Last Words Group Study - Part 1 - Rock Point Church

The big idea

Jesus spent His last hours before the cross not securing His own comfort but washing feet, pursuing His betrayer, and patiently correcting His impulsive friend — showing that true greatness is found in humble, persistent service and love.

On the night before He died, Jesus had every reason to focus on Himself, yet He knelt to wash dirty feet, reached out in love to His betrayer Judas, and patiently corrected Peter's overconfidence. His example shows that serving others, even those who fail or betray us, defines true dignity rather than diminishing it — and that following Jesus depends not on our own strength but on His shepherding care.

Point 1 of 6

Pastor Mark sets the scene of the Passover meal, noting that the disciples had been arguing over who was greatest and that no servant or disciple volunteered for the lowly task of washing feet. Jesus, the Creator of the universe, stripped down and did the demeaning job Himself, setting a precedent that service defines dignity rather than diminishing it.

Point 2 of 6

Pastor Mark describes how Jesus washed Judas' feet too, looked into his soul, and quoted Psalm 41:9 about a trusted friend's betrayal, essentially pleading with Judas to turn around. Even the seating arrangement gave Judas a place of honor beside Jesus, showing Christ chasing him to the bitter end.

Point 3 of 6

Pastor Mark explains that Satan 'entering' Judas doesn't necessarily mean possession against his will, but that Judas became a willing partner with darkness understanding the consequences of his betrayal. He ties this to John's Gospel theme of light shining in darkness that cannot overcome it, as Judas leaves the meal and disappears into the night.

Point 4 of 6

Pastor Mark walks through Peter's character across the Gospels — impulsive, outspoken, corrected more than any other disciple, yet also praised more than anyone. He notes that Jesus consistently responded to Peter's lack of self-awareness with patience and kindness rather than rejection.

Point 5 of 6

Pastor Mark recounts Peter's bold claim that he would lay down his life for Jesus even if the other disciples wouldn't, and Jesus' gentle but direct response predicting Peter's denial before the rooster crowed. He notes Peter measured everything by his own natural strength rather than by dependence on Christ.

Point 6 of 6

Pastor Mark draws out that true discipleship isn't about our own resolve but about depending on Jesus as the Good Shepherd, who sometimes uses His rod and staff not just to comfort but to forcefully pull sheep back from self-destruction. He closes noting Peter had more wandering ahead but was eventually restored and recommissioned by Jesus.

Take it into your week

Pastor Mark frames the charge around Jesus' own example at the table: serve like the foot-washer, love like the one who chased Judas, and depend on the Shepherd rather than your own strength.