Thy Strong Word From Kfuo Radio

The Rev. Phillip Fischaber, pastor of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Walnut, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 14:26-52. This passage depicts the poignant moments leading up to Jesus' betrayal and arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane. After sharing the Last Supper with his disciples, Jesus foretells Peter's denial and leads them to Gethsemane to pray. Overwhelmed with sorrow, Jesus wrestles with the weight of his impending sacrifice while his disciples struggle to stay awake. Judas arrives, signaling Jesus' arrest with a kiss, leading to a brief but intense moment where a disciple draws a sword in defense, swiftly ended by Jesus. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suf

The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 14:1-25. In Bethany, a devoted woman anoints Jesus with costly perfume, much to the consternation of those like Judas who saw it as a waste. Then, even as Jesus faces betrayal by Judas and denial by His own disciples, He lovingly serves them at a final Passover meal where He institutes the Lord's Supper, declaring that the bread and wine is His body and blood, given and poured out for the forgiveness of sins. Despite the disciples' future abandonment, Jesus comforts them with this promise of salvation. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suffers and dies on the cr

The Rev. Peter Burfeind, pastor of Agnus Dei Lutheran Church in Marshall, MI & Our Savior Lutheran Church in Union City, MI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 13. Jesus delivers an urgent warning to his disciples about tumultuous events to come before his return - false messiahs, wars, natural disasters, persecution. He advises them to stay alert and steadfast in their faith despite the trials ahead because the Son of Man's return will be sudden and only the Father knows the hour. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suffers and dies on the cross as a ransom for many, accomplishing what we could not do ourselves - securing our justification before God. Mark presents Jesus

The Rev. David Boisclair, pastor of Faith and Bethesda Lutheran Churches in Pine Lawn, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 12:18-44. Jesus is challenged by the Sadducees regarding the concept of resurrection and then by one of the scribes on what the greatest commandment is. After Jesus rebuffs these challenges with his infinite wisdom, he then shames the ostentatious displays of wealth by the wealthy with the sacrificial giving of a poor widow. Jesus underscores the value of her humble offering, emphasizing that it surpasses the significance of the larger contributions. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suffers and dies on the cross as a ransom for many, accomplishin

The Rev. Jesse Baker, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Hardwick, MN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 11:27-12:17. The chief priests, scribes, and elders challenge Jesus' authority to teach and perform miracles. Jesus responds with a question about John the Baptist's authority, leaving them unable to answer. He then shares the parable of the tenants, illustrating God's rejection of Israel's religious leaders. The Pharisees and Herodians try to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes, but he cleverly responds, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suffers and dies on the cross as a

The Rev. Thomas Eckstein, pastor of Concordia Lutheran Church in Jamestown, ND, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 11:1-26. As Jesus rides triumphantly into Jerusalem on a colt, greeted by jubilant crowds waving palm branches, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Yet, beneath the surface, tension simmers as Jesus confronts the religious establishment and challenges their practices. We then witness a powerful demonstration of Jesus' authority, as he curses a barren fig tree, and cleanses the temple, symbolizing the impending judgment. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suffers and dies on the cross as a ransom for many, accomplishing what we could not do ourselves

The Rev. John Lukomski, co-host of Wrestling with the Basics on KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 10:32-52. Find Wrestling with the Basics at kfuo.org/WrestlingWithTheBasics. Jesus predicts his death and resurrection for the third time, and he explains to his disciples the true meaning of greatness and service in his kingdom. He also heals a blind beggar named Bartimaeus, who recognizes him as the Son of David and follows him on the way to Jerusalem. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suffers and dies on the cross as a ransom for many, accomplishing what we could not do ourselves - securing our justification before God. Mark presents Jesus not just as a mirac

The Rev. Doug Griebenaw, pastor and Mission Advocate at KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 10:1-31. Jesus confronts the Pharisees who test him on the issue of divorce, and he affirms that God’s original design was for a lifelong union between a man and a woman. He also welcomes the little children who come to him and declares that the kingdom of God belongs to those who receive it like a child. Finally, he encounters a rich young man who asks him how to inherit eternal life. Jesus tells him to sell everything he has and follow him. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suffers and dies on the cross as a ransom for many, accomplishing what we could not do ourselve

The Rev. Kevin Yoakum, pastor of Christ the King Lutheran Church in Riverview, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 9:30-50. Jesus and His disciples leave the region of the Decapolis and head back to Galilee, making their way southeast toward Capernaum and Jesus once again predicts his death and resurrection to his disciples privately. They did not understand but were afraid to ask more. Jesus urges humility, service, care for the vulnerable, and especially the removal of temptation. Despite their lack of understanding, Jesus prepares his followers for his betrayal and death, and for the trials and tribulations to come. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suffers and die

The Rev. Adam DeGroot, pastor of Calvary Lutheran Church in Rio Rancho, NM, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 9:2-29. In his transfiguration, Jesus has an amazing and miraculous encounter with Moses and Elijah, revealing his glory to three disciples who were there to witness it. Later, at the foot of the mountain, a desperate father asks Jesus to heal his demon-afflicted son after the disciples failed to do so. With compassion, Jesus rebukes the evil spirit and heals the boy. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suffers and dies on the cross as a ransom for many, accomplishing what we could not do ourselves - securing our justification before God. Mark presents Jesus not j

The Rev. Dr. Curtis Deterding, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Fort Myers, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 8:22-9:1. Blindness gives way to sight and insight as Jesus restores a man's vision. Then, when Peter correctly confesses Jesus to be the Christ, Jesus foretells his impending suffering and death before promising some disciples would see the kingdom of God come in power. Through miraculous healing, pointed questioning, and prophetic revelations, Jesus revealed his divine nature and prepared followers for the path ahead. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suffers and dies on the cross as a ransom for many, accomplishing what we could not do ourselves - securi

The Rev. Kevin Parviz, pastor of Congregation Chai v’ Shalom in St. Louis, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 8:1-21. Jesus performs miracles that reveal his divine power and compassion, feeding thousands with scarce food. He also warns his disciples to beware of the dangerous influence of the Pharisees and Herod. Despite witnessing Jesus' wonders, the disciples still struggle with spiritual blindness, misunderstanding his teachings. Yet Jesus patiently ministers to all who need him. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suffers and dies on the cross as a ransom for many, accomplishing what we could not do ourselves - securing our justification before God. Mark presents

The Rev. Doug Minton, pastor of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Milford, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 7:24-37. Jesus embarks on a surprising detour that will radically expand the boundaries of his ministry. After resistance from religious leaders, Jesus withdraws from Galilee to the unlikely Gentile regions of Tyre and Sidon. There he grapples with the determined faith of a Canaanite woman begging his help. Later, in the Decapolis, Jesus performs a dramatic healing by unconventional means, then oddly prohibits the witnesses from sharing what happened. Why would Jesus venture to these Gentile areas knowing it would create controversy? What do his cryptic words and actions reveal about his true mission? Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission

The Rev. James Helms, Jr., pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Greenbelt, MD, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to discuss Christian discipleship. The discussion turns to discipline in this last Free-Text First Friday of 2023. What does it mean to be disciplined as a follower of Christ? Far from the negative connotations of punishment or rigid control, biblical discipline is rooted in the overflow of God's love. Through the Holy Spirit, God patiently transforms believers into the image of Jesus, purifying them as vessels set apart for holy use. For many Christians, the call to obedience clashes with cultural preferences for self-determination and comfort. How do believers embrace discipline not as oppression, but as an invitation to share in Christ's sufferings and holiness? What practices and postures enable divine discipline to shape human hearts?

The Rev. Christopher Craig, pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Sylvan Grove, KS, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 7:1-23. Tensions erupt as Jesus faces criticism from the Pharisees about his disciples' failure to observe ritual handwashing before meals. When questioned, Jesus boldly accuses these religious leaders of rank hypocrisy and misplaced priorities. Jesus teaches that external rituals cannot make one spiritually clean. Rather, it is the evil desires and intentions that emerge from within that defile a person. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suffers and dies on the cross as a ransom for many, accomplishing what we could not do ourselves - securing our just

The Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 6:30-56. Exhausted from ministry, Jesus and his disciples seek rest but are besieged by the demanding crowds. As evening falls with no provisions in sight, Jesus performs a miraculous mass feeding with mere scraps of food. He then retreats alone to the mountain before miraculously walking upon the sea to join his beleaguered disciples. Their reaction shifts from terror to awe as the winds cease at his approach. Upon landing, Jesus is immediately inundated by the sick yearning just to touch his cloak. Human desperation relentlessly pursues him, only to encounter divine compassion and power at every turn. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and

The Rev. Dr. Mike Nielsen, pastor of Salem Lutheran Church in Barron, WI joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 6:7-29. Jesus sends out his disciples on a mission of preaching and healing, but the passage takes a dark turn with the chilling account of John the Baptist's beheading. This juxtaposition between the disciples' empowered mission and John's tragic end highlights the profound challenges and sacrifices faced by those who bear witness to the truth, making it a riveting exploration of the cost of discipleship and the clash between spiritual purpose and worldly power. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suffers and dies on the cross as a ransom for many, accomplishing wha

The Rev. Christopher Maronde, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Hastings, IA, and St. Paul Lutheran Church in Oakland, IA joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 5:21-6:6. This passage opens with Jairus, a desperate synagogue leader, seeking Jesus' help to save his dying daughter. Interrupting this urgent mission is a miraculous encounter with a woman who has suffered from a chronic ailment for twelve years takes center stage, illustrating the profound impact of unwavering faith. This passage culminates with Jesus' return to his hometown of Nazareth, where his wisdom and authority face resistance and disbelief from those who knew him as a young carpenter. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Ye

The Rev. Steven Theiss, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in New Wells, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 4:35-5:20. Jesus and his disciples embark on a journey by boat across the Sea of Galilee. Midway, they encounter a violent storm, illustrating the power of Jesus to command nature. Upon reaching the other side, they are met by a man possessed by a legion of demons, residing among the tombs and exhibiting incredible strength. In a dramatic confrontation, Jesus casts out the demons and restores the man to sanity. These events serve as a compelling testament to Jesus’ divinity and his mission to bring healing and restoration to the broken. Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus

The Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 4:1-34. Jesus teaches in parables to crowds by the sea, relating the parable of the Sower, the lamp on a stand, the growing seed, and the mustard seed. He explains the purpose of parables to his disciples, and interprets the parable of the Sower, describing how the word takes root in those who hear. After dismissing the crowds, we learn that Jesus taught publicly in parables but explained them privately to his disciples. The question is, why? Beneath the fast-paced action of Jesus' ministry in the Gospel of Mark lies a profound theological message: we are all in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. Though Jesus performs mighty deeds and calls people to repent, they repeatedly fail to understand his true identity and mission. Even his disciples abandon him in his darkest hour. Yet Jesus willingly suffers and dies on the cross as a ransom for many, accomplishing what we could no