Thy Strong Word From Kfuo Radio

First, Jesus heals a centurion's servant, marveling at the centurion's great faith. Next, He raises a widow's son from the dead in Nain, prompting awe and glorification of God among the people. As news of these miracles spreads, John the Baptist, from prison, sends his disciples to ask Jesus if He is the one to come. Jesus responds by pointing to his His miracles and preaching as evidence of His messianic identity.  The Rev. Dr. Curtis Deterding, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Fort Myers, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 7:1-35.  The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist, the parable of the Good Samaritan, and the story of the Prodi

Jesus teaches about judgment, forgiveness, and living out His words. He instructs not to judge or condemn, but to forgive and be generous, noting that the same measure we use will be applied to us. He emphasizes self-awareness before correcting others and uses the analogy of a tree and its fruit to illustrate that actions reflect character. Jesus concludes with the parable of the wise and foolish builders, stressing the importance of practicing His teachings. Those who do are like a house on a solid foundation, while those who don't are like a house on sand, destined to collapse.  The Rev. John Lukomski, co-host of Wrestling with the Basics on KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 6:37-49. Find Wrestling with the Basics at kfuo.org/wrestlingwiththebasics.  The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospe

Jesus heals a man on the Sabbath, which upsets and challenges the Pharisees. He then selects his twelve apostles and delivers the Sermon on the Plain, blessing the poor and hungry while warning the rich and satisfied against self-reliance. Jesus then calls for radical love urging those who would follow him to love their enemies, do good to those who hate them, bless those who curse them, and pray for those who mistreat them, encapsulating the Golden Rule: "Do to others as you would have them do to you." This passage highlights Jesus' revelational teachings on mercy, love, and what it means to be in the Kingdom of God.  The Rev. Robert Moeller, Jr., pastor of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Pipestone, MN, Trinity Lutheran Church in Jaspar, MN, and St. John Lutheran Church, Trosky, MN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 6:1-36.  The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ c

This special episode explores what it means to live freely in Christ, discussing how this freedom is not a license for self-indulgence but a call to serve others in love. The pastors will examine the delicate balance between liberty and responsibility, illustrating how true Christian freedom empowers believers to live out their faith with joy and purpose. Additionally, they will reflect on how this freedom shapes our daily lives, influencing our decisions, relationships, and overall perspective on life.  The Rev. William Cwirla, pastor of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Hacienda Heights, CA, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to discuss the concept of Christian freedom. 

Jesus invites Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him, prompting Levi to leave everything behind and host a great banquet in His honor. As tax collectors and sinners gather, the Pharisees and scribes question Jesus’ association with them. Jesus responds with the profound declaration that He has come to call not the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Through parables about new garments and wineskins, He illustrates the necessity of embracing the new life and teachings He brings.  The Rev. Timothy Sandeno, pastor emeritus, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 5:27-39.   The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist, the parable of the Good Samaritan

Jesus performs two profound miracles that reveal His divine power and compassion. First, He heals a man covered with leprosy, touching him and instantly making him clean, despite instructing him to keep it quiet, news spreads rapidly. Next, while teaching in a crowded house, some men lower their paralyzed friend through the roof to reach Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus forgives the man's sins, provoking outrage among the religious leaders. To demonstrate His authority, He heals the man, who then rises, picks up his mat, and walks home, leaving everyone in awe and glorifying God.  The Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 5:12-26.  The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of

Jesus teaches in Capernaum, astonishing people with His authority and casting out a demon. He goes on to heal Simon Peter’s mother-in-law and many others. Despite the growing crowds, He insists on preaching in other towns. By the Lake of Gennesaret, Jesus teaches from Peter’s boat and performs a miracle by filling their nets with fish. Awed, Peter, along with James and John, follows Jesus, leaving everything behind to become His disciples.  The Rev. Chris Matthis, pastor of Epiphany Lutheran Church in Castle Rock, CO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 4:31-5:11.  The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist, the parable of the Good Samaritan,

Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, is led into the wilderness where He fasts for forty days and is tempted by the devil. He resists each temptation using the Word of God. Afterward, Jesus returns to Galilee and begins His ministry, teaching in synagogues. In Nazareth, His hometown, He reads from Isaiah in the synagogue, proclaiming the fulfillment of the prophecy in Himself. Initially, the people marvel at His words, but their admiration turns to anger when He speaks of God's grace extending to Gentiles. They drive Him out of town, intending to throw Him off a cliff, but He miraculously passes through the crowd unharmed.  The Rev. Matthew Lorfeld, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 4:1-30.  The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables

As Jesus steps into the waters of the Jordan, the heavens open, and the Holy Spirit descends upon Him like a dove, while the Father's voice resounds with approval: "You are my beloved Son; with you, I am well pleased." This profound moment of divine affirmation marks the beginning of Jesus' public ministry. Immediately following this, Luke traces Jesus' lineage back through the generations, connecting Him to David, Abraham, and ultimately to Adam, highlighting Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel and the Savior for all humanity.  The Rev. Peter Ill, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Millstadt, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 3:21-38.  The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s accoun

Encounter the powerful ministry of John the Baptist, who preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy. Multitudes come to him, and John challenges them to live ethically, share with the needy, and act justly. Tax collectors and soldiers ask for guidance, and John instructs them on fair conduct. He foretells the coming of one mightier than himself, who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire, emphasizing the impending judgment. John also boldly rebukes Herod for his unlawful marriage, leading to his imprisonment. This passage prepares the way for Jesus' ministry by calling for genuine repentance and highlighting the transformative power of the Messiah.  The Rev. Dr. John Brunner, pastor emeritus, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 3:1-20.  The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and soci

In the concluding verses of Luke chapter 2, we find the account of twelve-year-old Jesus during the Feast of Passover in Jerusalem. After the festival and heading home, Mary and Joseph realize Jesus is missing and, after three days of searching, find Him in the temple, astonishing the teachers with His wisdom. When His parents express their concern, Jesus responds, "Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?" highlighting His awareness of His divine sonship and mission. Though His parents don't fully understand, Mary treasures these moments. Jesus then returns to Nazareth, growing in wisdom and favor with God and man.  The Rev. Jacob Hercamp, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Noblesville, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 2:41-52.  The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables

In these verses, we follow the Holy Family as they fulfill the Law of Moses by presenting the infant Jesus at the temple in Jerusalem. There, they encounter Simeon, a righteous and devout man who has been promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before seeing the Messiah. Upon seeing Jesus, Simeon takes Him in his arms and praises God, declaring Jesus as the light for revelation to the Gentiles and the glory of Israel. Anna, a prophetess, also recognizes Jesus and speaks about Him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem. These encounters highlight the fulfillment of God's promises and the recognition of Jesus as the long-awaited Savior.  The Rev. Elden Kohn, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Macon, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 2:22-40.  The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this

Through Luke’s testimony, we witness the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ. Under Caesar Augustus' decree, Joseph and Mary journey to Bethlehem, where Jesus is born in a humble stable and laid in a manger. Nearby shepherds, startled by an angelic proclamation, receive the "good news of great joy" that the Savior has been born. They find the Holy Family and share the angel’s message, leaving everyone in amazement. Mary treasures these moments, while the shepherds glorify God.   The Rev. David Boisclair, pastor of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 2:1-12.  The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist,

The arrival of Elizabeth's long-awaited son brings great joy and amazement to her neighbors and relatives, prompting them to praise God for His mercy. As Zechariah regains his speech after naming his son John, he is filled with the Holy Spirit and bursts forth in prophetic praise. His song, known as the Benedictus, proclaims God's faithfulness and the dawning of redemption for His people. Zechariah foretells John's role as the forerunner of the Messiah, who will guide our feet into the way of peace.  The Rev. Robert Hiller, pastor at Community Lutheran Church in Escondido, CA, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 1:58-80.  The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birt

Luke reports how Mary, newly aware of her divine pregnancy, hastens to the hill country to visit her cousin Elizabeth, herself miraculously expecting a child. As the two women meet, Elizabeth's unborn baby leaps with joy, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, proclaims blessings over Mary. In response, Mary exalts the Lord with her Magnificat, a song of praise that magnifies God's mercy, strength, and faithfulness.   The Rev. Thomas Eckstein, pastor of Concordia Lutheran Church in Jamestown, ND, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 1:39-56.  The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist, the parable of the Good Samaritan, and the story of th

Continuing in Luke’s Gospel, Gabriel appears to Mary, who is troubled at his appearance. But Gabriel brings a message of favor, grace and hope, for from Mary, through the power of the Holy Spirit, would be born the Savior of the world. Mary responds as a humble servant of Christ, willingly accepting the Lord’s will for her.  Rev. David Boisclair, pastor of Faith and Bethesda and Our Redeemer in North St. Louis County, MO, joins guest host Rev. John Shank to study Luke 1:26-38. The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist, the parable of the Good Samaritan, and the story of the Prodigal Son, culminating in a vivid portrayal of Jesus’ death and resurrect

In the opening verses of Luke's Gospel, the curtain rises on a tale of an elderly priest, a barren wife, and a promise that defies nature. As the faithful Zechariah performs his sacred duties, an angelic messenger appears, shattering the silence with a prophecy of joy and fulfillment that will pave the way for the Messiah. This is a story of unexpected blessings and divine orchestration, where the ordinary is touched by the extraordinary, leading to the birth of John the Baptist, the forerunner of our Savior. The Rev. Joshua Heimbuck, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Ashland, OR, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 1:1-25. The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the b

The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist, the parable of the Good Samaritan, and the story of the Prodigal Son, culminating in a vivid portrayal of Jesus’ death and resurrection, affirming the universal offer of redemption. This Gospel serves as an invitation to understand the depth of God’s love and the breadth of His grace extended to humanity through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. 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

Proverbs 31, attributed to King Lemuel, provides a two-part collection of wisdom. The first part contains Lemuel's mother's advice to him on leadership and avoiding vices. The second part describes the qualities of a virtuous woman, emphasizing her industriousness, wisdom, and kindness. Often perceived as an ideal that may seem burdensome, this chapter, when unpacked, reveals a blessing for believers, highlighting the virtues of diligence, integrity, and fear of the Lord. It serves as an inspiration and guide to righteous living and mutual respect within relationships. The Rev. Matthew Tassey, pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Shawnee, OK, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Proverbs 31. Step into the spiritually rich landscape of the Book of Proverbs, a text divinely inspired and attributed to Solomon, the sage king endowed by God with unsurpassed wisdom. This ancient scripture begins with heartfelt lessons from a father to a son, laying a foundation of moral and ethical guidance before unfolding

Proverbs 30 is attributed to Agur son of Jakeh and consists of his observations and reflections on wisdom, humility, and the natural world. Agur begins with an acknowledgment of his own limitations and a reverence for God's wisdom. The chapter includes a series of numerical proverbs, which list various things that are remarkable or puzzling, such as things that are never satisfied and things that are too wonderful to understand. Agur emphasizes the importance of humility, contentment, and reverence for God. The Rev. Ryan Kleimola, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Toledo, OH, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Proverbs 30:1-33. Step into the spiritually rich landscape of the Book of Proverbs, a text divinely inspired and attributed to Solomon, the sage king endowed by God with unsurpassed wisdom. This ancient scripture begins with heartfelt lessons from a father to a son, laying a foundation of moral and ethical guidance before unfolding into a collection of timeless proverbs. It uniquely personif