Today's sermon is based on Matthew 3:13-17, the baptism of Jesus. Dr. Jim Somerville, Pastor of Richmond's First Baptist Church and Co-Founder of A Sermon for Every Sunday, summarizes the account of Jesus's birth according to the Gospel of Matthew. Then he focuses on verse 17 of today's passage, "And a voice from heaven said, 'This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.'" At this point, Jesus has done nothing to please or displease God. Yet God still chooses him, his beloved son, to fulfill God's mission. Have you ever thought of yourself in light of today's passage? Listen as Somerville explores how our identity is found in Christ's identity as God's chosen, beloved son of God.

This sermon is from A Sermon for Every Sunday, a series of lectionary-based video sermons designed for use in worship, Bible study, small groups, Sunday school classes or for individual use.

For more sermon preparation help, check out Pulpit Resource, Will Willimon's weekly lectionary-based sermon resource, available online and through a print subscription.