Sharper Iron From Kfuo Radio

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

Rev. Dr. Adam Filipek, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church and Immanuel Lutheran Church, both in Lidgerwood, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 16:8-24. The LORD gives true wealth in His wisdom, which Solomon continues to record. Christians may have less earthly wealth in this life than those who gain great riches through injustice. Yet Christians retain God’s gift of a good conscience in Christ as they walk toward the true riches of resurrection. Such divine wisdom applies not only to the lowly, but to the mighty, even kings. They have been placed in an office established by Christ in order to punish evil and reward good. For that reason, any evil a king commits is particularly abominable; when he acts according to the office he has been given, subjects act in wisdom through their obedience. In this and many other ways, wisdom shows its value above all else because wisdom points us to Christ. Rather than giving into pride, Christians recognize their standing before God in humility and rejo

Rev. Jeff Hemmer, pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Fairview Heights, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 15:20-16:7. Solomon continues to speak the divine wisdom that gives shape to sanctified Christian living. Following the LORD’s commandments brings benefit, as He has promised. Though folly may delight the one who doesn’t know any better, the Christian rejoices in the path of life the LORD has given. In this way, the future reality of resurrection shapes life now. Those who despise this wisdom ultimately harm only themselves. Because of the fear of the LORD, the Christian recognizes the need for correction and instruction in the LORD’s Word. In all things, the Christian commits himself to the LORD and His way, which He reveals in His Word. He alone can establish our ways. “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 mo

Rev. 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 Proverbs 15:1-19. Proverbs, along with the rest of wisdom literature in God’s Word, has the goal of molding our perspective to accord with God’s perspective. This begins to happen in Christians through faith given by the Holy Spirit. Starting from this right fear of the LORD, Christians are unafraid of God’s omniscience and omnipresence because we know that He has declared us righteous in His Son. The rest of the divine wisdom Solomon speaks in this section flows from this reality. God tunes our lips to speak in concert with Him so that His wisdom, knowledge, and life sound into this world. The Lord accomplishes this through His Word, as He corrects, rebukes, and disciplines us. True wisdom receives this as the love from God that it truly is. As the wisdom recorded in the book of Proverbs presents a picture of the ideal man, we come to see a p

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 the LORD is the true fountain of life in the midst of the desert of our sin. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of

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 Proverbs 13:1-25. The Ten Commandments are constantly in the background of the divine wisdom in Proverbs. Solomon continues to bring them to bear in a variety of ways. The fact that children are a product of their parents’ instruction has implications for faithful living for both children and parents according to the 4th Commandment. Laziness and the desire to get rich now through dishonesty stand in contrast to the diligent work that the LORD has given according to the 7th Commandment. The Word of the LORD does bring blessing to those who hear and believe it, according to the 3rd Commandment. Even if this is not fully experienced in this life, the LORD keeps His promise finally in the resurrection. All of these various topics come together in the 1st Commandment, which teaches us to fear, love, and trust in God above all things. In th

Rev. Luke Zimmerman, pastor at Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mechanicsburg, PA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 12:1-28. Because the LORD is God and we are not, we will receive correction and discipline whenever He gives His knowledge. Wisdom receives this gladly; it is utter foolishness to reject the LORD’s reproof. This first verse provides the necessary attitude toward the wisdom given in the rest of the chapter. Solomon touches on matters concerning favor before the LORD, marriage, work, words, and daily bread. In this wisdom, we see a picture of Jesus as the One who is truly wise; by His wisdom, He has earned our salvation. “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 wicked