As part of our sermon series, Formed: Who’s Shaping Your Life?, we are providing a weekly Small Group & Spiritual Reflection Companion to help us become more aware of what is shaping us and more intentional about placing our lives in the hands of Christ.

Download the complete Formed: A Study Companion for Small Group & Personal Reflection here. Enjoy this week’s guide below:

Opening Reflection

We are formed by the models of power we admire. Some versions of leadership depend on visibility, control, status, or being served. On the final night before the cross, Jesus places a towel around his waist and performs the work of a household servant. This is more than an object lesson in being helpful. It reveals what divine power looks like in human relationships.

Jesus serves because he knows who he is, not because he has forgotten his dignity. Philippians 2 describes the same self-giving pattern and calls the church to adopt the mind of Christ. Humility is not low self-worth or self-erasure. It is refusing to use power for self-exaltation and choosing to place our influence, authority, and freedom in service of others.

Scripture Focus

John 13:1–17

Discussion Questions

1. What does John emphasize that Jesus knows before he washes the disciples’ feet?
2. Why does Peter resist being served, and where do you recognize that resistance in yourself?
3. Why must we receive grace before we can serve faithfully?
4. What is the difference between Christlike humility and low self-worth or self-erasure?
5. How does Philippians 2 redefine power, status, and glory?
6. Whose labor is easy for you to overlook or take for granted?
7. What privilege, authority, expertise, or access could you place in service of another this week?
   

Formation Invitation

Choose one useful, specific act of service that is unlikely to bring recognition. If possible, do a task often left to someone with less status or visibility. Ask what is actually needed before acting, and afterward resist the impulse to advertise what you have done.

For Further Reflection

Read John 13:1–35. Notice how washing, betrayal, glory, and the command to love are woven together.

Closing Prayer

Servant Christ, you meet us with grace before asking anything from us. Wash away our pride and our fear of receiving. Reshape our use of power. Give us the mind of Christ, that we may serve with humility, truth, freedom, and joy. Amen.

Rev. Dr. Dedric Cowser, Preaching