Sharper Iron from KFUO Radio
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Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God’s Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen.
Sharper Iron is underwritten by Lutheran Church Extension Fund, where your investments help support the work of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit lcef.org.
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19 hours ago
Witnesses to Jesus
Rev. James Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottumwa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 5:30-47.
Jesus continues to defend Himself against the false accusations leveled against Him. Jesus lines up other witnesses who testify to the truth of who He is. John the Baptist spoke truly concerning Jesus; his testimony was not merely from man, for John was sent by God. The Father and the works that the Father gave Jesus to do testify to the truth of Jesus’ identity as the Son of God. Moses and the entire Old Testament serve as witnesses to Jesus. Those who search the Scriptures for life and believe them will go to Jesus, for they testify of Him. Those who believe Moses will believe Jesus, for Moses wrote of Jesus.
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so have life by faith in His name.
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1 day ago
Eternal Life Now and Not Yet
Rev. Carl Roth, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 5:19-29.
As Jesus begins to answer the objections from the Jewish religious leaders, He emphasizes His unique relationship with His Father. Whatever the Father does, the Son also does. The works that the Son is doing are great, but He will show even greater works in His death and resurrection. Because the Father gives life, so the Son also gives life. This happens right now as those who hear and believe Jesus are raised from the death of sin and are given eternal life. This also happens on the Last Day when Jesus calls forth all the dead from their tombs. Those who have done evil, that is, those who are unbelievers, will be raised to condemnation. Those who have done good, that is, those who have trusted in Jesus alone, will be raised to life.
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so have life by faith in His name.
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2 days ago
The Pool of Bethesda
Rev. James Yonkers, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Danville, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 5:1-18.
When Jesus travels up to Jerusalem for one of the Jewish feasts, He goes to the pool of Bethesda. There were many who were disabled at the pool, hoping to be the first one into the water after it was stirred. When Jesus engages a man who has been unable to walk for thirty-eight years, the man seems to think that perhaps Jesus will help him into the water. Jesus redirects his attention from the water to Himself when He commands the man to get up, take his bed, and walk. The man does, but the Jewish leaders are more interested in why the man is carrying his bed on the Sabbath than in finding out how he was healed. As they begin to investigate Jesus, they think that He is breaking the Sabbath and consider His claims about God to be blasphemy, and so they desire to kill Him, even as He begins to teach them the truth.
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so have life by faith in His name.
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3 days ago
Believing is Seeing
Rev. Tim Koch, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Linn, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 4:43-54.
When Jesus travels again to Cana in Galilee, an official from Capernaum makes the journey to see Jesus. He implores Jesus to come down to Capernaum and heal his son who was at the point of death. Jesus rebukes the attitude espoused by the man and the other Galileans who would not believe unless they could see a sign. The official reiterates the request that Jesus would come to Capernaum; if Jesus can only see his son, then surely Jesus will heal him. Instead, Jesus believes the official’s word and tells him that his son will live. The official takes Jesus’ word home in faith, and Jesus’ word is effective. The official discovers that his son has been made well at precisely the moment Jesus spoke. This second sign from Jesus encourages us to trust His Word even without sight.
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so have life by faith in His name.
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4 days ago
The Fields Are White for Harvest
Rev. William Terjesen, pastor at the Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer in Peekskill, NY, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 4:27-42.
After the Samaritan woman at the well speaks with Jesus, she goes back to the town to tell the people about Him, and they start to come out to meet Him. Meanwhile, Jesus instructs His disciples concerning His work of accomplishing His Father’s will. He sees the crowd of Samaritans coming toward Him as a field that is ready for the harvest and calls His disciples to join Him in the work. The Samaritans of the town ask Jesus to stay with them longer, and from their conversations with Him, they learn the same thing that the woman had told them: Jesus is the Savior of the world.
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so have life by faith in His name.
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Jan 20, 2023
The Samaritan Woman at the Well
Rev. Lucas Witt, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Baltimore, MD, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 4:1-26.
Most Israelites of Jesus’ day would have traveled around Samaria. However, St. John tells us that Jesus had to pass through there in order to show us that Jesus wanted to reveal Himself to the woman at the well. Through this unlikely encounter, Jesus reveals that He has true living water for the gift of eternal life of those who believe. As she listens to Jesus, the woman begins to realize that she is speaking to a prophet and asks about the true worship of God. Jesus says that true worship happens in Spirit and truth, that is, through faith in the Word that He preaches. When the woman asks Jesus about the Christ, Jesus says plainly: “I who speak to you am he.”
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so have life by faith in His name.
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Jan 19, 2023
Jesus Must Increase
Rev. Jacob Dandy, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church and School in Terra Bella, CA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 3:22-36.
The ministry of John the Baptist has not ended even after Jesus’ public ministry begins. Yet John is not interested in any sort of competition between him and Jesus. Instead, John’s ministry continues in the joy to point people to Jesus as the Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. John knows that he must decrease, and Jesus must increase. Those who listen to John and believe in Jesus as the Son of God are given eternal life. God grant John’s same attitude to all pastors and Christians still today.
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so have life by faith in His name.
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Jan 18, 2023
Nic at Night
Rev. Jeremiah Johnson, pastor at Glory of Christ Lutheran Church in Plymouth, WI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 3:1-21.
The people of Israel who begin to take notice of Jesus include those in the higher parts of society. Nicodemus, one of the rulers of the Jews, comes to Jesus by night seeking His teaching. When Jesus speaks to Nicodemus about another birth, Nicodemus misunderstands. Jesus tells Nicodemus that this second birth comes from above, worked by God through the water and Spirit. Nicodemus’ confusion intensifies, and although Jesus wonders how a teacher of Israel doesn’t understand, He continues to teach. Jesus says that He will be lifted up to give those who believe in Him eternal life; this is the way God loves the world.
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so have life by faith in His name.
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Jan 17, 2023
Jesus Is the True Temple
Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 2:12-15.
Jesus goes down to Capernaum for a few days before going up to Jerusalem for the Passover. When Jesus enters the temple, He sees that the buying and selling has overtaken the temple’s true purpose to be the place where sacrifices were offered on behalf of the people’s sins. In righteous anger, He makes a whip and drives out those who have profaned His Father’s house. When this earns Him the ire of the people, He speaks to them about the coming sign of His own death and resurrection. Jesus proclaims that He is the true temple in whom God dwells among His people.
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so have life by faith in His name.
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Jan 16, 2023
A Feast of Well-Aged Wine
Rev. Dr. Scott Murray, pastor at Memorial Lutheran Church in Houston, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 2:1-11.
St. John has been giving a timeline during the first part of his Gospel that now places us on the sixth day. As God created the gift of marriage on the sixth day of creation, now Jesus is at a wedding on this sixth day to show forth the new creation in Him. The interaction between Jesus and His mother shows us Jesus’ focus on going to His hour of death and resurrection and the faithfulness of Mary as she trusts in Him. By making use of stone water jars normally used for purification, Jesus shows that He has come to bring true purity and holiness. The master of the feast preaches a sermon about Jesus unknowingly, for Jesus is the best of God’s gifts here for us right now. St. John tells us that this is the first of Jesus’ signs, intended to show who Jesus is for us and our salvation.
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so have life by faith in His name.
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Jan 13, 2023
Come and See
Rev. Stephen Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Vinton, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 1:43-51.
Jesus continues to call disciples to Himself in Galilee; He takes the initiative. He speaks His authoritative word to Philip: “Follow Me!” The Word calls Philip to faith, and Philip goes to tell Nathanael that Jesus of Nazareth is the One promised by the Law and the Prophets. Nathanael is unimpressed by Jesus’ hometown, yet Philip is unfazed; he invites Nathanael to come and see Jesus. Jesus actually sees Nathanael first. He speaks things of Nathanael that He could not have known apart from divine knowledge, bringing Nathanael to make a fantastic confession that Jesus is the Son of God and King of Israel. Yet Jesus promises even greater things to come; in Him, heaven is opened to all who believe.
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so have life by faith in His name.
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Jan 12, 2023
What Are You Seeking?
Rev. David Appold, pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Paducah, KY, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 1:35-42.
After John identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God a second time, two of his disciples follow Jesus. Jesus’ initial question to them is one that all who come to Jesus do well to consider: “What are you seeking?” They call Him “Rabbi,” and Jesus certainly is the true Teacher, though the Gospel will reveal He is also far more than that. These two disciples remain with Jesus; this introduces the importance for all of Jesus’ disciples to remain with Him in His Word. One of the two, Andrew, goes to find his brother Simon to tell him that Jesus is the Christ. Still today, Christians are quick to share the news of Jesus with family and friends.
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so have life by faith in His name.
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Jan 11, 2023
Behold the Lamb of God!
Rev. Isaac Schuller, pastor at First Immanuel Lutheran Church in San Jose, CA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 1:19-34.
St. John the Evangelist begins his account of the action with St. John the Baptist, the forerunner of the Christ. Although John is peppered with questions about himself, he is far more concerned with giving answers about Jesus, the One who follows him. When John sees coming toward him, he identifies Jesus as the One who will sacrifice himself on behalf of the sins of all people. John knows who Jesus is because God revealed Jesus to John at His baptism. This gives John the confidence to proclaim Jesus’ identity to all: Jesus is the Son of God.
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believ…
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Jan 10, 2023
Grace upon Grace
Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, associate pastor and headmaster at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Brenham, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 1:6-18.
St. John’s prologue continues to introduce themes that are present throughout his Gospel account. Although John the Baptist is not the true light, he comes as a reliable witness to Jesus, who is the true light who comes into the world. The world did not know Him, although He made the world. Even His own people, the Israelites, did not recognize Him. Yet Jesus still came as the Son of God to make sinners into God’s children, not by their own efforts, but by His own blood. He has that blood because He is the Word made flesh; Jesus is the true tabernacle where God dwells among His people bodily. He brings us grace upon grace so that when we see Him, we truly see God.
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel acco…
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Jan 9, 2023
In the Beginning Was the Word
Rev. Dr. William Weinrich, professor of historical theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study John 1:1-5.
The first five verses of the Gospel according to St. John set the stage for the entire book. Jesus is proclaimed as the Word; He is God, and He truly reveals God to us. He is responsible for the creation and existence of all things; He brings light and life that no darkness can overcome. As he writes his account of Christ’s life and ministry, John calls himself “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” for there is no greater blessing for any of us than to be one beloved by the Lord.
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the So…
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Jan 9, 2023
NEW SERIES: The Word Made Flesh
“The Word Made Flesh” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. John. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote his Gospel account as an eyewitness to Jesus’ life and ministry. As we read the Word of God recorded by St. John, the Holy Spirit works in us so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so have life by faith in His name.
Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen.
Sharper Iron is underwritten by Lutheran Church Extension Fund, where your investments help support the work of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit lcef.org
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Dec 23, 2022
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
Rev. David Vandercook, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Little Rock, AR and Shepherd of Peace Lutheran Church in Maumelle, AR, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #357, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.”
This beloved hymn is based on seven ancient “O” antiphons that were used during the last days of the season of Advent leading up to Christmas. The hymn uses the last of these antiphons for the first stanza, focusing our attention on the fact that Jesus comes to us as Emmanuel. He is our hope and joy to set us free from our captivity to sin. Jesus comes as the true Wisdom who orders creation. Jesus comes as the Lord over all who speaks His holy Law. Jesus comes as the King from the stump of Jesse who frees us from the devil’s domain of darkness. Jesus comes as the Key of David who opens the way to eternal life. Jesus comes as the Morning Star who dispels all the darkness of death. Jesus comes as the Desire of all nations who sets all things right…
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Dec 22, 2022
The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came
Rev. Luke Zimmerman, pastor at Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mechanicsburg, PA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #356, “The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came.”
This Basque hymn is a poetic retelling of the Annunciation of Our Lord and the Visitation. When the mighty angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, he greeted her as one highly favored by the Lord. God was showing His free grace to Mary in making her the mother of God. Her child, Jesus, is Emmanuel: God with us. Mary received this Word of God in faith, and while visiting her relative Elizabeth, praised God for His mercy in the words of the Magnificat. Because of the role God gave Mary in salvation history, Christians throughout the ages have considered her blessed, and we continue to praise God for what He has done through Mary’s Son, Jesus.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Book. The season…
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Dec 21, 2022
O Savior, Rend the Heavens Wide
Rev. Andrew Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Haven, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #355, “O Savior, Rend the Heavens Wide.”
This Advent hymn by Friedrich von Spee begins by looking forward to the Last Day, as we ask our Savior to come down with great might and take us to our eternal home. As God refreshes His creation, so He sends Jesus as the true King, for He is the shoot from the stump of Jesse. Knowing that Jesus is our hope, we pray for Him to come quickly with His comfort. As the Morning Star, He shines His light into the darkness of our sin. We know that He will come to lead us out of the doom of sin and death and into His eternal Promised Land, where we will praise Him forever.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Book. The season of Advent prepares us for Christ’s coming. The hymns of Advent teach that this is more tha…
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Dec 20, 2022
Let the Earth Now Praise the Lord
Rev. Daniel Golden, pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Parkersburg, WV, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #352, “Let the Earth Now Praise the Lord.”
This hymn by Heinrich Held helps us to rejoice in the faithfulness of God to His Word. All creation and all people should praise God for sending Christ as the help and friend of sinners. Jesus is the fulfillment of what the saints of old longed to receive. The promises made to Abraham, Zion, and Jacob have been truly kept in Christ, who is fully God and fully man. He came in peace and gentleness, and so we pray for the same mind to dwell in us now. He must be the One to beat back the attacks of the devil now and keep us in faith so that we will welcome Him joyfully on the Last Day.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Book. The season of Advent prepares us for Christ’s coming. The hymns of Advent tea…
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Dec 19, 2022
Creator of the Stars of Night
Rev. Zelwyn Heide, pastor at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Hannover, ND and Zion Lutheran Church in New Salem, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #351, “Creator of the Stars of Night.”
This Advent hymn was originally written in Latin over one thousand years ago. It takes us through the entire story of God’s work for us. He is the Creator of all things who is our everlasting light. We rebelled against Him, yet even then His desire remained to heal us from the infection of sin by sending Christ. Jesus came as the Bridegroom of His CHurch, true God and true man whose perfect sacrifice has won our forgiveness. Now ascended, He rules over all things in heaven and on earth. All knees will bow at His name on the Last Day, and so we pray that He would keep us from the devil’s attacks until that Day, when we will sing the praises of the Triune God forever.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found…
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Dec 16, 2022
Come, Thou Precious Ransom, Come
Rev. Shawn Linnell, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Blair, NE, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #350, “Come, Thou Precious Ransom, Come.”
This hymn by Johann Gottfried Olearius prays to Christ as our ransom, the One who has paid the price to deliver us from sin. Apart from Him, we have no hope. Although we are certainly not worthy of Him, we ask that He would come to us as our King and as our true treasure. We greet Him with songs of “Hosanna” in faith that He will give to us by His grace all that He has merited for us. As we pray that He would hear us, we ask that His kingdom would bring us blessing forever.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Book. The season of Advent prepares us for Christ’s coming. The hymns of Advent teach that this is more than getting ready for Christmas; the Word of the Lord sung in hymnody helps us to receive Ch…
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Dec 15, 2022
Hark the Glad Sound
Rev. Steve Andrews, pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee’s Summit, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #349, “Hark the Glad Sound.”
This Advent hymn by Philip Doddridge calls us to listen to the good news that the long-promised Savior has come. He prepares our hearts to receive Him with humility and thanksgiving. Jesus comes to set us free from the bondage of Satan; He comes to heal our hearts and souls with the treasures of His grace. For His coming, we praise Him with songs of “Hosanna” not only now but forever.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Book. The season of Advent prepares us for Christ’s coming. The hymns of Advent teach that this is more than getting ready for Christmas; the Word of the Lord sung in hymnody helps us to receive Christ as He comes to us now in the means of grace and when He comes again in glory on the La…
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Dec 14, 2022
The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns
Rev. Peter Ill, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Millstadt, IL joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #348, “The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns.”
This hymn by John Brownlie helps us to meditate on Christ’s second coming through the imagery of the dawn of the morning. Picture the sun’s first rays lighting the hills; the glory of Christ’s second coming far surpasses that. Jesus came the first time as a little child to bear our sin and be our Savior; His second coming will be crowned with great glory. As bright and as glorious as Christ’s resurrection on Easter was, Christ’s second coming will be even brighter and more glorious. On that Day, we will see the beauty of His face, and so we pray for Him to come quickly as our King.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Book. The season of Advent prepares us for Christ’s coming. The hymns of Adv…
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Dec 13, 2022
Comfort, Comfort Ye My People
Rev. Andy Wright, pastor at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Topeka, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #347, “Comfort, Comfort, Ye My People.”
This beautiful Advent hymn summarizes the Word of God from Isaiah 40 to give us Christian comfort. God sends His messengers to proclaim peace to us in the midst of our sorrows and sins. This peace comes from the fact that God forgives our sins for the sake of Christ and covers us with His righteousness. God works this great reversal for us to take us from temporary sadness to eternal gladness. For that reason, we must listen to the preachers God sends to call us to repentance so that nothing stands in the way of His coming as our King. In that humble repentance, we find our rest in the promises of God, because we know that His Word will never fail.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Book. The season of Adv…
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Dec 12, 2022
When All the World Was Cursed
Rev. Rick Jones, chaplain and director of spiritual life at the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch in Minot, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #346, “When All the World Was Cursed.”
This hymn for the Nativity of St. John the Baptist also serves well to highlight the Advent themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. God sent John as a preacher of comfort to the world that was cursed under the Law. John’s preaching of repentance was sharp, yet he brought consolation by pointing to Jesus as the Savior. John did that when he leaped in his mother’s womb, and he did that in his ministry by the Jordan River. He pointed to Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the world’s sin; that means Jesus takes away our sin. Therefore, we pray that He would help us to hear the preaching of repentance in faith and so bring us to eternal life with Him.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section…
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Dec 9, 2022
Hark! A Thrilling Voice Is Sounding
Rev. Harrison Goodman, content executive for Higher Things, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #345, “Hark! A Thrilling Voice Is Sounding.”
The season of Advent reminds us that God shows up. Christ doesn’t stay distant from us; He comes to us. We must listen to this proclamation, not just from John, but from our pastors still today. Christ has made us the children of the light, and so we cast away the works of darkness. The warning of the Law wakes us up to flee from sin and dwell in the light of Christ. He is the Lamb of God who comes from heaven to take away our sin; we run to Him as He comes to us for forgiveness. Having known Christ as Savior now, when He comes in glory on the Last Day, we will not be fearful but joyful for His mercy and love. For such salvation, honor, glory, might, and dominion belong to the Triune God alone!
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent sectio…
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Dec 8, 2022
On Jordan’s Bank the Baptist’s Cry
Rev. Philip Hoppe, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Colby, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #344, “On Jordan’s Bank the Baptist’s Cry.”
Charles Coffin’s hymn text puts before us the familiar Advent preacher, John the Baptist. His sermon is simple: “Christ is here!” All must wake up and listen not only to John, but to every Christian preacher who proclaims this good news. By this proclamation, God calls us to repentance from our sin in preparation for faith in Christ. He is our Savior, our refuge, and our eternal reward without whom we only die. Therefore, we pray for His healing both now and ultimately in the resurrection of the dead. Because Christ has come to set us free from sin and death, we praise the Triune God forever.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Book. The season of Advent prepares us for Christ’s coming. The hymns…
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Dec 7, 2022
What Hope! An Eden Prophesied
Rev. Mark Barz, pastor at Crown of Life Lutheran Church in San Antonio, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #342, “What Hope! An Eden Prophesied.”
This more-recent Advent hymn from Pastor Stephen Starke draws from Isaiah 11 to help us rejoice in the hope of the new creation that is ours because the Savior has come to us. This Savior is the shoot from Jesse’s stem born in Bethlehem, Jesus Christ. He came to suffer and die for our sins on the cross, which now serves as the sign of God’s love for the whole world. Therefore, we pray that Christ would come again to restore Paradise so that we would not be forbidden entry but instead would be welcomed into an open heaven because of Jesus.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Book. The season of Advent prepares us for Christ’s coming. The hymns of Advent teach that this is more than getting ready for…
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Dec 6, 2022
Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates
Rev. Tim Storck, pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Chesterfield, MI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #341, “Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates.”
This hymn from Georg Weissel makes use of the language of Psalm 24 to help us pray that God would come to us as our Savior and King. This is not only a past or future event; He comes to us now to bring us life and salvation. Even as a King, He comes in humility and holiness to show us pity and bring an end to our woes. To have Christ as our King is true blessedness; therefore, we welcome Him as He comes to make us His temple. He answers our prayer and dwells with us, giving us His Holy Spirit to lead us unto eternal life. For all this, God alone be praised!
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Book. The season of Advent prepares us for Christ’s coming. The hymns of Advent teach that this is more…
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Dec 5, 2022
Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus
Rev. Andrew Jagow, pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Alexandria, VA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #338, “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus.”
This hymn from Charles Wesley teaches us to pray in expectation for our Lord to come. Although waiting is not a favorite pastime for most people, it is an essential discipline for Christians so that we would expect and prepare for Christ’s return. The One we are longing to come is Jesus, who sets us free from the worst enemies and gives us true freedom and rest in Himself. Jesus comes with both might and comfort for all people. As He has brought God’s kingdom in His birth, life, death, and resurrection, so we pray that Jesus would now bring His kingdom to us and reign over us. His Spirit gives us faith to trust in Him so that all idols are displaced from the throne of our hearts. There, Christ alone must reign. By all that He has done, He raises us to eternal life with Him.
“The Hymns of Advent'' i…
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Dec 2, 2022
The Night Will Soon Be Ending
Rev. Tim Koch, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Linn, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #337, “The Night Will Soon Be Ending.”
Jochen Klepper wrote this powerful text while he was living during the beginning of the Third Reich in pre-World War II Germany. That context of growing despair makes the hope of the hymn all the more powerful. Although the darkness of sin, guilt, grief, and pain is all around us, Christians have true hope in the fact that Christ, who is the Light of the world, will return. His first coming at Christmas shone this invincible light into our world to give us this hope even now. That’s why we run to the light of Christ as He comes to us now in Word and Sacraments, knowing that He has come for us lost sinners.
Text: The Night Will Soon Be Ending (Copyright: © 1998 GIA Publications, Inc. Used with permission.)
Author: Jochen Klepper, 1903-42
Translator: Herman G. Stuempfle, Jr., b. 1923
“The Hymns of Adve…
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Dec 1, 2022
Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending
Rev. James Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottumwa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #336, “Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending.”
This Advent text from Charles Wesley points us toward Christ’s coming on the Last Day. We look for His return expectantly, knowing that He is the One who was crucified for our sins. Everyone will see Jesus on that Day. Those who did not have faith in Him will see Him with terror, while those who loved Him will look with greatest joy upon the scars by which He won our salvation. In that joyful anticipation, we pray for the Day when Christ will clearly be seen and confessed as the only King over all.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Book. The season of Advent prepares us for Christ’s coming. The hymns of Advent teach that this is more than getting ready for Christmas; the Word of the Lord sung in hymn…
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Nov 30, 2022
O Lord, How Shall I Meet You
Rev. Carl Roth, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #334, “O Lord, How Shall I Meet You.”
Paul Gerhardt’s Advent text helps us to prepare to welcome the Lord with joy, knowing that He is the One who prepares us to meet Him. As the Palm Sunday crowds once welcomed Jesus with palms and praises, so we continue to greet Jesus with songs of “Hosanna” as He comes to us in the Sacrament of the Altar. He has come because of His great love for us sinners, and because He has come, we are set free from the burden of sin and long for the Day when He returns to take us to our eternal home.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Book. The season of Advent prepares us for Christ’s coming. The hymns of Advent teach that this is more than getting ready for Christmas; the Word of the Lord sung in hymnody helps us to recei…
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Nov 29, 2022
Once He Came in Blessing
Rev. Dr. Christian Preus, pastor at Mount Hope Lutheran Church and School in Casper WY, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #333, “Once He Came in Blessing.”
This hymn by Johann Horn takes us through the three comings of Christ. In His incarnation, Christ came to bless us as He came in humility to bear the cross for our salvation. Now, in the preaching of His Word and in the giving of His Body and Blood in the Sacrament, Christ comes to gently lead us and nourish us in His eternal life. On the Last Day, Christ will come in power and splendor for judgment; this is joyful for us as Christians because Christ has already spoken His verdict of justification to us. This truth leads us to pray that Christ would come, not only now in Word and Sacrament, but finally on the Last Day to take us to our eternal home with Him.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Boo…
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Nov 28, 2022
Savior of the Nations, Come
Rev. James Yonkers, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Danville, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Lutheran Service Book #332, “Savior of the Nations, Come.”
Written in the 300s by Ambrose of Milan, this hymn teaches us to pray that Jesus would come to us as the Savior. He made His home among us in His incarnation, and He still makes His home with us in His Church. The hymn speaks of the humble work of Jesus as the Word made flesh. Fully God, He became fully man when He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. Jesus ran His course for our salvation through the humility of suffering and death and into the exaltation of resurrection and ascension. Because the Son of God has won this victory in our flesh, we pray for His coming and abide in the light of His Word.
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Book. The season of Advent prepares us for Christ…
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Nov 28, 2022
NEW SERIES: The Hymns of Advent
“The Hymns of Advent'' is a series on Sharper Iron that looks at a variety of the hymns found in the Advent section Lutheran Service Book. The season of Advent prepares us for Christ’s coming. The hymns of Advent teach that this is more than getting ready for Christmas; the Word of the Lord sung in hymnody helps us to receive Christ as He comes to us now in the means of grace and when He comes again in glory on the Last Day.
Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen.
Sharper Iron is underwritten by Lutheran Church Extension Fund, where your investments help support the work of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit lcef.org.
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Nov 25, 2022
Christ is the Object of Thanksgiving (Rebroadcast)
(Enjoy some favorite previous Sharper Iron episodes as Pastor Appel moves to a new call. A new series for Advent begins November 28!)
Rev. Sam Wirgau, pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ossian, IN joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 17:11-19.
Samaria was not a place where many Jews of Jesus’ day ventured, but that is exactly the route Jesus took to Jerusalem and His cross. There Jesus encountered ten lepers. These men not only suffered greatly physically from this terrible illness. Even more than that, they were separated from their community and worship life through the ceremonial uncleanness they endured. This served as a picture of the sin that infects all people. That’s why these ten lepers cry out to Jesus for mercy, His grace and compassion that alone can heal and save. Jesus sends them to show themselves to the priest, and as they go, His Word effects healing. One recognizes what has happened and believes. He returns to Jesus as the true Temple, the place w…
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Nov 24, 2022
The Joy of Thanksgiving (Rebroadcast)
(Enjoy some favorite previous Sharper Iron episodes as Pastor Appel moves to a new call. A new series for Advent begins November 28!)
Rev. John Bussman, pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Cullman, AL joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Philippians 4:6-20.
The church at Philippi had seen the Apostle Paul go through highs and lows during his ministry. As he writes his letter to them from prison, he proclaims to them the joy that remains theirs in Christ regardless of their circumstances. Because the LORD’s return is near, Christians live differently in the world. We are freed from anxiousness and worry through the comfort that is ours in Christ. Prayer and supplication flows from our lips to our Father’s throne of grace. His peace, given through the death and resurrection of Jesus, is our true guard from all evil. For that reason, our minds are occupied with all the good that He gives, as the Apostle learned and modeled from the Lord. Paul’s joy continues to abound…
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Nov 23, 2022
Disciplined for Thanksgiving (Rebroadcast)
(Enjoy some favorite previous Sharper Iron episodes as Pastor Appel moves to a new call. A new series for Advent begins November 28!)
Rev. Harrison Goodman, pastor at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in San Antonio, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 8:1-10.
Before the LORD brings Israel into the Promised Land, Moses invites the people to reflect upon the goodness of the LORD’s commandments. This is no romanticized memory; rather, they recall the dirty details of their wilderness wanderings in which the LORD humbled them. The LORD tested His people, bringing them to acknowledge time and time again that their life was not under their own control. Instead, life comes from the LORD’s promises. His promises protected His people in their suffering, not apart from it. His discipline was for their good as He treated them as His sons. For this reason, they would keep, treasure, guard, and obey the LORD’s commandments. They knew that He was bringing them into an abund…
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Nov 22, 2022
Wisdom and Instruction: The Christian’s Boldness in Christ (Rebroadcast)
(Enjoy some favorite previous Sharper Iron episodes as Pastor Appel moves to a new call. A new series for Advent begins November 28!)
Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, associate pastor and headmaster at Grace Lutheran Church in Brenham, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 28:1-28.
Though unbelievers face the world with fear, Christians have boldness because their confidence is in Christ. Such confidence in Christ allows us to reflect honestly upon what the Proverbs reveal concerning our lives; we know that when we turn to Him in repentance, He responds with His mercy and forgiveness. In that forgiveness, Christians pray that the Lord would provide just rulers who will use their God-given authority according to His Word. Christians know the gift of diligent, honest labor and the foolishness of seeking after earthly wealth through worthless pursuits. True riches are found in the trust of the LORD.
This is a rebroadcast from October 15, 2020.
“Wisdom and Instruction”…
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Nov 21, 2022
The Psalter: Acrostics Aren’t Just for Poetry Geeks (Rebroadcast)
(Enjoy some favorite previous Sharper Iron episodes as Pastor Appel moves to a new call. A new series for Advent begins November 28!)
Rev. Andrew Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Haven, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 145.
The structure of Psalm 145 as an acrostic poem serves to underline the complete nature of God’s reign as King over all. His Kingdom is eternal, calling forth praise from all people. Doxology and doctrine go hand-in-hand as one generation tells the next of who God is and what He has done. The greatness of God’s kingdom is His righteousness, given by grace for Christ’s sake. For this righteousness, all of His works praise Him, because He continues to care for all His creation. He is near to all who call on Him, for Jesus is Immanuel. At the resurrection of all flesh, He will bring His righteous judgment and all will praise His holy name forever.
This is a rebroadcast from July 28, 2022.
Join Sharper Iron during the mo…
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Nov 18, 2022
Wisdom and Instruction: Wisdom Seeks Reconciliation (Rebroadcast)
(Enjoy some favorite previous Sharper Iron episodes as Pastor Appel moves to a new call. A new series for Advent begins November 28!)
Rev. James Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottumwa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 17:7-24.
Solomon continues to teach the benefit of the way of divine wisdom in contrast to the harm that comes from following the way of folly. The mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart. Each of us must examine, then, both what we speak and what we hear. Where conflict arises, Christian wisdom does not seek escalation, for growing strife is from the devil. Instead, Christian wisdom seeks after reconciliation, covering the neighbor’s sin with the forgiveness won by Christ. Such wisdom cannot be purchased with money. In a tragic irony, an abundance of money may lead only to folly. The company one keeps is of utmost importance; Christians need to be surrounded by Christian friends who will fill their ears with the Word of God. Th…
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Nov 17, 2022
The Psalter: Praising God for the History of His Grace (Rebroadcast)
(Enjoy some favorite previous Sharper Iron episodes as Pastor Appel moves to a new call. A new series for Advent begins November 28!)
Rev. David Vandercook, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Little Rock, AR and Shepherd of Peace Lutheran Church in Maumelle, AR, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 105.
Psalm 105 calls upon God’s people to praise Him for His grace shown to them throughout their history. The psalmist traces all that the LORD has done for His people starting with the covenant made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The LORD was gracious even when He summoned a famine and sent Joseph in chains to Egypt. The LORD’s grace persevered through Israel’s enslavement in Egypt and deliverance after the plagues. The LORD gave His people their daily bread and more as He brought them through the wilderness and into the Promised Land. At each turn, Psalm 105 teaches us to praise God by recounting the specific things God has done for us throughout history. This p…
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Nov 16, 2022
Wisdom and Instruction: The Wisdom of God Leads to Long Life (Rebroadcast)
(Enjoy some favorite previous Sharper Iron episodes as Pastor Appel moves to a new call. A new series for Advent begins November 28!)
Rev. David Appold, pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Paducah, KY, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 16:25-17:6.
Solomon repeats a previous proverb as he warns against following after whatever seems right in human sight. Only when our thoughts are shaped by the LORD in His Word can we walk the way of life. When a man’s heart is worthless or dishonest, his words will match. Wisdom recognizes both when silence is necessary and when speaking up in defense of a neighbor is required. A life of wisdom generally leads to long life, for it is guided by the strength found in self-control, which is a gift of the Holy Spirit. Trusting in Him as individuals and within our households is true wisdom, a better goal rather than any earthly wealth.
This is a rebroadcast from September 24, 2020.
“Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-ser…
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Nov 15, 2022
The Psalter: The Gospel Squillo (Rebroadcast)
(Enjoy some favorite previous Sharper Iron episodes as Pastor Appel moves to a new call. A new series for Advent begins November 28!)
Rev. Chris Hull, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Tomball, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 96.
The Church’s song is always new because the Church sings of the saving works that God has done in bringing about His new creation. Though the world sings a loud song for its idols, this song can offer nothing but emptiness. The Church’s song cuts through the noise with true hope in Christ. We sing together with all creation for what God does as our gracious King and righteous Judge.
This is a rebroadcast from July 21, 2022.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to speak back to Him in prayer. Even in the great variety of the Psalms, each one points us to our Savior, Jesus Christ.
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Nov 14, 2022
Wisdom and Instruction: Wisdom Builds Upon Christ (Rebroadcast)
(Enjoy some favorite previous Sharper Iron episodes as Pastor Appel moves to a new call. A new series for Advent begins November 28!)
Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 14:1-35.
Solomon continues to write concerning the wisdom founded on the fear of the LORD. This basis is a necessary lens through which to see each individual proverb. The wisdom by which anyone builds a lasting household is more than economic or social principles; a lasting household is built upon the wisdom of forgiveness that is found in Christ alone. Such upright living only comes when we bow in humility before the LORD. Because He has made Himself our Brother in Christ Jesus, He knows the bitterness and sorrows of our hearts. Though sometimes we do not see the reality of these proverbs in this temporal life, faith trusts what God’s Word says. In this, the fear of the LORD provides a refuge for us and our children. The fear of…
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Nov 11, 2022
Farewell, Joshua
Rev. Jason Kaspar, pastor at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in La Grange, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 24:16-33.
The people respond to Joshua’s charge by promising their faithfulness, which is the right response. Joshua reminds them that such faithfulness is only possible through the LORD’s faithfulness to them; Israel must not place their hope in their own willpower. Joshua says that Israel’s answer will be a witness against them, and he sets up a stone as a witness as well. If Israel falls into unfaithfulness, these witnesses may serve as an opportunity to call them to repentance. Joseph’s bones are finally buried in accordance with his instructions as a reminder of the hope of the resurrection to come. The death of Joshua and Eleazar at the end of the book of Joshua remind us that even with the faithfulness of these men, the Savior is still coming. Therefore, we keep reading the Scriptures to meet Him when He comes: Jesus Christ.
“The Promised Lan…
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Nov 10, 2022
As for Me and My House, We Will Serve the LORD
Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 24:1-15.
Joshua gives his final farewell address to Israel at Shechem, a key location in the history of God’s promise to Abraham. There, Joshua reminds the people of the way God called Abraham out of his idolatry and made him the promise of many offspring. The LORD fulfilled that promise to Abraham, even when Jacob and his children went to Egypt. The LORD sent Moses and Aaron to rescue Israel from slavery in Egypt, and then the LORD provided for Israel in the wilderness. The LORD defeated Israel’s enemies before them in order to give them the Promised Land. Over and over, Joshua focuses the people on what the LORD has done for them. He then puts the charge to them. Are any idols better than the LORD? Of course not. Only the LORD is the true God who saves His people; Joshua pledges faithfulness to the LORD as the only response.
“The Promised Land Delivered”…
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Nov 9, 2022
Not One of God’s Promises Fails
Rev. John Bussman, pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Cullman, AL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 23:1-16.
After some time has passed, Joshua is old and advanced in years, and he knows that his death will be coming soon. He reminds Israel of all that God has done for them in giving them the Promised Land and driving out the idolaters from Canaan. He encourages Israel to be faithful to the Word of the LORD and to avoid mixing with the remaining Canaanites, lest they lead Israel astray. Joshua reminds the people that the LORD kept every promise He made to them without fail. This serves both as encouragement and warning, lest Israel prove unfaithful to the LORD and so that He keeps His promise to remove them from the land.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land under Joshua. Throughout the book, the LORD…
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Nov 8, 2022
An Altar of Witness
Rev. Vance Becker, LCMS missionary to Kenya, serving as a theological educator at Neema Lutheran College in Matongo, Kenya, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 22:1-34. Learn more about Rev. Becker and how to support his work in Kenya at lcms.org/becker.
Now that the land has rest, it is time for the eastern tribes to go home. Joshua sends them back across the Jordan River with compliments for their faithfulness, encouragement for continued faithfulness, and his blessing from the LORD. Their super-sized model of the LORD’s altar causes confusion among the western tribes. These nine-and-a-half tribes send a delegation to the eastern tribes in accordance with Moses’ instructions, investigating whether idolatry is occurring in Israel. The eastern tribes assure their brothers that no such idolatry is taking place, and they have every intention of worshiping the LORD only at His chosen place. The altar they have built is intended as a witness to Israel on both sides of th…
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Nov 7, 2022
Call Day for the Levites
Rev. Brian Flamme, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Roswell, NM, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 21:1-45.
The LORD did not forget about the Levites in the distribution of land. He scatters them throughout the land of Israel in forty-eight different cities so that they might live among all the tribes of Israel. There they will serve the proclamation of the Gospel through the sacrifices that point forward to Jesus. They live by faith in the promises of God, knowing that He will provide for them as the people of Israel bring their tithes. The LORD gives rest to His people under Joshua as a proclamation of the fullness of the rest that is ours in Christ and His Word. God’s Word proves true; not one of His promises fails.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land under Joshua. Throughout the book, the LORD prov…
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Nov 4, 2022
Jesus, Refuge for Sinners
Rev. Joel Heckmann, pastor at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Okarche, OK, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 19:32-20:9.
Naphtali and Dan are the last tribes of Israel to receive their inheritance in the Promised Land. Joshua, the faithful spy, receives his inheritance just as Caleb had previously; both men stand as examples of patience and faith in God’s promises. After the division of land is finished, the LORD tells Joshua to establish the three cities of refuge on the western side of the Jordan River. These cities foreshadow the work of our Lord Jesus Christ to be our refuge from sin and death. By the justice of God poured out on Christ, we are justified.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land under Joshua. Throughout the book, the LORD proves that not one of His Word falls unfulfilled. Today, the Church h…
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Nov 3, 2022
Better to Be in the Promised Land
Rev. Nate Hill, pastor at St. Michael’s Lutheran Church in Winchester, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 19:1-31.
The tribes of Simeon, Zebulun, Issachar, and Asher are next in line to receive their inheritance within the Promised Land. Even though they do not receive their inheritance first, the fact that they are in the Promised Land in fulfillment of God’s Word is better than even having the best land elsewhere. A variety of places within these four tribes are important elsewhere in the Scriptures. Through sections like this part of Joshua 19, the LORD reminds us that He keeps His promises to bring a Savior to the whole world.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land under Joshua. Throughout the book, the LORD proves that not one of His Word falls unfulfilled. Today, the Church has the same confidence t…
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Nov 2, 2022
God Keeps Real Promises to Real People in Real Places
Rev. Sam Wirgau, pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ossian, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 18:1-28.
A change in location to Shiloh and mention of the tent of meeting serve as reminders that the LORD is giving Canaan to His people in order to dwell among them. Joshua encourages the seven tribes who have not yet received their inheritance to trust in the LORD’s promises and take possession of His gift. Joshua sends surveyors out into the land to describe it to him before it is divided by lot, according to the LORD’s will. This serves as an example of the way the LORD works through His people in their vocations. Of the seven remaining tribes, Benjamin receives his allotment first, a small but significant portion of land among the people of God.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land under Joshua. Thr…
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Nov 1, 2022
An Abundant Inheritance for Joseph’s Sons
Rev. Matt Ulmer, pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Bishop, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 16:1-17:18.
The two tribes of Joseph receive their allotment next. Because Jacob adopted Joseph’s two sons as his own, Joseph receives a double inheritance in Israel. Ephraim, the younger, receives the inheritance ahead of his older brother, Manasseh, as a reminder that God chooses according to His own will and not according to human wisdom. The fact that both Ephraim and Manasseh fail to drive Canaanites out entirely foreshadows the trouble Israel faces in Judges. Rather than receiving the fullness of God’s gift, they did not trust His complete promises. The daughters of Zelophehad serve as an example of boldness and prayer, and Joshua’s encouragement to the sons of Joseph reminds us to receive the fullness of God’s promises.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD…
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Oct 31, 2022
Don’t Skip the Real Estate Sections of the Bible!
Rev. Dr. Adam Koontz, pastor and evangelist at Trinity Lutheran Church in Denver, CO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 15:13-63.
The allotment to Judah continues with a beautiful account of Caleb and his daughter Achsah and his son-in-law Othniel. These faithful saints serve as examples of courage in God’s promises and boldness in prayer. As Caleb gave generously to his daughter and son-in-law, so God gives lavishly to His children. The people of Judah receive extensive consideration in Joshua 15 as a reminder of their prominence theologically. Though politically they may have been less significant, the fact that the Christ will come from this tribe gives them great importance.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land under Joshua. Throughout the book, the LORD proves that not one of His Word falls unfulfilled.…
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Oct 28, 2022
The Patient, Courageous, and Faithful Spy
Rev. Sam Beltz, pastor at St. John Lutheran Church in Oskaloosa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 14:1-15:12.
As Joshua begins to allot the land on the west side of the Jordan River, Caleb receives his inheritance first. The faithful spy lived by faith in the promises of the LORD throughout his eighty-five years. The LORD brought Caleb out of slavery in Egypt, sustained Caleb during the wilderness wandering, and now is bringing Caleb into the Promised Land. Caleb’s patience and courage serve as an example to Christians. As the land continues to be allotted, Judah receives their portion as the tribe through whom the promised Messiah will come.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land under Joshua. Throughout the book, the LORD proves that not one of His Word falls unfulfilled. Today, the Church has the same…
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Oct 27, 2022
It’s Time to Allot the Land
Rev. David Boisclair, pastor at Bethesda and Faith Lutheran Churches in north St. Louis County, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 13:1-33.
Although there remains unconquered land in Canaan, the LORD instructs Joshua to divide the land among the people already. The LORD’s promise means that possession of the land is certain, for He will drive the Canaanites out in order to give His people their inheritance. Joshua first recounts the way that the land on the east side of the Jordan River has been allotted to Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land under Joshua. Throughout the book, the LORD proves that not one of His Word falls unfulfilled. Today, the Church has the same confidence that all of God’s promises find their “Yes” in Christ.
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Oct 26, 2022
Notches on the LORD’s Belt
Rev. Jacob Dandy, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church and School in Terra Bella, CA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 12:1-24.
While a list of defeated kings may seem tedious to modern readers, this chapter serves as a reminder that the LORD is King of kings without rival or equal. Neither mighty Sihon nor gigantic Og stood a chance on the east side of the Jordan, and the kings on the west side of the Jordan River aren’t even named as the LORD lists His victories through Moses and Joshua. As the kings of Canaan fell before the LORD one by one, so our enemies sin, death, and the devil have fallen before our Lord Jesus Christ. As we hear of the LORD’s victories in Joshua 12, we are led to rejoice all the more in Jesus’ victory over our enemies for the sake of our eternal salvation.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promi…
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Oct 25, 2022
Final Conquest and Rest
Rev. Jeremiah Johnson, pastor at Glory of Christ Lutheran Church in Plymouth, MN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 11:1-23.
As the kings in northern Canaan hear of Israel’s victories elsewhere, they band together to fight against Israel in ways that are reminiscent of Egypt and in ways that look forward to the final battle of the enemies of God against the people of God. Yet the LORD is stronger than all His enemies; He is with Joshua and Israel to defeat their enemies with no trouble at all. As Israel finishes the conquest of northern Canaan, devoting to the LORD those things that He commands, the land begins to have rest from war, and the LORD gives the land to the people as an inheritance. This points us forward to the final rest and inheritance that is ours in Christ Jesus.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promis…
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Oct 24, 2022
The LORD’s Victory Isn’t In Doubt
Rev. Sean Kilgo, pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Lawrence, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 10:28-43.
Joshua recounts the conquest of southern Canaan in rapid succession. He tells of the victories against several towns one after another as a reminder that the outcome of these battles was never in doubt. The people of Israel had the LORD’s promise that they would conquer the land, and there was no question that the LORD would make good on His promise. As they listened to His Word and faithfully carried it out, He gave the land into their hands. Even when the LORD’s Word seemed counterintuitive to human wisdom, the LORD’s Word always proved true.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land under Joshua. Throughout the book, the LORD proves that not one of His Word falls unfulfilled. Today, the Church h…
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Oct 21, 2022
The Day the Sun Stood Still
Rev. Dr. Adam Filipek, pastor at Holy Cross and Immanuel Lutheran Churches in Lidgerwood, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 10:1-27.
The pagan kings of Canaan consider Gibeon traitorous for making peace with Israel. These kings ally with each other and attack Gibeon. Joshua honors the treaty made with Gibeon and goes quickly to their aid with the LORD’s promise. As He has done in the past, so the LORD continues to fight for His people and gives the victory to Israel. He does so through the miraculous means of causing the sun to stand still, a reminder of the cosmic battle that the LORD wages for us against sin, death, and Satan. As the LORD provides for the complete conquest of the five Canaanite kings and their armies, He foreshadows His ultimate victory over His enemies and ours through Jesus’ death and resurrection.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remain…
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Oct 20, 2022
Better to Be a Slave to God
Rev. Mark Barz, pastor at Crown of Life Lutheran Church in San Antonio, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 9:1-27.
The reaction to Israel’s conquest of Canaan is twofold. The majority of the people begin to ally with each other against Israel, but the people of Gibeon choose the path of cunning. They dress as if they are from a far country and make Israel an offer for peace. Israel questions the Gibeonites at length, but they fail to inquire of the LORD before making a covenant of peace. When the deception is revealed, Israel stays true to their oath made in the LORD’s name, but Joshua sentences the Gibeonites to a life of service to Israel. The Gibeonites receive this willingly with their lives spared. Through this strange account, the LORD reveals His mercy upon both Israel and Gibeon and reminds all people that trust in Him is never put to shame.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the d…
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Oct 19, 2022
Faithful to the LORD’s Word
Rev. Isaac Schuller, pastor at First Immanuel Lutheran Church in San Jose, CA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 8:1-35.
Now that Israel has faithfully dealt with Achan’s sin, the LORD instructs Joshua in the way he will defeat the city of Ai. As with Jericho, so in Ai the battle belongs to the LORD. Joshua leads the people in following the LORD’s battle plan, and the LORD delivers the city into their hands through a feigned retreat and a waiting ambush. After Ai’s defeat, Joshua leads the people of Israel in renewing the covenant on Mount Ebal, just as the LORD had instructed them to do through Moses. Even in the midst of the conquest of Canaan, the people are given the opportunity to worship and receive the LORD’s gifts.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land under Joshua. Throughout the book, the LORD…
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Oct 18, 2022
Achan’s Sin
Rev. Doug Griebenaw, mission advocate for KFUO Radio in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 7:1-26.
After the victory at mighty Jericho, Israel foresees an easy conquest of little Ai. Unknown to Joshua and the rest of Israel, however, is the sin of Achan in taking some of the devoted things from Jericho. For that reason, Ai sends Israel packing on the first offensive. Joshua cries to the LORD in response, and the LORD reveals to Joshua what has happened and gives him the method by which the evil can be purged from Israel. Achan is quickly singled out as the sinner, and he makes confession. The people are faithful in bringing the punishment upon Achan prescribed by the LORD, a reminder of the deadly seriousness of sin.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land under Joshua. Throughout the book, the LORD…
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Oct 17, 2022
The Walls Came Tumbling Down
Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 6:1-27.
The LORD’s battle plan against Jericho is not what a human general would have designed. The commander of the LORD’s army instructs Joshua that the people are to march around Jericho once a day for six consecutive days. The LORD is their leader through the ark of the covenant. On the seventh day, the people are to march around the city seven times and only after that are they to shout. Joshua leads the people in following the LORD’s instructions exactly, and the LORD is faithful in giving the mighty city into the hands of His people. They devote everything to destruction, but Rahab is spared according to the promise made to her by the spies. Even as the LORD shows His justice in destroying the idolaters of Jericho, Rahab stands as an example of the LORD’s faithfulness to save.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes thro…
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Oct 14, 2022
Worship Before War
Rev. Dan Speckhard, pastor at St. Peter Lutheran Church and School in North Judson, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 5:1-15.
Before the people begin to take the Promised Land, the LORD serves them with His covenant gifts. Circumcision was the sign of the covenant God had made with Abraham, but the men born in the wilderness had not yet received it. God provides for them to pause at Gilgal in order to receive this gift and so roll away the reproach that the people had known. After the men have healed, the LORD provides for His people to celebrate the first Passover in the Promised Land. Now that they have received the fullness of the fruits of the land, the gift of manna is no longer needed. The commander of the LORD’s army then appears to Joshua; this is the pre-incarnate Son of God who assures Joshua that He is with the people of Israel as they prepare to conquer the land. The pattern given by the LORD to His people Israel here corresponds to the way God is still…
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Oct 13, 2022
Memorial Monuments at the Jordan
Rev. Luke Zimmerman, pastor at Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mechanicsburg, PA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 4:1-24.
The account of Israel’s crossing the Jordan continues to reveal more details. The LORD commands Joshua to take twelve stones from the Jordan River bed in order to build a memorial monument so that their children can be taught what the LORD had done. Joshua carries out the LORD’s instructions faithfully and also builds a monument within the river itself. The people cross the river in haste, including the warriors from the two and a half tribes whose land would be on the east side of the Jordan. Once all the people have crossed, the priests carrying the ark leave the river, and the water returns to its place. The memory of this event will serve to teach not only the children of Israel but all nations the might of the LORD to save.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After…
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Oct 12, 2022
When I Tread the Verge of Jordan
Rev. Clint Poppe, pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Lincoln, NE, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 3:1-17.
The moment has finally come for Israel to enter the Promised Land. As Moses had once led the people through the Red Sea on dry ground, so now Joshua will lead the people through the Jordan River. The LORD provides for the ark of the covenant to lead the way so that people will recognize that God Himself goes before them. He is the living God who will drive out the pagan nations from the Promised Land. Joshua instructs the people faithfully, and they follow the LORD’s Word faithfully. When the priests bearing the ark set foot in the flooded Jordan River, the LORD causes the water to stop flowing downstream so that His people can enter into the Promised Land.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land…
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Oct 11, 2022
The Faith of Rahab
Rev. Timothy Sandeno, pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Gorham, ME, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 2:1-24.
Joshua had previously been among twelve spies sent into the Promised Land by Moses, but the ten unfaithful spies led the people into ruin. Forty years later, Joshua sends only two spies to Jericho to view the land. They find refuge in the house of Rahab, a prostitute who has been brought to faith in the true God. She intercedes on behalf of her family and seeks refuge for them all among the people of God. The spies indicate that a scarlet cord will be the sign by which Rahab and her family will mark their home and so be safe from destruction. Rahab serves as an example of faith, and the entire account points to Jesus as the One in whom we take refuge from death.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land…
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Oct 10, 2022
Be Strong and Courageous
Rev. Adolph Harstad, Professor of Exegetical Theology at Bethany Lutheran Theological Seminary in Mankato, MN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 1:1-18.
The book of Joshua picks up right where the book of Deuteronomy ended. Moses has died. That means that it is time for Israel to enter the Promised Land. As Joshua assumes leadership of Israel for that very task, the LORD reassures Joshua with His promise to go before His servant. This promise gives Joshua courage and strength for the days ahead. As Joshua begins to prepare the people for their entry into the Promised Land, they respond faithfully to the LORD’s Word and encourage Joshua in his God-given role as their leader.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land under Joshua. Throughout the book, the LORD proves that not one of His Word falls unfulfilled. Toda…
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Oct 10, 2022
NEW SERIES: The Promised Land Delivered
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land under Joshua. Throughout the book, the LORD proves that not one of His Word falls unfulfilled. Today, the Church has the same confidence that all of God’s promises find their “Yes” in Christ.
Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen.
Sharper Iron is underwritten by Lutheran Church Extension Fund, where your investments help support the work of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit lcef.org.
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Oct 7, 2022
Auf Wiedersehen, Moses
Rev. Peter Ill, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Millstadt, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 34:1-12.
What Moses has known would happen finally comes. The LORD sends Moses up Mount Nebo where He shows His faithful prophet the entirety of the Promised Land. The LORD reminds Moses that he will not enter the land due to his unfaithfulness, yet the LORD reminds Moses that He is keeping the promise He made to Abraham. This comforts Moses to know that the LORD will keep His promise to give Moses eternal life. The LORD had preserved Moses for 120 years of earthly life, and the people of Israel appropriately mourn his death. As the LORD now will use Joshua to lead Israel, still Moses’ status as a faithful prophet remained unmatched–until the promised Prophet of Deuteronomy 18 arrived, Jesus Christ.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may…
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Oct 6, 2022
Moses’ Final Blessing
Rev. Matt Wietfeldt, Vice President of Admission and director of the Christ Academy program at Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 33:18-29.
Moses concludes his blessing of the tribes of Israel one at a time, each revealing something about the particular tribe and the way that God shows His love to all of Israel. The conclusion of Moses’ blessing reminds Israel that only the LORD is God; He is their eternal dwelling place. They are a blessed people, not because of their own strength or might, but because they are a people saved by the LORD.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians. As Moses strengthened Israel on the plains of Moab before the people entered the Promised Land, so the book of Deuteronomy still strengthen…
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Oct 5, 2022
Moses’ Valedictory Benediction
Rev. Bernie Schey, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Old Dime Box, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 33:1-17.
As Jacob had blessed his twelve sons before he died, now Moses blesses the twelve tribes of Israel before he dies. In his blessing, Moses shows his fatherly care for the nation that he has led for forty years. The blessing begins with a reminder of the LORD’s love for Israel shown from Sinai onward. As Moses begins to work his way from one tribe to the next, he blesses them appropriately both concerning their history and coming inheritance. Each blessing points forward to the blessing that is ours in Christ Jesus.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians. As Moses strengthened Israel on the plains of Moab before the people entered the Promised Land,…
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Oct 4, 2022
No Empty Word
Rev. Ned Moerbe, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Blackwell, OK, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 32:39-52.
Moses finishes the song given by the LORD with a grand climax. The LORD alone is God with all authority either to kill or to make alive; He intends that His alien work leads to His proper work. All that He does brings great joy to His people. After Moses finishes the song, he commends it into the hearts of the people, for it is God’s Word that gives life. The LORD then tells Moses that he is about to go up Mount Nebo, where he will see the Promised Land before he dies.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians. As Moses strengthened Israel on the plains of Moab before the people entered the Promised Land, so the book of Deuteronomy still strengthens the C…
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Oct 3, 2022
Your No-Gods Are No Good
Rev. Harrison Goodman, content executive for Higher Things, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 32:19-38.
Moses continues to give the song commanded by the LORD to the people of Israel. The idols they worship are not actually gods at all; when the LORD provokes His people and makes them jealous, He does so in order to call them back to Himself. The wrath and judgment that He pours out upon His people is intended to show His people that their false gods can do nothing to save; only the LORD is the true rock of salvation. He brings that salvation finally to His people by taking all of the wrath and punishment that sin deserves upon Himself in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians. As Moses strengthened Israel on the plains of Moab…
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Sep 30, 2022
The Rock and Jeshurun
Rev. Philip Hoppe, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Colby, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 31:30-32:18.
Moses begins to give Israel the song that the LORD commanded in the previous chapter. He calls upon the heavens and the earth to listen as witnesses and prays that his teaching of God’s Word will bring growth as he proclaims the name of the LORD. Moses calls the LORD “the Rock,” for He is upright, just, and faithful. Though Israel should have been like Him, they have been corrupt and crooked toward their Creator. Moses recounts all of the LORD’s faithfulness to Israel in bringing them safely through the wilderness into the Promised Land. He calls Israel “Jeshurun” as a reminder that they should have been upright, like the LORD, but their idolatry made them crooked as they forgot the LORD.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deutero…
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Sep 29, 2022
Witnesses Against Israel
Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 31:14-29.
Moses and Joshua present themselves before the LORD, who appears in the tent in the pillar of cloud. Moses is about to die, but he will go to be with his fathers in the faith. The LORD foretells that the people of Israel will only grow worse and forsake Him; therefore, He gives Moses a song that will serve as a witness against them during their times of unfaithfulness. The LORD Himself commissions Joshua, and Moses carries out the LORD’s command to write the song and to write down the words of the law. That written law, placed by the ark of the covenant, will also serve as a witness against the people of Israel, along with all heaven and earth. By giving these witnesses against Israel, the LORD intends to call His people back to repentance.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy.…
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Sep 28, 2022
The LORD Goes Before You
Rev. Richard Mittwede, pastor at University Lutheran Church in Austin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 31:1-13.
Even as his death draws closer, Moses continues to speak to Israel. Although Moses will not go across the Jordan into the Promised Land, the LORD will go over with them, and He will win the victory for them there, as He has already begun. Joshua will be the human leader of Israel after Moses; the LORD will be with Joshua to give him strength and courage for the task. Moses writes the law down for the priests to read to the people every seven years at the Feast of Booths. All Israel is to hear it so that might keep the Word of God for their very life.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians. As Moses strengthened Israel on the plains of Moab before th…
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Sep 27, 2022
Choose Life
Rev. Tim Koch, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Linn, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 30:1-20.
The LORD knows that His people will break His covenant and be scattered throughout the nations. He comforts them in the face of that reality ahead of time, for He will call them to return to Him and bring them back to Himself. Both for them and their offspring, the LORD will circumcise their hearts by faith so that they will love Him. As Moses brings his third sermon in Deuteronomy to a close, he reminds the people of Israel that they have the Word of God as a gift. Before them lie two paths: one of life and one of death. Moses urges them to choose life by loving God and holding fast to Him.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians. As Moses strengthened Israel on th…
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Sep 26, 2022
A Covenant for You and Generations to Come
Rev. Lucas Witt, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Baltimore, MD, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 29:1-29.
As his death draws nearer, Moses summons all Israel to continue to urge them to faithfulness. He reminds them of all that the LORD has done for them up to their day. The LORD has done this for all of them: men and women, young and old, sojourner and native. The LORD’s Word is for them, but it is not only for them; it is also for the generations to come. Moses warns them lest they fall into idolatry, such as they had left behind in Egypt. No one can think that he is safe from breaking the LORD’s commands. If Israel does, the LORD will bring about His curses, and all the nations will look in wonder upon what the LORD did to His own people. Even though His people have been faithless and in His secret will the LORD acts in ways that His people may not understand, we cling to His revealed will to bring us to repentance and faith and so save us through Jesu…
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Sep 23, 2022
The Last State Is Worse than the First
Rev. Stephen Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Vinton, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 28:45-68.
Moses continues to speak of the curses that the LORD will bring upon Israel if they break the covenant. This will not happen by historical coincidence; the LORD will cause His people to serve their enemies because they did not serve Him. The LORD will make use a foreign nation to send His people into exile, which happens especially with Assyria and Babylon. The description of the people’s suffering during the siege is absolutely horrific; such is the way of sin. As the curse grows worse and worse, the LORD reminds us of the need for repentance, lest in unrepentant sin we separate ourselves from Him and His blessing.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians…
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Sep 22, 2022
A Living Death
Rev. David Appold, pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Paducah, KY, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 28:15-44.
Moses turns from the blessings for keeping the covenant to the curses for breaking the covenant. The curses are noticeably longer; God takes sin absolutely seriously, and He will punish it. As the blessings touched every aspect of life, so the curses touch every aspect of life. To live under God’s curse is to receive a living death. All hope and promise is taken away because of rebellion against God and stubborn refusal to live under His Word. As Moses lays out the various effects of the curses, his words become prophetic, as we know Israel did indeed fall away from the LORD. Recognizing the severity of sin and its curse gives us an even greater joy for what Christ has done by becoming a curse in our place.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermo…
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Sep 21, 2022
Blessings of the Covenant
Rev. Jeffrey Ries, pastor at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tacoma, WA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 28:1-14.
Moses begins to lay out the blessings that Israel will experience if they keep the LORD’s commandments. The LORD’s blessing will touch absolutely every aspect of Israel’s life in the Promised Land. No matter where they are or what they are doing, Israel will receive the LORD’s blessing if they keep His Word. The history of Israel shows the ways that the LORD blessed His people in these ways, though their eventual unfaithfulness led the LORD to bring about His curses against them as well. Christ is the One who has kept God’s Law perfectly so that by faith in Him, we receive the blessing of God, not simply temporally, but especially eternally in the resurrection when Jesus returns.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy…
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Sep 20, 2022
Curses for Breaking the Decalogue
Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, associate pastor and headmaster at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Brenham, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 27:9-26.
The Levitical priests join Moses to tell the people of Israel to be quiet and listen to the LORD’s Word. When the people go over the Jordan into the Promised Land, six tribes will stand on Mount Gerizim for blessing and six tribes will stand on Mount Ebal for curses. The curses that the Levites will declare all connect to the Decalogue. Those who do not love God above all else and love their neighbor as themselves ally themselves with the devil as enemies of God. He speaks these curses in order to warn the people of the great seriousness of sin, and the people respond by saying, “Amen,” for all God’s Word is true. St. Paul quotes from the last verse of this text in reference to Christ, who has become the curse for us so that in Him we receive God’s blessing of forgiveness and life eternal.
“The Law of G…
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Sep 19, 2022
The Altar on Mount Ebal
Rev. Dr. Jeff Dukeman, pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Gulfport, MS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 27:1-8.
Moses begins his third sermon in the book of Deuteronomy. As Moses’ earthly life draws to a close and the people will be under new leadership, the elders join Moses in instructing the people. The emphasis on keeping the LORD’s Word continues. When the people enter into the Promised Land, they are to have a physical reminder of the importance of God’s Word by constructing an altar on Mount Ebal. Uncut stones will be covered in plaster so that the Word of God can be written on the altar; perhaps this is the entire book of Deuteronomy or the Decalogue. The sacrifices offered at this altar will be a joyful reminder of what God has done and what God has spoken to His people.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be temptin…
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Sep 16, 2022
All We Have Is a Gift
Rev. Kyle Mietzner, chaplain in the United States Army training at Fort Jackson in Columbia, SC, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 26:1-19.
The LORD will bring His people into the Promised Land, in fulfillment of His promise. Their offerings of firstfruits and tithes there will remind them that all they have is a gift from the LORD. Their giving will be a joyful act of worship as they recall how the LORD had taken them from nothing to make them into His holy people. By giving their things to support the priests, Levites, and those in need, they show their absolute dependence upon the LORD as the One who provides all things needful. Moses wraps up his second sermon in Deuteronomy by reminding the people that the LORD has declared them to be His treasured possession. In grateful thanks for what the LORD has done, they must hold onto His Word with all their heart and soul.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book…
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Sep 15, 2022
Just Punishments and Rewards
Rev. James Yonkers, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Danville, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 25:1-19.
God’s Law consistently calls for true justice, in which crimes are punished appropriately while upholding the humanity of both the criminal and the judge. Those who labor should receive their wages from their work. Instructions surrounding levirate marriage come from a concern for preserving a family line, as does a law for punishment for a woman who inappropriately prevents a man from having children. Fair and just measurements are required for Israelites, lest the poor receive injustice. The LORD will have His justice carried out on nations that have rejected Him and His people.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians. As Moses strengthened Israel o…
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Sep 14, 2022
Concern for Marriage and the Lowly
Rev. Greg Truwe, pastor at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Cole Camp, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 24:1-22.
Moses continues to speak God’s Word to a wide variety of situations Israel will face in the Promised Land. He does not command divorce, but provides an allowance for a very specific situation due to the hardness of the human heart. The positive command concerning a man staying at home with his wife for a year after marriage instead of serving in the army reveals the sanctity of God’s gift of marriage. Concern for the lowly in society is revealed by laws concerning pledges, theft, loans, wages, justice, and harvesting. The memory of how God rescued Israel from Egypt provides important motivation for Israel, even as the joy over Christ’s salvation of us sinners provides motivation for our good works today.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ length…
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Sep 13, 2022
The LORD Dwells in His Assembly
Rev. David Vandercook, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Little Rock, AR and Shepherd of Peace Lutheran Church in Maumelle, AR, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 23:1-25.
As Moses speaks about who shall not enter the assembly of the LORD, the matter of true or false religion is the key. Purposeful mutilation of the body is a rejection of God’s promise of the Seed in Genesis 3. The LORD desires that all people would come to true faith in Him, but those who hold onto their false religion cannot be a part of His assembly. Because He dwells in the Israelite camp, their concern for holiness and cleanliness is paramount, even as they also show consideration for the well-being of their neighbor. Laws concerning escaped slaves, cult prostitution, interest on loans, vows, and gleaning all apply the Decalogue to the everyday lives of Israel in the Promised Land.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deu…
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Sep 12, 2022
God Protects Marriage
Rev. Doug Griebenaw, mission advocate for KFUO Radio in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 22:13-30.
God gave the 6th Commandment in order to protect His gift of marriage. When people live in concert with this commandment, not only do husbands and wives benefit, but all of society is built up. The variety of laws that God gives through Moses uphold the holy gift of marriage, warning against sins of adultery, rape, incest, and sexual immorality. The LORD spells out consequences of actions ahead of time in order that His people would avoid such sins altogether and spare themselves not only legal ramifications, but the pain and hurt that such sins bring. Instead, God desires that His people honor marriage as His gift.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christia…
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Sep 9, 2022
Christ Became a Curse for Sinners
Rev. Dr. Christian Preus, pastor at Mount Hope Lutheran Church and School in Casper, WY, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 21:18-22:12.
Moses continues to provide a variety of instructions for Israel’s life in the Promised Land. The matter of parental authority in the 4th Commandment is God’s good gift, to be despised neither by the parents nor the children. The capital punishment prescribed for children who are stubbornly disobedient to their parents’ attempts to raise them in the Word of God shows the seriousness. The man who is put to death for his crime and then hanged on a tree is cursed; this points us to the way Christ became the curse for us sinners. God’s care and concern for all His creation comes through in laws that touch on animals and agriculture. Instructions concerning clothing remind the Israelites that God created humanity male and female as His gift.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through t…
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Sep 8, 2022
Unsolved Murders, Female Captives, and Firstborn Rights
Rev. Garen Pay, pastor at Hope Lutheran Church in Idaho Falls, ID, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 21:1-17.
Moses’ instruction for Israel continues into the case of an unsolved murder. Though no one in the nearest town committed the crime, still unrighteousness has been brought upon the land. The LORD provides for a particular sacrifice to atone for the unrighteousness, pointing to the blood of Christ that purifies both the unrighteousness we commit and the unrighteousness committed against us. Moses’ instructions for the treatment of female captives limit sinful proclivities of any Israelite men so that they will see these women as people, not property. Instructions concerning the rights of the firstborn in the matter of inheritance likewise prevent favoritism among those in authority from perverting justice.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deu…
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Sep 7, 2022
Israelite Warfare
Rev. Brian Flamme, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Roswell, NM, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 20:1-20.
The LORD prepares His people for their upcoming military conquests of the Promised Land. Israel need not be afraid of larger or more technologically advanced armies, for the LORD is with them. The priest speaks to the army first, reminding them of the LORD’s promise. The officers next allow certain soldiers to leave, lest they fail to enjoy God’s good gifts in the Promised Land or hurt the morale of the troops. Finally, the commanders take their place in front of the army. The LORD mercifully instructs His people to offer terms of peace to cities far from the Promised Land, but those peoples who dwell in Canaan are to be devoted to complete destruction. Such warfare is not against the land, but the people. The LORD does not desire that His people be led astray to other gods and their abominable practices.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is…
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Sep 6, 2022
The Law Curb Our Sinful Nature
Rev. Sean Kilgo, pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Lawrence, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 19:1-21.
Moses teaches the people concerning the cities of refuge they will establish once they enter the Promised Land. Three such cities have already been established on the east side of the Jordan; three more will need to be established in the Promised Land so no one will have trouble fleeing to them in the case of manslaughter. Through the cities of refuge, the LORD places a check on the sinful desire for vengeance, while also clearly providing that true justice be carried out in actual cases of murder. Property markers reminded the people that the land belonged ultimately to the LORD. The provision for two or three witnesses was a further enshrinement of justice, lest human justice be too lenient or too harsh.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deu…
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Sep 5, 2022
Listen to Him!
Rev. Nate Hill, pastor at St. Michael’s Lutheran Church in Winchester, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 18:15-22.
The LORD promises His people that He will provide for them a prophet like Moses. The people must listen to this prophet, for this prophet will speak the LORD’s Word faithfully. False prophets will come, but the LORD teaches His people how to identify them. Those who do not speak in the name of the LORD are false prophets, as are those whose word does not come to pass. The faithful Old Testament prophets stand in this line, but the ultimate fulfillment of this promise is Jesus. The Father’s voice from the mount of Transfiguration confirms this truth for us still today: “Listen to Jesus!”
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians. As Moses str…
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Sep 2, 2022
Care for the Levites and Avoid Abominations
Rev. Steve Andrews, pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee’s Summit, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 18:1-14.
Moses teaches Israel how to care for the Levites and priests. The Levites and priests have no inheritance of land among the people; the LORD is their inheritance. The people of Israel provide for the physical needs of these servants of the LORD through the offering of their firstfruits. Moses transitions to speaking about the office of prophet in Israel by exposing various abominations among the Canaanites who will be displaced from the Promised Land. If Israel follows in the way of such abominations, they will be driven out themselves. Instead, Israel must listen to the LORD’s Word alone for their instruction.’
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for…
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Sep 1, 2022
Justice, God’s Word, and the King
Rev. Matt Ulmer, pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Bishop, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 17:8-20.
The LORD’s concern for justice continues as He teaches His people how to handle difficult legal decisions. They must go to the place that the LORD will choose for the priests and judge to decide the matter based on the LORD’s Word. Because justice is tied to the LORD’s Word, the verdict must be followed exactly, lest anyone depart from the justice that God commands in His Word. The theme of justice continues into Moses’ description of one of the three primary offices among the Israelites: the king. Though the LORD is their King, Moses speaks prophetically about the time to come when the LORD will allow a human king among His people. The king will only be successful in the sight of the LORD if the king is faithful to the LORD’s Word. Even the best of the Old Testament kings never fully live up to the description; Jesus Christ is the fulfillment.…
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Aug 31, 2022
Pursue Justice in the LORD’s Word
Rev. Joel Heckmann, pastor at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Okarche, OK, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 16:18-17:7.
The LORD tells His people of the importance of justice, which is found in His Word. Judges and officers in Israel must pursue such justice without partiality or desire for a bribe. Because justice is bound up in the LORD’s Word, idolatry perverts justice. Therefore, the people must not engage in the idolatrous practices of the Canaanites nor think that they can sacrifice however they want. Whenever idolatry is found among the people of Israel, careful investigation must take place so that any idolatry can be purged from their midst. The death penalty prescribed is a reminder of the seriousness of idolatry and all sin. The LORD shows mercy and justice to us by placing our sin upon His Son Jesus and putting Him to death in our place.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. T…
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Aug 30, 2022
Gathered Together by the LORD
Rev. Doug Griebenaw, mission advocate for KFUO Radio in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 16:1-17.
Moses gives the LORD’s instructions for the three feasts when all Israel was to gather at the place where the LORD would choose. Even as they were spread throughout the Promised Land, the LORD provided for Israel to join together as His people to celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Booths. The Feast of Unleavened Bread, or the Passover, recalled the LORD’s rescue from Egypt. The Feast of Weeks was a celebration of the first fruits as an opportunity to show thanks and faith in the LORD. The Feast of Booths recalled the LORD’s provision for His people in their wandering and His continued care for them in the Promised Land.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, thi…
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Aug 29, 2022
The Seventh Year Release
Rev. David Boisclair, pastor at Bethesda and Faith Lutheran Churches in north St. Louis County, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 15:1-23.
As the LORD provided rest for His people on the seventh day, so He instructed His people to give release to debts in the seventh year. Through this provision, the LORD teaches His people to show concern for the poor. The LORD knows their propensity for greed, so He seeks to give them a generous heart like His own. The same sort of concern for the poor in the land is to be shown in the matter of a fellow Israelite who sells himself into slavery to pay a debt. As the people live together in the land, they are to remember that the LORD had freed them from slavery and continued to provide for their every need.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential re…
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Aug 26, 2022
Gifts of Joy
Rev. Jacob Dandy, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church and School in Terra Bella, CA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 14:22-29.
The LORD instructs His people to bring a tithe of their produce in order to provide for the priests and Levites and to care for the poor within their towns. Giving a tenth of the produce of the land was not intended as an onerous obligation; rather, it was an opportunity for joyous thanksgiving and worship to the LORD. The LORD had given all things to His people in abundance; therefore, they responded by freely giving to others from His gifts. Although the tithe is not commanded in the New Testament, still Christians give freely and joyfully from the abundance that God has granted to them. Because He has given all things to us in Christ, we give joyfully in thanksgiving to Him and for service to our neighbor.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy…
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Aug 25, 2022
Holy Sons of God are Cleansed by Christ
Rev. Jeremiah Johnson, pastor at Glory of Christ Lutheran Church in Plymouth, MN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 14:1-21.
Israel’s status as sons of the LORD is the foundation for all that the LORD gives them to do. The LORD has made His people His children as a gift so that they are holy in the same way that He is holy. He has chosen them to be His treasured possession, completely by His grace. This reality leads Israel to live as God’s holy people in the matters of their mourning practices and in their diet. They are not to mourn as the pagan nations around them, but they mourn as those who have hope in the LORD. The foods prescribed by the LORD as clean are good not due to something inherent within the food, but due to the LORD’s command and promise. Though these dietary laws do not apply to Christians today due to Christ’s word and fulfillment, still we live as God’s people in all that we do because He has made us His holy children.
“The Law…
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Aug 24, 2022
Don’t Mess Around with Idolatry
Rev. Dr. Adam Koontz, pastor and evangelist at Trinity Lutheran Church in Denver, CO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 12:32-13:18.
Moses again warns the people neither to add nor subtract from God’s Word, particularly with the danger of idolatry in mind. He gives instructions on how to handle three different cases in which idolatry might arise in Israel. In the case of a prophet or dreamer, Israel must test his words against the Word of God. Even if his signs come to pass, the prophet has revealed himself as false. In the case of a family member who is enticing others into idolatry, emotional attachment must not cause the family to fail in standing against false doctrine. In the case of an entire city having gone astray, careful investigation must be made and idolatry must be exterminated, when it is present. The death penalty prescribed in the Old Testament shows the seriousness of idolatry. Paul’s instructions in the New Testament do not give place for such…
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Aug 23, 2022
The Place Where the LORD’s Name Dwells
Rev. Dr. Adam Filipek, pastor at Holy Cross and Immanuel Lutheran Churches in Lidgerwood, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 12:1-31.
Moses’ second sermon transitions to more concrete applications of the Decalogue; he starts with the Third Commandment concerning Israel’s worship in the Promised Land. They must destroy all idolatry in the land; they must not imitate any idolatrous practices or use any idolatrous places for their worship. Instead, they must go to the place the LORD will place His name. There they will offer sacrifices by which the LORD will give them atonement. There they will bring offerings of thanksgiving and tithes that support the Levites. These point us toward Christ, who offered Himself as the once-for-all sacrifice on the altar of the cross. Now Christians receive the fruit of His sacrifice and His very life from His Body and Blood given in the Sacrament of the Altar.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iro…
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Aug 22, 2022
The LORD Loves You; Love Him
Rev. Andy Wright, pastor at St. John Lutheran Church in Keystone, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 11:1-32.
Moses tells Israel to love the LORD because He is their God. His discipline has taught them to trust in Him as He showed His might to save them from Egypt and as He showed His judgment against unbelief. The LORD gives His commands to Israel for their good; when they keep them, they will receive His blessing. The rain that He sends from heaven upon the Promised Land is a visible reminder of this fact. The Word of God that brings life for Israel must be passed down to the next generation as fathers speak it to their children. In the way of the LORD’s Word is blessing and life; in the opposite way is curse and death. Moses urges the people to be careful to do all that the LORD has commanded in the way of blessing.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermon…
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Aug 19, 2022
Hearts Circumcised in Faith
Rev. James Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottumwa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 10:1-22.
As Moses recounts the new stone tablets of the Decalogue, he reminds Israel that the LORD had listened to his intercessory prayer. By placing both tablets of the Decalogue into the ark, the LORD showed His people that He went with them and dwelled with them. Now, as Israel prepares to enter the Promised Land, Moses calls upon the people to fear the LORD, walk in His ways, love Him, and serve Him. This happens as the people circumcise their hearts in faith, knowing that the LORD is the almighty God over all who loves them and has kept His promises to them.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians. As Moses strengthened Israel on the plains of Moab before the…
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Aug 18, 2022
Not Because of Righteousness, but Despite Rebellion
Rev. Carl Roth, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 9:1-29.
As Israel prepares to drive out peoples with great power and might, Moses assures them that the LORD will go before them to destroy their enemies for them. Israel must not let this turn to pride in their hearts, as if they have some kind of inherent righteousness. The LORD is punishing the Canaanites’ great wickedness; He is not rewarding a righteousness that Israel has done. In fact, Moses reminds them that they have been rebellious over and over again. Even at Sinai, where the LORD graciously spoke to them, Israel worshiped a golden calf. Their rebellion was seen at other places in their wilderness wandering. Yet the LORD was gracious to listen to the intercession of Moses, proclaiming the even greater intercession of Christ on behalf of us sinners.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy…
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Aug 17, 2022
Remember; Don’t Forget
Rev. Zelwyn Heide, pastor at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Hannover, ND and Zion Lutheran Church in New Salem, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 8:1-20.
Moses reminds Israel that the LORD sustained them in the wilderness; only by His grace did Israel not only survive, but even thrive, in a terribly difficult place to live. Though the Promised Land will be a far more fruitful environment, still Israel will only be sustained there by the LORD and His Word. The LORD disciplined His people in the wilderness in order to teach them faith in His Word in preparation for entering the Promised Land. The riches they will know in Canaan may tempt them to forget and become prideful. If Israel thinks that their own might brought them into the Promised Land, they are sure to fall into idolatry. Moses warns them ahead of time, lest they fall under the same judgment as the other nations.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the…
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Aug 16, 2022
The LORD’s Treasured Possession
Rev. Shawn Linnell, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Blair, NE, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 7:1-26.
Moses instructs Israel how to handle the nations already living in Canaan; these idolatrous nations are to be devoted to complete destruction. Such is God’s just judgment for their refusal to repent and His protection for His own people, lest they be led astray into idolatry. Israel dare not look upon the other nations in arrogance or pride, however. The LORD chose them entirely due to His love and faithfulness. They will live with Him as their God as they listen, keep, and do His Word. When they seek His kingdom first, He adds all things needful. Israel need not be afraid of the nations living in the Promised Land; just as the LORD was with Israel against Egypt, so He will be with them and deliver them from their enemies in Canaan.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Mose…
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Aug 15, 2022
Listen Up, Israel!
Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 6:1-25.
Moses begins an extended meditation on the First Commandment. In light of the LORD’s promise to be Israel’s God, their response is first and foremost to listen. They need to constantly listen that the LORD is their God and that He is the one true God. From this faith stems Israel’s love for God with their entire being. From this faith stems parents teaching their children who the true God is and what His Word teaches. Care is needed lest Israel forget the LORD in the Promised Land and go after other gods. Moses implores the new generation to learn from the sins of their fathers and to receive the LORD’s blessings in faith, all the while teaching their children to follow in this same Christian faith.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deu…
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Aug 12, 2022
We Need a Mediator
Rev. Dr. Ryan Tietz, Associate Professor of Exegetical Theology and Dean of Students at Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 5:22-33.
Moses recounts what happened after the LORD gave the Decalogue. He highlights the importance of the event by reminding Israel of the “thick darkness” on the mountain. This connects the theophany at Sinai to the day of the LORD when He sets all things right. The fact that the Decalogue was written further underscores its significance. Through the event, the people of Israel saw God’s grace in speaking to them, while at the same time recognizing their need for a mediator to continue to hear His Word. The LORD commended their request and appointed Moses to do so, a foreshadowing of our final mediator, Jesus Christ. With that historical background, Moses encourages the people now to walk in the way that the LORD has given them.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sh…
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Aug 11, 2022
The Decalogue Is Foundational
Rev. Tim Koch, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Linn, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 4:44-5:21.
Moses begins his second sermon in Deuteronomy by echoing his exhortation at the end of the first: “Listen!” He reminds the people that the covenant the LORD made at Sinai was not simply for their fathers; it was for this generation as well. In the same way, God’s Word continues to be for Christians today. Moses had served as the mediator for the LORD’s Word to the people; Jesus is the prophet like Moses who is our Mediator. Moses repeats the Decalogue as the foundation for the LORD’s covenant. The LORD defines Himself for His people as their Savior from slavery in Egypt and calls them to live in His gift of freedom according to His will. The Decalogue continues to describe a godly life for Christians today and point us to our need for Christ, who fulfilled the Decalogue perfectly.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron tha…
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Aug 10, 2022
The LORD Alone Is God
Rev. Joel Haak, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Rochester, MN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 4:25-43.
Moses brings his first sermon in Deuteronomy to a close. He warns the people against spiritual senility once they have entered into the Promised Land. The temptation to forget the LORD and turn toward idolatry will be great. If Israel falls in that way, heaven and earth stand as witnesses against them that they will not live long in the land and will be carried away into exile. Yet even there, the LORD remains gracious and merciful, desiring that His people return to Him. Moses reminds the people that the LORD is God like no other. His work for Israel is entirely unique; He has shown them time and again that He is the only true God. Therefore, Israel must listen to the LORD’s Word. After concluding his first sermon, Moses sets aside three cities of refuge on the east side of the Jordan River in fulfillment of the LORD’s Word and as a reminder of the pro…
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Aug 9, 2022
Listen and Live
Rev. Doug Griebenaw, mission advocate for KFUO Radio in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 4:1-24.
Moses makes a turn in his first sermon in Deuteronomy as he exhorts the people to listen. The Word of God defines their reality. Therefore, they must receive His Word without addition or subtraction, trusting that His Word is good and true. Following idols has never meant anything but death for Israel; Moses urges them toward life in the LORD, the true God. His Word is wisdom and understanding. Even the pagans will realize the unique grace of the LORD in being near to His people. Israel must hold onto this wisdom and pass it down to their children, lest they fall into idolatrous worship in the Promised Land. This will happen through the true fear of the LORD, who is jealous of His people as their husband.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deu…
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Aug 8, 2022
Now and Not Yet
Rev. Philip Hoppe, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Colby, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 3:12-29.
Moses reminds the people how the LORD had already given and apportioned land to them on the east side of the Jordan River. The LORD gave that land to two-and-a-half tribes according to their need to care for their livestock. Though they had already received land, they were faithful to the whole people of Israel by going over the Jordan to fight with their brothers. Because Joshua would be the one to lead the people into the Promised Land, Moses strengthened him with the LORD’s promise. Moses’ request to go into the Promised Land shows both confidence in God’s mercy and humility to receive God’s answer. The LORD refuses to let Moses go into the Promised Land, yet Moses will still get to see the land and continue to encourage Joshua for the task ahead.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of…
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Aug 5, 2022
A Giant King Can’t Stop God’s Promise
Rev. Dan Speckhard, pastor at St. Peter Lutheran Church and School in North Judson, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 2:24-3:11.
Moses’ first sermon in Deuteronomy now begins to recall events much closer to the present. Already on the east side of the Jordan River, the LORD had begun to give His people land as a foretaste of the fulfillment of the Promised Land. Sihon, king of Heshbon, had an opportunity to have peace with Israel. However, he rejected Moses’ offer, and Sihon received the judgment he desired. The LORD’s decisive victories over both Sihon and Og fits into the larger picture of His promise to send a Savior. Nothing, not even the gigantic king Og, will stand in the way of the LORD fulfilling His promise.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians…
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Aug 4, 2022
Wandering Around Relatives
Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, associate pastor and headmaster at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Brenham, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 2:1-23.
Moses recounts the wilderness wanderings of Israel. The LORD directed them around land that belonged to their relatives, Edom, Moab, and Ammon. The LORD is the One who owns all territory and apportions it according to His gracious will. While they wandered in the wilderness, all of the Israelite men of war perished, according to the Word of the LORD. The LORD’s faithfulness to His Word of judgment is a reminder that He is also faithful to His Word of salvation.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians. As Moses strengthened Israel on the plains of Moab before the people entered the Promised Land, so the book of Deuteron…
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Aug 3, 2022
Senseless Unbelief Leads to Wandering
Rev. Tim Storck, pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Chesterfield Township, MI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 1:26-46.
As Moses continues his first sermon in Deuteronomy, he reminds the people how their initial journey toward the Promised Land was quickly derailed by their unfaithfulness. Despite Moses’ reassurance that the LORD had not failed them in the past and He would surely keep His promise yet again, the people did not believe the LORD. When they refused to go into the Promised Land, the LORD swore in His anger that the rebellious generation of Israelites would not enter, except for Joshua and Caleb. Instead, the toddlers and children would receive the Promised Land as a gift from the LORD. When the Israelites again failed to receive this Word from the LORD and attempted to take the Promised Land on their own, they failed miserably and were forced to stay in Kadesh for quite some time.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sha…
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Aug 2, 2022
A Journey Well-Begun
Rev. Stephen Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Vinton, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 1:6-25.
Moses begins his first sermon in Deuteronomy by rewinding the clock forty years, to the time when the LORD told His people to leave Sinai. He sent them toward the land He had promised to their fathers. According to the LORD’s promise to Abraham, the nation had grown extensively. Even as Moses prayed in thanksgiving and for such continued multiplication, he recognized his own inability to lead such a huge nation. Godly wisdom is on display throughout Moses’ work to put leaders in place who will lead in faithfulness to the LORD. When the LORD gave the command to enter into the Promised Land, the people initially sent spies into the land and recognized that the land God was giving them was good. God’s faithfulness to His promise dominates this part of Moses’ first sermon.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes…
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Aug 1, 2022
Deuteronomy Is Essential Reading
Rev. Adolph Harstad, Professor of Exegetical Theology at Bethany Lutheran Theological Seminary in Mankato, MN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 1:1-5.
The book of Deuteronomy may not have action in the same sense as the book of Genesis, but the Word of God spoken by Moses in his farewell addresses to Israel is living and active, bringing repentance and faith to those who listen. Deuteronomy takes place on the plains of Moab in 1406 BC as the people of Israel are about to enter into the Promised Land. Before Moses dies, he speaks the Word of God to this new generation so that they would put their trust in the LORD as they begin life in the place God had promised to their fathers. The opening verses of the book introduce twin themes of the people’s unfaithfulness and God’s faithfulness. In this way, Deuteronomy points us forward to Christ, the fulfillment of all God’s promises.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes thr…
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Aug 1, 2022
NEW SERIES: The Law of God is Good and Wise
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians. As Moses strengthened Israel on the plains of Moab before the people entered the Promised Land, so the book of Deuteronomy still strengthens the Church as we prepare to enter the Resurrection with Christ, the Prophet greater than Moses.
Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen.
Sharper Iron is underwritten by Lutheran Church Extension Fund, where your investments help support the work of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit lcef.org.
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Jul 29, 2022
Trust Not in Princes
Rev. Peter Ill, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Millstadt, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 146.
Psalm 146 is one of the five Hallelujah Psalms that close the Psalter, directing us to praise the LORD in our entire lives. This is a reminder of the resurrection, for the praises we sing now are the praises we will sing for all eternity. Our trust belongs in the LORD and not in any princes, for princes in all their planning still die. Only the LORD gives life eternally. Those who place their trust in Him are blessed because He is the Creator and Preserver of all things. He helps those who are needy as He gives His righteousness to sinners. In this, He is the King who reigns eternally over all generations. Alleluia!
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to speak back to Him in prayer. Even in the great variety of the Psalms, each one points us to our Savior, Jesus Christ.
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Jul 28, 2022
Acrostics Aren’t Just for Poetry Geeks
Rev. Andrew Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Haven, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 145.
The structure of Psalm 145 as an acrostic poem serves to underline the complete nature of God’s reign as King over all. His Kingdom is eternal, calling forth praise from all people. Doxology and doctrine go hand-in-hand as one generation tells the next of who God is and what He has done. The greatness of God’s kingdom is His righteousness, given by grace for Christ’s sake. For this righteousness, all of His works praise Him, because He continues to care for all His creation. He is near to all who call on Him, for Jesus is Immanuel. At the resurrection of all flesh, He will bring His righteous judgment and all will praise His holy name forever.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to speak back to Him in prayer. Even in the great variety of the Psalms, each one po…
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Jul 27, 2022
What Is the Day the Lord Has Made?
Rev. Mark Barz, pastor at Crown of Life Lutheran Church in San Antonio, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 118.
Psalm 118 begins and ends with a familiar refrain of thanksgiving to the LORD for His enduring steadfast love. All people are invited to join in singing in a procession leading to the temple. The psalmist has confidence in the LORD in the midst of danger. The LORD is the place of refuge when all human help fails. Even when the psalmist is surrounded by enemies, the LORD remains his strength and salvation. As the procession nears the temple, the picture of the Messiah becomes clearer. Jesus enters Jerusalem as the coming King. Though He is rejected and sacrificed there, the Father sets Him as the cornerstone for the Church. This is the Day of salvation that the LORD has made. The Church now sings Psalm 118 in anticipation of the day of salvation the LORD will bring on the Last Day when He takes us into resurrection life.
Join Sharper Iron during the month…
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Jul 26, 2022
The Wounded Victor is King and Priest
Rev. Dr. Reed Lessing, Professor of Theology and Ministry, Director of the Pre-Seminary Program, and Director of the Center for Biblical Studies at Concordia University in St. Paul, MN, and associate pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Eagan, MN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 110.
Psalm 110 is the most-quoted and referenced psalm in the New Testament. In Psalm 110, David writes prophetically concerning the Messiah. First, the conversation between the Father and the Son shows that the Messiah truly is God who reigns over all. Second, the Father’s oath to the Messiah shows that the Messiah is a priest who serves forever and makes intercession for us sinners. Third, the Messiah is the wounded victor who has fulfilled the Gospel promise to crush the evil foe. In this way, Psalm 110 points us clearly to Jesus as our crucified, risen, ascended, and returning Savior.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Wo…
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Jul 25, 2022
The Justice and Love of God
Rev. Mark Squire, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in St. Ansgar, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 109.
David prays to the LORD as wicked men accuse and attack him without cause. He prays that the LORD will bring about salvation for him by bringing justice in the face of those who are filled with malice toward the LORD and His Church. As Judas was filled with Satan and so betrayed Jesus, so the devil still stands behind those who seek evil against God and His Church today. Our response is David’s: we give ourselves to prayer and trust that God will turn their curses into blessing. In this way, we refuse to take vengeance ourselves and trust that God’s justice, whenever He brings it, will result in our salvation. We have this confidence because we have seen the fullness of God’s love and justice in Christ crucified for us sinners.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how…
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Jul 22, 2022
Praising God for the History of His Grace
Rev. David Vandercook, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Little Rock, AR and Shepherd of Peace Lutheran Church in Maumelle, AR, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 105.
Psalm 105 calls upon God’s people to praise Him for His grace shown to them throughout their history. The psalmist traces all that the LORD has done for His people starting with the covenant made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The LORD was gracious even when He summoned a famine and sent Joseph in chains to Egypt. The LORD’s grace persevered through Israel’s enslavement in Egypt and deliverance after the plagues. The LORD gave His people their daily bread and more as He brought them through the wilderness and into the Promised Land. At each turn, Psalm 105 teaches us to praise God by recounting the specific things God has done for us throughout history. This praise continues in the Church as we point to all that Christ has done for us.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study se…
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Jul 21, 2022
The Gospel Squillo
Rev. Chris Hull, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Tomball, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 96.
The Church’s song is always new because the Church sings of the saving works that God has done in bringing about His new creation. Though the world sings a loud song for its idols, this song can offer nothing but emptiness. The Church’s song cuts through the noise with true hope in Christ. We sing together with all creation for what God does as our gracious King and righteous Judge.
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Jul 20, 2022
The Psalter: Refuge from Every Danger
Rev. Andrew Jagow, pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Alexandria, VA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 91.
The one true God is Almighty, yet He is not aloof. He is the LORD, the God of His people. He provides refuge for His people from every danger, whether sudden, unseen, or seemingly inevitable. He wins the victory over His people’s enemies as His people look on with thanksgiving and praise. Whether the LORD’s deliverance comes now temporally or in the resurrection eternally, He never fails to keep His promise. He sends His angels for protection and crushes the evil angels who mean us harm. He speaks His Word to us to assure us that His refuge and salvation will remain ours eternally.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to speak back to Him in prayer. Even in the great variety of the Psalms, each one points us to our Savior, Jesus Christ.
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Jul 19, 2022
The Psalter: The Solid Rock That Withstands the Flood
Rev. Caleb Adams, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Bend, OR, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 69.
Through David’s afflictions, Psalm 69 gives a vivid description of Jesus’ suffering and death. Even though afflictions threaten to overwhelm him, David still cries out in trust to the LORD. Even though his enemies kick him while he’s down, David still trusts in the LORD to deliver him. He puts the matter of justice in the hands of the LORD and praises God for His coming deliverance. Psalm 69 points us to Christ as the One who suffered God’s wrath in our place to bring us eternal life and salvation.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to speak back to Him in prayer. Even in the great variety of the Psalms, each one points us to our Savior, Jesus Christ.
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Jul 18, 2022
Joy from Our Ascended Lord
Rev. Clint Poppe, pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Lincoln, NE, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 47.
Joy pervades Psalm 47. All nations are called to rejoice because the God of Israel reigns over all the earth. His kingdom is not like any earthly kingdom; He reigns according to His steadfast love seen most fully at the cross. Jesus’ reign has been made certain by His ascension, which is an occasion for joy for God’s people and all nations. Jesus is the offspring of Abraham through whom all the families of the earth will be blessed. In Christ, God calls Jews and Gentiles to the joy of salvation.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to speak back to Him in prayer. Even in the great variety of the Psalms, each one points us to our Savior, Jesus Christ.
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Jul 15, 2022
The LORD Regards the Needy
Rev. Rick Jones, chaplain and director of spiritual life at the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch in Minot, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 41.
The LORD is the God who considers the poor; those who belong to Him by grace are blessed and formed after Him to show similar compassion to the needy. In his sickness, David cries out to the LORD for such help. David takes the opportunity to confess his sin because he knows full healing can only come from the LORD’s forgiveness. As David waits for the LORD’s deliverance, he cries out as his enemies add insult to injury during his sickness. Even his close friends will not stand by David; they betray him in his need. In this way, Psalm 41 speaks prophetically about Judas’ betrayal of the Lord Jesus. Jesus has felt the deep pain of betrayal; He is our Brother who sympathizes with us in our sufferings. Even in the midst of such enemies, Psalm 41 teaches us to remain confident in the LORD’s deliverance. Blessed be His name fore…
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Jul 14, 2022
Into Your Hands I Commit My Spirit
Rev. Sam Wirgau, pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ossian, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 31.
Because the LORD is a rock, fortress, and refuge, He is the One to whom His people commit themselves. Jesus’ use of this prayer from the cross allows us to commit ourselves to God not only every day of our lives but even in the moment of death. We know that He will raise us on the Last Day. This gives us confidence even when enemies assail us from every side. The LORD has our times in His hands, and He will win the victory over His enemies in His time. Christian faith waits patiently for the LORD, taking courage in the knowledge that He will fulfill His promises.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to speak back to Him in prayer. Even in the great variety of the Psalms, each one points us to our Savior, Jesus Christ.
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Jul 13, 2022
Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates
Rev. David Boisclair, pastor at Bethesda and Faith Lutheran Churches in north St. Louis County, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 24.
Psalm 24 may have been composed for the entrance of the ark of the covenant into the tabernacle. The LORD comes to His sanctuary as the Creator, Owner, and Preserver of all things. The one who ascends with Him on His hill is holy both inside and out, having remained free from idolatry. Such righteousness is not our own doing, but it is God’s gift to us through His Son Jesus Christ, who has lived entirely without sin for our sake. Psalm 24 calls upon the gates of the tabernacle to open wide to welcome the LORD as the King of glory. Similarly, the Holy Spirit opens our hearts to receive Jesus as our Savior. We welcome Him with joy, not only now in Word and Sacrament, but especially on the Last Day.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to spe…
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Jul 12, 2022
The Passion of Our Lord According to St. David
Rev. Matt Wietfeldt, Director of Admissions and the Christ Academy program at Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 22.
Psalm 22 is one of the clearest Old Testament depictions of Christ’s suffering and death. The Father’s abandonment, the mockery of the bystanders, the nails through Christ’s hands and feet, and the gambling for Christ’s garments are all foretold. Even as Christ prays Psalm 22 from the cross in His great suffering over the Father’s abandonment, yet Christ also prays in great hope and trust that God will rescue Him. This trust is seen quite clearly in the last part of Psalm 22, where the hope of the resurrection shines brightest. Because Christ was abandoned by the Father on the cross, we have the assurance that Christ’s promise to be with us always is true.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to speak b…
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Jul 11, 2022
Thou Art the Portion I Have Sought
Rev. Tim Storck, pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Chesterfield Township, MI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 16.
In Psalm 16, David prays in complete confidence that the LORD will preserve him. Only in the LORD is there any good. He alone is the Giver of all good gifts; idols make demands and give only growing sorrow. With the LORD as our inheritance now and forever, we have true security. In this way we can truly rejoice, for we know what the LORD has done for Jesus. The Father fulfilled His promise and did not let His Son see corruption in the grave, for the Father raised the Son on the third day. In the same way, we know that we will be raised on the Last Day, and so we are filled with joy and pleasures in God’s presence.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to speak back to Him in prayer. Even in the great variety of the Psalms, each one points us to our Savi…
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Jul 11, 2022
Thou Art the Portion I Have Sought
Rev. Tim Storck, pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Chesterfield Township, MI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 16.
In Psalm 16, David prays in complete confidence that the LORD will preserve him. Only in the LORD is there any good. He alone is the Giver of all good gifts; idols make demands and give only growing sorrow. With the LORD as our inheritance now and forever, we have true security. In this way we can truly rejoice, for we know what the LORD has done for Jesus. The Father fulfilled His promise and did not let His Son see corruption in the grave, for the Father raised the Son on the third day. In the same way, we know that we will be raised on the Last Day, and so we are filled with joy and pleasures in God’s presence.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to speak back to Him in prayer. Even in the great variety of the Psalms, each one points us to our Savi…
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Jul 8, 2022
The Majesty of God’s Name
Rev. Kyle Mietzner, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Anchorage, AK, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 8.
Psalm 8 sings praise to the LORD for the majesty of His name throughout all creation. Though surprising to human eyes, the LORD’s strength is seen in the praises of infants. Even in the vastness of His creation, the LORD gives a place of dominion to humanity, that we might care for all of God’s creation in service. Psalm 8 points to the incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who as Son of God and Son of Man has shown for the true glory and majesty of God’s name.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to speak back to Him in prayer. Even in the great variety of the Psalms, each one points us to our Savior, Jesus Christ.
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Jul 7, 2022
King of Kings and Lord of Lords
Rev. Dr. Tim Saleska, professor of exegetical theology and Dean of Ministerial Formation at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 2.
Psalm 2 pictures the nations and their rulers assembling together in an attempt to cast off the bonds of the LORD and His Anointed. Yet the LORD is the true King; He sits on His heavenly throne. He laughs, derides them, and speaks to them in wrath by proclaiming that His King, the Anointed One, has been set on Zion. The Anointed speaks concerning the decree that the LORD gave, in which the LORD promised His Anointed that His requests would be granted. The Psalm ends with instruction for all rulers to place themselves in subjection to the authority of the Son, the Anointed. Psalm 2 points us to Christ Jesus as the Son of God who did not ask His Father to be spared from death as He reigned from His cross. By His ascension, Jesus is the true King over all.
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study s…
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Jul 7, 2022
Introduction: The Psalter
Join Sharper Iron during the month of July to study several Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to speak back to Him in prayer. Even in the great variety of the Psalms, each one points us to our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen.
Sharper Iron is underwritten by Lutheran Church Extension Fund, where your investments help support the work of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit lcef.org.
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Jul 6, 2022
The Word of God Is Not Bound
Rev. Jacob Dandy, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church and School in Terra Bella, CA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 28:17-31.
Paul’s time in Rome begins similarly to his visit to other cities. He addresses the Jews first. He defends his own innocence, and, at the same time, he opens the door to proclaim the fulfillment of their hope in Christ. The Jews have not heard anything about Paul particularly and are willing to give him a hearing, although they know that Christianity is spoken against as a sect by most Jews. Despite a potentially hostile audience, Paul takes the opportunity to proclaim the Gospel to the Jews. By the Holy Spirit’s work, some believe, though some do not. Paul preaches the warning from Isaiah 6 before moving on to proclaim the Gospel to the Gentiles. St. Luke concludes the book of Acts by noting how the Word of God continued to go forth in Rome for two years during Paul’s house arrest. This ending reminds us that no matter how Paul or Peter or any…
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Jul 5, 2022
Snakebites Can’t Stop God’s Promise
Rev. Jeremiah Johnson, pastor at Glory of Christ Lutheran Church in Plymouth, MN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 28:1-16.
The Lord keeps His promise and brings Paul and all his shipmates safely to Malta. There, the islanders show great hospitality. When Paul is bitten by a viper, they show forth the natural theology that clings to every sinner; they believe Paul is receiving his just rewards. Yet the Lord, as the just God over all, spares Paul according to His promise to bring the apostle to testify in Rome. The islanders are not brought to true faith by the sign, though Paul no doubt took it as an opportunity to preach the truth on Malta. As Paul finally finishes his journey to Rome, he is encouraged and strengthened by Christians who come to visit him. The Lord still strengthens us through the communion of the saints in the Church.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volume, St. Luke rec…
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Jul 4, 2022
Hope for the Hopeless
Rev. Sean Kilgo, pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Lawrence, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 27:21-44.
All human hope has been lost after fourteen days in the Mediterranean tempest. The Lord brings hope by sending His angel to comfort Paul and his shipmates. Paul encourages the men to trust God’s promise to save everyone on the ship. As the ship draws closer to land, some sailors attempt to escape on the ship’s boat, but Paul tells them to stay, for the Lord’s promise has been made to save those on the ship with Paul. Paul speaks to the men once more and gives them food to eat, a confession that they will not die because the God who has given His promise will see them safely onto land. At daybreak, a nearby island with a suitable bay is spotted, but the ship strikes a reef before the ship can run aground. The centurion ensures that the soldiers do not kill the prisoners, but that all either swim or float on the ship’s debris to the shore. In this way, the…
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Jul 1, 2022
Peril on the Sea
Rev. Jason M. Kaspar, pastor at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in La Grange, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 27:1-20.
In this text, St. Luke gives the most detailed and accurate account of Mediterranean seafaring and shipping from antiquity; he writes as an eyewitness to the events, as he was with Paul for the trip. They take a short trip to Sidon, where Paul is given some liberty to visit friends; Paul’s return to the custody of Julius shows Paul’s desire to give testimony to Christ in Rome. The journey continues between the coast of Asia Minor and Cyprus, before they find an Alexandrian ship heading to Italy. With difficulty they make it to Crete, where they are faced with a difficult decision. Their harbor is not suitable for the winter, but further sailing during the winter is very dangerous. Against the advice of Paul, the trip continues, and disaster strikes. The dreaded northeaster wind drives them from the coast of Crete and into the open sea. No matter how…
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Jun 30, 2022
On Trial Because of the Hope of the Resurrection
Rev. AJ Espinosa, pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Irvine, CA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 26:1-32.
King Agrippa’s background in Judaism makes him the perfect candidate to listen to Paul’s testimony, for which the apostle is grateful. Paul recounts his history in Judaism. He was raised as a Pharisee, zealous for the faith that he shared with all Israel, which included the hope for the resurrection of the dead. In fact, Paul’s zeal took him too far; he persecuted the saints of God until the Lord Jesus came to him at Damascus. Jesus appointed Paul as His servant and witness to go to both Jews and Gentiles in order to turn them from darkness to light through faith in Jesus. Paul concludes his testimony before Agrippa by stating that he has preached the same thing as the prophets, that the Christ has suffered and died to bring light and life. Festus thinks that Paul has gone crazy, and Agrippa is not so quickly persuaded. Yet Paul desires that all would sh…
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Jun 29, 2022
Paul Appeals to Caesar
Rev. Richard Mittwede, pastor at University Lutheran Church in Austin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 25:1-27.
Now governor in place of Felix, Festus works to make friends with the Jews in Jerusalem in order to keep tensions from flaring. Yet he does not fall for their attempt to get Paul to Jerusalem. In Caesarea, the case against Paul is heard yet again, but Paul sees through the kangaroo court. He takes the opportunity to appeal to Caesar for the sake of proclaiming the Gospel in Rome. Festus knows that Paul is innocent, but he takes the easy out by making preparations to send Paul to Caesar. As he recounts the history to Agrippa, Festus correctly recognizes that the case turns on whether or not Jesus is risen from the dead. In great human pomp, Agrippa and Festus will hear what is truly glorious: the Gospel that Paul proclaims.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volume, St. Luke r…
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Jun 28, 2022
A Clean Conscience is Better than Freedom from Prison
Rev. James Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottumwa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 24:1-27.
Paul’s case is tried yet again before Felix in Caesarea. The Jews employ a spokesman named Tertullus to flatter the governor in hopes that he will find Paul guilty of their trumped up charges. Though the Jews claim that Paul is a troublemaker and a member of a sect, Paul ably defends himself against their charges, both from a legal and a theological perspective. He opens the door to evangelize Felix, but Felix puts the apostle off and is alarmed at his preaching. Felix leaves Paul in prison for two years, hoping for a bribe, until he is replaced by Festus.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volume, St. Luke records all the things that Jesus continued to do through the ministry of His Church. By the end of the book, the proclamation of the Lord’s Word that began in Jerusalem grow…
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Jun 27, 2022
A Conspiracy Foiled
Rev. Carl Roth, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 23:12-35.
Paul’s enemies conspire to kill him, Paul’s nephew learns of their plot and reveals it to Claudius, the tribune. The tribune recognizes that the delicate peace in Jerusalem could be quickly shattered, so he provides an enormous guard of soldiers to transfer Paul safely to Caesarea. Claudius writes a letter to the governor, Felix, with the facts of the case, including Paul’s innocence. The soldiers bring Paul safely and quickly to Caesarea, where he awaits a trial before Felix in Herod’s praetorium. Through the human actors in this text, the Lord is at work to fulfill His promise to Paul that he will proclaim the Gospel in Rome.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volume, St. Luke records all the things that Jesus continued to do through the ministry of His Church. By the end of th…
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Jun 24, 2022
Roman Citizens Can Be Heavenly Citizens Too
Rev. Dr. Adam Koontz, pastor and evangelist at Trinity Lutheran Church in Denver, CO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 22:22-23:11.
Paul’s mention of his mission to the Gentiles reignites the crowd’s murderous intent against him. The tribune once again intervenes; this time, he has Paul prepared for interrogation by flogging. Paul makes use of his rights as a Roman citizen, not only so that he avoids an unlawful beating, but also for the sake of proclaiming heavenly citizenship in Christ. The next day, the tribune gathers the Sanhedrin to make their case against Paul. The apostle ignites the division between Sadducees and Pharisees when he mentions the resurrection of the dead in Jesus. The tribune must once again quickly remove Paul from a potentially dangerous situation. Yet the Lord Himself comes to stand beside Paul and calm his fears; it is necessary that Paul will go to Rome to testify to Jesus.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron…
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Jun 23, 2022
Paul’s Hebrew Sermon to Hebrews
Rev. Dr. Adam Filipek, pastor at Holy Cross and Immanuel Lutheran Churches in Lidgerwood, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 21:37-22:21.
When Paul uses Greek to address the tribune who arrested him, the tribune is confused as to who Paul is and what is happening. The tribune therefore grants Paul the opportunity to address the crowd; Paul does so in Hebrew in an effort to bring his fellow Jews to faith in Jesus Christ. Paul recounts his shared history with the Jews; he was zealous for God and even persecuted the Way. Yet Jesus had come to Paul on the road to Damascus and brought him to salvation. Another faithful Jew, Ananias, had been the one to receive Paul as a brother and administer the forgiving gift of baptism. In a different visit to Jerusalem, the Lord had been the One to come to Paul and send Him to the Gentiles. Throughout Paul’s address, he shows his heart for the salvation of his brothers according to the flesh, that they too might trust in Christ as Savi…
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Jun 22, 2022
The Powderkeg Is Lit
Rev. James Neuendorf, church planting missionary in Puerto Rico, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 21:17-36.
Tensions in Jerusalem between Jews and Gentiles were running high in Jerusalem when Paul arrived there after his third missionary journey. While the Church together rejoices over God’s work among both Gentiles and Jews, they are concerned over the false rumors being spread about Paul. They attempt to navigate an explosive situation by having Paul sponsor the completion of the vows for four men, an expensive proposition. Paul agrees, but the liars still lie about Paul. The situation explodes into a riot in the temple, but the tribune is quick to act lest the situation devolve further. He arrests and binds Paul, as had been foretold, as the crowd shouts with the same murderous desire they had against the Lord Himself. Even as the situation seems to go south, however, the Lord of the Church shows Himself faithful to spread His Word.
“To the End of the Earth” i…
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Jun 21, 2022
Homeward Bound
Rev. Charles St-Onge, missionary pastor at Ascension Lutheran Church in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 21:1-16.
Paul and his companions continue their journey toward Jerusalem, taking short trips by sea along the coast before a long voyage across the Mediterranean Sea to Tyre. Those who encounter Paul along the way know the same thing he knows: suffering awaits him in Jerusalem. From Tyre, they make their way to Ptolemais and Caesarea, where they stay with Philip the evangelist. There, Agabus confirms yet again through a visual prophecy that Paul will be bound in Jerusalem. While everyone else urges Paul to avoid this suffering, Paul is ready to suffer and die, if necessary, for the name of Jesus. As the church prays for God’s will to be done, Paul and his companions finish their trip to Jerusalem.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volume, St. Luke records all…
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Jun 20, 2022
Paul’s Farewell Address to the Ephesian Pastors
Rev. James Sharp — pastor, teacher, and missionary in Montevideo, Uruguay, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 20:17-38.
Paul calls the Ephesian pastors to Miletus where he addresses them in person for the final time. He reminds them of his ministry among them in which he proclaimed Law and Gospel faithfully to all people. He now must go to Jerusalem, even if it means suffering, for his only aim is to preach Christ crucified for sinners. As he faithfully proclaimed the whole counsel of God, so he charges the Ephesians pastors to do the same as they care for the flock of God. He warns them against false teachers from within and without. He commends them to God and His Word of grace. Paul and the Ephesian pastors part with prayer and weeping, for they know they will not see each other in this life again.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volume, St. Luke records all the things that Jesus cont…
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Jun 17, 2022
There and Back Again
Rev. Luke Zimmerman, pastor at Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mechanicsburg, PA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 20:1-16.
By this point in his third missionary journey, Paul has his face to return to Jerusalem. He leaves Ephesus to visit churches in Macedonia and Achaia. Several companions travel with Paul, including Luke. In Troas, Paul stays an entire week, allowing him and his companions to worship with the saints there. The extended worship service leaves Eutychus tired; he falls asleep, falls out of a window, and dies. Yet Paul, through the power of Jesus, restores life to Eutychus. From Troas, Paul and his companions continue their journey at a brisk pace in an attempt to reach Jerusalem by Pentecost. As Israel once celebrated this harvest festival, so Paul desires to bring news of the harvest of the Lord among the Gentiles.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volume, St. Luke…
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Jun 16, 2022
There’s Only Room for One God in This Town
Rev. Sean Daenzer, director of worship for the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod and chaplain at the International Center in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 19:21-41.
Paul’s lengthy ministry in Ephesus was not without controversy and trouble. A silversmith named Demetrius has felt economic pain from Christian preaching, and he rightly sees that Paul’s preaching of the one true God cannot stand together with idols made by human hands. The crowd works itself into a riot, chanting the praises of Artemis and seeking to harm anyone they can find. Christians in Ephesus keep Paul from physical harm as the crowd continues mindlessly and violently for two hours. Finally, a town clerk appeals to the greatness of Artemis and a desire to avoid the charges of rioting in order to calm the commotion.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volume, St. Luke records all the things that Jesus c…
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Jun 15, 2022
Don’t Mess with Demons
Rev. Zelwyn Heide, pastor at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Hannover, ND and Zion Lutheran Church in New Salem, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 19:1-20.
Paul’s third missionary journey takes him to Ephesus, as he had previously hoped. In visiting with the Christians there, he finds some who have been inadequately taught concerning the Holy Spirit and Christian baptism. Paul remedies the situation and continues his ministry in Ephesus, initially by reasoning with Jews in the synagogues and later by preaching in the hall of Tyrannus. Paul’s ministry in the city expanded throughout the region of Asia for two years, even through miracles of healing and exorcisms in Jesus’ name. When the sons of Sceva attempted to use Jesus’ name as a magic token, demons sent them away hurt and shamed. As news spread throughout Ephesus, people began to forsake their demonic arts, even to their economic disadvantage. This fruit of repentance was evidence of the growth of the Word of…
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Jun 14, 2022
Tentmakers Teach a Doctoral Student
Rev. Shawn Linnell, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Blair, NE, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 18:18-28.
Luke narrates the end of Paul’s second missionary journey in quick succession. The apostle leaves Corinth and stops briefly in Ephesus, where he leaves Priscilla and Aquila. Paul continues on to Caesarea and Jerusalem before returning to Antioch. After a while, he starts on his third missionary journey by heading toward Galatia and Phrygia to strengthen the disciples there. Meanwhile in Ephesus, Apollos arrives and begins to speak accurately about Jesus from the Scriptures. Priscilla and Aquila recognize that Apollos still had teaching to learn, so they teach him the Christian faith even more accurately. Having humbly learned from these faithful tentmakers, Apollos goes to Achaia with the blessing of the Church. There he powerfully preaches that Jesus is the Christ.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book o…
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Jun 13, 2022
The Tentmaking Apostle
Rev. William Terjesen, pastor at the Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer in Peekskill, NY, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 18:1-17.
Paul leaves Athens and goes to Corinth, where his trade of tentmaking opens the door for him to proclaim the Gospel to Aquila and Priscilla. Paul’s work in Corinth followed his pattern elsewhere. He preached in the synagogue until the rejection of the Jews sent him to preach to the Gentiles. Yet the Gospel made inroads in Corinth; a Christian church was founded right next to the synagogue. The Lord spoke to Paul in a vision to take away his fears and assure him of safety in Corinth. Paul ended up staying there for a year and a half, founding Corinth as a hub for mission in Greece. The Lord’s promise to Paul proved true in the case of the attack the Jews brought against him. The proconsul Gallio saw through their deception, and Paul was unharmed by the unruly mob.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes t…
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Jun 10, 2022
Preaching on Mars Hill
Rev. David Vandercook, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Little Rock, AR and Shepherd of Peace Lutheran Church in Maumelle, AR, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 17:16-34.
The gross idolatry in Athens distressed Paul, yet he was undeterred from preaching the Gospel there both in the synagogue and in the marketplace. His preaching of Jesus and the resurrection caught the attention of the philosophers in Athens, who desired to hear more from Paul. The apostle went to the Areopagus to address the people of Athens there. In his sermon, Paul redirects their religiosity toward idols toward the true God. Paul clearly proclaims the true God as the Creator of all things. The people should have been able to recognize Him from creation, and they had discovered things about Him in part, but their ignorance remained. Paul proclaims that the time of ignorance has come to an end and repentance is needed ahead of the judgment God will bring through Jesus, who has been raised from…
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Jun 9, 2022
Be a Berean
Rev. Brian Flamme, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Roswell, NM, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 17:1-15.
Paul and his companions make their way to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue. For three Sabbath days, Paul preaches to them from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ. Some believe, including many leading women. Yet some of the Jews in Thessalonica become jealous. They take some of the rabble to form a mob to attack Paul and Silas. When they cannot find Paul and Silas, the mob settles for Jason, who had welcomed the preachers into his house and now suffers along with them. The brothers in Thessalonica send Paul and Silas along to Berea; the Jews there listen with eagerness and examine the Scriptures to see that Paul’s preaching is true. This duty still belongs to Christian hearers today. Though many believe in Berea, Jews follow from Thessalonica and chase Paul out of Berea as well.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron t…
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Jun 8, 2022
Singing and Preaching the Gospel in Prison
Rev. Joel Heckmann, pastor at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Okarche, OK, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 16:16-40.
In Philippi, Paul and Silas are harassed by a demon-possessed slave girl. When Paul casts the demon out, the girl’s owners are only concerned about their lost income, a reminder of the danger of idolatry toward money. They have Paul and Silas beaten and thrown in prison. Yet the Philippian jail becomes the place of worship and proclamation for Paul and Silas. Their midnight hymns are heard by their fellow prisoners and the jailer. When the Lord’s earthquake sets the prisoners free, the prisoners do not flee and the jailer asks he can be saved. Paul and Silas direct him to faith in Jesus, and the jailer and his entire household are baptized into the Christian faith. Before leaving Philippi, Paul makes uses of his rights as a Roman citizen in order to serve the Christians who will remain in Philippi after he leaves.
“To the End of the Earth” is…
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Jun 7, 2022
The Gospel Goes to Europe
Rev. Nate Hill, pastor at St. Michael’s Lutheran Church in Winchester, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 15:36-16:15.
Paul and Barnabas make plans for a second missionary journey together, but they disagree over whether or not John Mark should accompany them. Their disagreement serves to send the Gospel in two directions: Barnabas and Mark go to Cyprus, while Paul takes Silas with him through Syria and Cilicia. In Lystra, they meet a disciple named Timothy. Paul desires to take him along as a fellow worker, and so Paul has Timothy circumcised in order to avoid offense to the Jews. As Paul and his companions continue, they desire to go into Asia Minor, but the Spirit will not allow them. By a vision, He sends them into Europe instead. They make their way to Philippi, where the Lord opens Lydia’s heart to hear the Gospel in faith.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volume, St. Luke rec…
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Jun 6, 2022
A Letter of Brotherly Encouragement
Rev. Mark Squire, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in St. Ansgar, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 15:22-35.
Having reached concord under the Word of God, the church in Jerusalem sends a letter to the church in Antioch by the hand of Judas called Barsabbas and Silas. The church in Jerusalem writes for the purpose of brotherly encouragement. They honestly acknowledge that the ones who had caused trouble came from their midst, although the troublemakers had no actual authority. Instead, the letter carried by Judas and Silas, along with Paul and Barnabas, contains the true doctrine that gives peace in Christ. The Gentiles do not need to be circumcised to be saved; at the same time, for the sake of love in the Church, Gentile Christians should take care not to offend their Jewish brothers. The letter is received as encouragement in Antioch. Judas and Silas eventually return to Jerusalem while Paul and Barnabas stay in Antioch to continue to teach and preach.
“To…
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Jun 3, 2022
The Jerusalem Council
Rev. Steve Andrews, pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee’s Summit, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 15:1-21.
When men from Judea come to Syrian Antioch claiming that Gentiles must be circumcised to be saved, Paul and Barnabas know that the heart of the Gospel was at stake. The church in Antioch sends Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem to settle the matter according to the Word of God. After the delegation from Antioch is welcomed by the church in Jerusalem, the apostles and elders meet together to consider the question at hand. Peter is first to speak, reminding the assembly what God had revealed to them Peter’s vision: Gentiles are saved by God’s grace, just as the Jews. Paul and Barnabas then recount God’s work on their recent journey. Finally, James the brother of Jesus reminds the gathering that salvation for the Gentiles by God’s grace is precisely what the prophet Amos had written. James speaks the judgment that the Gentiles should not be troubled…
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Jun 2, 2022
Worship the Living God, not Vain Idols
Rev. Matt Ulmer, pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Bishop, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 14:8-28.
In Lystra, a lame man hears Paul’s preaching in faith; by the power of Jesus Christ, Paul gives the man healing. The crowd in Lystra sees the sign and thinks that Paul is Hermes and Barnabas is Zeus. Though we may see ourselves as beyond such idolatry, we still often give credit to someone or something other than the true God. Paul and Barnabas are at pains to correct the crowd. Although Paul and Barnabas are men, they have come to proclaim the true and living God who has created all things. Before long, however, Jews from Antioch and Iconium come and stone Paul. After they incorrectly assume he is dead, Paul continues on his missionary journey before returning through the towns he had visited previously to strengthen the saints and appoint pastors. Paul and Barnabas finally return to Antioch in Syria, where they give a report of the work God had done through the…
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Jun 1, 2022
Appointed to Eternal Life in Christ
Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 13:42-14:7.
The people respond to Paul’s sermon at the synagogue in Pisidian Antioch by begging him to return and speak again. However, when almost the entire city came the following week, the Jews were filled with jealousy and began to contradict Paul and Barnabas. The apostles’ response was direct; the Jews had judged themselves unworthy of eternal life, so Paul and Barnabas would go to the Gentiles, as the Scripture had said. The Gentiles heard this with joy, for the Lord was at work through His Word to bring sinners to eternal life. Jewish persecution sent Paul and Barnabas on to Iconium, where the response to their preaching was again divided. They remained there for some time, until an attempt to stone them sent them on to Lystra and Derbe.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volum…
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May 31, 2022
Freed by Jesus, not by the Law
Rev. Mark Barz, pastor at Crown of Life Lutheran Church in San Antonio, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 13:13-41.
Paul and Barnabas continue on their missionary journey, even as John Mark leaves them to return to Jerusalem. Paul and Barnabas make their way to Antioch in Pisidia, going first to the synagogue. There, they are invited to speak on the texts read for the day, so Paul proclaims Jesus as the fulfillment of the Old Testament. St. Paul emphasizes God’s faithfulness to Israel in bringing them out of slavery, sustaining them through the wilderness, giving them judges, and finally by making David their king. Here Paul turns to the proclamation of Jesus, the Son of David, as the fulfillment of God’s promises. Specifically, God fulfilled His promises through Jesus’ death and resurrection. Paul then proclaims the “for you” of the Gospel: what Jesus has done is for the forgiveness of sins. Jesus has brought freedom from sin that the Law could never bring.…
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May 30, 2022
The Holy Spirit Sends Barnabas and Saul
Rev. Tim Koch, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Linn, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 12:24-13:12.
Despite the persecution against the Church, the Word of God continues to increase and multiply. The Holy Spirit directs the church in Antioch to set apart Barnabas and Saul for a missionary journey. Taking along John Mark, the missionary team starts by heading to Cyprus, Barnabas’ homeland. There they are confronted by a magician and false prophet, Elymas. With strong words, Saul, also called Paul, convicts Elymas of his deceit and villainy, and the Lord strikes Elymas blind for a time. Though the sign is spectacular, it is the teaching of the Lord that astonishes Sergius Paulus, the proconsul, and brings him to faith.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volume, St. Luke records all the things that Jesus continued to do through the ministry of His Church. By the end of the book, the pro…
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May 27, 2022
Persecution and Prison Cannot Stop God’s Power and Promise
Rev. Tim Eden, pastor at Bethel Lutheran Church in Bryan, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 12:1-23.
St. Luke turns our attention back to Jerusalem, where Herod Agrippa has discovered that persecuting the Church is politically expedient. He kills James the son of Zebedee and arrests Peter, putting him under heavy guard lest he escape once more. In the face of such hatred and worldly power, the Church prays, knowing that whether Peter lives or dies, he is safe in the Lord. Peter is able to sleep in that peace the night before his execution has been set. Yet the Lord is not ready for Peter to be martyred. God answers the prayers of the Churchby sending His angel to wake Peter and bring him unharmed out of Herod’s prison, leading to amazement in the Church there in Jerusalem. The Lord does not allow Herod’s wickedness to go without justice. When Herod receives praise that belongs only to God, an angel strikes the king dead and worms eat his body. This serves as a warn…
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May 26, 2022
The Wonderfully Boring Church in Antioch
Rev. Harrison Goodman, content executive for Higher Things, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 11:19-30.
The Church continues to scatter after Stephen’s martyrdom, taking the Word with them. Many Jews heard the Word, even as the Lord began to open more doors for the Gospel to be proclaimed in Gentile contexts, particularly in Antioch in Syria. When the church in Jerusalem hears this news, they send Barnabas to Antioch. He lives up to his name and encourages them to remain faithful to the Lord. As the church there grows, Barnabas goes to get Saul from Tarsus to help in the work of teaching in Antioch, where the disciples were first called Christians. A prophet named Agabus is given a Word from the Spirit that a famine is coming, leading to a relief offering being gathered and sent to Jerusalem.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volume, St. Luke records all the things that Jesus continued to…
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May 25, 2022
The Gospel Is for the Gentiles Too!
Rev. Philip Hoppe, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Colby, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 11:1-18.
News concerning what happened at Cornelius’ house quickly makes its way around the Church. When Peter returns to Jerusalem, some oppose him because when he took the Word to the Gentiles, he stayed with them and ate with them. The fact that St. Luke records Peter’s recounting of the event indicates its great importance; when the Lord repeats something in His Word, we ought to pay attention. Peter’s vision revealed not only that all food was clean, but even moreso, that people are made clean through the blood of Jesus. Cornelius was told to send for Peter because Peter would preach a message that would bring salvation. Peter concludes his defense by making the point that all of this was not man-made, but God’s own idea, revealed by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Everyone who heard Peter was brought to the truth and glorified God for giving repentance to t…
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May 24, 2022
Forgiveness in Jesus’ Name for the Gentiles
Rev. David Boisclair, pastor at Bethesda and Faith Lutheran Churches in north St. Louis County, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 10:34-48.
Led by the Holy Spirit, Peter proclaims the good news to Cornelius and his household. Peter preaches the good news that people are not made acceptable to God by their nationality, but only on account of Christ Jesus, who is Lord of all, Jews and Gentiles alike. God made this plain in Jesus’ ministry that Peter and the apostles witnessed, beginning with Jesus’ Baptism through His crucifixion and resurrection. Peter and the apostles are therefore proclaiming the good news that Jesus gave them, namely, that everyone who believes in Jesus receives forgiveness in His name. The Holy Spirit fell upon Cornelius and those who heard the word Peter preached. This repetition of what happened at Pentecost showed that God Himself had welcomed these Gentiles into His Church, and so Peter was quick to give them God’s gift in Holy Baptism.…
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May 23, 2022
The Spirit Brings Peter and Cornelius Together
Rev. Doug Griebenaw, mission advocate for KFUO Radio in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 10:17-33.
While Peter remains perplexed about his heavenly vision, the messengers from Cornelius arrive. The Spirit leaves no doubt that Peter should go with these men, taking away any hesitation Peter might still have about associating with Gentiles. When Peter arrives at Cornelius’ house, the Roman centurion has gathered an entire congregation to hear the good news Peter has come to proclaim. Peter’s initial word to those gathered there shows that he has already recognized the truth that God has shown him in the vision: holiness before God is not found in any distinction between Jew and Gentile, but only in faith in Christ. Cornelius reveals to Peter why he has sent for the apostle to come, and he and his family and friends eagerly await the good news Peter has been commanded to preach.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes…
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May 20, 2022
What God Has Made Clean, Do Not Call Common
Rev. Jeff Hemmer, pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Fairview Heights, IL and assistant to the President of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 10:1-16.
St. Luke introduces into the narrative Cornelius, a Roman centurion. Though Cornelius has faith in the God of Israel, he is nonetheless an uncircumcised Gentile. The Lord sends His angel to Cornelius in order to direct him to send for Simon Peter in Joppa. Cornelius listens in faith and sends for Peter immediately. Meanwhile, in Joppa, Peter is staying with Simon the tanner. About noon, Peter receives a vision while he is on the housetop praying. The Lord shows Peter a sheet full of unclean animals and commands Peter to rise, kill, and eat. When Peter objects at what seems to him a breaking of God’s Law, the Lord responds, “What God has made clean, do not call common.” Through this vision, the Lord prepares Peter to proclaim to Cornelius and his household the good news of Jesus C…
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May 19, 2022
Peter Strengthens the Saints
Rev. Andrew Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Haven, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 9:32-43.
Having related Saul’s conversion to Christianity, St. Luke now turns our attention once again to the Lord’s work through Peter, particularly as He prepares His apostle for what is about to happen in the spread of the Gospel to the Gentiles. Peter goes about the apostolic ministry by visiting established congregations in Lydda and Joppa. The work of strengthening the saints is important for the life of the Church. In Lydda, Peter meets a paralyzed man named Aeneas, whom Jesus heals. The repetition of the sign that Jesus did in the Gospels and that Peter did in Acts 3 connects to the eternal healing that comes through the forgiveness of sins. Meanwhile, in Joppa, Dorcas, a beloved saint who was full of good works in the love of the Lord, died. The mourning of the church there moved them to send for Peter and the comfort of the Gospel that he would surely brin…
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May 18, 2022
From Persecutor to Proclaimer
Rev. Dr. Jeff Dukeman, pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Gulfport, MS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 9:20-31.
Saul’s conversion has immediate effect. The one who had come to Damascus breathing threats against Jesus’ disciples now begins to proclaim that Jesus is the Son of God. Those who hear him are understandably confused, yet Saul continues to increase in wisdom as he proves from the Scripture that Jesus is the Christ. Saul’s proclamation of Jesus quickly earns him the same persecution he once sought to deliver, so he must escape Damascus by night. He eventually goes to Jerusalem, where the disciples are also still afraid. Barnabas lives up to his name, “son of encouragement,” when he vouches for Saul to the apostles. Yet still in Jerusalem, Saul’s faith earns him death threats, and so he is sent to Tarsus for a time. Meanwhile, God continues to build His Church in peace, in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit.
“To t…
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May 17, 2022
The Conversion of Saul
Rev. David Appold, pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Paducah, KY, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 9:1-19.
Saul’s hatred for Christians had only grown since Stephen’s death. He was on his way to Damascus with official authority to imprison more Christians when the Lord Jesus Himself stopped Saul in his tracks. Jesus revealed Himself in blinding light to Saul as the One whom Saul had been persecuting. By this, Jesus preached the condemning Law to Saul, who had to be led into Damascus due to his blindness. The Gospel would be proclaimed by a disciple in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord gives great honor to the ministry He established by making use of His preachers. Jesus assured Ananias that Saul would bring His name before all nations. Ananias heard the Lord’s command in faith and went to Saul as a brother. He pronounced absolution upon Saul and laid his hands on the blind man so that his sight was restored. Saul was promptly baptized as his welcome into the fami…
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May 16, 2022
Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch
Rev. Stephen Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Vinton, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 8:26-40.
The Lord continues to direct the growth of His Word as He sends His angel to instruct Philip to go to the road from Jerusalem to Gaza. There Philip sees an Ethiopian eunuch; he was a Gentile who had been brought to faith in the God of Israel through Judean refugees. As a rich official of the queen, he is reading from the scroll of Isaiah when the Spirit sends Philip to him. The Ethiopian eunuch asks Philip to guide him in the proper interpretation of the text from Isaiah 53, and Philip begins from that text to proclaim the good news about Jesus. Philip’s teaching includes the centrality of Baptism, leading the Ethiopian eunuch to request the gift upon the sight of water. Philip quickly agrees, and the Ethiopian eunuch is incorporated into the family of God. After the Spirit whisks Philip away to continue the proclamation of the Gospel elsewhere, the Ethiopian e…
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May 13, 2022
The Word Goes to Samaria
Rev. Dr. Christopher Jackson, pastor at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Algoma, WI and St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Forestville, WI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 8:4-25.
The Lord uses the persecution of His Church in order to cause His Word to spread farther from Jerusalem. St. Luke follows the growth of the Word as it is proclaimed by Philip the deacon. He goes to Samaria; despite the tensions between Jews and Samaritans, the Word is received with faith and joy there. Previously, Simon had captivated the people by his signs and wonders, but the Word of God is more powerful than any demonic forces. Even Simon believes the Word preached by Philip. When Peter and John come to Samaria, they lay hands on the believers there so that the Holy Spirit falls on them as a public confirmation of the gift that has already been given. Simon’s wicked desire to buy this gift is quickly rebuked by Peter. God’s gifts are not for sale; rather, He gives them freely by His grace…
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May 12, 2022
Stephen’s Blessed Death
Rev. Chris Hull, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Tomball, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 7:44-8:3.
Stephen concludes his sermon before the Sanhedrin by reminding them of God’s history of dwelling among His people. Long before the temple, the LORD dwelled in the tabernacle. God’s promise to dwell among His people is what counted; apart from the LORD’s promise, the people fell into idolatry toward a building. When Stephen accuses the Sanhedrin of following in the idolatry of their fathers, they gnash their teeth at him. When Stephen proclaims that he sees Jesus at God’s right hand, they pick up stones to throw at him. Yet Stephen follows in the footsteps of Jesus, commending himself into the Lord’s hands and praying for those who kill him. Saul stands by and approves of Stephen’s execution, yet even his persecution of the Church cannot stop the Lord’s Word from going forth.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes t…
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May 11, 2022
Moses, the Lord’s Ruler and Rescuer
Rev. Matt Wietfeldt, Director of Admissions and the Christ Academy program at Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 7:17-43.
Stephen continues his proclamation before the Sanhedrin by focusing on God’s grace shown through Moses. Though Pharaoh intended evil against the LORD and His people, the LORD worked it for good and used Pharaoh’s own daughter to raise Moses. When Moses acted violently as a deliverer before his commissioning, the people rejected him and he was forced to flee to Midian. Forty years later, the LORD called Moses in the burning bush to return to Egypt and bring His people out. Over and over, Stephen emphasizes that Moses is the one God called and the one through whom God worked, yet the people of Israel continually rejected Moses and turned toward idolatry. Stephen preaches this so that the Sanhedrin would recognize that they are following that same deadly path by rejecting Jesus and repent before it’s to…
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May 10, 2022
Start with the Promise to Abraham
Rev. Sam Beltz, pastor at St. John Lutheran Church in Oskaloosa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 7:1-16.
Stephen has been accused by the Sanhedrin of blaspheming God and Moses, so he begins his proclamation with Abraham in order to set Moses in the proper place. God’s promises to Abraham are primary over the Law given to Moses. Stephen recounts the grace of God shown to Abraham in bringing him into the land of Canaan and giving him the promised child. Stephen traces the line through Isaac and Jacob before focusing again on the account of Joseph. Though his brothers initially hated Joseph, God brought Joseph out of slavery and into authority in Egypt in order to rescue His people. Though the patriarchs initially rejected Joseph, they were later brought to repentance. Stephen’s desire in preaching to the Sanhedrin is that they do the same. Though they have rejected Jesus, Stephen preaches to them in the hopes that they will be brought to repentance.
“To the…
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May 9, 2022
The Word of the Lord Grows
Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller, pastor at St. Paul and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Churches in Austin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 6:1-15.
As the Word of God continued to increase, the task of distributing to widows in the Church caused a complaint to arise: the Greek-speaking Jews were being neglected. The apostles quickly recognize the validity of this complaint, but also the necessity that they continue devoted to prayer and preaching the Word of God. They suggest that the Church set aside seven men with good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom for the necessary vocation. The Church does so, and the apostles set the seven aside for the task. St. Luke turns our attention to one of these seven, Stephen. The great wonders and signs done by Stephen draw the ire of many Jews in Jerusalem, who begin to dispute with him and bring him up on false charges. The Lord keeps His promise by filling Stephen with the Holy Spirit so that none of his opponents can withstand him. The…
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May 6, 2022
It Is Of God; You Will Not Stop It
Rev. Tim Storck, pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Chesterfield Township, MI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 5:21b-42.
The Lord frustrates the plans of His enemies and laughs at their attempts to stop the proclamation of His Word. The Sanhedrin and their officers are dumbfounded to find the prison locked but the apostles gone. While the Sanhedrin and their officers fear men and act accordingly, the apostles fear God and so are unafraid to make testimony before the Sanhedrin. Peter does so with boldness yet again, but the hardness of heart and anger of the Sanhedrin only grows. Gamaliel, a Pharisee and well-respected member of the council, advises the Sanhedrin that they ought to leave the apostles alone. If their authority is from men, they will die and become nothing; if their authority is from God, there is nothing the Sanhedrin can do. The Sanhedrin takes Gamaliel’s sound advice, though they beat the apostles before repeating their previous reprimand. None…
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May 5, 2022
The Gates of Hell Will Not Prevail
Rev. Sam Wirgau, pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ossian, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 5:1-21a.
The attacks against the Christian Church come from without and within. Ananias and Sapphira conspire with each other and Satan to lie to the Holy Spirit in the matter of their gift. Such a sin against God is no small matter, and the punishment He brings against this husband and wife is swift, serving as a warning to all. Signs and wonders continued as the Lord gave testimony to the truth of His Word proclaimed by the apostles. The Sanhedrin witnessed this with jealousy and placed the apostles in the public prison. Yet the Lord sent His angel to release these apostles so that they could go right back to the temple and proclaim Jesus as the Life.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volume, St. Luke records all the things that Jesus continued to do through the ministry of His Church. By…
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May 4, 2022
Responding to Persecution with Prayer
Rev. Peter Ill, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Millstadt, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 4:23-37.
In response to their persecution, Peter and John gather with the Church to pray. They address God as the Creator of all things who has revealed Himself in the Scriptures and in His Son, Jesus. They pray from Psalm 2, recognizing that God has fulfilled His promise to reign by the resurrection of Jesus. They ask God to continue to keep His promise from Psalm 2 and to make them bold by the Holy Spirit to proclaim the Gospel. God answers their prayer and continues to build the Church together in the Word of Christ. Just as they share the Word in common, so they use their possessions to help each other. Barnabas serves as a positive example of a Christian who gave his own possessions in service of the Church; he will play a role later in the book of Acts. Christians still love each other according to Christ’s own command, even if the way in which this happens varies…
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May 3, 2022
Salvation in Only One Name
Rev. AJ Espinosa, pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Irvine, CA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 4:1-22.
When the Sanhedrin finds out about the preaching of Peter and John in the temple, they have the two apostles arrested. The Sadducees, having great power and influence, are particularly disturbed not only by the preaching of the resurrection, but particularly by the preaching that the resurrection is found only in Jesus. The Holy Spirit takes their questioning as yet another opportunity for Peter to proclaim the Gospel: only Jesus’ name brings salvation to sinners. The Sanhedrin was astonished at the boldness of these two men, along with their lack of formal training or education. However, they knew they could do nothing against these men, for the forty-year-old beggar had been healed in front of everyone. The Sanhedrin ordered Peter and John to stop preaching in Jesus’ name, but the apostles put the charge back to the Sanhedrin and called upon them to judge…
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May 2, 2022
Walking and Leaping and Praising God
Rev. Dr. Scott Murray, pastor at Memorial Lutheran Church in Houston, TX, and 3rd Vice President of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 3:1-26.
The lame man in Acts 3 had a prime spot for begging for alms, yet on the day recorded by St. Luke, Peter and John had a far better gift for the man. In the name of Jesus, they gave this man the gift of healing; the man promptly began walking and leaping and praising God. As the gathering crowd realized who this man was, Peter took the opportunity to proclaim Jesus to them. He spoke to them concerning what the God of their fathers had done in raising Jesus from the dead; it was through the name of this same Jesus that this man had been made well. Though the people had acted in ignorance in crucifying Jesus, God had accomplished what He had foretold. Jesus is the prophet to whom they must listen; Jesus is the offspring of Abraham through whom they would be blessed. Peter proclaimed these things in…
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Apr 29, 2022
Repent and Be Baptized, Everyone!
Rev. Isaac Schuller, Pastor at First Immanuel Lutheran Church in San Jose, CA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 2:37-47.
The Word of God preached by Peter cuts the hearers to the heart, and they ask the apostle directly: “What then shall we do?” Peter’s answer is all Gospel, that which God does for sinners. Both repentance and baptism are God’s gifts to sinners. Peter’s words clearly reveal that baptism is for all people, even infants. Baptism is the gift of God by which He names us as His own, gives the forgiveness won by Jesus, and delivers to us the Holy Spirit. Through the work of the Holy Spirit that day, about three thousand people were added to the Church. This Church was devoted to the apostles’ teaching, the fellowship, the breaking of bread, and the prayers. As they shared the Word in common, so they shared their possessions to help each other in their need. They were active in the life of worship, and the Lord continued to add more people to His Chu…
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Apr 28, 2022
You Crucified Jesus, but God Has Raised Him
Rev. Bernie Schey, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Old Dime Box, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 2:14-36.
Peter is quick to address the confusion of the crowd on Pentecost. The disciples are not drunk; rather, the Holy Spirit has been given in fulfillment of Joel 2. The people must understand that this means the last days have come in Jesus; today is the day to call upon His name for salvation. Though they should have known who Jesus was from the signs and wonders He did, the people crucified and killed Him. Yet the Father raised Jesus from the dead, just as David had foretold in Psalm 16. Whereas David was still buried in his tomb, Jesus had burst forth from His tomb, as God kept His promise recording in Psalm 110. Peter uses this text to bring his sermon to a grand climax: God has made Jesus, the Crucified One, both Lord and Christ.
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volume, St.…
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Apr 27, 2022
Proclaiming the Mighty Works of God on Pentecost
Rev. Harrison Goodman, content executive for Higher Things, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 2:1-13.
The day of Pentecost finds its Old Testament background in the Feast of Weeks, which happens fifty days after the Passover. When that day arrives, Jesus’ disciples are all together in Jerusalem, waiting for Jesus to fulfill His promise by sending the Holy Spirit. Jesus keeps that promise, and the signs that are given cannot be separated from the Word that is proclaimed. The sound of the wind is reminiscent of Jesus’ words concerning the Spirit in John 3 and the vision of dry bones brought to life in Ezekiel 37. The tongues of fire recall John’s preaching concerning the baptism of Spirit and fire. The disciples speak in tongues that are readily understood by the people who are in Jerusalem for the feast. Those people from every nation begin to gather and question what is happening. The objection that the disciples must be drunk is given not only to the raucous noise,…
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Apr 26, 2022
Jesus Calls Matthias
Rev. James Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottumwa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 1:12-26.
After Jesus’ ascension, His disciples return to Jerusalem, according to His command. They gather together as the Church, including the faithful women and Jesus’ mother and brothers, in order to devote themselves to prayer. As they wait for Jesus to send the Spirit, they go about the task of filling Judas’ empty office. Peter recognizes the Scripture as the inspired Word of God and states that what has happened to Judas has fulfilled what God had spoken. The one to replace Judas must meet the qualification that Jesus had given concerning His witnesses. Two such men are identified: Barsabbas and Matthias. The Church leaves the choice up to Jesus, and by their casting of lots, Jesus selects Matthias as the twelfth apostle. Pastors today still have the Divine Call of Jesus to serve in His Church, though their call today comes not immediately, but mediately throu…
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Apr 25, 2022
The Work of Jesus Continues in His Word
Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Oschwald, professor of exegetical theology at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Acts 1:1-11.
In his Gospel, St. Luke told what Jesus began to do and teach. Now, in Acts, St. Luke tells what Jesus continues to do and teach through His Word proclaimed in the Church. Acts was written to Theophilus in order to show how the Word of the Lord continued to grow and bear fruit through the proclamation of the work of the apostles. Though Peter and Paul tend to be the dominant human actors, the Word of the Lord does all the work in the book of Acts. The account begins where the Gospel ended: the ascension of Jesus. His teaching for forty days after His resurrection was all about the kingdom of God. When the disciples asked if there was still a role for them in that kingdom, Jesus promised that they would be witnesses of all that He had done and would continue to do. They watched as Jesus’ ascended into heaven, hidden by a cloud, unti…
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Apr 25, 2022
NEW SERIES: To the End of the Earth
“To the End of the Earth” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Acts. In his second volume, St. Luke records all the things that Jesus continued to do through the ministry of His Church. By the end of the book, the proclamation of the Lord’s Word that began in Jerusalem grows all the way to Rome. By God’s grace, even now, that same Word is proclaimed to us.
Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen.
Sharper Iron is underwritten by Lutheran Church Extension Fund, where your investments help support the work of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit lcef.org.
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Apr 22, 2022
Sharathon Hymn Study: O Sons and Daughters of the King
Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX joins host Rev. Timothy Appel for Sharathon 2022 to study the Easter hymn, “O Sons and Daughters of the King.”
This joyful Easter hymn tells the account of what happened on the day of Jesus’ resurrection and one week later. The faithful women went to Jesus’ tomb early in the morning on the first day of the week; there they were met by the angel who told them the news of Jesus’ resurrection. They told that news to the apostles, to whom Jesus Himself appeared with His peace that same evening. Thomas refused to believe, so Jesus came again to show Himself to Thomas in order to give Thomas the same peace. Thomas exclaimed in faith, “My Lord and my God!” That same faith is given to us today through the Word. Though we have not seen, we are blessed to believe. By Christ’s resurrection, we are children of the heavenly kingdom who rejoice in the eternal life Jesus has won and given to us.
Lutheran Service…
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Apr 21, 2022
Sharathon Hymn Study: Christ Jesus Lay in Death’s Strong Bands
Rev. Sean Kilgo, pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Lawrence, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel for Sharathon 2022 to study Martin Luther’s Easter hymn, “Christ Jesus Lay in Death’s Strong Bands.”
This marvelous Easter hymn helps us to rejoice that Christ is the Savior who has done what we could not do. Our sin left us powerless in the prison of death, but Jesus has come to conquer this greatest enemy of ours and strip it of its reign and power. The strife was real and strange, yet the outcome of Jesus’ victory was never in doubt. As the fulfillment of the Passover Lamb, Jesus’ blood marks us as His own people so that no enemy can harm us. In this Easter joy, we keep the festival of the Lord’s resurrection and receive Him and all His gifts in the Holy Supper of His Body and Blood.
Lutheran Service Book 458
1 Christ Jesus lay in death's strong bands
For our offenses given;
But now at God's right hand He stands
And brings us life from heaven.
Therefore let…
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Apr 20, 2022
Preparation for Proclaiming Repentance and Forgiveness
Rev. Sean Daenzer, director of worship for The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and chaplain at the International Center in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 24:36-53.
As all the disciples discuss the news from the two Emmaus travelers, Jesus Himself stands among them to give them His peace. He shows His hands and feet, not only as proof of His bodily resurrection, but also so that they would see the scars that mark Him as their Savior. Eating in their presence further confirms His resurrection and reminds them of the fellowship with them He continues to extend. Jesus takes the opportunity to teach them the truth concerning Himself in the Scriptures. The entire Old Testament has been fulfilled in Him, and now He sends His disciples as His witnesses to proclaim His death and resurrection for repentance and forgiveness of sins to all nations. They must wait in Jerusalem until He sends the Holy Spirit. Jesus’ ascends into heaven in their presence in Bethany,…
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Apr 19, 2022
On the Road to Emmaus
Rev. Zelwyn Heide, pastor at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Hannover, ND and Zion Lutheran Church in New Salem, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 24:13-35.
On Easter afternoon, Cleopas and another of Jesus’ disciples were walking to Emmaus, when the Lord Himself came and joined their journey. They were kept from recognizing Him, and He struck up a conversation about the events of the previous days. These two disciples had a decent picture of who Jesus was, but they had failed to grasp the necessity of His suffering for the redemption of Israel. Jesus quickly turns from student to teacher as He spends the rest of their walk interpreting the Scriptures to them. When they arrive, they pray for Jesus to stay with them, and He does. As He breaks bread, their eyes are opened to recognize Jesus, who promptly disappears from their sight. They run back to Jerusalem to tell the others what had happened. As we hear Jesus’ teaching and eat with Him in His Holy Supper, Jesus reve…
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Apr 18, 2022
He Is Risen Indeed!
Rev. Shawn Linnell, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Blair, NE, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 24:1-12.
St. Luke’s carefully arranged timeline establishes Jesus’ resurrection as the beginning of a new creation, the eighth day on which Jesus makes all things new. The women were faithful followers of Jesus as they went to the tomb to anoint His body, but like everyone else, they did not fully comprehend what Jesus had taught them. The two angels announce the Easter Gospel to the women: Jesus is the Living One! The words that He had spoken to them were the proof. As they remembered His Words, they went and told the eleven and the other disciples, who thought their words to be an idle tale. Peter went to the tomb and saw for himself, yet he too could still only marvel. The glorious truth of Jesus’ resurrection makes all the difference; because Jesus has risen, so will we and all who trust in Him.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-serie…
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Apr 15, 2022
A Holy Burial
Rev. Clint Poppe, pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Lincoln, NE, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 23:50-56.
As a member of the Sanhedrin and a rich man, Joseph of Arimathea seems an unlikely disciple. Yet the Lord’s Word had brought Joseph to faith. Looking for the kingdom of God, Joseph actually got to see the King bringing His kingdom, though Joseph probably didn’t expect to see it as he buried the Savior. As Jesus was wrapped in swaddling cloths as a baby, now Jesus was wrapped in a linen shroud for His burial. Joseph’s unused tomb teaches the uniqueness of what Jesus accomplished by His death and also serves as further evidence that Jesus is the One who was raised on the third day. Jesus’ burial takes place quickly, as both He and His followers observe the Sabbath according to the commandment. Jesus’ burial gives comfort to Christians that they have been clothed with Christ, and as He was raised from His rest in the tomb, so will all His faithful on…
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Apr 14, 2022
The Tree of Life Opens Paradise
Rev. Luke Zimmerman, pastor at Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mechanicsburg, PA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 23:26-49.
With Jesus weak from all the beatings He received, the Roman soldiers force Simon of Cyrene to carry Jesus’ cross to Golgotha. In this way, Simon provides a concrete picture of discipleship. As the crowd around Jesus grows, the faithful women begin to mourn and lament. Jesus instructs them not to lament both because the things He does are necessary and because mourning is actually necessary for the destruction that will come upon Jerusalem. When Jesus arrives at Golgotha, He is crucified between two criminals. Even in the midst of shame and mockery, Jesus speaks with forgiveness for the soldiers and promises Paradise to the repentant thief. He dies the blessed death of the faithful, commending Himself into His Father’s hands as He dies for our salvation.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron…
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Apr 13, 2022
The Innocent Man Goes to Death for You
Rev. Andrew Jagow, pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Alexandria, VA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 23:1-25.
Jesus is brought to trial before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea. The Sanhedrin lobs false accusations against Jesus, but Pilate is primarily concerned with whether or not Jesus claims to be a king who will lead a rebellion against Rome. Though Pilate finds Jesus innocent, the crowd’s persistence leads to Pilate sending Jesus to Herod. In Jesus’ trial before Herod, the tetrarch is disappointed that Jesus will not do any sign, so he mocks Jesus along with his soldiers before sending Jesus back to Pilate. The Roman governor again finds Jesus innocent, but offers to punish Him to satisfy the growing crowd. However, they demand crucifixion for Jesus, and Pilate ultimately gives in to their demands. The guilty man, Barabbas, goes free, while the innocent Man, Jesus, goes to death. This exchange provides a picture of the justification that God works…
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Apr 12, 2022
Jesus Gives the Good Confession
Rev. Rick Jones, chaplain and director of spiritual life at the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch in Minot, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 22:54-71.
As Jesus is led away to His trial, Peter undergoes the trial that Jesus had predicted. With escalating intensity, Peter denies knowing Jesus, being among His disciples, and even being from the same geographic region. When Jesus looks at Peter, the disciple is brought to tears as He remembers Jesus’ words. This provides an example of contrition and faith as we confess our sins to the Lord still today. St. Luke turns his attention back to Jesus. As the soldiers mock Jesus, they ironically prove that Jesus is the Christ, the very thing they deny. As Jesus is put on trial, He gives the good confession as to His own identity in a way that forces His accusers to either confess or deny the truth. They continue in their hard-hearted denial as Jesus continues on toward His death.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account”…
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Apr 11, 2022
The Agony of the Savior for You
Rev. David Boisclair, pastor at Bethesda and Faith Lutheran Churches in north St. Louis County, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 22:39-53.
Jesus takes His disciples from the upper room to the Mount of Olives. There He prays in great agony, knowing the suffering He is about to endure. Even as He asks if salvation for sinners can be accomplished in another way, Jesus prays that His Father’s will would be done. Jesus finds His disciples sleeping instead of praying as Judas comes to betray the Lord with a kiss. When one of the disciples strikes with a sword, Jesus shows His great mercy and compassion in healing the soldier’s ear. Jesus lets His captors know that although they will do their worst in their hour of darkness, He remains in controls of His Passion and goes willingly to His death.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. Luke. The Evangelist wrote his well-researched…
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Apr 8, 2022
Service in the Kingdom of God
Rev. Steve Andrews, pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee’s Summit, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 22:24-38.
The disciples’ questions concerning who would betray Jesus turn into a dispute concerning who is the greatest. As they have throughout Jesus’ ministry, the disciples continue to misunderstand the way Jesus will bring the kingdom of God through His suffering and death. Jesus teaches them that earthly greatness is not a concern in His kingdom; rather, life in the kingdom of God is one of service. The disciples will give that service after Jesus’ ascension as pastors in the early church, even as all Christians continue to serve in their vocations today. Jesus knows that Peter will deny Him, even as Peter denies that such a thing could ever happen. Yet the Lord still seeks to strengthen Peter and all His disciples for the persecution to come. Even though the disciples do not understand at the moment, the Lord will make them His faithful servants af…
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Apr 7, 2022
Just as Jesus Said
Rev. Matt Ulmer, pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Bishop, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 22:1-23.
As Jesus enters into His Passion, the Old Testament context of the Passover provides the background. Jesus is the Lamb of God who gives Himself as the sacrifice in order to rescue us from slavery to sin, death, and the devil. The devil takes an active role by leading Judas to betray the Lord into the hands of the chief priests. Nonetheless, Jesus remains in control; He directs Peter and John to prepare the Passover with specific details that happen just as He had said. His words to His disciples at the meal indicate that He will bring the kingdom of God by His coming death and resurrection. Jesus fulfills the Passover meal and makes it His own as He institutes His Holy Supper. With the bread, Jesus gives His Body, and with the cup, Jesus gives His Blood, just as He said.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes…
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Apr 6, 2022
Your Redemption Is Drawing Near
Rev. Brian Flamme, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Roswell, NM, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 21:5-38.
When people begin to speak of the temple’s noble stones, Jesus foretells the destruction of the temple and Jerusalem. In response to their question concerning the timing and the signs, Jesus teaches an extended discourse that not only accurately speaks of the siege and fall of Jerusalem in AD 70, but also speaks about His own return on the Last Day. Wars and natural disasters will always happen prior to Jesus’ return. Such terrors should not alarm Christians, nor should they try to calculate when the Last Day will come. Instead, they should lift up their heads and live in constant expectation of the Day that brings their redemption. The things of this world will not avail in preparation for Christ’s return; only Jesus’ words will never pass away and provide salvation that lasts forever.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-serie…
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Apr 5, 2022
David’s Son and David’s Lord
Rev. Joel Heckmann, pastor at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Okarche, OK, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 20:41-21:4.
After some of the scribes recognize that Jesus had spoken well, the Lord puts the question to them. He asks them how to interpret Psalm 110. They rightly recognize that the Christ is David’s son; how can Psalm 110 also call the Christ David’s Lord? Through His insightful question, Jesus teaches us to read the Old Testament with Him as the center and calls the scribes to believe that He is both true man and true God. When the scribes continue in their unbelief, Jesus tells His disciples and the listening crowd to beware the idolatry of the scribes that has led them to reject His Lordship. A poor widow who gives the Lord everything serves as the example of a faithful Christian who lives and acts with faith in Jesus as Lord.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St…
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Apr 4, 2022
A Ridiculous Riddle Doesn’t Disprove the Resurrection
Rev. Nate Hill, pastor at St. Michael’s Lutheran Church in Winchester, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 20:27-40.
The Sadducees, known for their rejection of the resurrection, spirits, and angels, take their turn at trying to trap Jesus. They pose a ridiculous example to Jesus based on the practice of levirate marriage, a practice given by Moses in the Law. They believe they have Jesus trapped, as the situation seems ludicrous in the resurrection. Though Jesus could have simply ignored their malicious question, He gives the good confession while not stooping to their games. Jesus tells them that they are wrong to equate this age to the resurrection. In the resurrection, there is no death; therefore, levirate marriage is entirely unnecessary, and the purpose of marriage in bringing about the next generation is no longer needed either. Jesus shows that the resurrection is taught in Scripture by quoting from Exodus 3. God is not the God of the dead, but the God of the…
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Apr 1, 2022
Render to God What Is God’s
Rev. Jacob Dandy, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church and School in Terra Bella, CA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 20:19-26.
The scribes and chief priests realize that Jesus has spoken a parable against them. They send spies in an attempt to trap Jesus. In their hypocrisy, these men end up speaking true words concerning Jesus, even though they do not believe what they say. They attempt to trap Jesus in a question about paying taxes to Caesar, thinking that He will either run afoul of the Romans or the faithful Israelites. Jesus exposes their hypocrisy and teaches the truth in having His opponents show Him a denarius. Caesar rightly is concerned with money and taxes, as God has entrusted earthly authority to him. Yet Jesus places Caesar’s authority in the proper context of God’s authority over all. Even as Christians render to Caesar the things that are Caesars, Christians always give to God all that belongs to Him, for their faith is finally in God alone.
“The Be…
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Mar 31, 2022
The Rejected Stone Has Become the Cornerstone
Rev. Jeremiah Johnson, pastor at Glory of Christ Lutheran Church in Plymouth, MN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 20:9-18.
In response to the challenge against His authority, Jesus tells the people a parable about a man who owned a vineyard and leased it to tenants. His tenants owed all the fruit to him, but they refused to deliver it to any of the owner’s servants. When the owner finally sent his son, the tenants treated him worst of all and killed him. In this parable, Jesus uses the familiar Old Testament image of God’s people Israel as a vineyard. The religious leaders killed the prophets the Godhad sent, and now they were about to kill the Son of God. Jesus warns them that the vineyard will be given to others who do have faith in Him. In one way or another, everyone must face Jesus as the true cornerstone. Those who put their trust in Him now die to their sin but are raised to life with Him on the Last Day.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is…
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Mar 30, 2022
Jesus’ Authority
Rev. Sean Kilgo, pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Lawrence, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 20:1-8.
On Holy Tuesday, Jesus continues His teaching in the temple, filling it with His true doctrine and the good news of the salvation He is about to accomplish in Jerusalem. The Sanhedrin was rightly concerned with discerning true teaching from false doctrine, but they were derelict in their duty. They questioned Jesus’ authority in an attempt to carry out their desire to destroy Him, but Jesus turned the tables on them and called them to repentance by calling them to consider His entire ministry all the way back to John’s baptism. The Sanhedrin, however, was unwilling to answer Jesus’ question by asking for His forgiveness, and they were too cowardly to face the crowds with their rejection of John. They weasel out of Jesus’ question without answering, and so Jesus will not give the answer that His life and ministry have already answered. The warning of the Sa…
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Mar 29, 2022
Peace in Jesus, the True Jerusalem
Rev. Richard Mittwede, pastor at University Lutheran Church in Austin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 19:41-48.
The joy surrounding Jesus’ ride toward Jerusalem contrasts with His weeping and lament upon seeing the city. Though Jesus enters the city to make peace between God and sinners, Jerusalem refuses to receive Him in faith. As they had rejected the proclamation of repentance by prophets such as Jeremiah, so they now reject Jesus. In the Old Testament, the Babylonians brought God’s judgment; now their judgment will come at the hands of the Roman army because they did not recognize the presence of God in Jesus. He proceeds to the temple, which He claims as His own house, the place where prayers for His mercy are offered. They have abused the true purpose of His temple; by His continued teaching in the temple during Holy Week, Jesus shows the good news that comes when God dwells among men and shows Himself to be the true temple. The building in Jerusalem has…
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Mar 28, 2022
The King Who Comes to Die
Rev. Tim Eden, pastor at Bethel Lutheran Church in Bryan, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 19:28-40.
The time has arrived. Jesus has set His face toward Jerusalem, and now He prepares to enter into His city as the true King. His entrance on a colt clearly identifies Him as the King, yet the King who comes in humility for the purpose He has revealed to His disciples many times: He comes to suffer, die, and rise in Jerusalem. Jesus’ precise instructions to His disciples concerning the colt reveal the trustworthiness of His Word. Though the crowd of disciples may not have fully understood everything they sang, their words proclaimed the truth concerning Jesus. He is the fulfillment of Psalm 118 who has come to give true peace between heaven and earth. The Pharisees’ response of unbelief stands as a warning for all who would not receive Jesus in faith. The Palm Sunday text reminds us to receive Jesus as the King who has come to die and rise to be our Savior.
“T…
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Mar 25, 2022
The King’s Gifts Bear Fruit
Rev. Stephen Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Vinton, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 19:11-27.
Jesus’ impending entrance into Jerusalem and His recent encounters with a blind man and Zacchaeus have left the crowds with incorrect expectations about the coming of God’s kingdom. Jesus tells a parable in order to instruct them in the truth. Jesus is the nobleman who goes off to receive a kingdom by His death, resurrection, and ascension. He leaves His disciples with His gifts to put to use, even as His kingdom faces opposition. Jesus does return as the victorious and reigning King. He first calls His servants to Him. Two servants tell of how the Lord’s money brought a return; they were simply unworthy servants who did their duty. Yet in a surprise of grace, the Lord rewards them generously. One servant, however, knew his Lord wrongly. Though the Lord points out this servant’s inconsistency of belief and action, He gives the servant what he wanted and…
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Mar 24, 2022
Salvation for a Wee Little Man
Rev. Carl Roth, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 19:1-10.
Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem takes Him through Jericho, the home of Zacchaeus. As a tax collector, Zacchaeus is among those who have been welcomed by Jesus, yet as a rich man, Zacchaeus has been living a life of woe. His desire to see Jesus is well-placed, but he is too short to see over the crowd. He climbs a sycamore tree for just a glimpse of Jesus. The Lord calls to Zacchaeus with great urgency; he must go to this tax collector’s house. Zacchaeus receives the Lord with great joy, despite the grumbling of the crowd. Zacchaeus responds to the Lord’s mercy with the fruit of repentance, and Jesus reiterates the absolution that Zacchaeus has already received. Jesus’ mission is to seek and save lost sinners; that is why He had to come to Zacchaeus, and that is why He has to finish His journey to Jerusalem.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a m…
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Mar 23, 2022
Seeing Jesus’ Suffering with Eyes of Faith
Rev. Dr. Adam Koontz, assistant professor of exegetical theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 18:31-43.
Jesus continues with unbroken focus on His journey toward Jerusalem. He reiterates to His disciples the necessity that He go there in order to fulfill the Scriptures. There He will be handed over to the Gentiles to suffer the deepest humiliation and most gruesome death. Though the cross looks horrific to human eyes, the divine beauty is seen through Jesus’ blood. The disciples are unable to see this truth now, but the miracle Jesus accomplishes in giving the blind man his sight indicates that their eyes will one day be opened. The blind man identifies Jesus as the true King of Israel who has come to show mercy, and mercy is precisely what He receives from the Savior through faith.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. Lu…
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Mar 22, 2022
Infants Are Rich in God’s Kingdom
Rev. Dr. Adam Filipek, pastor at Holy Cross and Immanuel Lutheran Churches in Lidgerwood, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 18:15-30.
The humility of the tax collector in Jesus’ previous parable is comparable to the helplessness of the infants being brought to Him. He rebukes His disciples when they attempt to stop these children from coming to Him, for only in such dependence upon the Lord will anyone enter into His kingdom. A ruler approaches Jesus with the opposite attitude. The ruler believes he has kept the Law, and so Jesus seeks to expose the man’s false trust. The ruler’s riches prove to be too great an idol, and he hears Jesus’ call in sadness. In response, Jesus teaches how great an obstacle riches are to entering the kingdom of God; only the Lord Himself can overcome the human impossibility for salvation. Jesus has accomplished this salvation by His incarnation, death, resurrection, and ascension.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account”…
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Mar 21, 2022
A Persistent Widow and a Humble Tax Collector
Rev. Ned Moerbe, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Blackwell, OK, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 18:1-14.
In order to encourage His disciples to pray always without losing heart, Jesus tells a parable about an unjust judge and a persistent widow. Though the judge cares neither about God’s law nor man’s opinion, he gives the widow the justice she desires due to her constant petitioning. In contrast to the unjust judge, the true God is righteous. He loves His elect, and He will surely answer their prayers because He is their heavenly Father. Jesus’ question about finding faith invites each individual to examine themselves for the faith that Jesus commends in His second parable. To those who trust in their own righteousness, Jesus speaks about a Pharisee who prays with pride and a tax collector who prays with humility. While the Pharisee is brought low in his pride, the tax collector receives the mercy and justification from God for which he pleads.
“The Be…
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Mar 18, 2022
The Kingdom of God Comes in Jesus
Rev. David Vandercook, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Little Rock, AR and Shepherd of Peace Lutheran Church in Maumelle, AR, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 17:20-37.
When some Pharisees ask when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus redirects their question toward Himself. The kingdom of God is not to be sought in signs, but in the King who is among them, Jesus Himself. The Lord then instructs His disciples further. When they desire to see Him as they did at that time, they should not be misled, but they should recognize that Jesus’ coming will be as evident as the flash of lightning. His second coming as King cannot take place until He completes His first coming as King in which He reigns by death and resurrection. When he returns again on the Last Day, it will be sudden. That is why the Lord gives warning now, so that sinners would repent and believe in Him to be prepared for the final judgment. Only such faith will save; no material goods will avail. Whe…
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Mar 17, 2022
Cleansed from Leprosy, Cleansed from Sin
Rev. Chris Hull, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Tomball, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 17:11-19.
Jesus’ journey toward the cross puts the healing of the ten leprous men into its full context. As Jesus cleanses these men from the sickness that corrupts their skin, so He goes to cleanse all sinners from the sin that corrupts their nature by His death and resurrection. They pray for the Lord’s mercy, a prayer in which Christians still join today. One of the ten men recognizes that Jesus is the Source of this marvelous gift, and so he returns to worship Jesus as God. Though this man was a Samaritan, he truly was a member of God’s people because his faith was in Jesus Christ. Jesus marvels at this truth and sends the man on his way in peace, because his faith has saved him.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. Luke. The Evangelist wrote his well-researched account of…
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Mar 16, 2022
Servants Do Their Duty in Faith
Rev. Andrew Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Haven, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 17:1-10.
Jesus continues His teaching against greed and pride as He turns to His disciples. Obstacles to saving faith will be present in this world, and the consequences to those who set them up by false doctrine or false living are severe. Yet, at the same time, the Lord shows how much He values His little ones. His disciples should value them similarly by taking care both to rebuke sin and forgive sin. The apostles recognize the necessity of faith for this task, and Jesus teaches that faith alone is powerful to do these things. This faith is active in patience, suffering, and cross-carrying, as Jesus’ disciples live as unworthy servants of their master.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. Luke. The Evangelist wrote his well-researched account of Jesus’ life, death, and…
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Mar 15, 2022
Lazarus and the Rich Man
Rev. Dr. Jeff Dukeman, pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Gulfport, MS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 16:19-31.
Jesus continues to seek after the lost Pharisees by using the illustration of Lazarus and the rich man. Though Lazarus is poor in this life, he is known to God by name, and his faith results in the riches of eternal life. The fact that the angels carry Lazarus to Abraham’s side at death brings comfort to Christians as we face death. Though the rich man has all he wants in this life, he is unknown to God by name, and his unbelief results in the poverty of hell. Here Jesus portrays the great reversal that happens in the kingdom of God. The one who was sure his heritage or deeds would keep him in the kingdom found out that he was actually outside. The truth for salvation is found in the Word of God; those who would be saved must listen to God in His Word and nowhere else.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Ir…
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Mar 14, 2022
Faithful with God’s Riches
Rev. Jason M. Kaspar, pastor at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in La Grange, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 16:1-18.
The parable Jesus tells about an unjust steward is challenging. Focusing on the mercy of the master is a helpful key to understand the parable consistently with the rest of Holy Scripture. In his actions, the dishonest manager banks shrewdly on the master’s merciful reputation among his debtors. Similarly, Jesus’ disciples should use their money and possessions with a view toward their Lord’s mercy. They can freely give of their money and possessions to those in need because their Father has given freely to them an even greater gift, the Word of God. The Pharisees see this as foolishness, and their opposition to Jesus grows from grumbling to scoffing. Jesus confronts their self-justification with the Law of God, which stands true for all people.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes throug…
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Mar 11, 2022
The Compassionate Father
Rev. Sam Wirgau, pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ossian, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 15:11-32.
Jesus’ third parable in response to the Pharisees’ grumbling brings His teaching on the grace of God to a grand climax. Jesus speaks of a father and his two sons. The younger son asks for his inheritance ahead of time. The father responds to this terrible insult by agreeing to his son’s demand. The son liquidates his property and goes to a foreign land, providing a picture of the distance from God inherent in our sin and idolatry. The younger son hits rock bottom and comes to his senses, though he still thinks he will work his way back until he sees the love of his father. The father sees his son at a distance and runs to him; he forgives him, receives him back as a son, and throws a party. At this point, the older son shows that he too is lost. He refuses to go into his dad’s celebration, another terrible insult to the father. Yet the father goes to him…
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Mar 10, 2022
The Searching Shepherd and the Rejoicing Housewife
Rev. Peter Ill, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Millstadt, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 15:1-10.
When the Pharisees disapprove of Jesus’ dinner company, the Lord takes the opportunity to teach them in parables concerning the grace of God that seeks and finds lost sinners. His first parable speaks of a shepherd who has one hundred sheep under his care. Perhaps surprisingly, he is willing to go to great lengths to search and find just one lost sheep. When he finds that sheep, his joy overflows into a party for his friends and neighbors. Jesus’ second parable grows in intensity; now a woman has ten coins and spares no effort to find one that is lost. Her joy similarly overflows when the lost is found. In both of these parables, Jesus teaches the shame and suffering that God is willing to endure in order to rescue sinners from death, and then the joy that overflows in heaven when His people are restored into His kingdom.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orde…
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Mar 9, 2022
Salty Disciples Follow Jesus to Eternity
Rev. Matt Wietfeldt, Director of Admissions and the Christ Academy program at Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 14:25-35.
Jesus turns to a broader audience of the great crowds who are journeying with Him but not yet His disciples. He speaks to let them know what following Him entails. To be a disciple of Jesus is to choose Him above all else, even over the closest earthly relationships or over the self. To be a disciple of Jesus is to carry a cross, following after Him as the Crucified One. Jesus’ disciples live with a view toward the end, desiring to build a tower that stands the test of time and to fight a war that ends in success. Only with Jesus as the foundation will the tower stand; only with Jesus fighting for you as your Savior will victory be won. Earthly possessions play no role in this, for they will be gone at death anyway; Jesus’ disciples are free to renounce them now. In this way, Jesus’ disciples remain…
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Mar 8, 2022
Honored to Be at the Feast
Rev. John Bussman, pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Cullman, AL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 14:1-24.
A Sabbath meal at the house of a Pharisee provides Jesus the opportunity to correct misunderstandings concerning the kingdom of God. The Lord cuts right through the confusion of Pharisaical traditions by healing a man with dropsy on the Sabbath. He holds together true love of God and true love of neighbor in opposition to the legalism of the Pharisees. As Jesus watches the Pharisees jockey for positions of honor, He teaches that honor is not something earned but a gift bestowed by the Father in the kingdom of God. Because all depends on God’s gift, there is no need to use others to gain honor for ourselves, but we are set free to show love to even the lowest of neighbors. Those who are included in the feast of God’s kingdom are blessed indeed, but they come only through the invitation of Jesus. To reject the Lord’s invitation is disastrous, yet He long…
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Mar 7, 2022
The Door Is Narrow, but It’s Open!
Rev. Caleb Adams, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Bend, OR, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 13:22-35.
Jesus’ journey toward Jerusalem continues through towns and villages on the way. When someone questions the number of those saved, Jesus redirects toward the question of “How?” more than “How many?” The door to salvation is narrow because Jesus is the only Way. This makes the matter of repentance and faith in Jesus urgent. The door is open now, but the day will come when the door is shut. Those who had mere familiarity with Jesus but no saving faith will be left outside. The patriarchs and prophets of the Old Testament will be in the kingdom of God along with all those from all over the world who share their faith in the Savior. Jesus brings them into His kingdom by completing His work for our salvation. Neither the Pharisees nor Herod can stand in His way from getting to Jerusalem where He will die. Though He longs to gather Jerusalem in love, their refus…
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Mar 4, 2022
New Creation on the Sabbath
Rev. Jonathan Walla, pastor at Bethel Lutheran Church in Bismarck, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 13:10-21.
A woman with a disabling spirit is in the synagogue where Jesus is teaching one Sabbath. Though Satan had afflicted her for eighteen years, Jesus sets her free from the devil’s grip and the accompanying sickness. She glorifies God, but the ruler of the synagogue shames her and anyone else who would seek after healing on the Sabbath. Jesus rebukes him sharply, identifying the Sabbath day as the appropriate time for God to bring rest and release to His creation. This leads Jesus into two short parables concerning the kingdom of heaven. As a mustard seed grows into a tree, and as leaven works through an entire batch of flour, so the kingdom of God grows by the power of God’s Word.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. Luke. The Evangelist wrote his well-researched ac…
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Mar 3, 2022
Repent Today
Rev. Philip Hoppe, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Colby, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 12:54-13:9.
Jesus turns to the crowds and rebukes their hypocrisy in correctly reading the signs of the weather but failing to recognize the signs that He is the Christ. If they continue in that hypocrisy, they will align themselves with the false teaching of the Pharisees. Instead, they must recognize for themselves that Jesus is the Righteous One, the only One who can give settlement to God so that they are free from the penalty of their sins. When the crowds attempt to discern the times by bringing to Jesus’ attention an atrocity committed by Pilate, the Lord instead points them to their own repentance as the necessary response. God’s mercy is long-suffering, as the parable of the fig tree shows, but the time is drawing short. The day for repentance and faith is today.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes thr…
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Mar 2, 2022
Be Ready as Faithful Servants
Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 12:35-53.
Jesus continues to speak forthrightly as He prepares His disciples for His second coming. His servants are called to faithfulness, for they know they have a master who has come to serve them. Yet they dare not take this grace for granted; the master returns at an unexpected hour, and unfaithfulness will be met with His judgment. Jesus shows how quickly small unfaithfulness grows into outright evil, a strong warning for all who have been given faith right now. Jesus reveals that there is no middle ground; even within earthly families, He is the dividing line. By His Baptism of blood on the cross, He wins salvation and establishes Himself as the only way to eternal life.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. Luke. The Evangelist wrote his well-researched account of Jesus…
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Mar 1, 2022
Have No Fear, Little Flock
Rev. Mark Barz, pastor at Crown of Life Lutheran Church in San Antonio, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 12:22-34.
On the heels of the parable of the rich fool, Jesus teaches His disciples that there is no need to worry. When they are rich toward God, He will give them all that they need for this life. Besides, this life is more than food and clothing, all of which are gifts from God’s hand in the first place. He cares for birds and flowers; certainly He will take care of His people. That removes anxiousness and frees us to seek after God’s kingdom, which He promises to give to us according to His good pleasure. His heavenly treasure can never be taken away or destroyed; when our heart is with Christ, our treasure is there with Him as well.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. Luke. The Evangelist wrote his well-researched account of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection…
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Feb 28, 2022
Rich in the Fear of God
Rev. AJ Espinosa, pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Irvine, CA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 12:1-21.
As the crowds around Jesus grow, the Lord takes the opportunity to warn the disciples against the leaven of the Pharisees. Their hypocrisy is seeking to please people only. Not only is such a task ultimately futile before men, but God will make all hidden things plain. Such fear of men is short-sighted, for their power is only over this physical life. Only God has authority over eternal life; He is the One to be feared. Because He acts as a loving Father, the right fear of God takes away all fear of men. That sets Jesus’ disciples free to confess Him before men and live in repentance right now; one day, it will be too late. The parable of the rich fool reinforces this point. Neither the praise of men nor possessions can give eternal life. Only the riches that God give last forever; only through Jesus will these riches of eternal life come to us.
“The…
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Feb 25, 2022
Warm-Up Woes
Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller, pastor at St. Paul and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Churches in Austin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 11:37-54.
Opposition to Jesus continues to rise as He journeys toward Jerusalem. His refusal to participate in the ritual washings of the Pharisees draws their astonishment, providing an opportunity for the Lord to call them away from their idolatry of self-righteousness. He strikes at the heart of Pharisaical distinctives when He speaks woe against their outward cleansing and tithing down to the last herb. They are unmarked graves because they only strive for an outward holiness of their own making rather than the cleansing that comes from the Lord’s Word. When a lawyer wonders if Jesus means to insult them as well, Jesus doubles down on His woes. Not only do the lawyers fail to help others enter the kingdom of God, but they kill the prophets whom God sends to preach the truth. After Jesus finishes His discourse, the Pharisees and scribes continue…
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Feb 24, 2022
The Stronger One Gives the Sign of Jonah
Rev. James Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottumwa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 11:14-36.
Jesus faces two challenges from His opponents. First, some assert that Jesus is casting out demons by the prince of demons. In response, Jesus shows how ludicrous that thought is before proclaiming that He has come as the Stronger One who binds the strong man, Satan, to set us captives free. This blessed redemption is received by all those who hear the Word of God in faith. Second, some desire a sign from heaven. In response, Jesus condemns the generation as evil for failing to recognize the truth of the Messiah in front of them. One greater than Jonah proclaims repentance, and they will not repent. One greater than Solomon brings divine wisdom, and they will not believe. Only in trusting in Christ and His Word will the light of truth shine through the darkness.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes throug…
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Feb 23, 2022
One Thing Is Necessary
Rev. Andrew Belt, pastor at Christ Lutheran Church in Marshfield, WI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 10:38-11:13.
Jesus’ continuing journey takes Him to the home of Mary and Martha. Martha welcomes the Lord into the home, where Mary sits at Jesus’ feet to receive His teaching. Martha’s serving distracts her from Jesus. When she asks Him to intervene, Jesus gently reminds Martha that the one thing necessary is His Word and calls her to receive it along with Mary. Knowing that the Lord speaks to us in His Word leads us to speak to Him in prayer, for which Jesus’ disciples ask for instruction. Jesus gives them the Lord’s Prayer in response. If people are willing to help because of social standards, surely God the Father will help us, His children, because He loves us. He gives His children the Holy Spirit in answer to their prayers.
“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St.…
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Feb 22, 2022
The Good Samaritan
Rev. Dan Speckhard, pastor at St. Peter Lutheran Church and School in North Judson, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 10:25-37.
As Jesus continues His journey toward Jerusalem, a lawyer comes to test Jesus with a question concerning how the Law relates to eternal life. Jesus turns the question back on the lawyer, who answers correctly from the Law of Moses. Yet the lawyer wants to justify himself; knowing that he has not loved perfectly, he seeks a loophole in which neighbors he is required to love. Jesus responds with the illustration of the Good Samaritan. The priest and the Levite are caught up in legalistic minutiae of the Law; the Samaritan does what the Law cannot do in showing self-sacrificial love only for the good of the wounded man. By this illustration, Jesus calls the lawyer out of the legalistic interpretation of the Law and into the Gospel of God’s love for sinners, shown to the fullest by Jesus in His life, death, and resurrection.
“The Beloved…
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Feb 21, 2022
Jesus Sends Out His Disciples
Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, associate pastor and headmaster at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Brenham, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 10:1-24.
With His face set toward Jerusalem, Jesus sends out His disciples ahead of Him. The harvest is great, so the disciples must first learn to pray that the Lord would send workers into the field. As they go into the field, they do so as lambs who must rely on the Lord’s protection from the wolves. They do not carry with them things needed for the journey; instead, they will receive what they need from those who receive the message of the Lord’s peace. Some towns will not receive the proclamation of God’s kingdom. Because these New Testament cities have rejected the messengers of Jesus, and therefore