Sharper Iron From Kfuo Radio

Rev. Clint Poppe, pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Lincoln, NE, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Timothy 5:17-6:2. Paul gives further instructions concerning the lives of Christians within their various God-given vocations. Certainly all those who are older ought to be treated with special honor, but Paul also commands double honor for those who serve as elders, that is, pastors, within the Christian congregation. Not only should they be treated with respect because of the office of preaching and teaching they bear, but they also should be supported physically by those who hear and learn. Any pastor who persists in false teaching or sinful living must be rebuked, as must any Christian, in order to bring about repentance. Such purity comes not from what is or isn’t consumed, but rather from the good news about Jesus, which Timothy is charged to preach. “The Word is Trustworthy” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the three pastoral epistles: 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus. T

Rev. Sam Wirgau, pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ossian, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Timothy 5:1-16. Paul begins to instruct Timothy concerning the lives of Christians in the Church within their various vocations. The overarching reality of the interactions of pastors and parishioners within the Church is the fact that Christians have been united within the family of God. They are not to treat each other as enemies or strangers, but as fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters. Paul first applies this larger truth to the matter of Christian widows. A widow is one whose vocation has changed in a tragic way, yet this does not change the Lord’s faithfulness. He cares particularly for widows, and He commands His Church to do the same. A widow’s family must be first to step up to give the needed care. Where no family members are left, the family of God is quick to care for the widow in practical, physical ways. The widow herself continues in prayer and supplication because her hope continu

Rev. Peter Ill, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Millstadt, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Timothy 4:6-16. Paul encourages Timothy to be a good servant of Jesus by clinging to the good doctrine that he has received. Old wives’ tales are useless in this; Timothy must be trained in godliness. This proper piety of faith in the forgiveness of sins that comes on account of Christ is good both for this life and the next. The Word is trustworthy to declare to us the hope that we have in the God who gives life from the dead through faith in Jesus. Even though he is young, Timothy must command and teach these things as he also sets an example of holy living to the congregation. He must take up the task of a pastor diligently and willingly, keeping a close watch on his teaching for the sake of delivering God’s gift of salvation that is found only in the pure Gospel of Jesus Christ. “The Word is Trustworthy” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the three pastoral epistles: 1 Timothy, 2

Rev. Brian Flamme, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Roswell, NM, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Timothy 4:1-5. Paul returns to the central theme of faithfulness to the truth of God’s Word in the face of all lies. He reminds Timothy of Jesus’ words from Matthew 24:24 that false prophets will arise in the time between Jesus’ ascension and return. These false prophets depart from the faith because they fall into lies that come from the father of lies, the devil. Their consciences are seared because they are looking for a righteousness of their own apart from the righteousness freely declared by grace through faith in Christ. They seek this righteousness of their own in their works according to the Law. They go beyond the Law concerning God’s good gifts of marriage and food and teach others to find their righteousness in these man-made works instead of in Christ. The false teaching that Paul urged Timothy to fight is the same false teaching that was exposed during the Reformation. From this herita

Rev. Tim Eden, pastor at Bethel Lutheran Church in Bryan, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Timothy 3:8-16. Qualifications for deacons follow immediately after qualifications for overseers. Though the two lists share many similarities, deacons are not required to have the ability to teach. This may indicate that these two are separate offices in the church. Nonetheless, deacons play a vital role in Christian congregations in their service. They hold to the Christian faith with confidence and build up the household of God in which they serve. This household of God is His Church, built on the true confession of Christ crucified and risen. This central truth shapes the Church to be a pillar and buttress of the entire truth God speaks in His Word. In His Word, God reveals the mystery of who He is through His Son Jesus Christ, who was born, crucified, raised, and ascended for sinners. The Church proclaims this truth among the nations so that sinners will be brought to saving faith in Him. “The Word is

Rev. Caleb Adams, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Bend, OR, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Timothy 3:1-7. The second trustworthy saying of the pastoral epistles highlights the pastoral office. Whether called "overseer," "elder," or "pastor," this God-given office is given the important task of proclaiming the Gospel publicly and administering the Sacraments in accordance with Christ’s institution. A man who desires this task desires a good thing, though he must desire it for Christ’s glory and not his own. God equips those men He calls into this office with His gifts; most of the qualifications listed deal with the man’s character. He is to be above reproach, an overarching term that covers the rest. Though this does not mean the pastor is sinless, it does mean that others should not be able to make the charge of a life of sin stick. Both pastors and congregations should approach this qualification, along with the rest, with humility and prayer in considering which men are ordained as pastors

Rev. Harrison Goodman, pastor at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in San Antonio, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Timothy 2:8-15. Paul’s instruction concerning the roles of men and women within the Church must always be seen in light of the gift that God has given us all in Christ. The clergy receive His Word as a gift, and so they are given to lift up their hands in prayer as an outward confession of the inward faith in their hearts. Women, who are far more than their body parts, are likewise given the outward confession of modesty because of the inward faith that stems not from vanity or pride, but the knowledge of God’s gifts. True godly adornment for the Christian woman is the gift of good works in her vocations in which she has the freedom won for her by Christ. The Church is the place in which she gladly receives all good from Christ, learning His Word from those He has appointed to teach. To reverse what God has given by ordaining women into an office He has not given to them is to fall into s

Rev. Jeremiah Johnson, pastor at Glory of Christ Lutheran Church in Plymouth, MN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Timothy 2:1-7. As Paul has urged Timothy to steadfast faith, now he directs him to pray for it. Such prayer is directed to God for all, particularly for those in positions of civil authority. No statement is made concerning whether or not we find their policies agreeable; God’s Word directs us to pray even for rulers hostile to Christianity, even for one like Nero. God directs us to pray in this way because one of the reasons He has established civil authority is to provide an environment in which His people are free to live quiet, godly lives. This is to an even greater end; God desires salvation for all. He has won salvation for all in His Son Jesus Christ, who alone is the mediator between God and sinners. He has brought us back to God by paying the ransom of Himself through His death on the cross. This is the message that Paul and all pastors are given to proclaim. “The Word is Trus

Rev. Sean Kilgo, pastor at the Northeast Kansas Lutheran Partnership, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Timothy 1:12-20. Paul thanks Christ Jesus as the One who called him and judged him to be faithful. This was not due to anything Paul had done, but was solely the declaration of God that made him so. God did this despite Paul’s formerly blasphemous and violent ways against Christ and His Church. Paul was shown mercy in his ignorance, as God’s grace overflowed even more than Paul’s sin. Paul reminds Timothy that all of God’s Word is trustworthy, particularly as he sums it up concisely: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.” Such wonderful news leads Paul to praise the one true God with great joy. He again encourages Timothy in the important spiritual battle that he will wage as a pastor. Even when that battle requires the drastic step of excommunication, the purpose is always to lead sinners in repentance to the One who came for them: Christ Jesus. “The Word is

Rev. Andy Wright, pastor at St. John Lutheran Church in Keystone, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Timothy 1:1-11. Paul wrote his first letter to Timothy to give him instruction in his service as pastor to the church at Ephesus. By acknowledging his office of apostle, he writes with the humility that his authority comes only from God. He writes with care and concern for his spiritual child, Timothy, to encourage him in the important task he has been given from God. Paul warns against those who would teach any false doctrine. Only healthy teaching that accords with God’s Word can bring forth a good conscience and sincere faith. Although there are those who would misuse the law to seek justification from works, Paul reminds Timothy that the law is good. Its goodness shows sinners that their evil, so that having been instructed in sound doctrine, they would see Christ their hope in the gospel of the glory of the blessed God. “The Word is Trustworthy” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes t

“The Word is Trustworthy” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the three pastoral epistles: 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus. These three letters are named after their recipients, two young pastors in the Christian Church. St. Paul gives instruction to these two men concerning the doctrine and life of the congregations where they are given to serve. In these epistles, the Apostle teaches both pastors and congregations of all times and places that the sound doctrine from God’s Word is faithful to save sinners in Christ Jesus. 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 Syn

Rev. Kyle Mietzner, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Anchorage, AK, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 31:10-31. The conclusion of the book of Proverbs is an acrostic poem extolling the wife of strong character. There is advice to be found here, primarily for a young man who desires to marry. Above all, he should seek a faithful Christian wife. Advice, however, is not all this acrostic poem has to offer. Primarily, this text speaks of Christ and His bride, the Church. These words reveal who the Church is in her Savior, Jesus. He has washed her in the water and Word of Holy Baptism, and so she is spotless and blameless before Him. This is the reality that is declared in confession and absolution; for the sake of Christ, our sins are forgiven. “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

Rev. Stephen Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Vinton, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 31:1-9. The name “Lemuel” means “dedicated to God.” Though absolute certainty is not possible, this may very well be a pseudonym for King Hezekiah. He has learned wisdom from his mother, a faithful woman who passed the Word of God to her son. She gives him wisdom particularly for his service as a king concerning three topics. She warns against adultery as harmful not only to the king, but to his kingdom as well. She warns against drunkenness as leading the king to sins against both God and his subjects, while commending the enjoyment of God’s gift of alcohol in God-pleasing ways. She exhorts kings to speak up for justice for those who are the most defenseless. All earthly kings who would be godly aspire to such an example; Jesus is the King who has lived this wisdom perfectly for us. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Pro

Rev. Carl Roth, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 30:1-33. Although Agur son of Jakeh remains unknown to us, his wisdom in Proverbs 30 reflects the books of Moses and the rest of the book of Proverbs. In the first part of the wisdom he records, he laments his weariness in looking for wisdom in all the wrong places. Wisdom is found in the Son of God and the Word that He has given. Agur recognizes that sins against neighbor go hand in hand with sins against God and prays for protection from both. In the second part of the wisdom he records, Agur uses several lists that draw their imagery from the natural world. With a character similar to riddles, the Word of God here invites us to ponder deeply and reflect at length on the wisdom that He gives us in His Son. “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

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