Thy Strong Word from KFUO Radio

“In the beginning was the Word…” As our Advent journey reaches its climax, St. John pulls back the curtain to reveal the deepest mystery of Christmas: the Child of Bethlehem is the eternal Word through whom all things were made. In part 12, the final installment of our special series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we move from manger scenes to cosmic glory. The true Light that shines in the darkness has come into the world; He pitches His tent among us, full of grace and truth, that from His fullness we might receive grace upon grace.  The Rev. Jacob Hercamp, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Noblesville, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study John 1:1–18.  To learn more about Christ Lutheran, visit clc-in.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor.” Isaiah's words paint a vivid picture of the Messiah's mission: proclaiming liberty to captives, opening the prison to those who are bound, and announcing the year of the LORD's favor. In part 11 of our special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we explore the Servant who clothes His people with garments of salvation and robes of righteousness. These words will one day be read from a synagogue scroll in Nazareth as Jesus declares that this Scripture is fulfilled in their hearing.  The Rev. Dan Eddy, pastor of Messiah Lutheran Church in Beloit, WI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Isaiah 61:1–11.  To learn more about Messiah Lutheran, visit mlcbeloit.com. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

“Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word.” In Jerusalem's aging temple, the Child of Bethlehem is placed into the arms of those who have waited a lifetime to see the Lord's Christ. In part 10 of our special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, the joy of Christmas begins to cast the shadow of the cross. Simeon blesses the holy family yet foretells that a sword will pierce Mary's own soul also, even as Anna rejoices and speaks of the child to all who are waiting for redemption.  The Rev. Matthew Kusch, pastor of King of Glory Lutheran Church in Elgin, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 2:21–40.  To learn more about King of Glory Lutheran, visit kogelgin.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

“Behold, my servant shall act wisely; he shall be high and lifted up.” Yet the Servant Isaiah describes is not adorned in visible splendor but “despised and rejected,” a Man of Sorrows acquainted with grief. In part 9 of our special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we stand before one of the most profound portraits of the Messiah in all of Scripture. Here we see the One who bears our griefs, carries our sorrows, is wounded for our transgressions, and by whose stripes we are healed. The Rev. Chris Matthis, senior pastor of Epiphany Lutheran Church in Castle Rock, CO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Isaiah 52:13–53:12.  To learn more about Epiphany Lutheran, visit epiphanylc.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Under Caesar's census, the world seems ruled by distant power, yet God quietly keeps His ancient promises in a crowded Bethlehem stable. In part 8 of our special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we move from the shadows of promise to the bright light of fulfillment as the long-awaited Son is given. Angelic hosts flood the night sky with praise, lowly shepherds become the first evangelists, and Mary treasures these things in her heart as heaven proclaims peace on earth to those on whom God's favor rests.  The Rev. Zelwyn Heide, pastor of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Hannover, ND and Zion Lutheran Church in New Salem, ND, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 2:1–21.  To learn more about St. Peter and Zion Lutheran Churches, visit stpeterzion.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

“When they say to you, ‘Inquire of the mediums and the necromancers'… should not a people inquire of their God?” In the dark days of Ahaz, Judah turns to superstition and political schemes instead of trusting the Lord. The result is gloom, fear, and thick darkness. Yet into that same darkness Isaiah speaks a breathtaking promise: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.” In part 7 of our special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we follow the movement from judgment to hope; from stumbling over the stone of offense to the dawning of a great light in Galilee of the nations. The promised Child, the Son who is given, will be God himself.  The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Isaiah 8:19–9:7.  To learn more about Trinity in Edwardsville, visit trinitylutheranministries.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

"His name is John." With this written declaration, Zechariah's silence ends and his speech is restored. In part 6 of a special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we witness the birth of the Forerunner. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Zechariah prophesies the Benedictus, proclaiming that God has visited and redeemed His people. He declares that this child will go before the Lord to prepare His ways and give knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of sins.  The Rev. David Boisclair, senior pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 1:57–80.  To learn more about Our Redeemer, visit ourredeemerstl.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

"Comfort, comfort my people, says your God." With these words, Isaiah delivers a beautiful proclamation of hope to a people in exile. In part 5 of a special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we encounter the "Voice" crying in the wilderness. This Voice is St. John the Baptist, the herald who prepares the way for the Lord. He calls sinners to repentance, pointing to the truth that while all flesh is like grass that withers and fades, the Word of our God stands forever, and the Messiah has come.  The Rev. Robert Smith, pastor emeritus in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Isaiah 40:1–11  This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

"And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb." In the quiet hill country of Judea, the first confession of faith in the New Testament is made not by a scholar, but by an unborn child in the presence of the Incarnate Lord. In part 4 of a special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we witness the joyous meeting of Mary and Elizabeth. As the Holy Spirit fills the house, Mary bursts into song—the Magnificat—proclaiming a God who scatters the proud and lifts up the humble.  The Rev. Mark Loder, pastor of St. James Lutheran Church & School in Howard Lake, MN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 1:39–56.  To learn more about St. James Lutheran, visit stjameshl.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Israel's royal family tree has been felled, leaving nothing but a jagged, lifeless stump. The glory of David seems lost to history. Yet, Isaiah prophesies the impossible: from this dead stump, a green Shoot will emerge. In part 3 of our special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we witness the rise of the Righteous Branch—the Messiah who bears the seven-fold Spirit and will bring peace so profound that wolves dwell with lambs.  The Rev. Dr. Curtis Deterding, pastor emeritus in Ft. Meyers, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Isaiah 11.   This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

For seven centuries, the promise of Immanuel (God with us) born to a virgin seemed forgotten. In part 2 of our special 12-part series, the silence breaks: not in a royal palace, but in the backwater town of Nazareth. The angel Gabriel announces that the wait is over to a young virgin, Mary, who will conceive by the Holy Spirit, ultimately fulfilling the prophecy of the coming Messiah. “How can this be?” Mary asks. Nothing is impossible for God.   The Rev. John Lukomski, pastor emeritus and co-host of Wrestling with the Basics on KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 1:26-39.  This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

When King Ahaz faced the terrifying prospect of war, his heart shook "as the trees of the forest shake before the wind." Desperate for security, he sought political alliances rather than divine promises. But God's answer to national crisis wasn't a military strategy; it was a child, born of a Virgin—Immanuel. In part 1 of a special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, listen in as the historical drama of the Syro-Ephraimitic War, Ahaz's false piety, and messianic promise collide.  The Rev. Greyson Grenz, associate pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church, Monroe, MI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, to study Isaiah 7:1-17.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit tlcmonroe.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

This special Advent edition of “Headlines” features three rounds of Advent and Christmas-themed news stories, with two fabricated by the host and one real headline. The guest's challenge is to identify the real story, which serves as a springboard for a deeper theological discussion. The conversation weaves together humor, insight, and reflections on Christ's incarnation and return.  The Rev. Matthew Kusch, pastor of King of Glory Lutheran Church in Elgin, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to be quizzed on and unpack holiday headlines.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

God confronts His people's unfaithfulness, "Will a man rob God?" He calls them to return, promising blessings. The book of Malachi closes with a final, stark warning of the "great and awesome day of the LORD," a day of judgment (fire) for the wicked and healing for the righteous. It ends with the prophecy of Elijah's return to turn the hearts of the fathers and children, a promise fulfilled in John the Baptist.  The Rev. Mitchell Gowen, pastor of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Aiea, HI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Malachi 3:6-4:6.  To learn more about Our Savior, visit oursaviorhawaii.com. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

The Lord's warning to the priests becomes severe as He condemns them for despising His name and offering defiled sacrifices. Their unfaithfulness has corrupted the covenant of Levi. Malachi then addresses the people's faithlessness and their casual approach to divorce. God is "wearied" by their sin, and He promises to send His messenger to purify His people with a refiner's fire.  The Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Malachi 2:1-3:5.  To learn more about Prince of Peace, visit princeofpeacebuffalo.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

The final book of the Old Testament opens with God's passionate declaration of His unique love for Israel ("Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated"). Yet this loved people, particularly the priests, have dishonored Him. They offer blind, lame, and sick animals, a "polluted" worship they would never offer their governor. God rejects their blemished offerings and makes a stunning prophecy: His name will be great among the nations.  The Rev. Peter Burfeind, pastor of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Union City, MI and Agnus Dei Lutheran Church in Marshall, MI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Malachi 1:1-14.  To learn more about Our Savior and Agnus Dei Lutheran Churches, visit facebook.com/oursaviorunioncity and agnusdeimarshall.com. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

The Gospel of Matthew concludes with a spectacular display of God's ultimate power and authority over death and the grave. Jesus, who was once dead, now lives, having raised himself from the grave. An angel scares away the guards and gives the women at the tomb great news as they look for Jesus' body: "He is not here, for he has risen." Jesus then meets His disciples on a mountain in Galilee and gives them the Great Commission: to make disciples of all nations, baptizing and teaching, promising "I am with you always, to the end of the age."   The Rev. Dr. Steven Mueller, Vice President and Chief Mission Officer, Professor of Theology, and Dean of Christ College at Concordia University, Irvine, CA, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 28:1-20.  The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Kings don't die like this. Kings die in palaces, surrounded by honor, not naked and nailed to a Roman cross between criminals. Kings wear golden crowns, not thorns. Yet in Matthew 27, the “King of the Jews” is stripped, spat upon, mocked, and crucified. As Jesus' spirit departed his body, the temple veil is torn in two, earthquakes shook the land, and a Roman centurion is compelled to proclaim, "Truly this was the Son of God!"   The Rev. Steven Theiss, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in New Wells, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 27:27-66.  The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

After Judas's remorseful and tragic suicide for the role he played in betraying the Messiah, Jesus is dragged before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor. Pilate finds no fault in Him, but he is trapped between his conscience and the crowd. In a moment of political expedience, Pilate offers them Barabbas, a notorious criminal, likely in hopes that he could spare Jesus. His plan backfires when the chief priests and elders persuade the crowd to demand Barabbas's release and Christ's crucifixion. Pilate attempts to indemnify himself by washing his hands of the innocent blood he will then order to be shed.  The Rev. Donald Stein, pastor of St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Rockton, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 27:1-26.  To learn more about St. Andrew Lutheran, visit standrewrockton.com. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Jesus is led to a sham, and likely illegal, trial before the high priest Caiaphas and the Sanhedrin, who seek false testimony to execute Him. He remains silent until He is put under oath and makes this divine claim: "you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power." Hope for those who believe, these words are “blasphemy” in the eyes of the Jewish leaders and for them this statement seals His fate. Meanwhile, in the courtyard, Peter, the rock, crumbles by denying three times He even knows the Lord, just as Jesus predicted.  The Rev. David Boisclair, senior pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 26:57-75.  To learn more about Our Redeemer, visit ourredeemerstl.org. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

On the Mount of Olives, Jesus foretells Peter's denial before entering the crushing agony of Gethsemane. He prays, "My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me," yet submits perfectly: "nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will." His disciples sleep as His anguish deepens. The scene is shattered by the arrival of Judas, who betrays the Son of Man with a kiss, leading to His arrest as the disciples scatter.  The Rev. George Murdaugh, pastor emeritus, assisting First Lutheran Church, Birmingham, AL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 26:31-56.  The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

As the Passover approaches, the plot to kill Jesus solidifies. A woman anoints Him with expensive ointment, an act the disciples see as waste, but Jesus commends as a proper preparation for his upcoming death and burial. This contrasts with Judas, who has agreed to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. At the Last Supper, Jesus institutes the Sacrament of the Altar which gives us His body and blood for the forgiveness of sins.  The Rev. Dr. Richard Davenport, pastor of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Fort Smith, AR, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 26:1-30.  To learn more about Our Redeemer, visit OurRedeemerFortSmith.360unite.com. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Jesus offers His final, apocalyptic teaching before His passion: the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats. The Son of Man sits on His glorious throne and separates all nations. The righteous "sheep" are welcomed into the kingdom because of their faith, illustrated by their unconscious acts of mercy. The cursed "goats" are sent to eternal fire for their failure to see and serve Christ in "the least of these." This passage reveals that while we're saved by faith alone, faith is never alone. It is made visible in our love for our neighbor.  The Rev. Matthew Kusch, pastor of King of Glory Lutheran Church in Elgin, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 25:31-46.  To learn more about King of Glory, visit kogelgin.org. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

The exact day and hour of the end is unknown to all but the Father. But what we do know, Jesus tells us: His return will be sudden, like the flood in Noah's day, and when it arrives time will have run out. Jesus then gives two parables: the Ten Virgins, where only those ready with oil are allowed into the feast, and the Talents, where servants are judged by their faithfulness in using the Master's gifts. The message for believers is clear: "Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour."  The Rev. John Zimmerman, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Scranton, PA and St. John's Lutheran Church in Pittston, PA, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 24:36-25:30.  To learn more about Immanuel and St. John's, visit immanuelscranton.org and facebook.com/StJohnsLutheranChurchPittstonPa. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

As Jesus leaves the temple, He prophesies its complete destruction, sparking the disciples' questions about the end of the age. Jesus responds with the Olivet Discourse, a dense prophecy of "birth pains": false messiahs, wars, famines, and the "abomination of desolation." He warns of intense persecution but promises that "the one who endures to the end will be saved" and that the Gospel will be preached to all nations before the end comes.  The Rev. Thomas Eckstein, pastor of Concordia Lutheran Church, Jamestown, ND, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 24:1-35.  To learn more about Concordia Lutheran, visit concordiajt.org. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Jesus unleashes a powerful and damning critique against the scribes and Pharisees. He warns the crowds not to follow their hypocrisy, their love of human glory and honor, and the heavy burdens they lay on others. He pronounces "Seven Woes," condemning them as "whitewashed tombs" and "blind guides" who "strain out a gnat and swallow a camel." The chapter ends with His heartbreaking lament over Jerusalem, the holy city that rejects His mercy.  The Rev. John Shank, senior pastor, Trinity Lutheran Church, Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 23:1-39.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit trinitylutheranministries.org. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

The confrontations continue as the Sadducees, who deny the resurrection, pose a ridiculous question about a woman with seven husbands. Jesus silences them, proving the resurrection from the books of Moses (the only Scripture they obey). A lawyer then tests Jesus, asking for the "greatest commandment." Jesus responds with the Shema and the command to "love your neighbor as yourself." Finally, Jesus turns the tables, asking the Pharisees how David's Son can also be David's Lord, which pressures them into considering His own divine identity. The Rev. William Cwirla, pastor emeritus and president emeritus of Higher Things, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 22:23-46.  The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Jesus tells another parable of judgment: the Parable of the Wedding Feast. Those first invited refuse to come and eventually even attack and murder the king's servants. The king destroys them and opens the feast to "both bad and good" from the streets. But, curiously, a man without a wedding garment is cast out. Why? Then, the Pharisees and Herodians try to trap Jesus with a question about taxes, leading to His brilliant reply: “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's."  The Rev. Robert Smith, pastor emeritus in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 22:1-22.  The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

The chief priests and elders challenge Jesus's authority in the temple. Jesus counters with a question about John's baptism that they cannot answer. He then tells two parables of judgment against them: the Parable of the Two Sons and the Parable of the Wicked Tenants. Jesus concludes this discourse with a stark warning to the Jewish leaders who saw themselves as powerful and invincible: the kingdom will be taken from them and given to a people producing the fruits of faith. The Rev. LeRoy LaPlant, pastor of the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd and headmaster of Concordia Classical Academy in North Mankato, MN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 21:23-46. To learn more about Good Shepherd, visit goodshepherdmankato.org. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Jesus enters Jerusalem as a humble king, riding on a donkey in fulfillment of Zechariah's prophecy, as crowds shout "Hosanna!" He immediately goes to the temple and cleanses it by force. He turns over the tables and cracks a whip while driving out the moneychangers and declaring, "My house shall be called a house of prayer, but you make it a den of robbers." The next day, He curses a barren fig tree, a living parable of the judgment to come upon a fruitless Israel that has rejected its King.  The Rev. Dr. Curtis Deterding, senior pastor of Zion Lutheran Church, Fort Myers, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 21:1-22.  To learn more about Zion Lutheran, visit zionfm.org. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

For the third time, Jesus explicitly tells His disciples He will be betrayed, condemned, mocked, flogged, and crucified, but raised on the third day. Immediately after he reminds his disciples of this, the mother of James and John asks for her sons to sit at His right and left in the kingdom. Jesus uses this "theology of glory" moment to teach the true "theology of the cross": greatness is not in being served, but in serving, for "the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."  The Rev. John Lukomski, pastor emeritus, and co-host of Wrestling with the Basics, KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 20:17-34.  The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Why do we resent grace? In the Parable of the Vineyard Workers, a landowner pays workers hired at the eleventh hour the same wage as those who toiled all day. Seeing this as an "injustice" reveals our own works-righteous hearts. But make no mistake: Jesus' parable is not about fair wages; it's about the radical, unmerited generosity of God. The Gospel is not a reward for our labor but a free gift, demonstrating Jesus' teaching: "the last will be first, and the first last."  The Rev. Brian Davies, pastor of Lord of Glory Lutheran Church, Grayslake, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 20:1-16.  To learn more about Lord of Glory, visit lordofglory.org. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

On this "Free-Text First Friday" episode of Thy Strong Word, Pastor Booe welcomes the Rev. Ricky Beckett, a Hospice Chaplain, for an honest and insightful discussion on "Autism and Faith." Chaplain Beckett shares his personal experience as an autistic pastor whose diagnosis came late in life, exploring the profound challenges of navigating neurotypical expectations and burnout, as well as the unique rewards, including a deep, incarnational empathy and a profound love for the structure of the Liturgy. Come here how God can even use “disorder” for his glory and to serve his people.  The Rev. Ricky Beckett, Hospice Chaplain at McLaren Health Management Group in Davison, MI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to discuss faith and the neurodivergent.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

What is the nature of saving faith? Jesus first holds up a child as the model, declaring that the kingdom belongs to those who come with humble, dependent trust. Then, a rich young ruler asks, "What must I do to inherit eternal life?" He believes he has kept all the commandments, but Jesus exposes his true idol, and the man walks away in sorrow. This leads to the "camel and the eye of a needle" analogy, a word of pure Law that crushes the disciples and makes them ask, "Who then can be saved?" The Rev. Doug Griebenaw, pastor and mission advocate at KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 19:13-30. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

“Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any cause?” This question from the Pharisees was a trap, designed to force Jesus into a divisive rabbinic debate in a politically dangerous territory. Jesus' powerful answer remains relevant in our own culture, which is rife with no-fault divorce and the legal redefinition of marriage itself. Jesus radically affirms marriage as a divine union of a man and a woman into "one flesh". He explains that human sin and "hardness of the heart" are the true causes for divorce.  The Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 19:1-12.  To learn more about Prince of Peace Lutheran, visit princeofpeacebuffalo.org. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

The Parable of the Lost Sheep reveals the Father's passionate heart to pursue even one straying believer. This love and grace motivate Jesus' command on how to "gain your brother" when sin divides. When Peter asks about the limits of this forgiveness, the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant provides a stark contrast: God's infinite debt-canceling grace, in light of Christ's atonement, versus the petty and calculating unforgiveness of man.  The Rev. Peter Burfeind, pastor of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Union City, MI and Agnus Dei Lutheran Church in Marshall, MI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 18:(11), 12-35.  To learn more about Our Savior and Agnus Dei, visit facebook.com/oursaviorunioncity and agnusdeimarshall.com. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

The disciples ask Jesus, "Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?" They were looking to hear about their own future power and status. Instead, Jesus shatters their expectations by placing a child in their midst and says that those who are great in God's Kingdom are those with a humble, child-like dependence and trust in Him. He then issues a terrifying warning: it would be better to be drowned with a millstone than to cause one of these "little ones" to stumble. This passage reveals that true status in the kingdom is found in humility, and God will fiercely judge those who harm His faithful.  The Rev. Warren Woerth, pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Arnold, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 18:1-20.  To learn more about Good Shepherd Lutheran, visit goodshepherdarnold.org. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

On the mountain, Peter, James, and John are given a glimpse of Jesus' unveiled divine glory. They see Him with Moses and Elijah, showing that the Law and the Prophets point to Christ. As the Father commands, "Listen to him," Jesus is revealed as the fulfillment and final Word. This glimpse of divinity is paired with His earthly authority as He heals a demon-possessed boy and provides the temple tax, demonstrating the Son of God is Lord over all things, spiritual and temporal.  The Rev. Brandon Metcalf, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Bethalto, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 17:1-27.  To learn more about Zion Lutheran, visit zionbethalto.org The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Peter makes the great confession: "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Jesus declares this truth is a divine revelation, and this confession is the rock upon which His Church is built. But when Peter rejects a suffering Messiah, Jesus' rebuke—"Get behind me, Satan!"—teaches that a theology of glory without the cross is a satanic temptation. The true Christ is the crucified Christ, and to follow Him is to take up one's own cross.  The Rev. Bryan Spang, pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in State College, PA, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 16:13-28.  To learn more about Good Shepherd Lutheran, visit goodshepherdsc.org. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Jesus shows His divine compassion again when he heals the multitudes and feeds four thousand. Despite these clear signs of Jesus being the Christ, the Pharisees demand another, revealing their hardened unbelief. Jesus promises no sign but the "sign of Jonah,” which is a prophecy of His death and resurrection. He warns His disciples against the "leaven" of the Pharisees: their false doctrine of works-righteousness that corrupts the pure Gospel.  The Rev. Dr. Matthew Tassey, pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Shawnee, OK, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 15:29-16:12.  To learn more about Redeemer Lutheran, visit redeemershawnee.org. The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Jesus confronts the Pharisees' traditions, showing they use them to disobey God's commands. He teaches that true defilement comes from sin within the heart, not from external things. Immediately after, a Canaanite woman, a Gentile with no claim to God's promises, abandons any merit of her own and clings solely to Christ's mercy. Her persistent faith perfectly illustrates the Gospel: salvation comes not to the worthy, but to those who cast themselves on the grace of Christ alone.  The Rev. Jacob Hercamp, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Noblesville, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 15:1-28.  To learn more about Christ Lutheran, visit clc-in.org The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

A stark contrast is drawn between two kings. Herod, a slave to his lust and fear, murders John the Baptist. The true King, Jesus, reveals His divine compassion and power. He provides for the lost sheep of Israel and the crowds that followed him in the feeding of the five thousand, a foretaste of the Heavenly Banquet to come. Jesus then demonstrates His absolute authority over creation by walking on the sea and rescuing Peter from his doubt. Jesus not only commands us to “fear not,” but provides us every reason to obey through his love and compassion.  The Rev. Derek Waffel, pastor of Ascension Lutheran Church in Huntsville, AL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 14:1-36.  To learn more about Ascension Lutheran, visit ascensionhsv.org The Gospel of Matthew bridges Old and New Testaments, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills the Law we could never keep and establishes His kingdom of grace for all nations. Written by a tax collector transformed by pure grace, Matthew reveals Christ as the true Son of David and Emmanuel (God with us) who challenges us with the crushing demands of the Law in His Sermon on the Mount to the sweet comfort of the Gospel in His death and resurrection. From royal genealogy to glorious resurrection, this verse-by-verse study proclaims the One who conquered sin, death, and the devil for us, now delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation through Word and Sacrament as He remains with His church always, even to the end of the age.  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. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.