

Thy Strong Word from KFUO Radio
KFUO Radio
Thy Strong Word 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.
Thy Strong Word is hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, and graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation.
Thy Strong Word is hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, and graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 29, 2024 • 57min
Lamentations 2: The Daughter of Zion is Covered in Darkness
In this second of five poems of lament—or dirges, the imagery is stark and powerful, depicting the Lord in his anger, darkening the “Daughter of Zion's” splendor and casting down from heaven to earth the majesty of Israel. The chapter serves not only as a historical recount of sorrow and devastation but also as a profound meditation on the nature of suffering, divine justice, and the consequences of turning away from spiritual responsibilities.Rev. Stewart Crown, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Palo Alto, CA joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Lamentations 2.Embark on a journey through the Book of Lamentations, a deeply moving poetic reflection on the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. This book is a profound expression of grief, portraying the desolation of a city and a people who have experienced immense suffering. Each chapter brings its unique perspective, from the vivid portrayal of Jerusalem as a lonely, grieving widow to the poignant pleas for mercy and reflection on the unyielding justice of God. The imagery is stark and emotive, encapsulating the pain of exile and the consequences of turning away from God. Yet, amidst the mourning, Lamentations also offers glimmers of hope and the possibility of redemption. It’s a powerful exploration of human sorrow, divine justice, and the enduring faithfulness of God, even in the darkest of times.

Jan 26, 2024 • 55min
Lamentations 1: The Princess Has Become a Slave and a Widow
Lamentation is a poetic masterpiece that captures the profound sorrow of a once-glorious Jerusalem now laid to waste. Chapter 1 paints a vivid picture of the city personified as a lonely widow, utterly deserted and mourning her losses after the Babylonian invasion. It's a poignant exploration of the themes of suffering, the consequences of turning away from God, and the stark reality of exile.The Rev. Brian Heller, manager of Specialized Spiritual Care Ministry for the LCMS Office of National Mission, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Lamentations 1.Embark on a journey through the Book of Lamentations, a deeply moving poetic reflection on the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. This book is a profound expression of grief, portraying the desolation of a city and a people who have experienced immense suffering. Each chapter brings its unique perspective, from the vivid portrayal of Jerusalem as a lonely, grieving widow to the poignant pleas for mercy and reflection on the unyielding justice of God. The imagery is stark and emotive, encapsulating the pain of exile and the consequences of turning away from God. Yet, amidst the mourning, Lamentations also offers glimmers of hope and the possibility of redemption. It's a powerful exploration of human sorrow, divine justice, and the enduring faithfulness of God, even in the darkest of times.

Jan 26, 2024 • 30sec
NEW BOOK: Lamentations
Embark on a journey through the Book of Lamentations, a deeply moving poetic reflection on the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. This book is a profound expression of grief, portraying the desolation of a city and a people who have experienced immense suffering. Each chapter brings its unique perspective, from the vivid portrayal of Jerusalem as a lonely, grieving widow to the poignant pleas for mercy and reflection on the unyielding justice of God. The imagery is stark and emotive, encapsulating the pain of exile and the consequences of turning away from God. Yet, amidst the mourning, Lamentations also offers glimmers of hope and the possibility of redemption. It's a powerful exploration of human sorrow, divine justice, and the enduring faithfulness of God, even in the darkest of times.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.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.

Jan 25, 2024 • 58min
Colossians 4: Christ is Our Savior, a Mystery Revealed
The Apostle closes his letter to the Colossians with practical advice and personal notes. He emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer, wise behavior towards non-believers, and gracious speech. He requests prayers for his own ministry and encourages making the most of every opportunity in spreading the gospel. The chapter also contains personal greetings and mentions several fellow workers, highlighting the communal aspect of Paul's ministry and the church.The Rev. Chris Matthis, pastor of Epiphany Lutheran Church in Castle Rock, CO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Colossians 4.Paul's letters to the Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians contain a wealth of theology and practical guidance for living out the Christian faith. Ephesians unpacks God's overarching plan of salvation and our identity in Christ, calling us to unity and holiness in the Church. Philippians overflows with joy, encouraging us to imitate Christ's humility and develop spiritual maturity. Colossians stresses Christ's preeminence and sufficiency, warning against false teaching and exhorting us to set our minds on things above. Together these essential epistles provide incredible insights into doctrines like grace, reconciliation, and redemption while also equipping us to walk in a manner worthy of the gospel in our relationships, speech, work, and ministry. Get ready to deepen your faith as we explore the powerful messages in Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians!

Jan 24, 2024 • 59min
Colossians 3: Christ is All and in All
St. Paul instructs on living a Christ-centered life, emphasizing a moral transformation that includes shedding old behaviors and embracing virtues like compassion and patience. He provides explicit rules for Christian households: wives should submit to their husbands, husbands must love their wives tenderly, children ought to obey their parents, and fathers should not provoke their children. Servants are advised to obey their masters with sincerity as if serving the Lord. This chapter serves as a foundational guide for Christian family and social relationships, underpinned by love and Christ's teachings.The Rev. Benjamin Meyer, pastor of Hope Lutheran Church in Condit, OH, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Colossians 3.Paul's letters to the Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians contain a wealth of theology and practical guidance for living out the Christian faith. Ephesians unpacks God's overarching plan of salvation and our identity in Christ, calling us to unity and holiness in the Church. Philippians overflows with joy, encouraging us to imitate Christ's humility and develop spiritual maturity. Colossians stresses Christ's preeminence and sufficiency, warning against false teaching and exhorting us to set our minds on things above. Together these essential epistles provide incredible insights into doctrines like grace, reconciliation, and redemption while also equipping us to walk in a manner worthy of the gospel in our relationships, speech, work, and ministry. Get ready to deepen your faith as we explore the powerful messages in Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians!

Jan 23, 2024 • 58min
Colossians 2: Christ is Sufficient Over All Human Tradition
The Apostle Paul delves deeply into the richness of Christ's work and the fullness of the believer’s life in Him. This chapter stands as a powerful reminder to Christians of the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ over all human traditions and philosophies. Paul warns against being led astray by deceptive teachings and emphasizes the importance of being rooted and built up in God who dwells bodily in Jesus.The Rev. Samuel Powell, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Jefferson City, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Colossians 2.Paul's letters to the Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians contain a wealth of theology and practical guidance for living out the Christian faith. Ephesians unpacks God's overarching plan of salvation and our identity in Christ, calling us to unity and holiness in the Church. Philippians overflows with joy, encouraging us to imitate Christ's humility and develop spiritual maturity. Colossians stresses Christ's preeminence and sufficiency, warning against false teaching and exhorting us to set our minds on things above. Together these essential epistles provide incredible insights into doctrines like grace, reconciliation, and redemption while also equipping us to walk in a manner worthy of the gospel in our relationships, speech, work, and ministry. Get ready to deepen your faith as we explore the powerful messages in Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians!

Jan 22, 2024 • 58min
Colossians 1: Christ is Firstborn of All Creation
St. Paul begins this letter by expressing his thanks for the faith and love evident in the Colossian church, praying for their continued spiritual growth. He powerfully asserts Christ's supremacy and central role in creation and reconciliation, presenting Jesus as the bridge between God and humanity. He also points to his own personal ministry struggles, underscoring his commitment to spreading the gospel.The Rev. Dennis McFadden, a pastor at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Colossians 1.Paul's letters to the Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians contain a wealth of theology and practical guidance for living out the Christian faith. Ephesians unpacks God's overarching plan of salvation and our identity in Christ, calling us to unity and holiness in the Church. Philippians overflows with joy, encouraging us to imitate Christ's humility and develop spiritual maturity. Colossians stresses Christ's preeminence and sufficiency, warning against false teaching and exhorting us to set our minds on things above. Together these essential epistles provide incredible insights into doctrines like grace, reconciliation, and redemption while also equipping us to walk in a manner worthy of the gospel in our relationships, speech, work, and ministry. Get ready to deepen your faith as we explore the powerful messages in Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians!

Jan 19, 2024 • 58min
Philippians 4: Contentment in Christ
In this concluding chapter, St. Paul urges the Philippians to rejoice in the Lord always, emphasizing joy, gentleness, and the avoidance of anxiety through prayer and thanksgiving. Paul also speaks of contentment in every situation, highlighting his ability to be content in any circumstance through Christ who gives him strength. This chapter famously includes the assurance that God will meet all the needs of His people according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.The Rev. David Boisclair, pastor of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Philippians 4.Paul's letters to the Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians contain a wealth of theology and practical guidance for living out the Christian faith. Ephesians unpacks God's overarching plan of salvation and our identity in Christ, calling us to unity and holiness in the Church. Philippians overflows with joy, encouraging us to imitate Christ's humility and develop spiritual maturity. Colossians stresses Christ's preeminence and sufficiency, warning against false teaching and exhorting us to set our minds on things above. Together these essential epistles provide incredible insights into doctrines like grace, reconciliation, and redemption while also equipping us to walk in a manner worthy of the gospel in our relationships, speech, work, and ministry. Get ready to deepen your faith as we explore the powerful messages in Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians!

Jan 18, 2024 • 55min
Philippians 3: No Confidence in the Flesh
The Apostle Paul doesn’t mince words when he warns the Philippians against those who demand and require circumcision for Gentile believers. True circumcision, Paul reminds us, is inward, of the heart, and by the Holy Spirit. Any perceived righteousness by keeping the law Paul counts as loss and rubbish compared to the surpassing value of knowing Christ. He urges the Philippians to stand firm and rejoice in the Lord, not putting confidence in the flesh, but seeking God’s will. Paul wants to stir their hearts to imitate his pursuit of Christ above all things.The Rev. Dr. John Rickert, pastor emeritus in South Carolina, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Philippians 3.Paul's letters to the Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians contain a wealth of theology and practical guidance for living out the Christian faith. Ephesians unpacks God's overarching plan of salvation and our identity in Christ, calling us to unity and holiness in the Church. Philippians overflows with joy, encouraging us to imitate Christ's humility and develop spiritual maturity. Colossians stresses Christ's preeminence and sufficiency, warning against false teaching and exhorting us to set our minds on things above. Together these essential epistles provide incredible insights into doctrines like grace, reconciliation, and redemption while also equipping us to walk in a manner worthy of the gospel in our relationships, speech, work, and ministry. Get ready to deepen your faith as we explore the powerful messages in Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians!

Jan 17, 2024 • 57min
Philippians 2: Work Out Your Own Salvation?
The Apostle Paul offers a profound exploration of humility and unity within the Christian community, guided by the example of Jesus. Paul urges the believers in Philippi to adopt a selfless attitude, prioritizing others' interests above their own. This chapter is renowned for its portrayal of Christ's humility and obedience, serving as a model for believers to emulate. Paul also discusses his plans to send Timothy and Epaphroditus to Philippi, highlighting their dedication and service to the gospel. The chapter blends theological insights with practical advice, emphasizing love, unity, and humility as cornerstones of Christian life.The Rev. Thomas Eckstein, pastor of Concordia Lutheran Church in Jamestown, ND, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Philippians 2.Paul's letters to the Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians contain a wealth of theology and practical guidance for living out the Christian faith. Ephesians unpacks God's overarching plan of salvation and our identity in Christ, calling us to unity and holiness in the Church. Philippians overflows with joy, encouraging us to imitate Christ's humility and develop spiritual maturity. Colossians stresses Christ's preeminence and sufficiency, warning against false teaching and exhorting us to set our minds on things above. Together these essential epistles provide incredible insights into doctrines like grace, reconciliation, and redemption while also equipping us to walk in a manner worthy of the gospel in our relationships, speech, work, and ministry. Get ready to deepen your faith as we explore the powerful messages in Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians!