COMMENTARY

Lesson 1: Isaiah 43:1-7
The nation of Israel is God's creation. This lection comes from 2 Isaiah written in the sixth century (540 B.C.) by an unknown author to the exiles in Babylon. To those in bondage this is a comforting message. Since Israel is God's people, he will rescue them from captivity. On this Baptism of Our Lord Sunday, we, too, in our baptism are made God's people by his gracious adoption. The Lord rescues us from the bondage of our sins.

Lesson 1: Isaiah 42:1-9
God anointed his servant with the Spirit to bring justice.

Lesson 2: Acts 8:14-17
Believers in Samaria receive the Holy Spirit upon the laying on of the hands of Peter and John. Philip made converts in Samaria by preaching the Gospel. Though they believed in Christ and were baptized, they did not receiv…