Sharper Iron from KFUO Radio-logo

Sharper Iron from KFUO Radio

Religion & Spirituality Podcas

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 Synod. Visit lcef.org.

Location:

Saint Louis, MO

Description:

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 Synod. Visit lcef.org.

Twitter:

@kfuoradio

Language:

English

Contact:

314-965-9000


Episodes
Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

1 Kings 1:41-2:12: Solomon’s Reign Begins

5/2/2025
Adonijah and his supporters quickly realize with terror that Solomon will be king after David. Adonijah pleads for Solomon’s mercy and receives it, along with a warning that Adonijah prove himself faithful to the rightful king of Israel. Solomon begins to reign alongside of David before David dies. David instructs Solomon to be faithful to the word of the LORD and to enact true justice in a few open cases from David’s reign. When David dies, he goes to sleep in the LORD, and Solomon reigns as king in his place. Rev. David Appold, pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Paducah, KY, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Kings 1:41-2:12. "A Kingdom Divided” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Kings. The division in the kingdom of Israel in this part of history was greater than a matter of north and south. The biggest division was between the people and their God. Yet even as the people rebelled against the LORD as their King, still He remained faithful to call them back to Himself through His prophets, working through history to send the good and gracious King, Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:56:00

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

1 Kings 1:1-40: Which Son of David Is Next?

5/1/2025
The book of Kings begins where Samuel left off. David is old and near the end of his reign, but he has not clearly laid out which son will succeed him as king. Adonijah attempts to take advantage of the situation to establish himself as king, with the help of Abiathar and Joab. However, Nathan the prophet knows the intent of David and the LORD. Nathan enlists the help of Bathsheba to remind David of his previous promise that Solomon would reign as king over Israel next. David takes quick action to proclaim Solomon as king publicly. Rev. Martin Dressler, pastor at Salem Lutheran Church in Black Jack, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Kings 1:1-40. "A Kingdom Divided” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Kings. The division in the kingdom of Israel in this part of history was greater than a matter of north and south. The biggest division was between the people and their God. Yet even as the people rebelled against the LORD as their King, still He remained faithful to call them back to Himself through His prophets, working through history to send the good and gracious King, Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:52:21

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

NEW SERIES: A Kingdom Divided

5/1/2025
"A Kingdom Divided” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Kings. The division in the kingdom of Israel in this part of history was greater than a matter of north and south. The biggest division was between the people and their God. Yet even as the people rebelled against the LORD as their King, still He remained faithful to call them back to Himself through His prophets, working through history to send the good and gracious King, Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:02:53

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 24:1-25: Count on God’s Mercy

4/30/2025
Failing the LORD’s test, David sinfully decrees a census of the warriors in Israel. Upon being struck by the condemnation of the Law, David confesses his sin and places himself in the hands of the LORD, who brings a three-day pestilence against Israel. David pleads for mercy upon the people, and Gad the prophet brings God’s Word to David to buy the threshing floor where the LORD stopped His pestilence. This later becomes the place where Solomon builds the temple to the LORD, testifying to the LORD’s mercy in bringing about the end of His wrath against mankind’s sin through the sacrifice of the Son of David, Jesus. Rev. Andrew Jagow, pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Alexandria, VA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 24:1-25. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:55:01

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 23:1-39: The Mighty Man of David’s Testament

4/29/2025
David speaks his last will and testament, prophetically looking ahead to his Son, Jesus—the faithful and righteous King who will reign over His people forever, defeating all enemies. Reflecting on David’s own reign, the names and exploits of his mighty men are recorded. Their strength came from the Lord, who granted great victories through them for His people. These mighty deeds foreshadow the even greater works of Christ our Lord, who has saved us from our enemies. Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Brenham, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 23:1-39. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:55:40

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 22:1-51: My Rock and My Refuge

4/28/2025
The psalm of David recorded at the end of his reign summarizes the LORD’s deliverance for David throughout the king’s life. The LORD is not simply Rock and Refuge generally, but He is Rock and Refuge for David. When David called, the LORD came in mighty ways to rescue David from his enemies. This was done for David in the righteousness that he had through faith in Christ that covered all of David’s sins. In this way, the one true God has been David’s God, even as He brought others into this kingdom under David. Through David’s praises of the LORD, he proclaims Jesus as the One who comes to bring salvation to all God’s people. Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 22:1-51. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:52:35

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 21:1-22: Atonement for Bloodguilt

4/25/2025
As 2 Samuel draws toward its conclusion, several events shed light on the entirety of David’s reign. After a lengthy famine, David learns from the LORD that bloodguilt remains on Israel due to a crime Saul committed against the Gibeonites. David seeks to make atonement for this sin while also remaining merciful to the oath that he swore to Jonathan. David’s battles and victories against mighty Philistine warriors were worked by the LORD through Israelite soldiers even after David was no longer fighting with his army. 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 2 Samuel 21:1-22. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:54:43

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 20:1-26: Another Rebellion Against David

4/24/2025
As Israel questions David’s reign over all of them, a Benjaminite named Sheba begins to lead a rebellion against David. David’s new commander Amasa delays in dealing with the problem, and Joab treacherously murders Amasa to regain his spot as commander for David. Joab and his brother pursue Sheba even to a city where Sheba is likely to find allies, and through the wisdom of a woman in that city, Sheba’s rebellion is brought to an end before much traction is gained. Rev. Steve Andrews, pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee's Summit, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 20:1-26. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:55:53

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 19:1-43: The Returning King’s Mercy

4/23/2025
Joab rebukes David’s overwhelming grief over the death of one who meant David harm, lest the people of Israel abandon their rightful king. Upon receiving Joab’s rebuke, David begins to make plans for his return to Jerusalem, starting with allegiance from his kinsmen in Judah. As David encounters those who both harmed and helped him during his time away from Jerusalem, he is consistently gracious and merciful to them, even as the rest of Israel wants to make sure that they have a share in David’s kingdom along with Judah. Rev. Peter Ill, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Millstadt, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 19:1-43. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:54:48

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 18:1-33: The LORD Upholds His King

4/22/2025
As David prepares to lead his army into battle, his men recognize how valuable his one life is compared to theirs. His three commanders go out in his stead with specific instructions to be gentle with Absalom. The LORD delivers the victory to David over Absalom, but Joab disobediently takes matters into his own hands and kills Absalom. When news reaches David of the death of his son, he is overwhelmed by grief and sorrow. Rev. Chris Hull, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church and Student Center in Macomb, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 18:1-33. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:55:01

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 17:1-29: The LORD's Counsel Defeats Absalom

4/21/2025
Although Ahithophel's counsel to seek to destroy only David's life is sound, the LORD defeats this counsel through Hushai's shrewd words to Absalom. David's allies in Jerusalem manage to get news to David so that he is able to avoid Absalom's plan, leading Ahithophel to take his own life. As the two sides draw up for battle, David's allies strengthen him in the wilderness. 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 2 Samuel 17:1-29. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:56:56

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 16:1-23: David Endures Suffering and Cursing

4/18/2025
As David goes past the Mount of Olives, Ziba, a servant of Saul's house, comes and offers David help while claiming the house of Saul intends to retake the throne. Unable to investigate the matter fully, David receives the needed aid. As the king continues to flee, another member of Saul's house curses David. The king refuses to return violence or take vengeance, but instead he receives it as the LORD's chastisement and waits for the LORD's deliverance. Meanwhile in Jerusalem, the LORD's Word concerning judgment for David's sin comes to pass as Absalom violates his father's concubines after receiving treacherous advice. Rev. Andy Wright, pastor at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Topeka, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 16:1-23. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:55:17

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 15:1-37: David Flees Jerusalem

4/17/2025
Absalom's plot against his father's throne takes shape right under David's nose until Absalom's followers grow strong enough to declare him king at Hebron. David quickly recognizes the great danger and gathers a group of faithful followers to go with him from Jerusalem, even while he directs certain supporters of his to remain and thwart Absalom's work in the capital city. David's weeping and flight from Jerusalem by way of the Mount of Olives looks forward to our Lord Jesus' tears and passion on Maundy Thursday. Rev. James Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottumwa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 15:1-37. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:54:44

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 14:1-33: Absalom Comes Home

4/16/2025
Joab watches David mourn over Absalom's continued absence, even as David takes no action. Joab takes matters into his own hands by sending a wise woman with a wise story to David in order to call the king to make a decision concerning Absalom. In response, David brings Absalom back to Jerusalem, but Absalom does not come into the king's presence. This continued passivity on David's part leads Absalom to act out in violence and begin to plot against his father. 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 2 Samuel 14:1-33. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:54:50

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 13:1-39: Davd's Dysfunctional Family

4/15/2025
The consequences of David's sins against Bathsheba and Uriah begin quickly, just as the LORD had spoken. David's oldest son Amnon wickedly desires and violates his half-sister. When David takes no action, his third son Absalom waits patiently for the right time to take vengeance and assassinate Amnon. David's inaction continues for three years while Absalom stays away from Israel in exile. As one sin leads to another, the need for a greater Son of David is seen. Rev. Sam Wirgau, pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ossian, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 13:1-39. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:54:55

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 12:1-31: The Son of David Dies for David

4/14/2025
The LORD will not let David languish in unrepentant sin. He sends Nathan the prophet to confront him through a parable by which David speaks the judgment against himself. When Nathan makes clear the sin that David has committed and speaks God's punishment for his sin, the Holy Spirit miraculously brings David to confession and repentance. Nathan speaks God's absolution to him, even as the child born to David and Bathsheba dies. This event provides a picture of the sacrifice made by the greater Son of David, Jesus Christ. Rev. Matt Ulmer, pastor at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church--Friedheim, just outside Decatur, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 12:1-31. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:54:59

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 11:1-27: A Web of Willful Wickedness

4/11/2025
David’s idleness provides a playground for the devil’s temptations. Although the king should have come to his senses and turned from his sin at any number of times, over and over David chose evil. His laziness led to lust. His lust led to adultery. His adultery led to murder. David’s sin leads others into sin and brings great harm upon them. Uriah’s righteousness stands in ironic contrast to David’s callousness. Rather than repenting at such a sting of conscience, David kills the man who reminds him of his guilt. By the end of the chapter, David seems to have gotten away with it all, even looking outwardly pious. Yet what man cannot see, the LORD does, and He will not leave David to die in such unrepentant sin. Rev. Brian Flamme, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church and School in Roswell, NM, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 11:1-27. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:56:01

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 10:1-19: Cracks in the Foundation

4/10/2025
When David sends a merciful diplomatic contingent to Ammon, his kindness is met with violence. David seeks to cover the shame of his men while also seeking justice against the Ammonites who have defied him. As Ammon strengthens its position through menacing mercenaries, David sends Joab, whose wisdom and trust in God leads to success. After the Ammonite threat against Israel ends, David ensures that Syria too will no longer trouble the people of God. Even as David continues to succeed militarily, his weaknesses begin to show in this chapter, particularly in his absence from an initial battle. Rev. Nate Hill, pastor at St. Michael’s Lutheran Church in Winchester, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 10:1-19. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:56:07

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 9:1-13: Mercy for Mephibosheth

4/9/2025
Even after the death of Saul and Jonathan, David is faithful to the promises he made. He seeks out a member of Saul’s household to whome he might show mercy. Whereas a king ruling in the way of the world would seek to eliminate even the slightest threat to his throne, David seeks out Mephibosheth the son of Jonathan to destroy any shame he still has from his family name or from his physical disability. David invites Mephibosheth to dine at the king’s own table, thereby making the son of Jonathan part of David’s own family. Through David’s mercy shown to Mephibosheth, we see a picture of the mercy that Christ shows to us sinners. Rev. Jeremy Swem, pastor at Our Savior Lutheran Church and School in Grand Rapids, MI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 9:1-13. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:56:07

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

2 Samuel 8:1-18: Victory All Over the Map

4/8/2025
David’s kingdom experiences continued blessings from the LORD of hosts. At each of the four points of the compass, the LORD grants David victory over great and powerful enemies. Through such victories, the LORD shows Himself to be the true God over and against any idols of the nations. As some from the nations ally themselves with David, we see a picture of God gathering His Church from all nations. David’s reign proves a blessing to the foreign nations and to all of Israel through his wise rule and capable help from many advisors. Rev. Andrew Belt, pastor at Christ Lutheran Church in Marshfield, WI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 8:1-18. "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ. 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

Duration:00:55:20