How Great Is Our Great Commission?

JESUS TAKES AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD: 2nd Sunday after the Epiphany, January 19, 2020

Let there be no mistaking the identity of Jesus! John calls him the Lamb of God who takes away the world’s sin. John confesses that Jesus is eternal, and that he is part of the triune God - a truth John witnessed at Jesus’ baptism.

This week’s first lesson from Isaiah is an insightful look into the soul of Jesus. Hear those verses as though Jesus himself were speaking them. He is candid about his frustrations, and laments that his work of salvation which is for all people is rejected and refused by so many. Nevertheless, God the Father was pleased to make him Savior of both Jew and Gentile.

Perhaps you already know all this. Then let these lessons encourage you to put it to work. John the Baptist confessed out loud and invited friends. Andrew believed and invited his brother Peter. Later, Philip believed and invited Nathanael. None of these men had special training; they had not attended a weekend seminar. They just shared what God put in their heart.

We too believe, therefore we speak.

► Readings:
• Isaiah 49:1-6: God's servant came for all.
• Colossians 2:6-15: Rooted and built up in Jesus.
• John 1:29-41: John's disciples follow Jesus.
• Psalm: 40

► Sermon theme on Isaiah 49:1-6: "How Great Is Our Great Commission?" (Sermon Video) (Sermon transcript)