Thy Strong Word From Kfuo Radio

Heavenly Realm, Throne Room—John is taken up in the Spirit to witness the awe-inspiring throne room of God. Surrounded by twenty-four elders and four living creatures, worship resounds as they proclaim God's holiness and eternal glory. How does this vision of divine majesty inspire us to worship God more deeply in our own lives?  The Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Revelation 4:1-11.  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 to

Laodicea, Asia Minor—The Lord addresses the church in Laodicea, reproving them for their lukewarm faith—neither hot nor cold—and advising them to seek true riches and healing from Him. He stands at the door and knocks, inviting anyone who hears His voice to open the door. Is our faith fervent, or have we become complacent, missing the call of Christ knocking at our hearts?  The Rev. Stewart Crown, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Palo Alto, CA, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Revelation 3:14-22.  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 persec

Sardis and Philadelphia, Asia Minor—Jesus is delivering critical messages to the churches in Sardis and Philadelphia. To Sardis, He warns of their reputation for being alive while being spiritually dead, urging them to wake up and strengthen what remains. To Philadelphia, He offers praise for their perseverance and promises an open door that no one can shut. Are we spiritually awake and attentive to God's opportunities in our lives?  The Rev. Dr. Matthew Heise, Executive Director of the Lutheran Heritage Foundation, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Revelation 3:1-13.  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 deep

Pergamum and Thyatira, Asia Minor—The Lord is speaking to the believers in Pergamum and Thyatira, commending their faith yet warning against embracing false teachings and immoral practices. He calls them to repent and hold firmly to the truth, promising rewards to those who overcome. In a culture filled with conflicting messages, how vigilant are we in guarding our faith against compromise?  The Rev. Steven Theiss, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church, New Wells, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Revelation 2:12-29.  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 Chris

Ephesus and Smyrna, Asia Minor—Jesus is addressing the churches of Ephesus and Smyrna. To Ephesus, He acknowledges their hard work but urges them to return to their first love. To Smyrna, He offers encouragement amidst persecution, promising the crown of life to those who remain faithful. Are we, like Ephesus, in need of rekindling our passion, or like Smyrna, seeking strength to endure hardships?  The Rev. Timothy Scharr, pastor of Southern Illinois District Lutheran Church, LCMS, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Revelation 2:1-11.  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 comfor

Patmos, Greece—John, exiled on Patmos, is experiencing a profound vision of Jesus Christ in His glory. The Lord reveals Himself as the Alpha and Omega, instructing John to write messages to the seven churches. This revelation underscores Christ's sovereignty and His intimate presence among His people. How does this powerful vision challenge us to deepen our understanding of who Jesus truly is?  The Rev. Dan Grimmer, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Mitchell, SD, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Revelation 1.  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 fa

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

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,

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

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

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

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 st

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 purs

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

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 boo

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

Through Hosea, God speaks tenderly to Israel, promising restoration and renewed relationship after a period of judgment. He vows to lead them into the wilderness and transform their sorrow into hope, offering forgiveness and a fresh covenant, pointing forward to Jesus. Ultimately, the faithfulness of Israel—meaning all of God’s people, will be restored, and they will call God their husband, no longer chasing after false idols. This renewal reflects God's unwavering love, as symbolized by Hosea's reconciliation with his unfaithful wife, Gomer.  The Rev. John Lukomski, co-host of Wrestling with the Basics on KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Hosea 2:15-3:5. Find Wrestling with the Basics at kfuo.org/wrestlingwiththebasics.  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 G

God speaks through the prophet Hosea, addressing Israel’s unfaithfulness in vivid imagery. He likens the nation to an unfaithful wife, chasing after false gods and forgetting the covenant with Him. Despite the people's betrayal, God warns of coming judgment, stripping away their prosperity and exposing their shame. Yet, underlying the harsh words is a call for repentance, as God desires to restore His people from their waywardness.  The Rev. Rick Jones, Chaplain and Vice President of Spiritual Life at the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, ND, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Hosea 2:1-13.  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, t

Get ready for the debut of "Headlines,” a fun and thought-provoking twist for Free-Text First Fridays. In this episode, the guest pastor faces the challenge of guessing which headline is real and which ones are the host's creations. Each round sparks deeper conversations about pressing issues in today's news and how the Bible offers guidance on them. This episode’s topics include environmentalism, mental health, artificial intelligence, and extraterrestrial life.  The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to play the headlines quiz and discuss the news from a biblical perspective.   The real articles featured in this episode:  https://www.euronews.com/green/2023/02/16/baby-kangaroo-poo-could-be-the-secret-to-stopping-cows-methane-farts-researchers-say  https://www.npr.org/2024/01/31/1228145269/elmo-therapist-asking-how-is-everybody-doing  https://www.indy100.com/science-tech/bronx-pregnant-ai-replika-app  https://www.newsweek.com

Hosea opens with the prophet being commanded by God to marry Gomer, a promiscuous woman, as a living symbol of Israel’s unfaithfulness. Their children are given prophetic names that reflect God’s judgment—signifying the broken relationship between God and His people. Yet even amid these harsh warnings of destruction and rejection, God hints at future restoration, promising that Israel will one day be called His people again.  The Rev. Dr. David Lewis, associate professor of exegetical theology at Concordia Seminary, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Hosea 1.  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 rel