Sharper Iron From Kfuo Radio

In this second burden of the word of the LORD given by Zechariah, the prophet speaks about the way the LORD will save Jerusalem. Her enemies will stagger in drunkenness as they slice themselves open trying to lift this heavy stone. Their horses and riders will be useless in battle, for the LORD will devour His enemies by fire as all His people, from the greatest to the least, receive His victory. As the LORD promises to pour the blessing of His Spirit upon His people, the surprise comes. His people will look upon Him as the One they have pierced. The salvation for God’s people comes through the Pierced Savior, Jesus, as Zechariah once again proclaims the suffering and death of the Christ during Holy Week.  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 Zechariah 12:1-14.   "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Through th

The prophet continues to speak against those who have set their might against the LORD and His people. Through a parable and an action prophecy, the LORD commands Zechariah to be a shepherd to a flock that is doomed to slaughter. Because of their idolatrous past, the people of Israel had been sent into exile. The two staffs in the shepherd’s hands were broken, because Israel abandoned the LORD’s favor for them, and they annulled the brotherhood they had with each other by their faithlessness. They even considered the LORD’s word spoken among them to be worth nothing more than a slave. In the way Zechariah recites the history of Israel’s rebellion, he preaches concerning the coming suffering and death of Christ.  Rev. Jason Kaspar, pastor at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in La Grange, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Zechariah 11:1-17.  "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Through the preaching of these faithful me

Zechariah proclaims that the LORD alone provides rain for the fields; idols are worthless. Because the leaders of God’s people have pointed them toward idols, the LORD of hosts will punish them, and He will send the Savior as the cornerstone, the tent peg, and the battle bow. Through this Savior the LORD will save all His people and bring them back to Himself, even from the farthest reaches of the world.  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 Zechariah 10:1-12.  "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Through the preaching of these faithful men, the LORD sent His Word to His people who returned home after their exile in Babylon. Not only did the LORD encourage His people in the work of rebuilding the temple, but even more than that, He pointed them forward to the fulfillment of all the Old Testament promises in the

In the second part of his book, Zechariah preaches especially about the coming King for the people of God. The LORD sees not only His people; He sees all people. Neither the Phoenicians nor the Philistines will be able to stand against the LORD or His people. Jerusalem will rejoice, for the LORD is sending His humble King who will put an end to warfare and bring peace and righteousness over all the earth. Those who cling to the LORD and His coming King will have His protection and salvation. By quoting from Zechariah 9 in the Gospels, the Evangelists plainly reveal that Jesus is this humble King.  Rev. Luke Zimmerman, pastor at Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mechanicsburg, PA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Zechariah 9:1-17.  "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Through the preaching of these faithful men, the LORD sent His Word to His people who returned home after their exile in Babylon. Not only did the L

As the first part of the book of Zechariah comes to an end, the LORD of hosts speaks ten promises concerning the restoration and redemption of His people. He will guard them jealously, dwelling in their midst and giving them complete safety. As He brings them to dwell in Jerusalem, they will be His people, and He will be their God. He will bless them with peace in their land, so that they can serve Him according to the good works He has prepared for them. Their seasons of fasts will be replaced with seasons of feasts. The blessings given to Jerusalem and Judah are not only for them, however. Through these blessings, the LORD will work His good for all people as the nations are drawn to Him, the only true God, for He is with His people.  Rev. Matt Wietfeldt, Assistant Vice President of Admissions and Director of the Christ Academy Program at Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Zechariah 8:1-23.  "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron tha

On December 7, 518 BC, the Word of the LORD comes to Zechariah to answer a question regarding ongoing religious practices. Now that the temple is being rebuilt, a delegation from Bethel wants to know if the fasts observed for the first temple’s destruction should continue or not. The LORD does not give a simple “yes” or “no” answer in response. He questions His people concerning the reason for their fasting—was it for Him or for themselves? He calls them to account, as He had done through former prophets, for only going through the motions religiously while living faithlessly toward their neighbors. Zechariah reminds the people of their fathers’ impenitence that had sent them into exile, lest the current generation fall under the same judgment.  Rev. Merritt Demski, pastor at St. John Lutheran Church, Hanover in Alta, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Zechariah 7:1-14.  "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Through

In Zechariah’s eighth vision, he sees four chariots coming out from between two bronze mountains. The LORD who dwells in His holy temple is powerful and active in all the world for the sake of His people. As Zechariah’s visions come to an end, the LORD gives an action prophecy for Zechariah to perform. From the wealth brought back from Babylon, Zechariah is to make a crown for the high priest Joshua. Another crown is to be in the temple for the coming Branch; He will be both Priest and King. This proclaims the coming of Jesus, who has sacrificed Himself for the sins of all people and now reigns over all creation.  Rev. Christopher Gillespie, pastor at St. John Lutheran Church and School in Random Lake, WI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Zechariah 6:1-15.  "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Through the preaching of these faithful men, the LORD sent His Word to His people who returned home after their exile in Babyl

In Zechariah’s sixth vision, he sees an enormous scroll with writing on both sides. This Word from God convicts the people of their sin and goes out over all the whole earth; no one will escape the Law’s condemnation. Only in Christ will the curse be removed. In Zechariah’s seventh vision, he sees a basket with a heavy leaden lid, holding in a woman named “Wickedness.” This provides a picture of the folly of idolatry. False gods are nothing more than tiny statues, easily contained. By carrying the basket away, the LORD shows that He will put an end to the idolatrous iniquity of His people and restore them to the true worship of Himself.  Rev. Sam Wirgau, pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ossian, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Zechariah 5:1-11.  "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Through the preaching of these faithful men, the LORD sent His Word to His people who returned home after their exile in Babylon

In Zechariah’s fifth vision, he sees a golden lampstand flanked by two olive trees. The conversation between the prophet and the LORD’s messenger indicates the great importance of this vision. The lampstand is a reminder of the LORD’s constant watchfulness and presence with His people, and the continual flow of oil from the two trees shows how the LORD will provide constant light for His people. The work of the LORD’s Spirit will bring about the temple’s completion. Although it may seem a day of small things in the eyes of the people, the LORD will bring His joy through His might. Even as Zerubbabel and Joshua serve as the anointed ones of the LORD in Zechariah’s day, so the Lord Jesus is the Anointed One in fulfillment of all God’s promises.  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 Zechariah 4:1-14.  "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes thro

In Zechariah’s fourth vision, the prophet sees the high priest, Joshua, standing in the heavenly courtroom clothed with filthy garments. This shows his own uncleanness and the uncleanness of all the people of God. Just as Satan stands ready to accuse and condemn Joshua, the messenger of the LORD steps forward to rebuke Satan and give Joshua new garments. This is a picture of the LORD’s cleansing forgiveness of His people. Newly forgiven, the LORD promises Joshua that He will have the right of access. The LORD also promises that He will send His Servant, the Branch from Jesse’s stem and the Cornerstone of His Church. Both promises point forward to Jesus, who removes the iniquity of His people on Good Friday.  Rev. Sean Kilgo, pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Lawrence, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Zechariah 3:1-10.  "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Through the preaching of these faithful men, the LORD s

In Zechariah’s third vision, he sees a man with a measuring line. This man intends to measure Jerusalem in order to construct its walls, but the LORD sends Zechariah to stop this man. Walls will not be needed, because the LORD is the fiery protection of His people as He dwells in their midst. For that reason, God’s people need to return home to Him in Zion. There, He will protect them from their enemies, for they are the apple of His eye. In this reality, the people can sing and rejoice as the LORD brings more people into His holy kingdom.  Rev. James Uglum, pastor at Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church in St. Peters, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Zechariah 2:1-13.  "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Through the preaching of these faithful men, the LORD sent His Word to His people who returned home after their exile in Babylon. Not only did the LORD encourage His people in the work of rebuilding the temple, b

On February 15, 519 BC, the word of the LORD came to Zechariah and showed him a first vision: a man riding a red horse. The messenger who leads Zechariah in this vision is the messenger of the LORD, the pre-incarnate Christ. When He reveals to Zechariah that His patrolling riders have found the earth at rest, the cry goes up before the LORD to ask how long before He has mercy on HIs people. The LORD of hosts promises that He is returning to His people with mercy. In the second vision, Zechariah sees four craftsmen who cast down the horns that have scattered God’s people. God’s enemies will not prevail. Instead, the LORD wins the victory even through seemingly weak means.  Rev. Dr. Brian Kachelmeier, pastor at Crown of Life Lutheran Church in San Antonio, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Zechariah 1:7-21.  "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Through the preaching of these faithful men, the LORD sent His Word to Hi

The prophet Zechariah preached to the people of Judah who had returned from exile beginning in October or November in 520 BC. He was a contemporary of Haggai, but his ministry and writing were both longer. The first part of his book features eight visions that point especially toward the new temple, and the second part of his book features two burdens that point especially toward the new king, particularly the suffering and glory of the Lord Jesus Christ during Holy Week. In this first text of the book, the LORD calls the people to repent of their evil deeds and return to Him, for only His Word endures forever.  Rev. Dr. Reed Lessing serves at Concordia University in St. Paul, MN as the Edwin F. and Esther L. Laatsch Chair of Old Testament Studies, the Director of the Center for Biblical Studies, and the Director of the Pre-Seminary Program. He also serves as associate pastor at Cross View Lutheran Church in Edina, MN. He joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to introduce the book of Zechariah and study Zechariah

On December 18, 520 BC, the Word of the LORD came to Haggai the prophet twice. The first time, the LORD instructed Haggai to question the priests concerning the transmission of holiness and uncleanness. While uncleanness is passed from one person to the next, holiness cannot come from any other source than the LORD in His Word. Therefore, the people must return again to the LORD. By His grace alone He will bless them. The second time, the LORD gives His Word to Haggai specifically for Zerubbabel the governor. The LORD promises to choose Zerubbabel and make him like a signet ring, with full authority. Though in the line of David, Zerubbabel never attained such glory; all these promises are fulfilled by the Son of David, Jesus Christ.  Rev. Jeremiah Johnson, pastor at Glory of Christ Lutheran Church in Plymouth, MN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Haggai 2:10-23.  "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Through the preach

On October 17, 520 BC, the Word of the LORD came to Haggai the prophet to Zerubbabel the governor, Joshua the high priest, and to all the remnant of the people in Judah. The LORD calls them to remember the previous temple in its glory and contrast it to the temple that they are currently rebuilding. Although the rebuilt temple seems like nothing to them, the LORD gives strength to His people through His promise that His Spirit will remain in their midst. A time is coming when He will shake creation and the nations to fill His house with glory. That glory doesn’t come from silver and gold, but from His presence which brings peace. In our Lord Jesus Christ, these promises have been fulfilled.  Rev. Dr. Adam Koontz, pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church and School in Oakmont, PA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Haggai 2:1-9.  "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Through the preaching of these faithful men, the LORD sent Hi

On August 29, 520 BC, the Word of the LORD came to Haggai the prophet to the two primary leaders of the Judean exiles who had returned home to Jerusalem. Although the people had started to rebuild the temple about twenty years before, the work had stalled, and the people had become complacent. They cared more about their own houses than the LORD’s house. Because they were neglecting the LORD and His gifts, the people’s lives were in various kinds of disarray. The people listened to the Word of the LORD proclaimed by Haggai, and with the LORD’s promise to be with them, they began the work on the temple anew.  Rev. Doug Minton, pastor at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Minton, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Haggai 1:1-15.  "The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Through the preaching of these faithful men, the LORD sent His Word to His people who returned home after their exile in Babylon. Not only did the LORD encoura

"The Post-Exilic Prophets” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Through the preaching of these faithful men, the LORD sent His Word to His people who returned home after their exile in Babylon. Not only did the LORD encourage His people in the work of rebuilding the temple, but even more than that, He pointed them forward to the fulfillment of all the Old Testament promises in the coming kingdom of our true King and great High Priest, 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. 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.

In order to remember and celebrate God’s deliverance of His people, Mordecai calls for the yearly celebration of the feast of Purim. The feast’s name is a reminder of the lots that Haman had cast to find the right day to destroy God’s people, which God reversed to bring about the day He delivered His people. As the hectic events settle down, King Ahasuerus institutes a new tax as an indication that order is being restored. In that context, Mordecai is promoted to second in command in the Persian empire. This is a reminder that it is the LORD who has been at work all along in the book of Esther to direct the events of history for the good of His people.  Rev. Andy Jagow, pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Alexandria, VA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Esther 9:20-10:3.  "For Such a Time As This” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Esther. Although God is never explicitly named in the book of Esther, He remains the One who directs all the events of the book. Happenings that

When the thirteenth day of the twelfth month arrives, two contradictory Persian decrees are both legal. On the one hand, the enemies of God’s people are allowed to slaughter them; on the other hand, God’s people are allowed to defend themselves. Through a divine reversal, the people of God ably defend themselves from those who are trying to kill them. Haman’s sons particularly are executed, and the people of God in Susa are given an extra day to defend themselves, but they do not take any plunder. In response, God’s people rest with feasting and gladness.  Rev. James Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottumwa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Esther 9:1-19.  "For Such a Time As This” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Esther. Although God is never explicitly named in the book of Esther, He remains the One who directs all the events of the book. Happenings that seem coincidence, chance, or luck are truly God at work. He puts Mordecai and Esther in the right place

After Haman’s execution, Ahasuerus gives Haman’s house to Esther, and he gives his signet ring to Mordecai. Esther risks going before the king a second time, and he extends his scepter to her again. She asks for a second decree to be made to counteract the first, since the first could not be repealed under Persian law. With the king’s authority, Mordecai writes a decree that allows the people of God to defend themselves from those who would attack them. This causes some residents of the Persian empire to join themselves to the Judeans and brings joy to the people of God.  Rev. Carl Roth, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Esther 8:1-17.  "For Such a Time As This” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Esther. Although God is never explicitly named in the book of Esther, He remains the One who directs all the events of the book. Happenings that seem coincidence, chance, or luck are truly God at work. He puts Mordecai and Esther in the r