humble service probably meant to point to Jesus’ death (see his answer to Peter in v. 7). It is a service among equals in a company where no one’s social status stands out, although Jesus’ eminence as Teacher and Lord cannot be forgotten (cf. vv. 13–16). It shares in that act of “service which is full of inner authority” (Schnackenburg). Since John is convinced that the resurrection will show forth Jesus’ glory, it is a memorable symbolic act and intended to be such. Simon Peter’s demurrer (v. 6)