Occasion: 3rd Sunday after Epiphany

Theme: Behold, the Servant of the Lord

Texts: Isaiah 49:1–7; 1 Corinthians 1:1–9; John 1:29–34

The Epiphany season celebrates the revelation of Christ to the world. On this Third Sunday after Epiphany, we are invited to reflect on the theme “behold, the Servant of the Lord!”, revealed in prophecy, affirmed in witness, and manifested in Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Who is a servant?

A servant is one who is called, sent, and committed to carrying out the will of another. In biblical terms, a servant of the Lord is one chosen by God, empowered by His Spirit, and devoted to His redemptive purpose for the world. In today’s sermon, we shall be reflecting on the following:

1. The Servant in Prophecy: Called, Equipped, and Sent (Isaiah 49:1–7)

Through the prophet Isaiah, God speaks of His Servant who is called from the womb, named by God, and appointed for a divine mission. This Servant is chosen not merely for Israel but as “a light to the nations”, that God’s salvation may reach the ends of the earth.

These calling echoes the experience of other prophets such as Jeremiah, who was also called, consecrated, and appointed before birth (Jeremiah 1:4–6). Isaiah and Jeremiah remind us that God’s servants are not self-appointed; they are divinely chosen and divinely equipped.

Though the Servant experiences rejection and suffering, the Lord remains his strength and reward. God promises restoration, deliverance from captivity, provision for the hungry and thirsty, and guidance into peace and abundance. Kings and princes will one day rise in honour because of the saving work of the Lord. The message is clear: God’s Servant brings hope, restoration, and salvation to a broken world.

2. The Servant Revealed: The Lamb of God (John 1:29–34)

In the Gospel reading, John the Baptist publicly identifies Jesus as the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy. Seeing Jesus approach, John declares:

“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”

This declaration is rich in meaning. By calling Jesus the Lamb of God, John points to the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, where a lamb was offered for the cleansing of sin. Jesus is revealed as the ultimate and final sacrifice, whose death brings forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

John humbly acknowledges the supremacy of Christ: “After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.” Though John came first in ministry, Christ existed before all things. John testifies that Jesus is the One who baptizes with the Holy Spirit and that He is truly the Son of God. The Servant is no longer hidden; He is revealed to the world.

3. The Servant’s People: Called to Holiness and Hope (1 Corinthians 1:1–9)

In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul writes as one called by the will of God, addressing believers who are sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be saints. Through Christ, they share in God’s grace and are enriched with spiritual gifts, knowledge, and speech.

Paul reassures the Church that they lack nothing necessary for faithful living and service. Christ Himself will sustain them to the end and keep them blameless until His coming. This passage reminds us that servanthood is sustained by grace, not human effort. God is faithful, and He completes the work He begins in His people.

Application

Jesus Christ, the Chief Servant of God, calls us to participate in His servant ministry today. As His disciples, we are called and empowered to serve without fear or favour, to shine as light in the world, and to live lives of holiness and integrity.

We are servants not by compulsion but by calling, not by our strength but by God’s grace. As recipients of salvation, we are also instruments of God’s love, justice, and peace in our communities and beyond.

Conclusion

As we reflect on the theme “behold, the Servant of the Lord!”, we see God’s redemptive plan revealed in Jesus Christ. He is the chosen Servant, the Lamb of God, and the Saviour of the world. May we respond by faithfully serving Him, bearing His light, and remaining steadfast until He comes again. Amen.

By: Rev. Sylvanus Yao Kpodonu (SKY)