During the Last Supper, Jesus performs the humble act of washing His disciples' feet, a task usually reserved for servants. This act symbolizes the importance of humility and service in the Christian life. When Jesus says that those who have bathed need only to wash their feet, He is teaching that once a person has been cleansed by faith, they are fundamentally clean. However, as they walk through life, they may still encounter sin and need to seek forgiveness and renewal. This is akin to washing one's feet after a bath, addressing the dirt that accumulates from daily living.
Furthermore, Jesus' statement that not all are clean points to Judas Iscariot, who would soon betray Him. This serves as a reminder that outward appearances of faith do not always reflect inner purity. The verse emphasizes the need for continual spiritual vigilance and the importance of maintaining one's relationship with God through regular introspection and repentance. It also highlights the grace and forgiveness available to believers, encouraging them to live in a state of ongoing spiritual renewal and humility.