Sharper Iron From Kfuo Radio

During the reign of King Ahaz, the nations of Ephraim and Syria allied against Judah. As the king and all the people shook in fear, the LORD sent Isaiah to give His promise. The LORD would rescue His people from their enemies. King Ahaz did not need any foreign alliances for help. Instead, the king could simply wait quietly on the LORD. When Isaiah returned to Ahaz a second time, Ahaz chose faithlessness. Even though Ahaz refused the sign that the LORD freely offered, the LORD promised a sign nonetheless. The virgin birth of Immanuel proved to be judgment for Ahaz and all who were faithless in his day, both as Assyria brought great suffering to them and as they rejected the promised Messiah. Yet to all who believe, the birth of Jesus as the Savior who is God with us is the greatest promise.  Rev. Peter Ill, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Millstadt, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Isaiah 7:1-17.  "The Fifth Evangelist” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through Isaiah 1-39. The prophe

Isaiah recounts his call into the prophetic office. In the same year that King Uzziah died, Isaiah saw the LORD as the true King in the LORD’s heavenly temple. There, the six-winged seraphim sang the LORD’s praises, for His glory fills the whole earth. As the temple shook, Isaiah realized that his sin would mean death for him in seeing the holy God. Yet the LORD provided atonement for Isaiah’s sin by sending one of the angels with a burning coal from the altar. In this forgiveness, Isaiah was sent by the LORD to proclaim the LORD’s judgment against an unhearing and unseeing people. Yet even as destruction would come, the LORD promised that His holy Seed would remain.  Rev. Jacob Dandy, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church and School in Terra Bella, CA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Isaiah 6:1-30.  "The Fifth Evangelist” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through Isaiah 1-39. The prophet proclaims to the people of his day and throughout history that the Holy One of Israel alone is exalted. Those wh

Isaiah 5 begins with the prophet’s song concerning the vineyard of his Beloved. Although the LORD did absolutely everything for His people, they did not produce the good fruit of justice and righteousness. Instead, they produced the bad fruit of bloodshed and outcry. For that reason, the LORD tells Israel and Judah that judgment is coming, as the prophet speaks woe to them for their greed, drunkenness, and pride. They have perverted the LORD’s Word, and so He promises that He will bring the Assyrian army against them in judgment. The LORD’s people today must hear the call to repentance and turn to Him for mercy.  Rev. Philip Hoppe, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Colby, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Isaiah 5:1-30.  "The Fifth Evangelist” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through Isaiah 1-39. The prophet proclaims to the people of his day and throughout history that the Holy One of Israel alone is exalted. Those who put their trust in the strength of man will be brought low, but tho

Isaiah returns to the hope that the LORD has for His people who trust in Him alone. Isaiah proclaims Christ as the glorious Branch of the LORD who makes His people prosperous through faith in Him. He cleanses His people from their sin and guilt to make them holy and to write their names in His Book of Life. He will lead them on a new exodus and be present with them to be their refuge and shelter forever. These gifts are ours in the Church right now, even as we wait for their complete fulfillment when Jesus returns on the Last Day.  Rev. Luke Zimmerman, pastor at Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mechanicsburg, PA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Isaiah 4:2-6.  "The Fifth Evangelist” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through Isaiah 1-39. The prophet proclaims to the people of his day and throughout history that the Holy One of Israel alone is exalted. Those who put their trust in the strength of man will be brought low, but those who trust in the LORD will see that He is their Immanuel. J

The LORD shows His people what their idolatrous trust in the strength of man will bring. The LORD will take away all capable leadership from His people, leading to chaos. Anyone and everyone will be offered the task, but no one will want to rule over the heap of rubble. This will happen because the people have become proud and shameless in their sin of idolatry. As the leadership will be taken away from Judah, so will all the luxuries of life, for the LORD will bring destruction and exile. Yet all hope is not lost; the LORD promises that He will not forget His righteous remnant, even as He has not forgotten us through His Son, Jesus.  Rev. Tim Koch, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Linn, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Isaiah 3:1-4:1.  "The Fifth Evangelist” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through Isaiah 1-39. The prophet proclaims to the people of his day and throughout history that the Holy One of Israel alone is exalted. Those who put their trust in the strength of man will be broug

After giving a glorious vision of the hope that the LORD has for those who hear His Word and stream to Him in faith, the prophet Isaiah proclaims the stark reality that the house of Jacob has done the exact opposite. Judah has indulged in the wealth and power of the surrounding nations and has put her trust in their idols, rather than in the LORD alone. In response, the LORD of hosts will come and bring low all that is proud and haughty so that He alone is exalted. There will be no refuge to be found from the terror of His presence, for mortal man is of no account. Through such preaching of the Law, the LORD aims to bring His people to repentance for their false trust so that they would turn to Him in true faith.  Rev. John Bussman, pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Cullman, AL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Isaiah 2:6-22.  "The Fifth Evangelist” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through Isaiah 1-39. The prophet proclaims to the people of his day and throughout history that the Holy O

Isaiah proclaims a ray of hope as he writes down the Word of God that he has seen. Mount Zion is topographically unimpressive, but it stands as the tallest of all theologically because that is the place where the LORD dwells among His people in His house. The LORD describes the days to come when He will draw all nations to Himself by the proclamation of His Word. As they learn His Word, they begin to walk in His ways as He gives them peace with Himself and with each other. The LORD has brought these promises to fulfillment in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in His Church. Since this is the glorious future that awaits, the prophet calls God’s people to walk in the light of the LORD right now.  Rev. Jeff Hemmer, pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Fairview Heights, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Isaiah 2:1-5.  "The Fifth Evangelist” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through Isaiah 1-39. The prophet proclaims to the people of his day and throughout history that the Holy One of Israel alone is e

Isaiah’s prophetic ministry began during an economically prosperous time for the people of Judah, but the prophet saw the religious rot underneath. The first chapter of his book lays the groundwork for all of his preaching. Through Isaiah, the LORD calls His people to stand trial for breaking their covenant with Him. Their idolatry has made them rebellious children and left them sick from head to toe. Though they perform sacrifices, they are only going through the motions, with no true faith. In His grace, the LORD calls them back to Himself so that He can cleanse them from their sins and make them His faithful city once more.  Rev. David Appold, pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Paducah, KY, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Isaiah 1:1-39.  "The Fifth Evangelist” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through Isaiah 1-39. The prophet proclaims to the people of his day and throughout history that the Holy One of Israel alone is exalted. Those who put their trust in the strength of man will be

The prophet Isaiah’s ministry in Judah and Jerusalem spanned several decades during a tumultuous time in world history. The rise of Assyria as a dominant empire brought great trouble to the people of God in the southern kingdom. As Isaiah preached during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, he urged the kings and the people alike to put their trust in the LORD rather than foreign alliances. The negative example of Ahaz contrasted with the positive example of Hezekiah shows the wisdom of Isaiah’s preaching: idolatry is foolish, for the Holy One of Israel alone reigns as King. Time and time again, Isaiah points us to the reality that the LORD is faithful to keep His promises, and He has done that through our Immanuel, the shoot from the stump of Jesse, Jesus Christ.  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 introduce Isaiah 1-39.  "The Fifth Evangelist” is a series

"The Fifth Evangelist” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through Isaiah 1-39. The prophet proclaims to the people of his day and throughout history that the Holy One of Israel alone is exalted. Those who put their trust in the strength of man will be brought low, but those who trust in the LORD will see that He is their Immanuel. Jesus is God with us who reigns over the kingdom of God forever and ever! 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. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

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 where God dwells in human flesh. He returns to Jesus as the true Priest, the one who makes the final sacrifice for sin. He praises God by giving praise and thanks to

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 abundantly wonderful land, where they would be filled in every way and so bless the LORD for what He had done. These physical realities are now also given to Christians spi

Psalm 147 not only reminds us that it is good to sing and give thanks to God alone, but it also gives us good reasons why. First, we give thanks to God as the One who redeems His people: past, present, and future. Second, we give thanks to God as the One who cares for His creation according to His steadfast love. Third, we give thanks to God as the One who speaks His Word to bring His peace and blessing.  Rev. Stephen Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Vinton, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 147.  "Psalms of Thanksgiving” is a series on Sharper Iron that looks to several psalms to help us give thanks to God. The LORD gives blessings to His whole creation, even all evil people. As we pray the psalms, He teaches us to receive all His gifts with thanksgiving, knowing that He is good and His steadfast love endures forever.  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 proclaim

Although human wisdom suggests that we ought to exalt ourselves and lift ourselves up to God, such attempts only leave us far from Him. Instead, those who recognize their humble estate and cry out to the LORD in their lowliness find that the Exalted One comes down to be near and help them. Psalm 138 helps us to give thanks to the LORD for preserving our lives in this way.  Rev. Shawn Linnell, pastor at King of Glory Lutheran Church in Williamsburg, VA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 138.  "Psalms of Thanksgiving” is a series on Sharper Iron that looks to several psalms to help us give thanks to God. The LORD gives blessings to His whole creation, even all evil people. As we pray the psalms, He teaches us to receive all His gifts with thanksgiving, knowing that He is good and His steadfast love endures forever.  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

The antiphonal nature of Psalm 136 is seen in the repeated second half of every verse: “His steadfast love endures forever.” This psalm helps us to give thanks to the LORD for His steadfast love shown forth in His work of creation, redemption, and His ongoing care for His people. For these reasons and more, we give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!  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 136.  "Psalms of Thanksgiving” is a series on Sharper Iron that looks to several psalms to help us give thanks to God. The LORD gives blessings to His whole creation, even all evil people. As we pray the psalms, He teaches us to receive all His gifts with thanksgiving, knowing that He is good and His steadfast love endures forever.  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 sak

Psalm 111 is an acrostic poem that makes use of every letter of the Hebrew alphabet to show us the fullness of the LORD's steadfast love for which we give Him thanks and praise. The LORD’s works are great and majestic as He exercises His power to show us sinners His mercy. We remember His wondrous works that He has accomplished because He has remembered His promises to us. By His faithfulness and righteousness, He has redeemed His people and kept His covenant forever. Such gifts are received in the faith and fear of the LORD.  Rev. Merritt Demski, pastor at St. John Lutheran Church—Hanover in Alta, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 111.  "Psalms of Thanksgiving” is a series on Sharper Iron that looks to several psalms to help us give thanks to God. The LORD gives blessings to His whole creation, even all evil people. As we pray the psalms, He teaches us to receive all His gifts with thanksgiving, knowing that He is good and His steadfast love endures forever.  Sharper Iron, hosted by R

Psalm 107 gives thanks to the LORD for the deliverance He gives to His people when they cry to Him. Wherever they may be and whatever their distress, the LORD hears and answers His people. Whether such trouble comes upon us because we live in a world full of sin or the trouble is the sin of which we are guilty, the LORD shows mercy and grace to those who call upon Him in faith. Although some may seek help from their own reason or strength, true wisdom looks to the LORD’s steadfast love and gives thanks to Him.  Rev. John Bussman, pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Cullman, AL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 107.  "Psalms of Thanksgiving” is a series on Sharper Iron that looks to several psalms to help us give thanks to God. The LORD gives blessings to His whole creation, even all evil people. As we pray the psalms, He teaches us to receive all His gifts with thanksgiving, knowing that He is good and His steadfast love endures forever.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, lo

Psalm 106 brings us to give thanks to God for His enduring steadfast love, shown to His people even in their sin. This psalm recounts both the LORD’s mighty works for Israel and Israel’s acts of rebellion. Israel’s history is littered with their rebellious idolatry, all the way from Egypt through the wilderness and into the Promised Land. Nonetheless, the LORD gave them intercessors like Moses and Phineas along the way, and He saved His people in accordance with His promise. Because we are confident in the LORD’s abundant mercy, we cry out to Him in confession of our own sins still today, knowing that He forgives us and saves us for the sake of Jesus.  Rev. Doug Minton, pastor at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Milford, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 106.  "Psalms of Thanksgiving” is a series on Sharper Iron that looks to several psalms to help us give thanks to God. The LORD gives blessings to His whole creation, even all evil people. As we pray the psalms, He teaches us to receive all

The superscription of Psalm 100 identifies its purpose: to lead us into thanksgiving of the one true God. We join our voices to all creation when we make a joyful noise to the LORD, not only in our daily vocations, but especially in the Divine Service. We sing to Him because He has created us and saved us as our Good Shepherd. All of the LORD’s work for us comes from the reality that He is good, and His steadfast love and faithfulness endure to all generations.  Rev. Tim Storck, pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Chesterfield, MI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 100.  "Psalms of Thanksgiving” is a series on Sharper Iron that looks to several psalms to help us give thanks to God. The LORD gives blessings to His whole creation, even all evil people. As we pray the psalms, He teaches us to receive all His gifts with thanksgiving, knowing that He is good and His steadfast love endures forever.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in it

Psalm 95 calls us to come and worship the LORD as the great God and King who has created all things and has shepherded His people. In His presence in the Divine Service, our voices break forth in song and our bodies bow in humility. To hear God’s Word in His presence is not a gift to be taken for granted, as the Israelites did in the wilderness, thus earning the LORD’s wrath. Instead, when we hear His voice today, the only proper response is faith in Him.  Rev. Dr. Kevin Golden, Associate Professor of Exegetical Theology at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 95.  "Psalms of Thanksgiving” is a series on Sharper Iron that looks to several psalms to help us give thanks to God. The LORD gives blessings to His whole creation, even all evil people. As we pray the psalms, He teaches us to receive all His gifts with thanksgiving, knowing that He is good and His steadfast love endures forever.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy