How should we interpret Jesus' washing of feet in terms of leadership?

• A. As a symbol of ritual purity.
• B. As a demonstration that true leadership is service.
• C. As a critique of authority.
• D. As a legal obligation.

Answer: (B)

This passage stresses that true leadership is expressed through service and humility. Jesus, who is their teacher and Lord, takes the position of a servant and washes the disciples’ feet. By doing this, he flips typical ideas of leadership: real authority is exercised to meet others’ needs and to set an example of love, not to wield power over people. He then commands the disciples to imitate this act, teaching that greatness in his kingdom is measured by willingness to serve one another.

This isn’t about ritual purity, a critique of authority, or a legal obligation. It’s about modeling a leadership posture—putting others first, serving humbly, and loving others in practical, concrete ways. The scene shows leadership as self-giving love that educates and forms a community of servant-hearted followers.