Sharper Iron From Kfuo Radio

Rev. Dr. Ryan Tinetti, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Arcadia, MI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 29:1-27. The proverbs copied by Hezekiah’s men come to a conclusion, speaking wisdom to all Christians as part of the Lord’s royal priesthood. Discipline is necessary for Christians; to refuse to receive it, to refuse to give it, or to abuse it is to harm both parties. Christians know the joy of God’s righteousness for themselves and their rulers; even when this is not seen in this life, we trust the reality spoken in God’s Word. Though much can be known through general revelation, His specific revelation in His Word is necessary for Christians. Though this makes us an abomination in the sight of the world, Christians rejoice to suffer for the sake of Christ, knowing that He will raise us from the dead on the Last Day. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is perhaps best known for its short sayings full of prac

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. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is perhaps best known for its short sayings full of practical advice, the one true God has so much more in this book of wisdom.

Rev. Gaven Mize, pastor at Augustana Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hickory, NC, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 27:1-27. The wisdom recorded in the book of Proverbs puts our confidence in the LORD who reigns over today and tomorrow. This faith keeps us both from the worry that thinks tomorrow is out of control and from the boasting that assumes tomorrow is under our control. In that confidence, Christians are set free to go about the simple daily vocations in which God gives us to serve our neighbor. A friend is one who knows how to inflict wounds out of love, calling another to repentance in order to point to the true healing found in the Gospel. In this way, Christians sharpen each other in Christ, who is the One who hones our faith to trust in Him solely. When others praise us, Christians are called away from arrogance or pride and instead remain humble servants who direct all glory to our Master. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Pro

Rev. Paul Pater, pastor at Shepherd of the Ridge Lutheran Church in North Ridgeville, OH and Hope Lutheran Church in Sheffield Village, OH, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 26:1-28. The proverbs of Solomon copied by Hezekiah’s men in this section give very vivid imagery to teach the wisdom of avoiding the way of the fool, the sluggard, and the gossip. Though a fool may not listen to wisdom, the threat of punishment does sometimes move him in the right direction. There is wisdom in knowing when to ignore the folly of the fool and when to respond lest he continue in his folly. The vivid imagery of a dog returning to its vomit is a wakeup call to all sinners to recognize how disgusting sin actually is. The sluggard’s laziness is portrayed with sharp satire; his folly is greater than the fool. The gossip only adds fuel to the fire of quarrels; true wisdom seeks to quench hostility.  “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs

Rev. Chris Hull, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Tomball, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 25:1-28. The proverbs of Solomon were not meant to be read and used only once. The men of Hezekiah who copied them about three hundred years later is an example of the faithful use of the Word of God. God conceals in order to reveal in the way of His choosing and in the way in which we can receive Him. This happens through faithful preachers searching His Word and proclaiming it truthfully. In that proclamation, God humbles us as He shows our sin so that He can exalt us in the Gospel. When we speak in confidence in what God has given, there is no need for a sharp tongue. We are free to mourn with our neighbor within the Church and find comfort together in the resurrection of Christ. That news is the greatest cold water to a thirsty soul. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is perhaps best known for its short sayings fu

Rev. Steve Andrews, pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee’s Summit, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 24:23-34. Solomon provides another compilation of sayings of wise people that he has edited under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. In these verses, he primarily deals with three topics: courtroom conduct, wise and foolish speech, and diligent labor. The matter of judgment without partiality finds its foundation in the character of God. Though Christians may not always experience in this life the reality that Solomon writes, we live by faith in the good blessing that will be ours in the resurrection. Honesty upon the lips of Christians also has its foundation in the fact Jesus is the Truth. In Him, we receive our hard work and our rest as good gifts, knowing that our labor in the LORD is not in vain. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is perhaps best known for its short sayings full of practical advic

The Lord is faithful, and His Word is powerful, both for parents and their children. Join Pastor Timothy Appel to ponder Proverbs 22:16 in this Sharper Iron podcast short. Proverbs 22:6 6 Train up a child in the way he should go;     even when he is old he will not depart from it. English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Permanent Text Edition® (2016). Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is perhaps best known for its short sayings full of practical advice, the one true God has so much more in this book of wisdom. True wisdom begins with the fear of the LORD. Christians walk His way of righteousness rather than the way of wickedness because we trust that all good gifts come to us through His Son Jesus Christ, who is His wisdom made flesh for our salvation.

Rev. Matt Ulmer, pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Bishop, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 24:1-22. Solomon’s compilation of wise sayings continues. Christians might be tempted to become envious of evil men due to their success with earthly wealth. Yet this is the way of folly, for when Christians desire to be with such men, they fall into the same sins. Rather, the only lasting household is built by wisdom. This is true in terms not only of material blessings, but in terms of family. The greatest treasure that can be given by parents to their children in the Christian faith. Such wisdom is true strength. Such wisdom is founded in the resurrection, which acts as honey that sweetens the perspective of the Christian in life and death. St. Paul puts it succinctly: “To live is Christ and to die is gain.” “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is perhaps best known for its short sayings full of practical advice,

Rev. Joel Heckmann, pastor at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Okarche, OK, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 23:15-35. As Solomon continues to recount the thirty sayings of wisdom, he once again implores his son to listen. The wisdom that Solomon speaks is centered in a proper fear of the LORD, which is not the terror that a slave experiences before his master, but the respect and honor that a son has toward his father. This proper fear of the LORD trusts His Word of promise for the future, even when sinners prosper now. In that trust of the LORD’s promise, Christians value the gift of marriage and family, living in the godly vocations of parents and children. Solomon warns against the misuse of God’s good gift that would lead to gluttony or drunkenness. With the great in the way of folly, the Christian knows the great worth of seeking after the wisdom that is found in Christ alone. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverb

Rev. Nate Hill, pastor at St. Michael’s Lutheran Church in Winchester, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 22:17-23:14. The book of Proverbs transitions into a new section which is often called “The Words of the Wise.” Solomon was led by the Holy Spirit to write, compile, and adapt many wise sayings to teach godly wisdom. His introduction to this section makes clear that his purpose is that those who listen who put their trust in the LORD. With that end in mind, Solomon speaks concerning the justice of God that serves both as a threat to those who take advantage of others and as a comfort to those who have received injustice. Care should be taken concerning companions and friends, lest the Christian be pulled toward the way of folly or be deceived by those who are only manipulating the situation to their own purpose. In this regard, Jesus’ desire to make us His friends and share His Table with us stands out as the greatest grace and privilege. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sha

Casting lots is a great equalizer between powerful contenders, because the LORD is more powerful than either one. Join Pastor Timothy Appel to ponder Proverbs 18:18 for this Sharper Iron podcast short. Proverbs 18:18 18 The lot puts an end to quarrels     and decides between powerful contenders. English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Permanent Text Edition® (2016). Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is perhaps best known for its short sayings full of practical advice, the one true God has so much more in this book of wisdom. True wisdom begins with the fear of the LORD. Christians walk His way of righteousness rather than the way of wickedness because we trust that all good gifts come to us through His Son Jesus Christ, who is His wisdom made flesh for our salvation.

Rev. Jason M. Kaspar, pastor at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in La Grange, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 22:1-16. The wisdom of Proverbs provides a catechism that directs us back to the Ten Commandments. The value of having a good reputation drives the Christian to the 8th Commandment to recognize the same need to defend the neighbor’s reputation. The Christian Church is the place where rich and poor meet together under the Lordship of the one true God. His wisdom provides training for parents to give to their children not only when they are young, but even when they are old. Showing charity is done with a bountiful eye, recognizing who the neighbor in need is in Christ. When we sinners fail to live in such divine wisdom, we cling to the LORD in His Son Jesus, whose eyes keep watch over knowledge and over us. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is perhaps best known for its short sayings full of practical ad

Rev. Jacob Dandy, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church and School in Terra Bella, CA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 21:1-31. The LORD’s rule over all creation is at the heart of this chapter of Proverbs. Even kings, who might think they can do whatever they want, remain under the authority of the one true God. His righteousness and justice, given to us through faith in Christ, direct all wisdom as Christians begin to live in it even now in matters of hard work, family life, and honesty. The foundation of this wisdom remains the LORD Himself. All human understanding cannot avail against Him. His gift to us in Christ propels us to the work that He has given us, knowing that the victory belongs to Him. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is perhaps best known for its short sayings full of practical advice, the one true God has so much more in this book of wisdom. True wisdom begins with the fear of the LORD. Christians

Lots seem to be pure chance, but the LORD rules over chance. Join Pastor Timothy Appel to ponder Proverbs 16:33 for this Sharper Iron podcast short. Proverbs 16:33 33 The lot is cast into the lap,     but its every decision is from the Lord. English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Permanent Text Edition® (2016). Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is perhaps best known for its short sayings full of practical advice, the one true God has so much more in this book of wisdom. True wisdom begins with the fear of the LORD. Christians walk His way of righteousness rather than the way of wickedness because we trust that all good gifts come to us through His Son Jesus Christ, who is His wisdom made flesh for our salvation.

Rev. Andrew Jagow, pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Alexandria, VA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 20:1-30. God’s Word in Proverbs invites us to chew on His wisdom. We meditate upon what He says in this book in light of everything else He teaches us in Holy Scripture. This particular chapter has many verses that point us clearly to Christ. He is the faithful friend whose deeds match His words. He is the pure and sinless One who gives us His holiness through faith in Him. His steadfast love upholds all things, and by His wounds, we are healed. With this foundation, Proverbs gives us wisdom in day-to-day interactions with our neighbors on topics as varied as diligent labor, honest business dealings, and faithful speech. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is perhaps best known for its short sayings full of practical advice, the one true God has so much more in this book of wisdom. True wisdom begins with the f

Rev. Mark Barz, pastor at Crown of Life Lutheran Church in San Antonio, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 19:13-29. The LORD is the source of all wisdom; He alone is wise and capable of being God. In giving us the fear of the LORD, He gives us wisdom to recognize how the world that He created operates and how we fit into it. This is true in the value of family; the way of wisdom sees family as a blessing and receives it as such. Though we sinners have failed to keep the commandment and so deserved death, Jesus has allowed Himself to be despised in our place so that we would have His life according to His grace. He is the Man who has shown perfect steadfast love who, though He was made poor for our sakes, is a far more loyal and faithful friend than anyone else. His wisdom, found in the fear of the LORD, brings rest and life. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is perhaps best known for its short sayings full of

Rev. Tim Koch, pastor at Emanuel Lutheran Church in Milbank, SD, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 19:1-12. The Proverbs of Solomon must be read within the larger context of the Christian faith taught in God’s Word. From that context, they invite us to use them in the various contexts we face in life. Solomon speaks to that variety of contexts within these verses. Integrity, acting consistently according to the Word of God, is far more valuable than earthly wealth. When raw desire has no knowledge, ruin quickly comes. That ruin leads to anger against God in the path of folly, but the path of wisdom goes toward repentance in the face of sin, an example seen brilliantly in the life of King David. Though the world may flock to the rich for friendship, Jesus’ work on the cross calls us to show no partiality, thinking not of how we can take advantage of others but instead of how we can benefit our friends. Perhaps the greatest benefit we can give to our friends is to be slow to anger, turning toward

Rev. Matt Wietfeldt, director of admissions and director of the Christ Academy program at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 17:25-18:24. Solomon again speaks of the value of God’s gift of family. Children who heed their parents’ instruction in the way of wisdom find blessing for themselves and provide joy to their parents as well. It is foolish to isolate oneself from parents and from the larger Church; in this community, God gives to us His gifts of life and salvation. Our words will only be beneficial to others when they are formed by the life-giving Word of God. Christians must constantly fill themselves with His teaching, lest the folly of the world have devastating effects. This Word buoys our spirit to endure the troubles of this life. This Word points us to Christ, who is the loyal Brother and Friend above all others. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is pe

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. This begins at home, as parents faithfully discipline their children and raise them in the instruction of the Lord. This is done looking forward to the joy of children

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. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is perhaps best known for its short sayings full of practical advice, the one true God has so much more in this book of wisdom. True wisdom begin