Manuscript Releases, vol. 2 [Nos. 97-161]

MR No. 103—Ordinance of Humility Important

[Release requested for T. H. Jemison book on Bible Doctrines.]

The ordinance of feet washing is an ordinance of service. This is the lesson the Lord would have all learn and practice. When this ordinance is rightly celebrated, the children of God are brought into holy relationship with each other, to help and bless each other. 2MR 59.1

That His people might not be misled by the selfishness which dwells in the natural heart, and which strengthens by self-serving, Christ Himself set us an example of humility. He would not leave this great subject in man's charge. Of so much consequence did He regard it that He Himself, One equal with God, washed the feet of His disciples. [John 13:13-17, quoted.] 2MR 59.2

This ceremony means much to us. God would have us take in the whole scene, not only the single act of outward cleansing. This lesson does not merely refer to the one act. It is to reveal the great truth that Christ is an example of what we through His grace are to be in our intercourse with each other. It shows that the entire life should be one of humble, faithful ministry. 2MR 59.3

In His life and lessons Christ has given a perfect exemplification of the unselfish ministry which has its origin in God. God does not live for Himself. By creating the world, and by upholding all things, He is constantly ministering for others. But Satan misrepresented God to the world, as he did to Adam and Eve. Selfishness has its origin in Satan, and just as far as it is indulged, so far are Satan's attributes cherished. But Satan charged God with his own attributes, and belief in his principles was becoming more and more widespread. 2MR 59.4

By the Son of God these principles must be demonstrated as false and God's character shown to be one of love. By Him the Father must be represented. God committed His ideal to His Son. He sent Christ into the world, invested with divinity, yet bearing humanity. 2MR 60.1

And with clearness and power did Christ set forth the attributes of God. He is “the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person,” even “the image of the invisible God.” Yet He humbled Himself, taking the form of a servant. Our Redeemer is a perfect revelation of the Godhead; and it is of importance that as His disciples, we understand through Him God's relation to us. He is the world's great Teacher. And what we know of God through Him is the measure of our acquaintance with a practical knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus.—Manuscript 43, 1897, 2. (“Ministry,” no date.) 2MR 60.2

[Release requested by A. L. White for use in his Prophetic Guidance class.] 2MR 60.3