Foot Washing?  Ordinance Or Not?

Is Foot Washing an ordinance equal to that of baptism and the Lord's Supper?

Answer:

Some denominations see the example of foot washing as a third ordinance of the church. Although early Christians washed feet as an act of hospitality (1 Tim. 5:10), they never practiced this as a church ordinance.

The emphasis Jesus was placing through His actions (John 13:10) was two fold. First, washing feet was a slave's task, so Jesus washed the disciples' feet out of humility, demonstrating the principle of being a servant. Second, foot washing symbolized cleansing.

Although Christians are clean, having been bathed with the washing of regeneration (Titus 3:5), sins committed as a Christian soil our feet, hindering our fellowship with God and our ability to serve with clearity and confidence, thus renewing the need for cleansing and renewed fellowship. As a Christian senses sin in his or her life, they should confess their  sin to God, who will forgive and cleanse (1 John 1:9). 

Foot washing as demonstrated by Christ was to teach his disciples the importance of humily and service.  A Christian who follows Christ soon learns that humility and servantude is not becoming less than others, but less of self FOR others.  Amen!

Sincerely, Dr. Arthur Belanger
 

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