Podcasts about wilderness wanderings

A Sunday Sermon edition of Wilderness Wanderings!  The text is Psalm 96 & Matthew 28:16-20. Dive In discussion questions are below for further reflection! To see this sermon in the context of the worship service it comes from, find it here on YouTube.  Or, head to our website to connect with the worshiping community of Immanuel CRC: immanuelministries.ca Key Phrase: What has God been doing sin the world fell into sin? Why does God bless people? What impact does worship have on worshippers? What is the heart of Christian worship? Why do you think that worshippers are sent on Jesus' mission? What encouragement is given at the end of Matthew's gospel? Why does it matter?

A Sunday Sermon edition of Wilderness Wanderings!  The text is Mark 14:1-11; John 18:33-37. Dive In discussion questions are below for further reflection! To see this sermon in the context of the worship service it comes from, find it here on YouTube.  Or, head to our website to connect with the worshiping community of Immanuel CRC: immanuelministries.ca Dive In! What have you seen this week that is 'Out of this World'? Think of things you saw on social media reels and in real life. What are the three scenes in today's reading from Mark? How does Jesus understand his anointing? Who do you have a difficult time being merciful to? How does Jesus' kingdom grow? What does Paul say the cross brings to this world? What kind of people in your life do you find it difficult to be friends with? What are you not willing to sacrifice for the sake of the kingdom?

But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving (Ephesians 5:3-4). This is quite the list of impurities that Christians may get themselves involved in. Since, this Friday edition of Wilderness Wanderings focuses on rest and Sabbath, let us focus our attention on greed. James explores how greed destroys community. He writes, "What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God" (4:1-2). Peter offers a further warning when he writes about false prophets (think preachers), "With eyes full of adultery, they never stop sinning; they seduce the unstable; they are experts in greed—an accursed brood!" (2 Peter 2:14). There are many other such warnings in the New Testament, combining a variety of things we lust for. When we do not cut off such lusts at their root, they cause us to treat everything (and eventually everyone) as tradable commodities. Think of the pornography industry. More difficult to discern is how the accumulation of wealth by some, harms other people. Our society, like that of ancient Israel and like that of the early church, is one in which the accumulation of stuff (and people who do stuff for us) is rewarded. Success is still often measured by how much we have. This, despite all the evidence that this way of life does not sooth the restless heart. Many of our desires are artificial, conjured up by advertisement executives and by social media reels. Things we have not thought about possessing, suddenly become urgent needs. Greed permeates the very fabric of our common life. How should Christians, called to be salt and light in the world, resist the urges of greed that arise in our hearts? Our text offers us a very simple method: thanksgiving. Sabbath keeping has always been the way towards thanksgiving. Consider the two reasons given for it. In Exodus, we are told to remember that God rested from his work, reminding us that survival in this world is not dependent on our abilities. In Deuteronomy, we are to remember that we are people rescued by God. The goal of Sabbath keeping is to develop our dependence on God by refraining to do things that tempt us towards self-dependence. We come before God and give him thanks. Many commentators believe that when Paul wrote, "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18), he was not addressing the individual Christian but the worshipping community. Whereas there is room for collective grief and lament, the underlying and enduring tones of worship are joy and hope in the Lord. To give thanks and to rejoice in the Lord are the primary means to uproot greed. As you journey on, receive Jesus' invitation into this rest: Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls (Matthew 11:28-29).

A Sunday Sermon edition of Wilderness Wanderings!  The text is Psalm 2. Dive In discussion questions are below for further reflection! To see this sermon in the context of the worship service it comes from, find it here on YouTube.  Or, head to our website to connect with the worshiping community of Immanuel CRC: immanuelministries.ca Dive In! Why do people take selfies? Have you heard the expression, "My truth?" What do you think it means? Why do people use it? Psalm 1 & 2 both use the Hebrew word for meditation. What does meditation mean? What two very different things are being meditated on in these Psalms? The nations are gathering against God's anointed. What New Testament event illustrates this? (see Acts 4 à this psalm is quoted in verse 25-26). Why did Pastor Michael mention the commandment to "obey our parents"? Do you agree with him? God responds to the conspiracy of the nations in two ways. What are they? What should we do to nurture our faith in God's rule? What is verse 7 about? What must the church do while we wait for Christ's rule to be complete? Pastor Michael suggested four ways in which we might respond to this psalm. What were they? Can you think of others?

A Sunday Sermon edition of Wilderness Wanderings!  The text is John 20:11-23. Dive In discussion questions are below for further reflection! To see this sermon in the context of the worship service it comes from, find it here on YouTube.  Or, head to our website to connect with the worshiping community of Immanuel CRC: immanuelministries.ca 1.    What do you do when you are afraid? What frightens you about living as a Christian? 2.    How did Jesus respond to the disciples' fear on the first Easter? Does that encourage you? 3.    What mission does the church have? How do we learn about that mission? What keeps us from carrying it out? How does Jesus encourage his disciples? 4.    Jesus blesses his disciples as he sends them out. How does this combined blessing and sending work itself out today? 5.    Read the story of Mary again. With what kind of emotion do you think she went to the disciples? How does joy of Easter arrive in us? 6.    What is central to the mission of the church? How can we keep it in clear focus? 7.    What gift does Jesus leave with his disciples? Does that encourage you?

I lift you high in praise, my God, O my King! and I'll bless your name into eternity. I'll bless you every day and keep it up from now to eternity (Psalm 145:1,2). Many of us think that repetition and memorization are for the birds. We don't want to put the work into memorization and we get bored easily. Yet, God's people have long observed that developing our spiritual selves is significantly aided by both repetition and memorization. Consider Psalm 145, an acrostic. In its original language, the poem had twenty-two lines; each line beginning with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. This was done to aid in the work of memorizing the song. I wonder how long it took the composer to put this all together. It was put together to be learned, even memorized. Things we memorize shape our thinking and character. As such, this psalm invites us to seriously contemplate a life given to praising God. Such a life does not come naturally. There are barriers, the biggest one being ourselves. I suspect that sloth is one of the more significant stumbling blocks. We don't talk much about spiritual sloth these days; we probably should. We want our spiritual growth to happen like making coffee with a Keurig machine: stick in pod and press button. But the thing is, spiritual growth is more like making coffee from scratch; I mean from scratch: plant the seeds, tend the plants, harvest the beans, roast them, grind them, etc. Spiritual maturity takes time and effort. The move from selfishness to unbridled praise of God does not happen instantaneously or without sustained effort. As an aid against sloth, let me suggest this: for one month read or sing or pray this Psalm in the morning and again in the evening, each day. Who knows, by the end you might have it memorized. After a month, you may find this beneficial enough to choose a different psalm. Praising God is more than silent prayers. It impacts how we work and how we entertain ourselves. It influences our spending habits and how we relate with friends and strangers.  But do we really think that God is worthy of our praise? The praise of God is rooted in His character. As you read through the Psalm, note what it says about God. Often, we think that God is only concerned with "His people" or with "saving souls". Here we are reminded that God is concerned for everything that He has made. Is our Christian witness hampered because we don't care enough for "everything" God has made? Is our selfish way of living hindering our witness? Many of our evangelistic methods begin with calling people to be introspective. We want them to acknowledge their sinfulness. What if we began with God? What if we invited people to consider our God? If God is concerned with His creation, should Christians not care as well? Invitations to join us in caring, can be a way of opening spiritual conversations. Someone once wrote, "If Christians praised God more, the world would doubt Him less." (Due to the Holy Weekend of Good Friday and Easter, Wilderness Wanderings will return next Wednesday). As you journey on, go with the blessing of God: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you, wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May your day end with rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. May you rest in his provision as he brings night, and then new dawn.

A Sunday Sermon edition of Wilderness Wanderings!  The text is Galatians 6:8-10; Luke 19:32-46. Dive In discussion questions are below for further reflection! To see this sermon in the context of the worship service it comes from, find it here on YouTube.  Or, head to our website to connect with the worshiping community of Immanuel CRC: immanuelministries.ca DIVE IN! When was it difficult for you to keep doing good? Think of other situations where it takes real effort to keep doing good? What is the Greek word for "good" used in verse 9? What are some of its characteristics? Where else do we find this word used in the New Testament? How does Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on a donkey illustrate 'good'? What surprising aspect of goodness does he display on this day? For what good things was Jesus crucified? Where do we find the 'inner resources' to persevere in doing good? Paul uses a different word for good in verse 10. What does it add? Give some examples of doing good.

A Sunday Sermon edition of Wilderness Wanderings!  The text is Galatians 6:6-7. Dive In discussion questions are below for further reflection! To see this sermon in the context of the worship service it comes from, find it here on YouTube.  Or, head to our website to connect with the worshiping community of Immanuel CRC: immanuelministries.ca. Dive In! 1.    Where should we see the fruit of the Spirit? 2.    What image ties the things in chapter 6 together? What are the two kinds of sowing? 3.    Three principles of sowing seed determine the harvest. 4.    What warning is given? 5.    How can you carry your "load" in this congregation? 6.    What happens when in the church people "share all good things"? 7.    What is money good for?

A Sunday Sermon edition of Wilderness Wanderings!  The text is Galatians 6:1-5. Dive In discussion questions are below for further reflection! To see this sermon in the context of the worship service it comes from, find it here on YouTube.  Or, head to our website to connect with the worshiping community of Immanuel CRC: immanuelministries.ca Dive Deeper! What does it mean that the church is a family? How do we develop close relationships? What does "caught in a sin" mean? Give some examples. What does restore mean? Who should do the restoring? Paul spends most of his time on "the how" of restoration? What are the things he mentions? Why do you think he places the emphasis here? What is the law of Christ?  

A Sunday Sermon edition of Wilderness Wanderings!  The text is Galatians 5:24-26. Dive In discussion questions are below for further reflection! To see this sermon in the context of the worship service it comes from, find it here on YouTube.  Or, head to our website to connect with the worshiping community of Immanuel CRC: immanuelministries.ca Dive In What was the sermon exploring? How does belonging to Jesus encourage us on the Christian Road? What does it mean to crucify the flesh? How long does it take for the flesh to die? Is it just about the things we do? What does it mean to walk in step with the Spirit? What's the difference between "being led by the Spirit" and "walking in step with the Spirit"? Where is the evidence that the Holy Spirit is making progress with us? How does the gospel change are self-perception?

A Sunday Sermon edition of Wilderness Wanderings!  The text is Galatians 5:16-23. Dive In discussion questions are below for further reflection! To see this sermon in the context of the worship service it comes from, find it here on YouTube.  Or, head to our website to connect with the worshiping community of Immanuel CRC: immanuelministries.ca Dive In! How have you viewed the battle within? have you fought with hopefulness? How do you tend to drift away? What desires do you tend to follow? What does the Spirit desire? When and how have you experienced this desire becoming your desire? How has your conscience developed as you matured in as a Christian? How do you practice 'relying on the Holy Spirit'?

A Sunday Sermon edition of Wilderness Wanderings!  The text is Galatians 5:13-15. Dive In discussion questions are below for further reflection! To see this sermon in the context of the worship service it comes from, find it here on YouTube.  Or, head to our website to connect with the worshiping community of Immanuel CRC: immanuelministries.ca Dive In! Before today's sermon, how would you describe Christianity? What is its goal? What element of freedom has been the focus in the past few weeks? What element of freedom was highlighted today? In what situations do you find it hard to love others? How will today's sermon help increase your love?  In the illustration of 'the gift', what have you done with God's gift of freedom? Where and how can you learn to practice love as described in 1 Cor 13?

A Sunday Sermon edition of Wilderness Wanderings!  The text is Galatians 5:1-12. Dive In discussion questions are below for further reflection! To see this sermon in the context of the worship service it comes from, find it here on YouTube.  Or, head to our website to connect with the worshiping community of Immanuel CRC: immanuelministries.ca Dive In  What things have you added to Christ? Things you thought you needed to do t win God's favour or stay in his favour? What yokes have you grabbed? What effects have they had on your life? What difference does your future hope make to your life now? How can you make sure you meditate on your glorious future more often? What practical steps will you take? What does it mean to be truly human? What are we freed from? What are we freed for? Why do we lose our ability to love? What should we do when our love wanes?

A Sunday Sermon edition of Wilderness Wanderings!  The text is Galatians 5:1, 13-14. Dive In discussion questions are below for further reflection! To see this sermon in the context of the worship service it comes from, find it here on YouTube.  Or, head to our website to connect with the worshiping community of Immanuel CRC: immanuelministries.ca Dive In! What were the three things about freedom mentioned in the previous sermon? Relationship with _________. The result of the ___________  of _________ __________. Life in the ____________ of  _________. These three are from whose perspective:                     What perspective did today's sermon explore: Why must we embrace our freedom? What things might hinder our freedom? Does our idea of who God is matter? What is our freedom not? What is it for? How do we live our freedom? Will this be easy? How will you do it this week?

A Sunday Sermon edition of Wilderness Wanderings!  The text is Galatians 5:1, 13-14. Dive In discussion questions are below for further reflection! To see this sermon in the context of the worship service it comes from, find it here on YouTube.  Or, head to our website to connect with the worshiping community of Immanuel CRC: immanuelministries.ca. Dive In! What does freedom mean to you? What kind of things would you like to be free from? What does it mean to be human? How would you describe the best human? How can we become like that? Give some examples of good laws (not the ones Pastor Michael mentioned). What laws are you afraid of breaking? Are you afraid of God? What does it mean to be under the 'curse of the law'? How is the curse of the law broken? What do we have to do to help break it? What does it mean that Jesus set us free? When we are free in Christ, how will we live? What will be our desire and goal? Where will the Spirit lead us?

Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will not be shaken (Psalm 62:5-6). Well, Advent and Christmas are behind us again. Our wall calendars have been exchanged for fresh ones (if we still use those). This means that Wilderness Wanderings returns to its Avodah series. A refresher is likely needed. What is this series about? Why return to it? Here is why: the rhythm of work and rest was established by God in the beginning. It was part of his declaration: "It is very good". Since the fall, it has been especially important to maintain this rhythm. It keeps reminding us that we are creatures and not gods. As such, we are finite, limited. We need replenishing: physically and spiritually. Regular rest times put us in a place of dependence on God. Rest also puts our work in context. We are created to be productive, but not dependent on our productivity. When Israel was freed from Egypt, she was freed from endless work. All through the wilderness years, she learned to depend on God for sustenance. Certainly, we need to work to live in this world. But it is God who gives "the ability to produce wealth" (Deuteronomy 8:18). Sabbath reminds us of this. Almost everything in our culture wars against this. There is massive pressure to work ourselves to death. Our culture says: you don't have enough, work harder, buy more stuff, work harder to maintain your stuff, to enjoy your stuff, and to upgrade your stuff. Work even harder so you can leave a pot for your descendants, if you have had time to produce any. That's crude. But it makes the point. Christians do well to be counter cultural on this. To delightfully rest for refreshment's sake; resting so God can renew us. Many in our culture hate their work because they never rest. Work is only a means towards pleasure that in the end, disappoints and leaves one fatigued. Tired people do not enjoy life. We are constantly pressured to be busy, busy, busy. When we are not busy, we binge watch and doom scroll. In God's invitation to rest, God wants us to join him in enjoying life, remembering that all of it is his gift to us. We teach children to be thankful for gifts received. Adults regularly need to relearn this. Thus, we return to Avodah, which is the Hebrew work translated both as work and as worship. On Mondays, I will give a meditation encouraging all of us to offer our ordinary weekly activities as sacrifices to God. As Paul once wrote, "whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31). On Fridays, I will give a meditation encouraging us to take rest seriously, rest that refreshes. We all need to instruct ourselves, "Yes, my soul, find rest in God"; and remind ourselves, "my hope comes from him". Some of us need to work on Sundays. This makes it even more important to build rest into schedules. Each Wednesday, a meditation from our Wilderness Wanderings archive will be published. As you journey on, go with the blessing of God: "May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together—spirit, soul, and body—and keep you fit for the coming of our Master, Jesus Christ. The One who called you is completely dependable. If he said it, he'll do it" (1 Thessalonians 5:23).

A Sunday Sermon edition of Wilderness Wanderings!  The text is 1 Peter 5:1-11. Dive In discussion questions are below for further reflection! To see this sermon in the context of the worship service it comes from, find it here on YouTube.  Or, head to our website to connect with the worshiping community of Immanuel CRC: immanuelministries.ca   Why the title "Growing Small"? What are the three "Ts" mentioned in the sermon? What two things does the word "mighty" refer too? What is the difference between worry and humility? What should we know about God that helps us trust him? How do we grow in this trust? What were some of the examples given from the Bible in which we see God's timing? Why is it so difficult to trust in God's timing? How long may we need to wait?

The Wilderness Wanderings - Jeanie Bland

David Thacker

Send us a textMoses grinned as He sent twelve leaders into the Promised Land to bring back a report about how great and grand their new home would be. But when those twelve men returned after forty days of recon, all of them weren't so excited. Pick up your Bible or phone and turn to Numbers 14 to hear the story.This episode is based on the God's Word for Life, Fall 2025 Adult Lesson Guide entitled, "The Wilderness Wanderings" (November 9, 2025).Find an Apostolic church that preaches this glorious gospel and our response at UPCI.orgThis episode is produced by the Pentecostal Resources Group and is hosted by LJ Harry. To order resources of the God's Word for Life curriculum, visitPentecostalPublishing.com and PentecostalResourcesGroup.com. Share your God's Word for Life stories with me at pphcurriculum@upci.org.

Wilderness Wanderings (Acts 2:37-41) | 092125 by One Ancient Hope Presbyterian Church

Wilderness Wanderings (Acts 2:37-41) | 092125 by One Ancient Hope Presbyterian Church

Various July 9, 2025 PM.We learn good lessons from Israel's sojourn in the wilderness.

From the series "The Better Way"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the series "The Better Way"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The wilderness is an inhospitable landscape many of us would choose to avoid. Yet, no one is exempt from journeying in the wilderness and experiencing its barrenness. Listen this week as we look at the Israelites' forty year journey through the wilderness to discover how our wilderness wanderings can bring purpose and value to our lives.

Pastor Dan shares a message about the Israelites' time wandering in the wilderness and how we can relate to that today.

Pastor Eric shares the next message in the Legendary: Moses series.

The leaders of the tribe of Manasseh come to Moses with a follow-up question regarding the inheritance for the daughters of Zelophehad. What happens if these daughters marry outside the tribe of Manasseh? Will Manasseh's inheritance, a gift from the LORD, be taken away from them? The LORD answers this faithful question graciously; He delights when His children ask Him to help them apply His Word. He commands female heirs to marry inside their tribes, so that the inheritance that He has given to each tribe remains intact. The daughters of Zelophehad do so in faith and obedience. This text points us toward the inheritance that is ours in Christ, which the LORD will preserve for us.  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 Numbers 36:1-13.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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

Because the tribe of Levi did not have a particular section of land as an inheritance, the LORD instructed His people to provide cities throughout Israel for Levites to live and to work. Although the Levites received income from the tithes of the people, they still worked the land as well. In this way, the LORD provided the Levites as a living sermon for all the Israelites of the importance of His Word. Six of the cities for the Levites were also cities of refuge. These were places spread throughout the land of Israel where those who had accidentally killed another person could flee to avoid vengeance. Taking a life was still a serious matter, however; therefore, the person who had committed manslaughter stayed in the city of refuge until the high priest died. This preached the atoning sacrifice of our great High Priest, Jesus Christ.  Rev. Brady Finnern, president of the Minnesota North District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 35:1-34.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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 LORD continues to prepare His people for their entry into the Promised Land. He lays out the boundaries of the land He is giving to them as a definite and concrete fulfillment of what He has spoken. The fact that the LORD gives these boundaries before the people have entered the land further solidifies the certainty of His promise, as does the listing of the leaders through whom the inheritance of land will be given. All of these details are fulfilled not in the ongoing possession of this exact land, but rather in the inheritance that Christians have in the resurrection through Jesus Christ.  Rev. Sean Smith, senior pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Clarksville, TN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 34:1-29.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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

Now that the LORD has led His people to the brink of the Promised Land, Moses recounts the places Israel has camped since the Exodus from Egypt. Each place mentioned along the way is a place where the LORD led His people. Throughout this history, Moses highlights God's gracious work for His rebellious people. From Egypt to Sinai through the wilderness to the east side of the Jordan River, for forty years the LORD fulfilled His promises to His people Israel. Now, as they prepare to enter the Promised Land, they must resolve themselves to drive out the idolatrous inhabitants of Canaan. The LORD gives this command so that Israel remains faithful to Him alone.  Rev. Peter Elliott, pastor at Messiah Lutheran Church in Seattle, WA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 33:1-56.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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 tribes of Reuben and Gad, along with half of the tribe of Manasseh, approach Moses with a request to inherit land on the east side of the Jordan River, because that area is fitting for raising their livestock. Moses initially reacts with anger against this request, remembering how Israel's refusal to go into the Promised Land forty years ago had led to an entire generation dying in the wilderness. These two-and-a-half tribes assure Moses that they will indeed help their brothers in taking the Promised Land, fully believing the LORD's promise for all Israel. The LORD grants this request through Moses with solemn promises made by the leaders of tribes, who begin to receive the LORD's gift to them even before they have crossed the Jordan River.  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 Numbers 32:1-42.   "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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 LORD commands His people to bring His vengeance upon the idolatry of Midian, by which Midian had led Israel into idolatry. Zealous Phineas, who previously has stopped the idolatrous worship, leads Israel in this battle, serving as a reminder that the LORD is the One who fights and wins for His people. Israel puts to death the five kings of Midian and the false prophet Balaam; eventually, they fulfill the LORD's command completely after an angry reminder from Moses. When the Israelite commanders count their men after the battle, none of the soldiers are missing. This account highlights the reality that idolatry leads only to death and faith in the LORD leads only to life.  Rev. Jeremiah Johnson, pastor at Glory of Christ Lutheran Church in Plymouth, MN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 31:1-54.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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

Moses gives Israel instructions concerning vows. As the LORD does according to His Word, so the LORD's people also should do according to their word. The provisions for men and women making vows serve two purposes. First, the LORD's commands are given priority and govern what His people might vow. Second, the vows of an individual are not to undercut the structure God has given within a family. In these ways, God upholds His order among His people for their good.  Rev. James Helms, Jr., pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Greenbelt, MD, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 30:1-16.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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 LORD continues to give His people instructions for their life of worship when they get to the Promised Land. This chapter turns their attention to the festivals in the second half of Israel's religious calendar. The Feast of Trumpets was a harvest celebration that marked the beginning of these holy days. The Day of Atonement was a central observance, as the LORD provided for the sins of His people to be taken away and for His righteousness to cover His people. The Feast of Booths was a grand celebration to conclude the festivals of Israel, as they rejoiced over God's care for them during their wilderness wanderings. Each of these feasts points forward to Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.  Rev. David Boisclair, pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 29:1-40.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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 LORD instructs His people concerning their life of worship when they get into the Promised Land. He gives them daily sacrifices as a foundation for His grace among them. He adds grace to grace by giving further weekly sacrifices every Sabbath day. At the beginning of every month, the LORD gives more grace through additional sacrifices. In this way, the LORD orders His people's calendar around His gifts. This chapter also describes two festivals at the beginning of Israel's religious calendar: the Passover and Pentecost.  Rev. George Murdaugh, pastor emeritus active at First Lutheran Church in Birmingham, AL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 28:1-31.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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 new generation of Israelites who will enter the Promised Land begins to show itself faithful to the LORD's Word. The daughters of Zelophehad know what the LORD has promised concerning the land as the family's inheritance, and so they approach Moses in faith with a question about what will happen in their family, since their father has no sons. Moses takes the question to the LORD, and the LORD responds graciously by providing for a family's inheritance to be passed down through the daughters. Knowing that Moses is soon to die, the LORD provides Joshua as the next leader for His people. Moses' prayer that the LORD would give Israel a faithful shepherd is finally answered in the greater Joshua, our Lord Jesus Christ.  Rev. James Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottumwa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 27:1-23.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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 old generation of those Israelites who refused to go into the Promised Land has now died, and the new generation of those Israelites who were younger than twenty years old stands ready to enter the LORD's inheritance. Because Aaron has already died, Eleazar assists Moses in taking this second census. Whereas the first census in Numbers focused on the number of Israelites ready for war, this second census focuses on the reality of God's gift of the Promised Land as His people's inheritance. Various asides throughout the census highlight both the people's failures and the LORD's faithfulness to Israel, thus encouraging this new generation to hold fast to the LORD's promises.  Rev. Carl Roth, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 26:1-65.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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

Although Balaam was unable to get the LORD to curse Israel, the false prophet finds success in getting Israel to curse itself. By engaging in adulterous acts with the idolatrous daughters of Moab, the people Israel join themselves to the idolatrous worship of Baal of Peor. The LORD's wrath against His rebellious people is swift; He sends a plague against them. Yet Phineas, the son of Eleazar the priest, shares the LORD's zeal against this idolatry and puts a stop to it. For this intercession, the LORD halts the plague against Israel and gives a covenant of peace to Phineas and his descendants. Phineas' work for Israel foreshadows the zeal, intercession, and atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ.  Rev. Dr. Adam Koontz, pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church and School in Oakmont, PA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 25:1-18.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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 Word of the LORD continues to speak through Balaam for blessing upon Israel rather than curses. Neither the evil intentions of the false prophet or the pagan king will stop God from being present for His own people for their good. Balak grows angrier at Balaam, and yet the LORD continues to speak. He gives His Word to Balaam so that even this false prophet speaks truly concerning the coming of the Christ, the star that comes from Jacob and the scepter that rises out of Israel. Through the coming Christ, the LORD will reign as King now and forever.  Rev. Jason Kaspar, pastor at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in La Grange, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 24:1-25.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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

Balaam instructs Balak to prepare seven altars with seven bulls and seven rams in preparation for a word from God. Although Balak has paid Balaam to curse Israel, the LORD's first word to Balaam is one of blessing over His people. Balak protests, but he has Balaam move to a different spot with a different view over Israel, hoping that this will allow Balaam to curse Israel. God foils the plots of both men yet again, as His Word of blessing grows even firmer. The LORD has not lied about His blessing for Israel.  Rev. Ben Dose, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Algona, IA and St. John Lutheran Church in Burt, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 23:1-30.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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

For a few chapters, Moses turns our attention toward the camp of Israel's enemy. King Balak of Moab realizes that physical force will not succeed against Israel, so he attempts spiritual warfare against Israel's God. Balak offers to pay the false prophet Balaam to curse Israel. Balaam agrees to go, saying that he will only be able to say what has been spoken to him first. When Balaam's actions displease the LORD, the LORD sends His angel to block the way, but Balaam only recognizes what is happening when the LORD opens the mouth of Balaam's donkey to speak. By the time Balaam gets to Balak, the stage has been set for both men to witness firsthand that God's Word will be spoken and accomplished, no matter what human might or wisdom attempts.  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 Numbers 22:1-41.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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 people of Israel continue their journey toward the Promised Land from one place to the next according to the LORD's direction. In contrast to previous parts of their trip, in this section, Israel joyfully follows the LORD. They even sing His praises for giving them water instead of grumbling that there isn't any! As Israel draws closer to the Promised Land, they continue to encounter opposition from other nations. When Sihon and Og, two mighty kings, come against Israel, the LORD grants to His people an easy victory, just as He promised. These two victories were remembered by God's people as the LORD's faithfulness to keep His Word, even before the people came into Canaan. Still today, God's people sing His praises, knowing that He will bring us to the resurrection in Christ on the Last Day.  Rev. Andrew Belt, pastor at Christ Lutheran Church in Marshfield, WI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 21:10-35.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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

Israel's journey toward the Promised Land continues to meet external opposition. When a Canaanite king comes out against Israel, Israel turns to the LORD for His help, and He is faithful to His promise. However, when Israel's journey turns in a seemingly wrong direction due to Edom's lack of cooperation, the people are quick to grumble again. In response, the LORD sends fiery serpents as His judgment against Israel. This time, however, Israel turns to the LORD in true repentance and asks for Moses' intercession. The LORD graciously instructs Moses to make a bronze serpent and set it on a pole, so that those snake-bitten Israelites could look there in faith and live. Jesus says in John 3 that this event preaches His crucifixion. Jesus was lifted up on the cross so that all who look to Him in faith will have eternal life.  Rev. William Terjesen, pastor at the Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer in Peekskill, NY, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 21:1-9.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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 book of Numbers fast-forwards thirty-eight years to the last part of Israel's wilderness wanderings. They come back to the same place where they had previously refused to enter the Promised Land. Miriam's death signals that the older generation is almost at its end. When the people grumble once more about the lack of water and think they had it better in Egypt, Moses disobeys the LORD's command to speak to the rock. Instead, Moses hits it. Although the LORD still gives water, Moses' rebellion means that even he will not enter the Promised Land. The journey there is forced into a detour by Edom's refusal of passage. As they set out from Kadesh, Aaron dies at Mount Hor, but the LORD graciously provides for the ongoing gifts of the priesthood through Aaron's son, Eleazar.  Rev. Jeffrey Ries, pastor at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tacoma, WA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 20:1-29.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.  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

In this chapter, the LORD first instructs His people in how they will make water for purification, and second, He describes situations for that water's use. A red heifer without defect is sacrificed and burned along with other specific items in order to make ashes for use in the water for purification. Such water is used especially when an Israelite has become unclean due to contact with death. The LORD graciously provides this means to enable His people to draw close to Him and His holiness. The combination of a sacrifice with water points forward to Holy Baptism, and the reality of the cleansing provided by this water reminds us that the word of the LORD is the true power to bring His gifts to us.  Rev. Tim Eden, pastor at Bethel Lutheran Church in Bryan, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 19:1-22.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life. 

Although Levites were the primary leaders of a recent rebellion against the LORD, He does not reject their ongoing service in His midst. Instead, He confirms that He will continue to use the ministry of both Levites and priests for service in His holy sanctuary. The priesthood given to Aaron and his sons is a gift from the LORD, both to Aaron and to the entire people of Israel. The LORD promises to provide physically for the priests and Levites through the offerings of the rest of Israel. The Levites too will tithe from the tithes given to them, the LORD's gracious way of reminding the Levites that they are also among His people. Though they have no land as their inheritance, the LORD Himself is their inheritance. This serves to point forward to the eternal inheritance that belongs to all those who are in Christ.  Rev. Nate Hill, pastor at St. Michael's Lutheran Church in Winchester, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 18:1-32.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life. 

Only one day after watching the earth swallow up Korah and his company, the rest of Israel still grumbled against Moses and Aaron, thinking that they could approach the LORD apart from His chosen mediators. When the LORD began to send a plague against Israel, Moses interceded for the people by sending Aaron with burning incense to stand between the dead and the living. The LORD graciously stopped the plague against His people due to Aaron's ministry, and the LORD confirmed Aaron as His chosen high priest by causing the staff of Aaron to sprout with almond blossoms. This served as an ongoing testimony for the people of Israel as Aaron's staff was placed in the ark of the covenant.  Rev. Brian Flamme, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Roswell, NM, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 16:41-17:13.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life. 

Although not every event in Israel's wilderness wandering is recorded, the rebellion led by Korah, Dathan, and Abiram typifies the rebelliousness of the older generation. Although the descendants of Kohath already hold the honored position of carrying the holy things of the tabernacle, still they desire for themselves the priestly service given to Aaron. Likewise, the descendants of Reuben desire the authority given to Moses.  The LORD deals swiftly with this rebellion by opening the earth to swallow up Korah and his company. The LORD provided a physical reminder of this event in a covering that was made for the altar.   Rev. Jason Schockman, pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Oconomowoc, WI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 16:1-40.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.