellowship. When abused, it becomes a channel for temptation, sexual immorality, and spiritual deception (1 Corinthians 6:9–10, NIV).
Engaging in foot washing in worldly or inappropriate settings can:
Open the door to lust and immorality: Even a single act done improperly can lead to spiritual defilement.
Weaken family and marital bonds: People may become attached to the wrong relationships, neglecting God-given responsibilities.
Suppress spiritual growth: The light within diminishes, and the desire to pursue God may fade.
The Bible clearly warns:
1 Corinthians 6:9–10 (ESV):
“Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”
Salvation is a personal and intentional turning to Christ, involving faith, repentance, and obedience. Acts such as humble service, foot washing, and baptism are outward signs of inward transformation.
If you have not yet been saved, or have been engaging in practices that lead to spiritual compromise, God invites you to repent:
Prayer of Repentance:
Heavenly Father, I come before You, acknowledging that I am a sinner who has committed many wrongs and deserve Your judgment. Yet You are a merciful God, full of grace for those who love You. Today, I repent of all my sins, including acts that displease You.
I confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, and He is the Savior of the world. I ask that the blood of Jesus cleanse me and make me a new creation. From this day forward, I commit my life to You. Amen.
Seek proper water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ as an act of obedience and forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38, NIV).
Engage in biblical fellowship: Attend a church that emphasizes teaching the Word and spiritual growth.
Practice humility and service: Participate in foot washing among fellow believers in a holy, God-centered setting.
Avoid worldly imitations: Reject practices that compromise your spiritual integrity.
Proverbs 3:5–6 (ESV):
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Foot washing is a sacred act that symbolizes humility, service, and fellowship. Misusing it can open doors to sin and spiritual destruction. Conversely, practicing it with the right heart, alongside prayer, baptism, and obedience, strengthens your relationship with God and fellow believers.
Be blessed, and may your life be guided by the Word of God, leading you to eternal salvation.
Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2020/01/09/the-dangers-of-improper-foot-washing-and-spiritual-discipline/
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