Sharper Iron From Kfuo Radio

St. Paul extols the person and work of Christ in a glorious hymn. Jesus does not simply have, but He is the image of God by whom all things visible and invisible were created. In Him, all things hold together. He is the Head of His Church, for the fullness of God dwells in Him. By His resurrection, Jesus reconciles all things to Himself. St. Paul proclaims the Gospel to the Colossians, that this is what Jesus has done for them, so that they are holy and blameless before God as they continue in the faith.  Rev. Dr. Daniel Brege, pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church-Preble, near Decatur, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Colossians 1:15-23.  To learn more about St. Paul Lutheran, visit stpaulpreble.org. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle’s letters from prison still fill us with the same joy that his chains could never silence.

Although St. Paul may have never visited the saints in Colossae, he writes to them with joy and thanksgiving for their faith, love, and hope. They are bearing fruit in the same Gospel that is preached throughout the world, as Epaphras has reported. Paul therefore prays that the Colossians would continue to walk in this faith as they are strengthened by God, who has transferred them from the domain of darkness and brought them into Jesus’ kingdom of light and life.  Rev. Steve Andrews, pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee's Summit, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Colossians 1:1-14.  To learn more about St. Matthew Lutheran, visit GraceFaithLove.org. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle’s letters from prison still fill us with the same joy that his chains could never silence. Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy A

St. Paul concludes his letter to the Philippians by rejoicing over the support that they have given him during his time in prison. All the while, he reminds them of Christ Jesus as the source of contentment and strength, not only in times of prosperity, but especially in times of poverty. The Apostle has confidence that just as God has supplied his every need, so God will supply the Philippians’ every need. With greetings to the saints in Philippi and from saints with him, St. Paul closes his letter with the grace of Jesus.  Rev. Andrew Jagow, pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Alexandria, VA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Philippians 4:10-23.  To learn more about Bethany Lutheran, visit bethany-lcms.org. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle’s letters from prison still fill us with the same joy that his chains could never

St. Paul commends particular members of the Christian congregation in Philippi to agree in the Lord as they continue to labor together with him and each other in the Gospel. That Gospel allows Christians to rejoice in the Lord always, because His return is near. Therefore, we live not with anxiety and worry, but with gentleness, prayer, thanksgiving, and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding. St. Paul encourages the Philippians to imitate him in thinking about whatever is good and right and true, knowing that the God of peace is with them.  Rev. Merritt Demski, pastor at St. John Lutheran Church—Hannover in Alta, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Philippians 4:2-9.  To learn more about St. John Lutheran, visit stjohnhanover.org. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle’s letters from prison still fill us with the sam

St. Paul has not yet reached the resurrection, but he strains forward in the life that he has from Christ right now in anticipation of the Lord’s gift on the Last Day. The Lord leads His people toward that goal, working through Scripture, prayer, and suffering. The Apostle calls the Philippians to imitate him in this way of life, rather than falling prey to those who set themselves as enemies of Christ. Instead, Christians must live and stand firm as citizens of heaven, holding to the One who reigns over all things, the Lord Jesus Christ.  Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Philippians 3:12-4:1.  To learn more about Holy Cross, visit holycrosswarda.com. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle’s letters from prison still fill us with the same joy that his chains cou

As St. Paul continues to encourage the Philippians to rejoice, he speaks of himself as an example to the Philippians. As opposed to those who put their confidence in fleshly works such as circumcision, St. Paul truly has every reason for confidence in his own person and works. Yet he considers his own works as dung in comparison to the infinite worth of Christ, whose righteousness is given by God through faith. This is the righteousness that alone avails before God, and so as Christians we strive to remain faithful to Him unto the resurrection of all flesh.  Rev. David Appold, pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Paducah, KY, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Philippians 3:1-11.  To learn more about St. Paul's Lutheran, visit stpaulpaducah.org. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle’s letters from prison still fill us with the

St. Paul updates the Philippians on two of his coworkers and expresses his desire to send them to the Philippians soon. First, he commends Timothy, whom the Philippians know personally. Timothy is an example of the humility of Christ, as Timothy concerns himself with the Philippians' welfare and the interests of Jesus. Second, Paul commends Epaphroditus, who had brought the Philippians’ gift to Paul. The Lord had been merciful in sparing him from death, bringing great joy to the Philippians and Paul.  Rev. James Helms Jr., pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Greenbelt, MD, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Philippians 2:19-30.  To learn more about Holy Cross Lutheran, visit myholycross.com. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle’s letters from prison still fill us with the same joy that his chains could never silence. Sharp

From Jesus’ humility, St. Paul draws implications for the Christian life. Christians put the salvation they have received into practice with fear and trembling, knowing that God works according to His good pleasure in Christ. Rather than grumbling as the ancient Israelites, Christians are to live as God’s children and reflect the light of Christ into the darkness of the world. St. Paul’s joy over the Philippians holding fast to the Word of God remains strong, whether his imprisonment ends with his death or his release.  Rev. Dr. Martin Dressler, pastor at Salem Lutheran Church and School in Black Jack, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Philippians 2:12-18.  To learn more about Salem Lutheran, visit salembjmo.org. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle’s letters from prison still fill us with the same joy that his chains could

St. Paul found his call to live in humility in the example of Christ’s humility, by which He has won salvation for sinners. Although Jesus truly is God, He did not seek His own interests in claiming those rights for His own. Instead, He made Himself nothing as a servant for our sakes, going to the most shameful death of crucifixion. For that reason, God exalted Christ to the highest place in His resurrection and ascension. Now His name is the greatest name, the One that alone brings salvation, the One at which every knee will one day bow.  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 Philippians 2:5-11.  To learn more about St. Peter and Zion Lutheran, visit stpeterzion.org. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle’s letters from pr

St. Paul encourages the Philippians to live in light of the Gospel of Christ. That Gospel unites Christians together in one spirit and one mind so that there is no need to fear those who oppose them. For that reason, Christians are free to place the needs of others ahead of their own, living in what Christ has done for them.  Rev. Peter Ill, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Millstadt, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Philippians 1:27-2:4.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit trinitymillstadt.org. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle’s letters from prison still fill us with the same joy that his chains could never silence. 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 fo

St. Paul informs the Philippians that the Lord has used Paul’s imprisonment to advance the Gospel. Not only are elite Roman soldiers hearing of Christ, but other Christians are encouraged to speak of Christ even more boldly. Even when some proclaim the Gospel in an effort to harm Paul, the Apostle still rejoices that the Gospel is proclaimed. As he considers his imprisonment, his joy continues, for he knows that whether he lives or dies, he will be secure in Christ and God will be glorified.  Rev. Lucas Witt, executive director of the Lutheran Mission Society of Maryland, headquartered in Baltimore, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Philippians 1:12-26.  To learn more about the Lutheran Mission Society of Maryland, visit www.compassionplace.org. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle’s letters from prison still fill us with the sa

Even though St. Paul writes from prison, his letter to the church in Philippi is full of joy. Philippi had been his first place of work in Macedonia on his second missionary journey, and although he had been thrown in prison there for a short time, his connection with the Philippians was strong in Christ. As he begins his letter to them, he tells them of his constant thanksgiving to God for them due to their partnership in the Gospel. The Philippians are partakers with Paul in grace, and he prays that they would abound in love until the day of Jesus Christ.  Rev. Luke Zimmerman, pastor at Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mechanicsburg, PA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Philippians 1:1-11.  To learn more about Calvary Evangelical, visit calvarymechanicsburg.org. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle’s letters from prison

“Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle’s letters from prison still fill us with the same joy that his chains could never silence. 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. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

The Rite of Holy Matrimony in Lutheran Service Book begins with a pastoral address that lays out the goodness and purposes of God’s gift of marriage. Scripture readings and music center the service as worship in the name of the Triune God, whose blessing the husband and wife seek. As the man and the woman make promises to each other, God is the One who joins them together. The congregation offers prayers for the particular couple and all husbands and wives in confidence that God hears and answers according to His promise.  Rev. Mark Squire, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in St. Ansgar, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study the Rite of Holy Matrimony from Lutheran Service Book.  To learn more about Immanuel Lutheran, visit immanuelsta.org “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God’s Word reveals how good a gift marriag

St. Paul lays out the way husbands and wives ought to live together in holy matrimony. A wife is to submit to her husband as the Church submits to Christ, and a husband is to love his wife as Christ loves the Church. Although the world today reacts negatively toward this text, Christians are right to cherish it as God’s good gift. It is certainly good that the Church submits to Christ as He gives Himself for her; therefore, it is certainly good when husbands and wives model their lives after this pattern. The marriage between Christ and His Church is the true foundation, and human marriage provides a glimpse into that mystery.  Rev. Brian Flamme, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Roswell, NM, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ephesians 5:22-33.  To learn more about Immanuel Lutheran, visit immanuelroswell.org. “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confus

As the Song concludes, Solomon brings us to the theological point. His love for his bride sets her as a seal, meaning that she is his. As Solomon notes how powerful love is, he uses the divine name for the only time in the Song, allowing us to see that God’s love for us pursues us even to death and brings us out of the grave. As the others wonder and ask concerning this love, the Church is given a concern for the gift of chastity and marriage. As the Song extols God’s gift of marriage throughout, so God has given us the opportunity to rejoice in the love that Christ has for His Church.  Rev. Andy Wright, pastor at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Topeka, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Song of Solomon 8:5-14.  To learn more about St. John's, visit stjohnlcmstopeka.org. “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is,

The bride seeks her husband in the garden, and there he praises her beauty. His delight in his wife’s beauty is a blessed gift of God within the context of holy matrimony, a delight that God still gives to husbands and wives today. The garden imagery throughout this section recalls the Garden of Eden in the beginning and the heavenly garden of the book of Revelation, pointing us to the love that Christ has for the Church and the Church’s joyful response of love to Him.  Rev. David Vandercook, pastor at Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church in Crawford, NE and Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church in Harrison, NE, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Song of Solomon 6:11-8:4.  “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God’s Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroo

The bride’s sloth in answering her husband’s knock provides a picture of the Church when she ignores the Lord’s Word. Our heavenly Bridegroom uses His Law for the sake of love in order to draw His bride back to Himself. When others question the goodness of the Bridegroom, the Church recalls with joy who her Lord is, leading others to seek Him as well. The husband’s joy in his bride in Song of Solomon shows the Lord’s great delight over His Church.  Rev. James Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottumwa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Song of Solomon 5:2-6:10.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit trinitylutheranottumwa.com. “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God’s Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroom, and His Church, the B

The bridegroom continues to extol the beauty of his bride, calling her to his home and longing for her kinship. His words are borne out of thankfulness for God’s gift of the marital union, rejoicing in the delight that God gives to a husband and wife in holy matrimony. Her love requites his love, and the marriage is joyfully consummated.   Rev. Sean Daenzer, Director of Worship for The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and chaplain for the International Center in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Song of Solomon 4:8-5:1.  “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God’s Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroom, and His Church, the Bride.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context a

The bride is longingly looking for her bridegroom in the night and suddenly finds him to her great delight, in a scene very reminiscent of Mary Magdalene searching for Jesus after His resurrection. The wedding procession begins and includes imagery reminiscent of the LORD’s protection of His people as they journeyed through the wilderness to the Promised Land. As the bridegroom looks upon his bride, he praises her beauty, recognizing his wife as God’s gift to him in marriage.  Rev. Andrew Belt, pastor at Christ Lutheran Church in Marshfield, WI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Song of Solomon 3:1-4:7.  To learn more about Christ Lutheran, visit christmarshfield.org. “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God’s Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroom