Sharper Iron From Kfuo Radio

Rebekah’s barrenness proved to be as small an obstacle to the power of God’s promise as Sarah’s barrenness had been. The LORD answered Isaac’s prayer and granted twins. When Rebekah inquired of the LORD as to their struggle inside her womb, the LORD revealed that the two brothers and their descendants would struggle against each other throughout their lives, with the older serving the younger. Their names, Esau and Jacob, reveal something about their character. When they were older, Esau’s despising of his birthright led him to sell it for nothing more than a pot of stew.  Rev. David Appold, pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Paducah, KY, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 25:19-34.  To learn more about St. Paul's in Paducah, visit stpaulpaducah.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the st

As Moses concludes the story of Abraham’s life, we learn about another wife of Abraham through whom God gave more children to Abraham, even as Isaac remained the child of promise. Upon Abraham’s death at the age of 175, Isaac and Ishmael join together to bury their father in the Promised Land in the same place Abraham had previously buried Sarah. Before telling us the continued story of Isaac, Moses gives further information on the family of Ishmael. Even though Abraham has now died, the line of the Promised Christ continues.  Rev. Dr. Martin Dressler, pastor at Salem Lutheran Church and School in Black Jack, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 25:1-18.  To learn more about Salem Lutheran, visit salembjmo.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the story: Jesus Christ, the Offspring of the wom

Abraham’s servant joyfully bestows more gifts upon Rebekah and her family because she will become Isaac’s wife. Rather than allowing a delay to change anyone’s mind, the servant proposes that they depart for Canaan quickly, and Rebekah faithfully agrees. She receives a blessing from her family that recalls the promise the LORD has made to Abraham’s family. When she and Isaac meet for the first time, they greet each other properly, and Isaac takes her to be his beloved wife.  Rev. Andy Jagow, pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Alexandria, VA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 24:52-67.  To learn more about Bethany Lutheran, visit bethany-lcms.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the story: Jesus Christ, the Offspring of the woman who has crushed our enemy’s head.  Sharper Iron, hosted by

Rebekah’s family, especially her brother Laban, welcome Abraham’s servant with Christian hospitality. Even before many typical pleasantries take place, Abraham’s servant sets about the task that he has been assigned by Abraham. He tells Rebekah’s family who he is and who Abraham and his family are. The servant recounts how he was given the task of finding a godly wife for Isaac and how the LORD answered his prayer by bringing him to Rebekah. When the servant puts the question to Rebekah’s family, they quickly recognize the work of the LORD and agree that Rebekah should become Isaac’s wife.  Rev. Dr. Daniel Brege, pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church-Preble, near Decatur, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 24:29-51.  To learn more about St. Paul Lutheran, visit stpaulpreble.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive

Abraham knows that the line of the promised Christ will continue through Isaac, so Abraham puts his trusted servant under oath to seek a faithful wife for Isaac from Abraham’s relatives in Haran. Abraham’s servant shares the faith of Abraham, and so the servant prays that the LORD would reveal to him a suitable wife for Isaac. The LORD answers the servant’s prayer by sending Rebekah to the well outside the city of Nahor. The servant bestows gifts upon Rebekah, who brings the servant of Abraham back to her family’s household.  Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 24:1-28.  To learn more about Holy Cross Lutheran, visit holycrosswarda.com. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the story: Jesus Christ, the Offspring of the woman who has

Moses records members of Abraham’s extended family, setting the stage for later events in the book of Genesis. When Sarah dies at the age of 127, Abraham knows that he must bury her in the land the LORD has promised to give. He goes through the legal process of buying the field and cave of Ephron as a burial place for Sarah. This is the only part of the Promised Land that Abraham owns during his life. As Abraham received this land as a guarantee of the fulfillment of all God’s promises to him, so the LORD still gives His people today the Holy Spirit as the downpayment of all that is to come for us in Christ.  Rev. Zelwyn Heide, pastor at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Hanover, ND and Zion Lutheran Church in New Salem, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 22:19-23:20.  To learn more about St. Peter and Zion Lutheran churches, visit stpeterzion.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation

Just as Abraham seems to be cruising toward a peaceful end of his life, the LORD tests Abraham by telling him to sacrifice his only son Isaac. Abraham acts according to the LORD’s Word in the faith that the LORD will keep His promise, even if that means raising Isaac from the dead. The LORD stops Abraham from sacrificing Isaac, and the LORD provides the sacrifice Himself, foreshadowing the gift of His only Son, Jesus, as the sacrifice in place of all sinners.  Rev. Dr. Adam Koontz, pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Oakmont, PA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 22:1-18.  To learn more about Redeemer Lutheran, visit redeemer-oakmont.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the story: Jesus Christ, the Offspring of the woman who has crushed our enemy’s head.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Tim

Abimelech, king of Gerar, recognizes that God has blessed Abraham and sees the importance of being on good terms with such a prominent man. The two come to an agreement intended for themselves and their posterity. That agreement is put to the test when a dispute arises concerning a well of water. The name given to the well, Beersheba, recalls both the oath made there and the prominence of the number seven. Abraham plants a tree there and calls upon the LORD as the Everlasting God. This account of Abimelech and Abraham serves as a reminder that the LORD will bless all nations through Abraham and his offspring.  Rev. Rick Jones, Chaplain and Vice President of Spiritual Life at the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch in Minot, ND, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 21:22-34.  To learn more about Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, visit dakotaranch.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we lear

The LORD keeps the promise He has been repeating for twenty-five years when Isaac is conceived and born to Abraham and Sarah. Although Isaac’s name does recall his parents’ laughter at God’s promises, his name also serves as a reminder of the joy at God’s gift. After Isaac is weaned, conflict arises when Sarah sees Ishmael laughing. The LORD tells Abraham that it is right to send Ishmael away because the LORD will name Abraham’s offspring through Isaac. Still, the LORD takes care of Hagar and Ishmael and keeps the promise He made concerning Ishmael previously.  Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Brenham, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 21:1-21.  To learn more about Grace Lutheran, visit gracebrenham.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the story: Jesus C

When Abraham sojourns in Gerar, he once again says that his wife Sarah is only his sister. The LORD acts swiftly to prevent Abimelech, the king in Gerar, from committing adultery with Sarah, lest there be any confusion concerning the promised son she will soon carry. Abimelech listens to God’s warning and speaks to Abraham about what has happened. Upon hearing Abraham’s answer, Abimelech gives generously to Abraham, who prays for Abimelech so that the LORD shows mercy. Although Abraham’s faith looks weak in this text, the LORD remains faithful to the promises He has made.  Rev. Steve Andrews, pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee's Summit, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 20:1-18.  To learn more about St. Matthew Lutheran, visit GraceFaithLove.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of

Lot fails to act on God’s Word with urgency and needlessly delays leaving Sodom. The LORD remains merciful to Lot in his weakness, and the angels agree to Lot’s requests. The LORD’s destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah is just and calls all to repent of their sins. At the same time that the LORD is destroying the wickedness of sin, He is also rescuing His people in faithfulness to His promise. After Lot’s wife becomes a pillar of salt, Lot’s daughters take advantage of their father in his grief. Even as this text shows the effects of sin, God’s mercy does not fail.  Rev. Andy Wright, pastor at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Topeka, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 19:15-38.  To learn more about St. John's in Topeka, visit stjohnlcmstopeka.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the

When the two angels arrive in Sodom, Lot receives them with Christian welcome. Lot’s hospitality stands in stark contrast to the evil intentions of the men of Sodom. Whatever Lot’s intentions were in offering his daughters to the men, he was only adding evil to evil. The angels quickly intervene before the situation devolves further, striking the men of Sodom blind. When the angels urge Lot and his family to leave the city quickly, Lot warns his sons-in-law, but they only scoff. This account warns us against falling into the same wickedness found in Sodom and urges us to heed the warning of God’s Law before the Day of Judgment comes.  Rev. James Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottumwa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 19:1-14.  To learn more about Trinity in Ottumwa, visit trinitylutheranottumwa.com. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of

As Abraham’s visitors begin to leave, the LORD deliberates about revealing to Abraham what is about to happen to Sodom and Gomorrah. The LORD shows His patience as He decides to go down and see the greatness of the outcry of the wickedness of these two cities. As the two angels turn toward Sodom, Abraham remains before the LORD to intercede on behalf of the righteous in the two wicked cities. He implores the LORD based on the LORD’s justice, asking Him to spare the city for the sake of His own people there. The LORD responds in His grace, promising that He will not destroy the cities for the sake of ten righteous ones.  Rev. Sean Daenzer, director of worship for The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and chaplain at the International Center in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 18:16-33.  “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepar

When three visitors come to Abraham’s tent, he quickly shows them joyful and overflowing hospitality. These three are no ordinary visitors; this is the LORD and His angels who have come. As they eat the meal Abraham has served, the LORD serves Abraham in an even greater way. He promises that in about a year’s time, He will give Abraham the promised child through Sarah. Her laughter in the tent is misplaced; no promise of the LORD’s is too great for Him to keep.  Rev. Andrew Belt, pastor at Christ Lutheran Church in Marshfield, WI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 18:1-15.  To learn more about Christ Lutheran, visit christmarshfield.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the story: Jesus Christ, the Offspring of the woman who has crushed our enemy’s head.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timoth

Thirteen years after Ishmael’s birth, the LORD appears to Abram with the news that the birth of the promised child is imminent. The LORD gives both Abram and Sarai new names; they will now be called Abraham and Sarah. As a sign of the covenant the LORD has made with Abraham, the LORD gives Abraham and his descendants circumcision as a reminder that the promised child comes through God’s action. Although Abraham laughs at God’s promise and suggests Ishmael could be his heir, the LORD confirms that Sarah will bear the son whose name will recall Abraham’s laughter. Abraham puts his faith in God’s promise into action by receiving circumcision along with his whole household.  Rev. Carl Roth, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 17:1-24.  To learn more about Grace Lutheran, visit graceelgin.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn t

When Sarai sees that she remains barren, she tells Abram to have a child with her maidservant Hagar. If human wisdom thought this would help God keep His Word, the opposite proves true. Abram’s family life quickly experiences harm as Hagar runs away. Yet the LORD is quick to find Hagar. He calls her back to Abram’s household and makes a promise to Hagar’s son. Ishmael’s birth to Abram stands as a witness to God’s faithfulness in the midst of human unfaithfulness.  Rev. Brian Flamme, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Roswell, NM, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 16:1-16.  To learn more about Immanuel in Roswell, visit immanuelroswell.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the story: Jesus Christ, the Offspring of the woman who has crushed our enemy’s head.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. T

To make His promise more certain, the LORD identifies Himself to Abram as the One who brought Abram from his homeland to possess the Promised Land. When Abram asks for further confirmation, the LORD tells Abram to sacrifice several animals. The LORD attaches His Word to this sign that Abraham’s descendants will serve as slaves in a foreign nation, but the LORD will rescue them and bring them back to the Promised Land. When the LORD passes through the sacrificed animals, He promises that He will keep His Word to Abram and his Offspring.  Rev. Nate Hill, pastor at St. Michael’s Lutheran Church in Winchester, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 15:7-21.  To learn more about St. Michael's, visit stmichaelswinchester.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the story: Jesus Christ, the Offspring of

After Abram rescues Lot, the LORD reassures Abram with His promise. Yet Abram sees that a household servant is currently his heir, and Abram questions the LORD what He will give since no child has yet been born to him. The LORD doubles down on His promise, telling Abram that a child will be born of his own loins. As a visual sermon, the LORD challenges Abram to count the stars. Such will be the number of Abram’s descendants. Abram believes this promise, and the LORD counts that faith as righteousness. Such is the way all Christians are saved: through faith in the promise of God in Jesus.  Rev. Jeremy Swem, pastor at Our Savior Lutheran Church and School in Grand Rapids, MI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 15:1-6.  To learn more about Our Savior, visit oursavior-gr.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulf

Lot’s choice to go toward Sodom and Gomorrah quickly brings trouble when Lot and his household are captured during a war between various kings. When Abram hears of his nephew’s plight, he organizes his household to come to the rescue, bringing blessing to pagan kings along the way. When Abram returns, the king of Salem, Melchizedek, blesses Abram and receives a gift from the patriarch. Whereas the king of Sodom shows himself wily regarding the spoils of war, Abram shows himself above reproach.  Rev. Mark Squire, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in St. Ansgar, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 14:1-24.  To learn more about Immanuel in St. Ansgar, visit immanuelsta.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the story: Jesus Christ, the Offspring of the woman who has crushed our enemy’s head. 

Abram’s wealth increased during his sojourn in Egypt, along with the wealth of his nephew Lot. When the two families attempt to live side-by-side upon their return, conflict ensues. Abram does not covet earthly wealth for himself and entrusts himself to the LORD by letting Lot choose which portion of land to inhabit. Lot’s choice foreshadows the later judgment upon Sodom and Gomorrah. When Abram receives his portion of the land, the LORD reiterates His promise to multiply Abram’s offspring.  Rev. Jeff Hemmer, pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Fairview Heights, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 13:1-18.  To learn more about Bethany Lutheran, visit bethanylcms.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the story: Jesus Christ, the Offspring of the woman who has crushed our enemy’s head.  Sh