Thy Strong Word from KFUO Radio

Shrouded in mysterious visions of cosmic battles, plagues, and catastrophic events, the Apocalypse of St. John, or as it’s more commonly known--the Book of Revelation, paints a haunting picture of the end times. Cryptic symbols of beasts, the rise of the Antichrist, and the final judgment unfold with unsettling intensity, revealing the ultimate clash between good and evil. Yet, beneath its terrifying imagery, Revelation is also a deeply personal letter, offering comfort to early Christians facing persecution. It reassures them—and believers today—of God's control over history, His promise of redemption, and the certainty of Christ's victory. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.Thy Strong Word is graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Through the mission gifts of people like you, LHF translates, publishes, distributes and introduces books that are Bible-based, Christ-centered and Reformation-driven. Learn more at lhfmissions.org.

Hosea has painted a powerful picture of Israel's betrayal through idolatry and unfaithfulness, with God calling Hosea to his own turbulent marriage as a metaphor. Chapters 13 and 14 bring this theme to a climax with a stern warning of God's judgment but also a tender call for repentance. God's righteous anger is balanced by His deep desire to heal and restore His people if they turn back to Him. The tension between divine judgment and mercy runs throughout, ultimately offering hope for renewal and forgiveness. The Rev. Jacob Hercamp, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Noblesville, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Hosea 13 and 14. Hosea tells the powerful story of a prophet commanded to marry an unfaithful woman, Gomer, as a living symbol of God’s boundless love for Israel despite its repeated betrayals. Through heartbreak and redemption, Hosea’s marriage becomes a vivid portrayal of how deeply God desires His people to return to Him, even when they chase after idols. Packed with raw emotion, prophetic warnings, and a message of divine mercy, this book captures God’s relentless pursuit and offers a stirring reminder that restoration is always possible—through Jesus--no matter how far one has wandered.

Jacob's journey and the deceit that marked his early life serve as a metaphor for Israel's current unfaithfulness. The prophet Hosea warns that just as Jacob wrestled with God and sought His favor, Israel must return to the Lord with humility and repentance. God reminds them of their past deliverance from Egypt, yet their continued reliance on idols and dishonest practices invites judgment. The call is clear: return to righteousness and justice before it's too late. The Rev. Nabil Nour, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Hartford, SD, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Hosea 12. Hosea tells the powerful story of a prophet commanded to marry an unfaithful woman, Gomer, as a living symbol of God’s boundless love for Israel despite its repeated betrayals. Through heartbreak and redemption, Hosea’s marriage becomes a vivid portrayal of how deeply God desires His people to return to Him, even when they chase after idols. Packed with raw emotion, prophetic warnings, and a message of divine mercy, this book captures God’s relentless pursuit and offers a stirring reminder that restoration is always possible—through Jesus--no matter how far one has wandered.

In a refreshing turn, Hosea prophesies a beautiful yet heart-wrenching oracle from God that highlights His love, compassion, and enduring commitment to Israel despite their persistent rebellion. This chapter contrasts God’s fatherly love with the people's rejection of Him, leading to judgment but also eventual restoration.The Rev. David Boisclair, pastor of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Hosea 11.Hosea tells the powerful story of a prophet commanded to marry an unfaithful woman, Gomer, as a living symbol of God’s boundless love for Israel despite its repeated betrayals. Through heartbreak and redemption, Hosea’s marriage becomes a vivid portrayal of how deeply God desires His people to return to Him, even when they chase after idols. Packed with raw emotion, prophetic warnings, and a message of divine mercy, this book captures God’s relentless pursuit and offers a stirring reminder that restoration is always possible—through Jesus--no matter how far one has wandered.

Israel is compared to a lush vine that has grown fruit for itself, but its abundance has led to greater idolatry and corruption. The people have divided hearts, making empty promises and worshiping false gods. Judgment is coming, and they will face destruction for their wickedness and misplaced trust in human leaders and military power. Hosea calls them to break up their hardened hearts and seek righteousness, warning that they will reap the whirlwind if they continue on their current path.The Rev. Chris Matthis, pastor of Epiphany Lutheran Church in Castle Rock, CO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Hosea 10.Hosea tells the powerful story of a prophet commanded to marry an unfaithful woman, Gomer, as a living symbol of God’s boundless love for Israel despite its repeated betrayals. Through heartbreak and redemption, Hosea’s marriage becomes a vivid portrayal of how deeply God desires His people to return to Him, even when they chase after idols. Packed with raw emotion, prophetic warnings, and a message of divine mercy, this book captures God’s relentless pursuit and offers a stirring reminder that restoration is always possible—through Jesus--no matter how far one has wandered.

Hosea brings a sobering message to Israel, warning of the consequences of turning away from God. The prophet foretells exile, destruction, and the loss of joy, as their disobedience leads to divine judgment. Even their offerings and religious rituals are rejected, and the once fertile land will become barren. It's a powerful reminder of the cost of unfaithfulness and the inevitable fallout from forsaking God's covenant.The Rev. Doug Griebenaw, pastor and Mission Advocate at KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Hosea 9.Hosea tells the powerful story of a prophet commanded to marry an unfaithful woman, Gomer, as a living symbol of God’s boundless love for Israel despite its repeated betrayals. Through heartbreak and redemption, Hosea’s marriage becomes a vivid portrayal of how deeply God desires His people to return to Him, even when they chase after idols. Packed with raw emotion, prophetic warnings, and a message of divine mercy, this book captures God’s relentless pursuit and offers a stirring reminder that restoration is always possible—through Jesus--no matter how far one has wandered.

Israel's rebellion leads to harsh consequences as God warns of the coming judgment. Despite their offerings and sacrifices, the people have turned to idols, trusting in their own ways instead of God's. The chapter emphasizes the emptiness of their actions and the inevitable destruction that follows disobedience. Their misplaced alliances and reliance on foreign powers will only result in ruin, leaving them reaping the whirlwind. The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Hosea 8. Hosea tells the powerful story of a prophet commanded to marry an unfaithful woman, Gomer, as a living symbol of God’s boundless love for Israel despite its repeated betrayals. Through heartbreak and redemption, Hosea’s marriage becomes a vivid portrayal of how deeply God desires His people to return to Him, even when they chase after idols. Packed with raw emotion, prophetic warnings, and a message of divine mercy, this book captures God’s relentless pursuit and offers a stirring reminder that restoration is always possible—through Jesus--no matter how far one has wandered.

God laments Israel's ongoing sin and corruption, as the people turn to deceit, adultery, and alliances with foreign nations instead of seeking Him. Their leaders are compared to an overheated oven, consumed by their passions and pride. Despite their downfall, they refuse to repent, and their cries remain insincere. Israel’s reliance on foreign alliances only deepens their destruction, leaving them vulnerable and unaware of their imminent collapse. The Rev. David Boisclair, pastor of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO, guest hosts this episode with guest, the Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Warda, TX, to study Hosea 7. Hosea tells the powerful story of a prophet commanded to marry an unfaithful woman, Gomer, as a living symbol of God’s boundless love for Israel despite its repeated betrayals. Through heartbreak and redemption, Hosea’s marriage becomes a vivid portrayal of how deeply God desires His people to return to Him, even when they chase after idols. Packed with raw emotion, prophetic warnings, and a message of divine mercy, this book captures God’s relentless pursuit and offers a stirring reminder that restoration is always possible—through Jesus--no matter how far one has wandered.

Hosea pleads with the people to return to God, recognizing His power to heal and restore after their suffering. However, God’s frustration is clear as He condemns their shallow devotion, like a mist that fades with the dawn. Despite outward rituals, Israel and Judah are mired in sin, deceit, and violence, prioritizing sacrifices over genuine love and knowledge of God. The passage contrasts God’s enduring faithfulness with the people's persistent rebellion. The Rev. Gem Gabriel, pastor of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Norwalk, CT, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Hosea 6:1-7:2. Hosea tells the powerful story of a prophet commanded to marry an unfaithful woman, Gomer, as a living symbol of God’s boundless love for Israel despite its repeated betrayals. Through heartbreak and redemption, Hosea’s marriage becomes a vivid portrayal of how deeply God desires His people to return to Him, even when they chase after idols. Packed with raw emotion, prophetic warnings, and a message of divine mercy, this book captures God’s relentless pursuit and offers a stirring reminder that restoration is always possible—through Jesus--no matter how far one has wandered.

God charges Israel with unfaithfulness, condemning their lack of truth, mercy, and knowledge of Him. The land suffers because of the people's moral corruption, as they turn to false gods and engage in idolatry. The priests are singled out for leading the nation astray, exploiting the people for personal gain. As judgment looms, God's anger burns against the widespread spiritual adultery and rejection of His ways, warning that both people and priests will face consequences for their actions. The Rev. Dr. Curtis Deterding, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Fort Myers, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Hosea 4:1-19. Hosea tells the powerful story of a prophet commanded to marry an unfaithful woman, Gomer, as a living symbol of God’s boundless love for Israel despite its repeated betrayals. Through heartbreak and redemption, Hosea’s marriage becomes a vivid portrayal of how deeply God desires His people to return to Him, even when they chase after idols. Packed with raw emotion, prophetic warnings, and a message of divine mercy, this book captures God’s relentless pursuit and offers a stirring reminder that restoration is always possible—through Jesus--no matter how far one has wandered.