This example by the Lord is certainly a wonderful means for teaching humility, and it would not be out of order to use it as an object lesson for teaching the same. Yet, it should not be incorporated into our church polity as a church ordinance. Paul when addressing the churches, in his church epistles, never addressed foot washing. The ordinance of Baptism and the ordinance of the Lord s Supper were so addressed and are to be practiced as church ordinances. Another distinguishing characteristic of the Lord s Supper and Baptism is that they both picture the death, the burial, or the resurrection.
Baptism pictures all three and foot washing pictures neither.
Love, forgiveness, and humility are all to be taught in our churches, but there is a different emphasis to be given to our ordinances. Realizing this, there is another practical teaching or lesson gained from foot washing. As mentioned, forgiveness needs to be taught in our churches. It would be difficult to humble ones self to wash ones feet if forgiveness is needed. A close relationship is impossible when a brother or sister has ought against another.