THIS WEEK'S TEXT
- Revised Common: Genesis 1:1-5 · Acts 19:1-7 · Mark 1:4-11
- Roman Catholic: Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7 · Acts 10:34-38 · Mark 1:7-11
- Episcopal: Isaiah 42:1-9 · Acts 10:34-38 · Mark 1:7-11
COMMENTARY
Lesson 1: Genesis 1:1-5
The text describes creation in its earliest stages; the earth was a formless, watery void. The Spirit of God acted on the waters and created life. This text was selected for The Baptism Of Our Lord because of the association of the Spirit of God with water. Light issued as the first act of God's creation.
Lesson 1: Isaiah 42:1-9
This is the first servant song. Opinions vary as to the identity of the Servant. Many identify the Servant as the nation of Israel, others identify it as some individual, while still others claim that it refers to both. God has…
CSS Publishing Company, LECTIONARY PREACHING WORKBOOK, by Russell F. Anderson