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The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A

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Children's sermon

CSSPlus

We Are Needed! -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- John Jamison -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2023
Object: Some type of “ID” card, like a driver’s license.
We're GREAT! -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Bethany Peerbolte -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2020
John the Baptist is humbled by Jesus’ request to baptize him.
A Smile From God -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Mary Kay Eichelman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2017
Have you ever received one of these on a paper at school?
My Beloved -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Anna Shirey -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2013
First Thoughts Teaching On Y
Love -- Acts 10:34-43 -- Leah Thompson -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2010
Then Peter began to speak to them: "I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every

The Immediate Word

Immersed in Righteousness -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2023
For January 8, 2023:
Obligations of the Baptized -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2020
For January 12, 2020:
The Right Thing -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2017
Matthew’s brief account of Jesus’ baptism seems curious in a way -- John the Baptist seems quite amb
No Return, No Exchange -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2014
In the hectic days following Christmas, the focus of our retail establishments turns from squeezi
A God Of New Things -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29, Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43 -- Dean Feldmeyer, David Jordan Squire, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2011
As the new calendar year commences much media attention is focused on Washington, where this week ou

Children's Activity

CSSPlus

Beloved -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Leah Thompson -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2010
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOME
Like a dove -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOME
A baptism and a beginning -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A
Today our lesson is about the baptism of Jesus.
Baptism is important -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A
Teachers and Parents: The Gospel reading today telling of
Salty disciples -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A
Teachers or Parents: Make some popcorn -- and share it with others who might be around.
You are beloved! -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A
Teachers or Parents: See the previous Plus section for an Epiphany idea that might revolutionize th
Stained-Glass Windows -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A
Teachers: The dove is a familiar Christian symbol.
The day Jesus was baptized -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A
Materials: Toilet paper roll (one per child) Construction paper

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Bulletin (ages 8-10) -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Bulletin (ages 5-7) -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A

Children's bulletin

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Bulletin (ages 8-10) -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Bulletin (ages 5-7) -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A

Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Just Another Day -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29 -- David Kalas -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2020
This is the Sunday when we celebrate Jesus’ baptism. This is not Pentecost.
What does Jesus' baptism mean? -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- Sandra Herrmann -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2017
Epiphany. A sudden realization. A new idea. A solution to a problem you’ve been struggling with.
From centripetal to centrifugal -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- Wayne Brouwer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2013
In God's initial encounter with Abram, recorded in Genesis 12, it is clear that the relationship bet
Here comes Jesus -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29 -- Wayne Brouwer, Schuyler Rhodes -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2010
It was a new gospel hit when I was a teen, with words taken from a classic spiritual out of mind and
Let your light so shine -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29 -- David Kalas -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
Sometimes when a certain business -- perhaps an automobile dealership -- is having a big sale, they
Heart witnesses -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2002
The People's Court, Judge Judy, Judge Mills Lane, Power of Attorney.
Identity and function -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 1999
In discussions of modern architecture we often hear the expression that form follows function.
My servant, my chosen -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 1996
Often in each church year preachers have to make decisions on topics over which other scholars ha
Divine debut -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29 -- David Kalas -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A
The people had been waiting for a very long time.

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Baptism of Our Lord (2023) -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2023
Isaiah 42:1-9
Sermon Illustrations for Baptism of Our Lord (2020) -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2020
Isaiah 42:1-9
Sermon Illustrations for Baptism of Our Lord (2017) -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2017
Isaiah 42:1-9
Sermon Illustrations for Baptism of Our Lord (2014) -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Derl G. Keefer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2013
Isaiah 42:1-9
Everything in Jesus'... -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Mark Ellingsen -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2013
Everything in Jesus' ministry, and our lives as Christians, begins in the waters of baptism.

The Immediate Word

Immersed in Righteousness -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2023
For January 8, 2023:
Obligations of the Baptized -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2020
For January 12, 2020:
The Right Thing -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2017
Matthew’s brief account of Jesus’ baptism seems curious in a way -- John the Baptist seems quite amb
No Return, No Exchange -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2014
In the hectic days following Christmas, the focus of our retail establishments turns from squeezi

StoryShare

A Taste of Divine Glory -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- John E. Sumwalt -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2023
The voice of the Lord causes the oaks to whirl and strips the forest bare,

Worship

The Immediate Word

Immersed in Righteousness -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2023
For January 8, 2023:
Obligations of the Baptized -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2020
For January 12, 2020:
The Right Thing -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2017
Matthew’s brief account of Jesus’ baptism seems curious in a way -- John the Baptist seems quite amb
No Return, No Exchange -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2014
In the hectic days following Christmas, the focus of our retail establishments turns from squeezi
A God Of New Things -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29, Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43 -- Dean Feldmeyer, David Jordan Squire, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2011
As the new calendar year commences much media attention is focused on Washington, where this week ou
Baptism: A Matter Of Life And Death -- Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2008
Sometimes faith is only welcome in certain circles, and even if it is welcome, it may only be allowe

SermonStudio

The Baptism Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
Call To Worship One: When the floods and storms of the world threaten
The Baptism Of Our Lord/Epiphany 1/Ordinary Time 1 -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
A Service Of Renewal
The Baptism Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- Beverly S. Bailey -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2004
HymnsChild Of Blessing, Child Of Promise (PH498, UM611, NCH325, CBH620)
The Light Still Shines -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2004
Call To Worship (Isaiah 42:6-7)

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Immersed in Righteousness -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2023
For January 8, 2023:
Obligations of the Baptized -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2020
For January 12, 2020:
The Right Thing -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2017
Matthew’s brief account of Jesus’ baptism seems curious in a way -- John the Baptist seems quite amb
No Return, No Exchange -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2014
In the hectic days following Christmas, the focus of our retail establishments turns from squeezi
A God Of New Things -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29, Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43 -- Dean Feldmeyer, David Jordan Squire, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2011
As the new calendar year commences much media attention is focused on Washington, where this week ou
Baptism: A Matter Of Life And Death -- Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2008
Sometimes faith is only welcome in certain circles, and even if it is welcome, it may only be allowe

SermonStudio

Spirit-Direct -- Acts 10:34-43 -- Timothy J. Smith -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2010
"Growing up," Valerie recalled, "I was involved in many of my church's activities for children." Rec
No Partiality -- Acts 10:34-43 -- John N. Brittain -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
You may be looking at the most fortunate person on the face of the earth. Let me explain.
Burned Beef -- Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Tony S. Everett -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
Jenny was employed as an emergency room nurse in a busy urban hospital.
John The (Reluctant) Baptizer -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
Many pastors and church boards have a policy against flash photography during any worship service, e

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Immersed in Righteousness -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2023
For January 8, 2023:
Obligations of the Baptized -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2020
For January 12, 2020:
The Right Thing -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2017
Matthew’s brief account of Jesus’ baptism seems curious in a way -- John the Baptist seems quite amb
No Return, No Exchange -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2014
In the hectic days following Christmas, the focus of our retail establishments turns from squeezi
A God Of New Things -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29, Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43 -- Dean Feldmeyer, David Jordan Squire, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2011
As the new calendar year commences much media attention is focused on Washington, where this week ou
Baptism: A Matter Of Life And Death -- Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2008
Sometimes faith is only welcome in certain circles, and even if it is welcome, it may only be allowe

SermonStudio

Baptism Of The Lord / First Sunday After The Epiphany / First Sunday In Ordinary Time -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- Carlos Wilton -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2010
Theme For The Day
The Baptism Of Our Lord/Epiphany 1/Ordinary Time 1 -- Psalm 29 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see The Baptism Of Our Lord, Cycle B, and Trinity
Baptism of Our Lord -- Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2004
The lectionary often begins a reading at the end of one poem and includes the beginning of another.
The Baptism Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- John R. Brokhoff -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2004
THE LESSONSLesson 1: Isaiah 42:1--9 (C, E); Isaiah 42:1--4, 6--7 (RC)

Stories

StoryShare

A Taste of Divine Glory -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- John E. Sumwalt -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2023
The voice of the Lord causes the oaks to whirl and strips the forest bare,
Gloriously Stormy Worship -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- David O. Bales, Keith Hewitt -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2020
Contents “Gloriously Stormy Worship” by David O. Bales
No Favoritism -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- John Fitzgerald -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2017
Contents "No Favoritism" by John Fitzgerald No Favoritism
Doing Justice -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- John Fitzgerald, Frank Ramirez -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2014
Contents "Doing Justice" by John Fitzgerald
A Muddy Mucky Baptism -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- Frank Ramirez -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2010
Contents "A Muddy Mucky Baptism" by Frank Ramirez
Welcoming Mr. Forsythe -- Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- Argile Smith -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2008
Contents What's Up This Week "Welcoming Mr. Forsythe" by Argile Smith

SermonStudio

The Power Of Water -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- David E. Leininger -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
There is something powerful about water.
Your Dad Likes You -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- John E. Sumwalt -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2004
Kathleen A. "Kit" Slawski
Been Baptized -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2004
And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were op
Baptism By Spit -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Constance Berg -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2001
"Jan wasn't baptized by the spirit, she was baptized by spit," went the joke.

Poems

SermonStudio

The Baptism of Our Lord -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Andrew Daughters -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 1989
A child that I knew saw a baby baptizedAnd afterward said to her mother,

Drama

SermonStudio

An Epiphany For Cousin John -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-38, Psalm 89 -- John A. Tenbrook -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2001
Thespian Theological Thoughts
When -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Robert F. Crowley -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 1998
ThemeWhen was it Jesus realized He was God?Summary

Devotional

SermonStudio

The Baptism Of Our Lord / Epiphany 1 / OT 1 -- Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my spirit upon
The Baptism Of Our Lord / Epiphany 1 / OT 1 -- Psalm 29 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord, over mighty waters
The Baptism Of Our Lord / Epiphany 1 / OT 1 -- Acts 10:34-43 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and doe
The Baptism Of Our Lord / Epiphany 1 / OT 1 -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
...

Children's Story

The Village Shepherd

Jem's Baptism -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Janice B. Scott -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A
Jem was exceedingly nervous.

Children's Liturgy and Story

The Village Shepherd

Holly And Michael -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Janice B. Scott -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A
Call to Worship:

Intercession

The Village Shepherd

God Of Immense Love... -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Janice B. Scott -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A
Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Ascension of the Lord
28 – Sermons
150+ – Illustrations / Stories
29 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20+ – Worship Resources
26 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Easter 7
22 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
24 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20+ – Worship Resources
21 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Pentecost
29 – Sermons
150+ – Illustrations / Stories
30+ – Children's Sermons / Resources
20+ – Worship Resources
28 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

SermonStudio

Frank Luchsinger
Huckle the Cat and his school teacher Miss Honey the Bear, Bananas Gorilla, Captain Salty, Pig Will and Pig Won't, Sergeant Murphy the Police Dog, and my favorite, Lowly the Worm; if you know these names then you are familiar with the work of Richard Scarry, author and illustrator of children's books, who passed away in '94 at age 75. Scarry wrote over 250 books, which in thirty languages have sold over 100 million copies. He said, "The greatest compliment I can receive is to be told that some of my books are held together with more Scotch tape than there is paper in the original book.
David E. Leininger
We reflected earlier on Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code and its assertion that Jesus and Mary Magdalene were married and were parents of a daughter. True, there is nothing at all in scripture to back up such a claim, but can you imagine what kind of parent Jesus would have been?
Constance Berg
Pastor Wallace was loved by many, many people. He had come to a rural, agricultural area and stayed for 41 years. He and his wife Bea had four children, three of whom would become pastors themselves. The fourth was a missionary teacher in Madagascar. Pastor Wallace's second and last call was to another rural church he started only thirty miles away. He stayed fifteen years. His reputation was tough but fair; disciplined but compassionate; strong but just.
Jerry L. Schmalenberger
Seasonal Theme
Jesus out of the grave and alive and with us.

Theme For The Day
We are prayed for by Jesus that we might be unified with each other and with our God. A summary of the Season of Easter.

First Lesson
Acts 1:1-11
Return To The Upper Room
Stan Purdum
At first reading, this psalm presents a scattering of themes. Some scholars think it was not a psalm at all, but a listing of headings to a number of liturgical pieces. Most, however, see in Psalm 68 the underlying theme of the victory and reign of God, the Divine Warrior -- the God who was with the people of Israel in the wilderness (v. 7). Psalm 68 calls the kingdoms of the world to acknowledge that God is the warrior king who reigns over all. It presents God as the power and strength of the chosen people.
Carlos Wilton
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary. See The Ascension Of Our Lord, Cycle B, for an alternative approach.)

The brief Psalm 93 seems archaic, from the standpoint of our culture. The Lord is enthroned, here, as a cosmic king. The accoutrements of royalty are front and center: the robe of majesty, the girding-on of strength (suggesting a royal broadsword), the throne, the royal decree. Its message, loudly declared from the first verse onward, is simplicity itself: the Lord reigns!
George M. Bass
The church year theological clue
Russell F. Anderson
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS

Lesson 1: Acts 1:1--11 (C, RC, E, L)
David O. Bales
In 1936, near the beginning of the Spanish Civil War one horrible center of fighting was the Alcázar fortress near Toledo. In the middle of horrific fighting, however, every day the firing stopped twice in order to allow a blind beggar to tap his way on the street between the firing lines. We can imagine how welcome those few minutes were to the men on both sides. They probably hoped that the blind man walked slower to give them a few more seconds of peace. Then the reprieve ended and the slaughter again engulfed the two armies that were struggling to kill each other.1
Schuyler Rhodes
I love this story. It doesn't matter how many times I hear it, or how it's told, it never fails to grab me in a new and different way. It's really an incredible tale. And by incredible I mean just that. Without credibility! Who could actually buy a story like this? The disciples, cowardly and virtually faithless, abandoned the Master and scattered in the chaos of his arrest and execution.
Lee Griess
It's one of those stories that circulates around the internet. I don't know if it's true or not but it's so interesting that I have to share it with you. It seems that a woman came home to find her husband in the kitchen, shaking frantically with what looked like a wire running from his waist toward the electric outlet in the wall. Intending to jolt him away from the deadly electricity, she grabbed a piece of wood that was leaning by the back door, and gave him a good whack, breaking his arm in two places. It was a shame. He was not being electrocuted at all.
Richard L. Sheffield
I want to take the text seriously this morning. It would be easy not to, because Luke's story of the ascension of Jesus is not easy no matter how you take it. For you and me, twenty centuries later, this story may be very hard to take very seriously.

Our take on the ascension of Jesus might be on the order of liturgy as lift-off: Jesus being lifted up to the Air Force song: "Off we go into the wild blue yonder, climbing high into the sky!"

The Immediate Word

Christopher Keating
Dean Feldmeyer
Nazish Naseem
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
George Reed
For May 17, 2026:
  • When Jesus Prays by Chris Keating. Jesus’ high priestly prayer is rooted in the authority of God’s love, and not from a posture of authoritarian control.
Christopher Keating
Dean Feldmeyer
Nazish Naseem
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
George Reed
For May 17, 2026:
  • When Jesus Prays by Chris Keating. Jesus’ high priestly prayer is rooted in the authority of God’s love, and not from a posture of authoritarian control.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Jesus prayed for us all, that we might be protected and united. In our worship today let us explored what it means to be one just as Jesus and the Father are one.

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, sometimes we are more ready to criticise other Christians than to be united with them.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, sometimes we get hung up on small details instead of seeing the big picture.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, sometimes we are too selfish to open up and welcome other people.

StoryShare

Argile Smith
Charles D. Reeb
John S. Smylie
Contents
What's Up This Week
"Wayne's Deployment" by Argile Smith
"In The Event of Power Failure" by Charles D. Reeb
"Where's the Finish Line?" by John Smylie


What's Up This Week
John E. Sumwalt
Frank Ramirez
Contents
"The God of All Grace" by John Sumwalt
"Keeping the Word" by Frank Ramirez


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The God of All Grace
by John Sumwalt
1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11

And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you.
-- 1 Peter 5:10

CSSPlus

Cynthia E. Cowen
The Point: Jesus has the authority to give eternal life.

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