

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

Jun 19, 2024 • 57min
Luke 1:39-56: Mary Visits Elizabeth: John Leaps & Mary Sings
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 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.

Jun 18, 2024 • 58min
Luke 1:26-38: The Annunciation of Our Lord
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 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.

Jun 17, 2024 • 56min
Luke 1:1-25: The Nativity of John the Baptizer
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 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.

Jun 17, 2024 • 30sec
NEW BOOK: Gospel of Luke
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 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.

Jun 14, 2024 • 56min
Proverbs 31: The Proverbs 31 Woman: Burden or Blessing?
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 into a collection of timeless proverbs. It uniquely personifies wisdom and folly as two paths that stand before humanity, offering a choice between a life filled with virtue, fear of the Lord, and understanding, and one marred by shortsighted pleasures and foolishness. Proverbs serves as a compass for those seeking to walk in righteousness, offering insights that resonate deeply with the human experience, guiding us toward a life of purpose and discernment according to God’s will.

Jun 13, 2024 • 59min
Proverbs 30:1-33: Wisdom from Agur
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 personifies wisdom and folly as two paths that stand before humanity, offering a choice between a life filled with virtue, fear of the Lord, and understanding, and one marred by shortsighted pleasures and foolishness. Proverbs serves as a compass for those seeking to walk in righteousness, offering insights that resonate deeply with the human experience, guiding us toward a life of purpose and discernment according to God’s will.

Jun 12, 2024 • 58min
Proverbs 29:1-27: The Benefits of Self-Discipline
King Solomon continues to offer wisdom on leadership, justice, and self-discipline. Solomon contrasts the outcomes of righteous and wicked behaviors, emphasizing the importance of just rulers for societal stability. He underscores the dangers of pride, anger, and lack of discipline, while highlighting the benefits of humility, patience, and self-control. These proverbs stress the significance of listening to instruction and accepting correction. They also advocate for protecting the rights of the poor and maintaining integrity.The Rev. Keith Lingsch, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Naples, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Proverbs 29:1-27.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 personifies wisdom and folly as two paths that stand before humanity, offering a choice between a life filled with virtue, fear of the Lord, and understanding, and one marred by shortsighted pleasures and foolishness. Proverbs serves as a compass for those seeking to walk in righteousness, offering insights that resonate deeply with the human experience, guiding us toward a life of purpose and discernment according to God’s will.

Jun 11, 2024 • 57min
Proverbs 28:1-28: Trust in the Lord and Prosper
King Solomon offers wisdom on righteousness, integrity, and leadership. Solomon contrasts the outcomes of righteous and wicked behaviors, highlighting the blessings of integrity and the dangers of sin. He underscores the importance of obeying God's law and the consequences of ignoring it. The proverbs emphasize the value of hard work, the pitfalls of greed, and the importance of justice and fairness. Solomon also advises on the dangers of pride and the benefits of humility, stressing that those who trust in the Lord will prosper.Rev. Brandt Hoffman, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church in Sutherlin, OR, joins guest host the Rev. Doug Griebenaw to study Proverbs 28:1-28.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 personifies wisdom and folly as two paths that stand before humanity, offering a choice between a life filled with virtue, fear of the Lord, and understanding, and one marred by shortsighted pleasures and foolishness. Proverbs serves as a compass for those seeking to walk in righteousness, offering insights that resonate deeply with the human experience, guiding us toward a life of purpose and discernment according to God’s will.

Jun 10, 2024 • 56min
Proverbs 27:1-27: Humility, Friendship, and Self-Awareness
King Solomon offers practical wisdom on humility, friendship, and self-awareness. Solomon advises against boasting about the future and emphasizes the value of genuine friendship, noting that faithful friends are a source of strength and guidance. He highlights the importance of self-examination and learning from constructive criticism. The proverbs stress the benefits of hard work and the careful stewardship of resources. Solomon also underscores the unpredictability of life, encouraging prudence and preparation.The Rev. Christopher Gillespie, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church, Random Lake, WI joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Proverbs 27:1-27.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 personifies wisdom and folly as two paths that stand before humanity, offering a choice between a life filled with virtue, fear of the Lord, and understanding, and one marred by shortsighted pleasures and foolishness. Proverbs serves as a compass for those seeking to walk in righteousness, offering insights that resonate deeply with the human experience, guiding us toward a life of purpose and discernment according to God’s will.

Jun 7, 2024 • 1h 2min
Free-Text First Friday: Spiritual Warfare
Demons, possession, exorcism, and the occult: these topics have intrigued and even terrified believers and skeptics alike. In this episode, through personal stories and theological insights, we examine the reality of demonic influences and the robust defenses our faith provides. From baptismal rites to practical experiences with occultic practices, we'll uncover how Scripture, hymns, prayer, and even physical symbols equip us in this spiritual battle.The Rev. Jacob Heine, pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Topeka, KS, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to discuss spiritual warfare.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.


