THIS WEEK'S TEXT

• Revised Common: Is 7:10-16 · Rom 1:1-7 · Mt 1:18-25
• Roman Catholic: Is 7:10-14 · Rom 1:1-7 · Mt 1:18-24
• Episcopal: Is 7:10-17 · Rom 1:1-7 · Mt 1:18-25
• Lutheran: Is 7:10-14 (15-17) · Rom 1:1-7 · Mt 1:18-25

Seasonal Theme: Attitude of Obedience

Suggested Text For Preaching: Matthew 1:24 and Romans 1:5

COMMENTARY

Lesson 1: Isaiah 7:10-17
This selection contains a verse (v. 14) that rings musically in the Christian's ear at Christmas. It speaks of a virgin (almah actually means young woman) conceiving and bearing a son who will be called Immanuel. Beginning with Matthew, the church has baptized this as a messianic passage, even though it is not. Consider well the historical context of this saying. King Ahaz is being besieged by an alliance of Israel and Syria. The …