

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 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!

Jan 16, 2024 • 57min
Philippians 1: To Live is Christ and to Die is Gain
Philippians is an epistle written by the Apostle Paul from prison, expressing his deep affection and spiritual guidance for the believers in Philippi. In this first chapter, Paul discusses themes of joy, fellowship, and the advancement of the gospel despite his imprisonment. He emphasizes his confidence in Christ and his desire for the spiritual growth of the Philippians. Paul also reflects on life and death, underlining his commitment to Christ's mission, setting the tone for the entire letter.The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Philippians 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 15, 2024 • 57min
Ephesians 6: Obedience and the Full Armor of God
In this final chapter, Paul sums up his instructions to the Ephesians on spiritual warfare and household conduct. He charges children to honor their parents and fathers to guide their children in the Lord. Controversially, he also urges Christian slaves to obey earthly masters as they obey Christ. However, Paul urges all readers to stand firm against the schemes of the devil by putting on God's full armor. He details the armor of truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the word of God. Paul closes his letter by sending greetings via Tychicus and a final benediction of peace, love and grace over the Ephesian believers.The Rev. Robert Moeller, Jr., pastor of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Pipestone, MN and Trinity Lutheran Church in Jaspar, MN, and St. John Lutheran Church, Trosky, MN joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Ephesians 6.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 12, 2024 • 58min
Ephesians 5: Wives Submit to your Husbands; Husbands Love your Wives
Paul urges the Ephesians to imitate God by living as children of light, having no part in sexual immorality, impurity, greed or obscenity. He instructs wives to submit to their husbands as the church submits to Christ, and husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church. Paul tells them to be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns and songs, giving thanks to God the Father in the name of Jesus Christ. He concludes by urging them to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.The Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Ephesians 5.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 11, 2024 • 58min
Ephesians 4: United in Christ and Living a New Life
Paul commands the Ephesians to live in unity as members of one body in Christ. He reminds them that God has gifted each believer for building up the church. Therefore, they should put off their old selves and put on their new selves in Christ, speaking truth and living righteously. Paul instructs them not to grieve the Holy Spirit but to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving towards one another, just as God forgave them through Christ. He warns them not to fall back into their old ways but to continue growing in their knowledge of Christ and living as children of light.The Rev. Michael Schuermann, pastor of University Lutheran Church in Champaign, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Ephesians 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 10, 2024 • 56min
Ephesians 3: Gentiles are Fellow Heirs to the Promise
The Apostle explains the mystery of the gospel that through Christ Jesus Gentiles are fellow heirs with Jews, members of the same body, and partakers of the same promise. As a minister of this gospel by God's grace and mighty power, Paul reveals that through the church God makes his manifold wisdom known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to His eternal purpose carried out in Christ Jesus. Paul then prays that the Ephesians may have power through God's Spirit to grasp the breadth, length, height, and depth of Christ's love and to know it, though it surpasses all knowledge.The Rev. Dr. Curtis Deterding, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Fort Myers, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Ephesians 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 9, 2024 • 58min
Ephesians 2: Saved by Faith for Good Works
Paul masterfully lays out profound truths about God's redemptive work. We learn that though we were once dead in our trespasses and sins, God in His great mercy has made us alive together with Christ. We who were once far off, excluded from God's covenant people, have now been brought near through the blood of Christ. We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus, not by works, leaving no room for boasting. This powerful passage contains rich teachings about God's kindness and love towards us, the unity of believers in Christ, and our new identity as God's workmanship created to do good works.The Rev. John Lukomski, co-host of Wrestling with the Basics on KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Ephesians 2. Find Wrestling with the Basics at kfuo.org/WrestlingWithTheBasics.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!