Iron Sheep Ministries Inc.

Dave Bigler
  • 5.0 (4)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Hello and welcome to Iron Sheep Ministries. Our goal, in everything we do, is to Equip, Build and Strengthen the body of Christ (Based on Eph 4:12). That said, despite our best efforts, we acknowledge that we are all weak, helpless, lost sheep in daily need of our shepherd, Jesus Christ (Isa 53:6). Together we are seeking to learn more about God day by day and to be changed by Him from the inside out. Join founder Dave Bigler in his weekly, through the Bible teachings, or simply partake in one of our topical interviews or testimonies.

  1. Hebrews 01:01-02 Bible Study - Better Than Prophets: Jesus as the Ultimate Revelation

    1D AGO

    Hebrews 01:01-02 Bible Study - Better Than Prophets: Jesus as the Ultimate Revelation

    In this Bible study, Dave Bigler of Iron Sheep Ministries explores the profound opening verses of the Book of Hebrews. Focusing on Hebrews 1:1-2, this session dives into the various ways God has communicated with humanity throughout history—from the prophets of the Old Testament to the ultimate revelation through His Son, Jesus Christ. Dave breaks down complex theological concepts like Theophanies, Progressive Revelation, and Dispensationalism into accessible lessons, showing how Jesus is the heir of all things and the creator of the universe. Whether you are facing personal challenges or seeking a deeper understanding of the "Book of Better Things," this study offers a strong exhortation to remain faithful and recognize God's voice in your life today. View Dave's Notes Here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qo1z5_HmPDdHfgAz6Ls1jlG4UUNmJzZmI-h0zaaLZsI/edit?usp=drive_link OUTLINE: 00:34 – Introduction: The Call to EndureDave introduces Hebrews as a "word of exhortation." Written to Jewish believers facing intense social and physical persecution, the book serves as a powerful encouragement to remain faithful. 04:14 – The Superiority of the SonThe study dives into the opening verses of Hebrews, contrasting God’s past communication with His current revelation. In the "last days"—the era initiated by Christ’s first coming—God has transitioned from using many messengers to speaking through a single, ultimate source: His Son. 06:02 – How God Spoke: Theophanies & VisionsDave explores the "many ways" God spoke to the ancestors. He breaks down Theophanies (God appearing in physical form) and Christophanies (pre-incarnate appearances of Christ), such as the burning bush or the figure who met Abraham. He also discusses God’s use of audible voices, dreams, and visions given to prophets like Elijah and Isaiah. 17:55 – Progressive Revelation: From Prophets to the SonA look at Progressive Revelation—how God revealed His plan incrementally over time. Dave contrasts Dispensationalism (viewing history through distinct eras of testing) with Covenant Theology (viewing history through divine agreements). Regardless of the theological framework, the climax is the same: Jesus is the "Final Word." His revelation is superior because it is the complete and perfect expression of God’s nature. 25:34 – Jesus: The Heir of All ThingsThe title "Heir of all things" is explained through the lens of ancient inheritance rights. In a Jewish context, the firstborn received the birthright (physical inheritance) and the blessing (spiritual authority). Dave explains that Jesus holds both, making Him the rightful owner of all creation and the ultimate head over the family of God. 27:06 – Jesus: The Agent of CreationThis section confirms the deity of Christ by identifying Him as the one "through whom also He made the universe." Dave aligns this with the Gospel of John, establishing that Jesus was not a created being but the divine agent through whom all time, space, and matter were formed. This reinforces why Jesus is "better" than any created thing, including angels. 28:23 – Conclusion: The Discipline of HearingThe study concludes with a challenge regarding our "discipline of hearing." In a world full of noise, how do we hear the Son? Dave emphasizes that hearing from the Lord today requires a disciplined approach to Scripture and prayer. To know the "Final Word," we must be students of the Word. Next Study: A look at Hebrews 1.3-14, exploring Jesus’ superiority to angels. Support Iron Sheep Ministries: https://Ironsheep.org/donateListen to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/ironsheepContact Dave & the ISM team: info@ironsheep.orgJoin the email list: http://eepurl.com/g-2zAD

    34 min
  2. Hebrews 01:01 Bible Study - An Introduction to the Book of Hebrews with Dave Bigler

    APR 1

    Hebrews 01:01 Bible Study - An Introduction to the Book of Hebrews with Dave Bigler

    In this introductory lesson on the book of Hebrews, Bible teacher Dave Bigler provides a foundational overview of the text, emphasizing its central theme: the absolute superiority of Jesus Christ (Solos Christus). The study outlines how Hebrews serves as a "Rosetta Stone" for the Old Testament, bridging the Old and New Testaments. Dave highlights that the book of Hebrews is more of an exhortation or sermon than a traditional letter, designed to encourage Jewish Christians facing intense persecution to remain steadfast in their faith rather than reverting to old religious systems. The study also addresses the enduring mysteries of the book, such as its unknown authorship and specific audience. While historical traditions suggest figures like Paul, Barnabas, or Apollos, the Dave notes that the author purposefully remains anonymous to keep the focus entirely on Christ. The historical context, likely written before the destruction of the Temple in AD 70, provides a backdrop of social and political turmoil in Rome. Ultimately, the teaching concludes with a call to inductive Bible study, urging believers to observe and interpret the text to find personal application in a world filled with competing priorities. View full teaching notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1X97hBArommgV3-E6Hxmn0whB55a_0WBMsRUuAEBIKwQ/edit?usp=sharing Outline: 00:00 - Introduction to Iron Sheep Ministries (ISM) and Dave BiglerISM's goal is to help Christian's grow in their knowledge and relationship with the Lord. Personal Background: Dave Bigler's transition from 20 years as a professional photographer to ministry at ISM and now teaching at a Classical Christian school. (The Bow Tie: A symbol of professionalism and taking the role of a Bible teacher seriously, inspired by Colossians 3.23). 10:51 — Point 1: The Theme of HebrewsTheme: Solus Christus (Christ alone).The book emphasizes the absolute supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 1:1-3). 12:31 — Point 2: What is Hebrews?It functions more like a sermon or exhortation than a traditional Gospel or epistle. The "Book of Better Things": Uses the Greek word kreitton (superior/excellent) 18 times to show Christ's superiority:Ch. 1-2: Superior to prophets and angels.Ch. 3-4: Superior to Moses and Joshua.Ch. 4-6: Superior to Aaron the high priest.Ch. 7-10: Brings a superior priesthood, covenant, and sacrifice.The Rosetta Stone of the Bible: Unlocks the Old Testament with 35 direct quotations and 34 allusions; it provides essential details on the sacrificial system and Melchizedek. 22:54 — Point 3: Who is the Audience?Jewish believers (Messianic Jews) intimately familiar with the Torah and Levitical priesthood. 24:23 — Point 4: Where was the Audience?Likely a home church or group of churches in or around Rome. 26:27 — Point 5: Who is the Author?Anonymous. Historically debated since the 2nd century.Potential Candidates: Paul, Luke, Barnabas, Apollos, Priscilla (among others)The "Hidden Servant": The anonymity may be intentional to keep the focus entirely on Jesus. 38:41 — Point 6: When was it Written?Date: Likely 64–69 AD, as it refers to Temple sacrifices as ongoing, meaning it was written before the Temple's destruction in 70 AD. 40:29 — Point 7: Where do we put Hebrews?Serves as a "bridge" between the Pauline epistles (grace/church) and the General epistles (ethics/trials). 44:23 — Point 8: What is the Purpose?Encouragement: To help Christians endure persecution (like that under Nero in 64 AD) and resist the temptation to return to "safer" Jewish roots by proving Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of the Law. 50:02 — Point 9: ApplicationUsing the Inductive Bible Study Method (Observation, Interpretation, Application) to study the text verse by verse. Support Iron Sheep Ministries: https://Ironsheep.org/donate Listen to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/ironsheep Contact Dave & the ISM team: info@ironsheep.org Join the email list: http://eepurl.com/g-2zAD

    54 min

  3. MAR 23

    What is Iron Sheep Ministries? Who is Dave Bigler?

    Iron Sheep Ministries (ISM) is a non-profit Christian organization dedicated to helping believers grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ through the process of sanctification. The ministry is built on the core belief that while all people have gone astray like sheep, the Holy Spirit works to change and grow followers to become more like Christ. Grounded in the inerrant Word of God, ISM focuses on equipping believers for works of service by providing deep, verse-by-verse Bible teaching and resources that strengthen the global and local church. The ministry’s reach includes the Pastor’s Guide, a tool used to provide Biblical context for leaders in developing nations like Malawi and Zambia. Apostle Talk, a podcast featuring interviews with those "sent" by God into various fields of service. Locally, ISM fosters Christian discipleship for men through The Fold Men's Ministry and the annual Steel Wool men's retreat, aiming to raise up men to lead their families and churches according to Biblical mandates. Video Outline & Timestamps 0:00 – Introduction: The Mission of Iron Sheep Ministries 0:45 – Theological Foundations: The Four Verses (JHN 3.16, 2TM 3.16, ISA 53.6, EPH 4.11-13) 2:15 – The Inerrancy of Scripture and the Need for a Savior 3:30 – Calling to Equip and Strengthen the Church 4:14 – What We Do: Verse-by-Verse Bible Studies 5:10 – The Pastor’s Guide: Global Theological Resources6:05 – Apostle Talk: Stories of the "Sent" 6:45 – The FOLD & STEEL WOOL: Men’s Ministry and Retreats 7:22 – Who is Dave Bigler? (Professional Background & Calling) 8:15 – Why the Bow Tie? (Colossians 3.23) 9:00 – Family and Life in the Capital District 9:52 – How to Support ISM: The Power of Effectual Prayer 11:10 – Financial Partnership and Stewardship Support Iron Sheep Ministries: https://Ironsheep.org/donateListen to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/ironsheepContact Dave & the ISM team: info@ironsheep.orgJoin the email list: http://eepurl.com/g-2zAD#IronSheepMinistries #BibleStudy #Sanctification #ChristianDiscipleship #ExpositoryPreaching #EquippingTheSaints #BiblicalTruth #Gospel #MensMinistry #VerseByVerse

    16 min

  4. MAR 16

    Hebrews 10:19-25 Bible Study - Share the Flame. God's message for a congregation in pain.

    This Bible study, is a heartfelt teaching led by guest teacher Dave Bigler at Faith Chapel Corinth. Dave begins with a tribute to Pastor Russ Melville, who is recovering from a serious car accident, explaining that he is glad to be part of Renewal Prayer Network and it's support of the congregation during this time. Using a relatable analogy of struggling to keep a fire lit with wet logs, Bigler illustrates the spiritual danger of isolation. He explains that just as logs burn brighter when pushed together, Christians are empowered and "kindled" when they gather in authentic community rather than trying to sustain their faith alone. The core of the teaching focuses on Hebrews 10:19-25, where Dave explores the profound access believers now have to God through the sacrifice of Jesus. He breaks down the significance of the torn veil in the temple, symbolizing that the "Holy of Holies" is no longer off-limits to the people of GOd. By examining the roles of Jesus as our High Priest and the necessity of a "cleansed conscience," Dave exhorts the congregation to hold fast to their hope without wavering. The study concludes with a call to active exhortation—lovingly urging one another toward good works and maintaining the habit of meeting together as the "day of the Lord" approaches. OUTLINE 0:00 – Introduction & Update on Pastor Russ Melville 3:46 – Opening Prayer 4:18 – The Fire Analogy: The danger of isolation and "wet wood" 9:15 – Scriptural Foundation: Hebrews 10:19-25 10:35 – The New and Living Way: Access to the Holy of Holies (Matthew 27.50-51, Hebrews 9.12, 1 John 4.10, Ephesians 2.18) 14:52 – Our Great High Priest: The Order of Melchizedek (Genesis 14.18-20) 16:08 – Drawing Near: Cleansing the guilty conscience (Psalm 103.12) 18:48 – Holding Fast: Confessing our hope in Christ (John 1.29, Philippians 1.6) 21:03 – Stirring Up the Flame: The call to exhortation and assembly 23:14 – Grace and Sanctification: Go and sin no more (John 8.10-11) 24:45 – Conclusion & Closing Prayer21:03 – Hebrews 10.24: Stirring up (kindling) love and good works 22:20 – Hebrews 10.25: Not forsaking the assembly of the believers (John 8.10-11) 24:45 – Conclusion: Sanctification and collective fire 25:52 – Closing Prayer and call to ministry Support Iron Sheep Ministries: https://Ironsheep.org/donateListen to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/ironsheepContact Dave & the ISM team: info@ironsheep.orgJoin the email list: http://eepurl.com/g-2zAD

    31 min

  5. MAR 4

    Matthew 16:28-17:13 Bible Study - The Transfiguration - Solus Christus

    In this verse-by-verse Expository Bible study, Dave Bigler (at his home church of Adirondack Christian Fellowship) explores the powerful narrative of the Transfiguration of Jesus, as recorded in Matthew 16.28–17.13. By comparing the synoptic gospels—including the accounts in Mark 9 and Luke 9— Dave provides a comprehensive look at this pivotal moment on the "sacred mountain," likely Mount Hermon. The teaching examines the symbolic appearance of Moses and Elijah, representing the Law and the Prophets, and the divine declaration from God the Father that solidifies Jesus as the Messiah and the fulfillment of the Old Testament. Beyond historical context, this Bible teaching offers practical spiritual applications for modern believers, focusing on the supremacy of Christ and the necessity of a disciplined prayer life. Dave breaks down the inductive Bible study method—observation, interpretation, and application—to help viewers recognize Jesus’ voice in their own lives. Whether you are studying the Gospel of Matthew, interested in the connection between John the Baptist and Elijah, or looking for peace through spiritual retreat, this teaching provides essential insights into the glory of Jesus Christ and His role as our Savior. Adirondack Christian Fellowship:https://acfsaratoga.org/ Outline: 00:00 - Introduction Welcome and opening remarks. 00:26 - Scripture Overview Introducing the primary text: Matthew 16.28 – 17.13. 01:07 - Reading of Matthew 16.28 - 17.13. 03:47 - The Value of Four Gospels Discussion on why we have different perspectives on the same events. 09:39 - Verse Breakdown: The Promise of the Kingdom Analyzing the connection between Jesus’ promise and the event of the Transfiguration. 11:51 - Verse Breakdown: The High Mountain Exploring the geography of the Transfiguration (Mt. Tabor vs. Mt. Hermon). 15:15 - Jesus is transfigured, revealing His divine glory. Precedent: Exodus 34 (Moses’ face shining). 20:34 - The Light of Heaven Revelation 21.23. 20:56 - Moses and Elijah Appear Representing the Law and the Prophets talking with Jesus. 22:31 - The Inductive Bible Study Method Briefly explaining the steps of Observation, Interpretation, and Application. 27:51 - Peter’s Response Peter offers to build three tabernacles (tents). Context: Exodus (The Tabernacle) and Leviticus (The Feast of Tabernacles/Sukkot). 31:33 - The Voice from the Cloud, God the Father declares His approval and gives the command to listen to Jesus. 34:07 - "Do Not Be Afraid," the disciples' reaction and Jesus' comforting touch. 37:04 - Jesus Found Alone "Solus Christus"—Christ alone remains. 40:30 - Jesus instructs them to wait until after the Resurrection to share the vision. 41:59 - Discussions on the return of Elijah and the role of John the Baptist. Malachi 4.5-6, Luke 1.13-17, Matthew 11.14. 48:52 - Final Application: Solus Christus Three ways to respond: Making Christ first, listening to His Word, and finding time for regular retreat. John 14.6, Philippians 4.6-7, 1 Peter 5.7, 2 Peter 1.16-18.

    59 min

  6. FEB 4

    John 15:1-17 Bible Study - Abide in the Vine; how to thrive as Christians (Soils Part 2)

    In this powerful message from John 15, Dave Bigler explores what it truly means to abide in Christ and bear lasting fruit as believers. Building on his previous teaching about the Parable of the Soils in Matthew 13, Dave reminds us that the seed is God's Word, and our hearts represent the different types of soil. He emphasizes that genuine disciples are called to remain deeply connected to Jesus—the Vine—allowing Him to prune us so we can produce the fruit He desires. Through personal stories, practical insights, and direct Scripture, the teaching highlights the joy, purpose, and intimacy that come from abiding, while addressing common struggles that keep us from bearing fruit. Dave unpacks key truths: the necessity of staying rooted in God's Word through consistent Bible study, prayer, and community; the reality that hardship and pruning are part of God's loving process to make us more fruitful; and the freedom found in surrendering control, naming our emotions honestly, and trusting Christ's easy yoke. Whether you're feeling spiritually dry, overwhelmed by life's "weeds," or simply desiring deeper growth, this message encourages you to let go, abide in Jesus, and experience the fullness of joy He promises. Outline: 0:00 – Introduction: Dave introduces himself as an elder, shares excitement about teaching, and briefly recaps his prior message on the Parable of the Soils (Matthew 13) – the seed is God's Word, with four soil types (path/rocky/thorny/good). 0:30 – Quick review of the soils: Rocky (shallow faith scorched in trials), hard-packed/path (Satan snatches the word), thorny/weeds (cares of life choke fruit), good soil (produces fruit). 1:40 – Transition to John 15: Response to a request for a follow-up on abiding; prayer to open.3:15 – Reading John 15:1-17 aloud. 4:00 – Key verse breakdown begins: Jesus as the true vine, Father as the gardener (v.1). 6:00 – Branches and fruit: God cuts off unfruitful branches, prunes fruitful ones for more fruit (v.2); already clean by the word (v.3). 7:30 – Core command: Abide/remain in Jesus to bear fruit; apart from Him, nothing (v.4-5); purpose is much fruit for God's glory and to prove discipleship (v.8). 9:00 – Joy in abiding: Jesus' joy in us, complete joy (v.11); love and obedience like friends, not servants (v.14-15). 10:00 – Chosen and appointed to bear lasting fruit; love one another (v.16-17). 12:00 – Illustrations: Grape vine analogy; God as gardener/sower/potter; we are branches/conduits, not the source of fruit (Holy Spirit produces it). 15:00 – Common false sources of fulfillment: relationships, social media, retail therapy, possessions, entertainment/TV stats, etc. – these are modern "idols" that can't satisfy. 20:00 – What is fruit? Character of the Spirit (Galatians 5), good works, sharing the gospel; not a salvation requirement but evidence. 25:00 – Pruning process: God removes dead/unfruitful things (even good things that hinder); pruning hurts but increases fruit; trust God's role as gardener. 30:00 – Abiding practically: Stay connected through Bible study (cleaned by the word), prayer, community; name emotions honestly in hard times to reduce tension. 40:00 – Takeaways / Steps:Know your place: God is God, we are branches (surrender control).Abide in the true vine: Daily prayer, Bible intake, obedience.See challenges/hard things as opportunities/pruning for growth. 50:00 – Conclusion: Struggle of self-reliance; abide means letting go and trusting; God's yoke is easy/light. 55:00 – Closing prayer: Gratitude for abiding, pruning, joy; request for strength to follow commands; Amen. Support Iron Sheep Ministries: https://Ironsheep.org/donateListen to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/ironsheepContact Dave & the ISM team: info@ironsheep.orgJoin the email list: http://eepurl.com/g-2zAD

    59 min
  7. Cocaine Addict & Convicted Felon to Peer Recovery Advocate & Coach: Ben Deeb's Story | An Apostle Talk Interview

    JAN 28

    Cocaine Addict & Convicted Felon to Peer Recovery Advocate & Coach: Ben Deeb's Story | An Apostle Talk Interview

    In this powerful episode of Apostle Talk, host Dave Bigler sits down with Ben Deeb, a quad-certified peer professional (CRPA, CJSR, PSP, CARC) and Center Staff Supervisor at Healing Springs Recovery Community and Outreach Center in Saratoga County, New York. Ben shares his raw, redemptive journey from severe cocaine addiction, repeated arrests (around 15 times), homelessness, and incarceration to becoming a transformative leader in recovery support. He candidly discusses how substance use disorders and mental health challenges affect a vast majority of the incarcerated population, the lack of meaningful rehabilitation or wraparound services in the justice system, and how a divine encounter with God during one of his jail stays ignited lasting change. Ben now supervises peer professionals, spearheaded the development of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs, recovery units, and reentry initiatives in the Saratoga County jail, helping justice-impacted individuals find hope, stability, and freedom. The conversation highlights the systemic failures in treating addiction as a moral failing rather than a health issue, the vital role of peer support and faith in recovery, and Ben's ongoing mission to train others and expand programs that bridge jail to community reintegration. This episode is a stirring testimony of God's redemptive power, the importance of compassion over judgment, and practical steps toward breaking cycles of addiction and recidivism. If you're struggling with addiction, supporting someone who is, or passionate about justice reform and recovery advocacy, Ben's story offers encouragement and real-world insight. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, reach out for help: Healing Springs Recovery Community: (518) 306-3048 https://preventioncouncil.org/healing-springs/ Shelters of Saratoga:(518) 581-1097 https://sheltersofsaratoga.org/Subscribe for more inspiring testimonies of faith, recovery, and transformation. Like, comment, and share to spread hope! 00:00 Intro & Welcome 00:39 Ben's Addiction & Rock Bottom: Cocaine, Homelessness, 15 Arrests 01:07 The Broken System: "Bad Person" vs. "Sick Person" Mindset 01:17 Turning Point: Conversations with God in Jail 01:56 Ben's Bio & Current Role at Healing Springs 03:04 Early Life, First Drugs, and Entry into the Justice System 08:21 First Jail Time & Walking Away from Faith1 2:31 Homeless in Schenectady, Felonies, and Opiate Spiral1 8:31 Release Struggles & Fentanyl Impact 27:40 Armed Robbery Arrest & Foxhole Prayer Moment 31:10 Steps Toward Change & Peer Support Beginnings 35:51 Re-Incarceration & Mindset Shift in Jail 44:03 Paid Role in Jail & Building Hope 47:21 Developing Recovery Programs & MAT in Saratoga County Jail 51:43 Childhood Trauma, God's Love, and Realizing Worth 58:11 Creating the Recovery Unit & Reducing Recidivism0 1:06:06 Advice for Those Struggling: You Deserve to Recover 01:10:58 Closing Prayer & Hope for Addicted, Incarcerated, and Families01:15:23 Final Amen & Wrap-Up Support Iron Sheep Ministries: https://Ironsheep.org/donateListen to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/ironsheepContact Dave & the ISM team: info@ironsheep.orgJoin the email list: http://eepurl.com/g-2zAD

    1h 16m

  8. JAN 12

    Matthew 13 Bible Study - The Parable of the Soils - which soil type are you?

    This is a study that Dave Bigler gave at Adirondack Christian Fellowship. For more on ACF visit https://acfsaratoga.org In Matthew 13, the Parable of the Sower (or the Soils) is used to illustrate how the gospel is received by different people based on the condition of their hearts. The "seed" represents the word of God or the message of the kingdom. The "sower" is ultimately the Holy Spirit, though God often uses people to spread the word. This teaching breaks down four specific soil types: the hard path where the word is snatched away by the enemy, the rocky ground where faith lacks depth and withers under trial, the thorny soil where worldly worries and the deceitfulness of wealth choke out spiritual growth, and the good soil where the word is understood and produces an abundant crop. In this teaching Dave Bigler emphasizes that believers may find themselves transitioning between these soil types depending on their season of life. A central theme is the importance of maintaining "good soil" by trusting God as the ultimate gardener rather than relying on one's own efforts. This involves resisting the "weeds" of busyness and material security, which can lead to a lack of spiritual maturity. The lesson concludes with an encouragement to enter into God’s rest and allow the Holy Spirit to transform the heart from the inside out, ensuring that the word remains fruitful rather than being choked out by life's distractions.

    50 min
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About

Hello and welcome to Iron Sheep Ministries. Our goal, in everything we do, is to Equip, Build and Strengthen the body of Christ (Based on Eph 4:12). That said, despite our best efforts, we acknowledge that we are all weak, helpless, lost sheep in daily need of our shepherd, Jesus Christ (Isa 53:6). Together we are seeking to learn more about God day by day and to be changed by Him from the inside out. Join founder Dave Bigler in his weekly, through the Bible teachings, or simply partake in one of our topical interviews or testimonies.

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