Sharper Iron From Kfuo Radio

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 through the book of Deuteronomy. Thou

“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.

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.

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 points us to our Savior, Jesus C

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 of July to study severa

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 Word to us and teaches us ho

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 to speak back to Him in praye

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 several Psalms. In the Psalter,

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 forever! Join Sharper Iron duri

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.

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 speak back to Him in prayer.

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 back to Him in prayer. Even in the gr

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 Savior, Jesus Christ.

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 Savior, Jesus Christ.

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.

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 several Psalms. In the Ps