The word "Lesson" is derived from the Latin lectio, meaning a reading, and signifies a portion of Scripture appointed to be read during Divine service; applied especially to those Scriptures read in the Daily Services. Two Lessons are to be read at each service in accordance with the custom of the early Christians, one from the Old Testament and one from the New. The principle upon which the Lessons are thus selected is set forth by Justin Martyr, who lived A.D. 103-164, as follows: "The Apostles have taught, as they learned themselves, first the Law and then the Gospel; for what is the Law but the Gospel foreshadowed; or what is the Gospel but the Law fulfilled." (See CALENDAR, LECTIONARY, and also SCRIPTURES IN PRAYER BOOK.)

Bibliography Information
Miller, William James. Entry for 'Lessons, the'. The American Church Dictionary and Cyclopedia. https://www.studylight.org/dictionaries/eng/acd/l/lessons-the.html. 1901.

Bible Dictionaries Lessons, the

The American Church Dictionary and Cyclopedia

Bible Dictionaries
Lessons, the