Podcasts about holy scripture

He was born in Palestine to pagan parents who sent him to Alexandria to be educated. There he learned of the Christian faith and was baptized. Hearing of the fame of St Anthony the Great, he met the great "Father of monks," and determined to devote himself to the ascetical life. For the rest of his life he traveled from place to place, engaging in the most austere life of solitude, prayer and fasting. But wherever he went, his holiness shone like a beacon, and he became known to the people, who flocked to him for counsel, nurture and healing. He would then flee to another place and begin again. His travels took him to Egypt, Libya, Sicily, and finally Cyprus, where he reposed at a great age. As he lay on his deathbed, he cried out 'Go forth, O my soul. What do you fear? Go forth! Why are you disquieted within me? You have served Jesus Christ for almost seventy years and do you fear death?' Speaking these words, he died.   The Synaxarion gives an excruciatingly thorough description of his ascetical labors, which may be instructive:   "From his sixteenth to his twentieth year, Hilarion's shelter was a simple cabin made of bulrushes and marsh grasses. Afterwards, he built a little, low cell that looked more like a tomb than a house. He lay on the hard ground, and washed and cut his hair only once a year, on Easter day. He never washed the coat of skin that Saint Anthony gave him, and wore the same tunic until it fell to pieces. He knew all of Holy Scripture by heart and recited it aloud, standing with fear, as though God were visibly present. From his twenty-first to his twenty-seventh year, a few lentils soaked in cold water was, for three years, his daily food, and for the next three he took nothing but bread, sprinkled with salt. From his twenty-seventh to his thirtieth year, he lived on wild plants; from the age of thirty to thirty-five, on six ounces of barley bread and a few vegetables, cooked without oil. Then, falling ill and with failing eyesight, he added a little oil to his food but did not increase his allowance of bread, even though he saw his body grow weaker, and believed his death was near. At an age when others tend to decrease their austerities, he kept to this diet with redoubled fervor, like a young novice, until his death. He never ate until after sunset and relinquished his fast neither for the greatest feasts nor the gravest illnesses."

St. Paul informs the Philippians that the Lord has used Paul's imprisonment to advance the Gospel. Not only are elite Roman soldiers hearing of Christ, but other Christians are encouraged to speak of Christ even more boldly. Even when some proclaim the Gospel in an effort to harm Paul, the Apostle still rejoices that the Gospel is proclaimed. As he considers his imprisonment, his joy continues, for he knows that whether he lives or dies, he will be secure in Christ and God will be glorified.  Rev. Lucas Witt, executive director of the Lutheran Mission Society of Maryland, headquartered in Baltimore, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Philippians 1:12-26.  To learn more about the Lutheran Mission Society of Maryland, visit www.compassionplace.org. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle's letters from prison still fill us with the same joy that his chains could never silence. Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

When Jesus heals a demon-possessed man, the Pharisees accuse Him of working for Satan. This is a willful rejection of the Holy Spirit's testimony about the Son. Jesus warns that this unpardonable sin is the final, hardened refusal to see God's saving work in Christ. He then reveals that His true family is not defined by blood but is created by God through faith in Him.  The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 12:22-50.  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.

“Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle's letters from prison still fill us with the same joy that his chains could never silence. Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

Even though St. Paul writes from prison, his letter to the church in Philippi is full of joy. Philippi had been his first place of work in Macedonia on his second missionary journey, and although he had been thrown in prison there for a short time, his connection with the Philippians was strong in Christ. As he begins his letter to them, he tells them of his constant thanksgiving to God for them due to their partnership in the Gospel. The Philippians are partakers with Paul in grace, and he prays that they would abound in love until the day of Jesus Christ.  Rev. Luke Zimmerman, pastor at Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mechanicsburg, PA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Philippians 1:1-11.  To learn more about Calvary Evangelical, visit calvarymechanicsburg.org. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle's letters from prison still fill us with the same joy that his chains could never silence. Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

Who has the right to define God's Law? In this explosive confrontation, Jesus makes the ultimate claim: He is Lord of the Sabbath, possessing an authority greater than the Temple itself. This isn't an argument for breaking rules, but a revelation of who He is. He is the one to whom all Scripture points, the gentle Servant who fulfills the Law perfectly for us, delivering the mercy that the Pharisees' legalism could never provide.  The Rev. Dr. Keith Haney, Assistant to the President for Missions, Human Care, and Stewardship in the Iowa West District—LCMS, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 12:1-21.  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 Rite of Holy Matrimony in Lutheran Service Book begins with a pastoral address that lays out the goodness and purposes of God's gift of marriage. Scripture readings and music center the service as worship in the name of the Triune God, whose blessing the husband and wife seek. As the man and the woman make promises to each other, God is the One who joins them together. The congregation offers prayers for the particular couple and all husbands and wives in confidence that God hears and answers according to His promise.  Rev. Mark Squire, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in St. Ansgar, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study the Rite of Holy Matrimony from Lutheran Service Book.  To learn more about Immanuel Lutheran, visit immanuelsta.org “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God's Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroom, and His Church, the Bride.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

What happens when even the most certain faith is shaken by doubt? John the Baptizer, the forerunner of Christ who boldly proclaimed the coming of the Lamb of God, now sits in a cold prison cell. From the darkness of his dungeon, he sends his disciples to Jesus with a desperate, soul-searching question: "Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?" Is this John experiencing doubt? A crisis of faith? Or is this an object lesson for his own disciples? Opinions vary. In this episode, we dive into Jesus' compassionate and powerful response.  The Rev. Mark Duerr, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Monroe, MI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 11.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit www.tlcmonroe.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.

St. Paul lays out the way husbands and wives ought to live together in holy matrimony. A wife is to submit to her husband as the Church submits to Christ, and a husband is to love his wife as Christ loves the Church. Although the world today reacts negatively toward this text, Christians are right to cherish it as God's good gift. It is certainly good that the Church submits to Christ as He gives Himself for her; therefore, it is certainly good when husbands and wives model their lives after this pattern. The marriage between Christ and His Church is the true foundation, and human marriage provides a glimpse into that mystery.  Rev. Brian Flamme, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Roswell, NM, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ephesians 5:22-33.  To learn more about Immanuel Lutheran, visit immanuelroswell.org. “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God's Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroom, and His Church, the Bride.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

We all want peace with others, especially family. At Thanksgiving, we avoid certain topics. We bite our tongues during arguments. We compromise our witness, don't we? In this section, Jesus walks in and says something shocking: "I have not come to bring peace, but a sword." He doubles down, too, saying His Gospel will divide father and son, mother and daughter. What could possibly be so important, so vital to our survival, that it would demand loyalty even greater than the love we have for our own family? Jesus is drawing a line in the sand and forcing us to ask where our true allegiance lies.  The Rev. David Mumme, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Waterville, MN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 10:26-42.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit trinitywaterville.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.

Read OnlineWhen Jesus left, the scribes and Pharisees began to act with hostility toward him and to interrogate him about many things, for they were plotting to catch him at something he might say. Luke 11:53–54Over the past few days, we have been reading Saint Luke's version of Jesus' “Woe to you” rebukes of the scribes, Pharisees and the scholars of the law. Today's Gospel concludes these rebukes of love by pointing out that these religious leaders did not convert. Instead, they began plotting against Jesus so as to “catch him at something he might say.” This is what happens when people use God's holy law as a weapon to attack.Normally, we take inspiration from the Holy Scriptures in a positive way, meaning, by reflecting upon Jesus' words and actions and applying them to our lives. However, we can also learn from the evil others commit and allow their actions to inspire us to avoid their sin. In today's Gospel, we are invited to ponder the obsessive plotting of these religious leaders so as to consider whether we also are guilty of their sin.First, note that at the conclusion of Jesus' rebukes, these religious leaders “began to act with hostility” toward Jesus. Normally, when we act with hostility toward another, it is done with the mindframe that we are right and they have done something wrong. We justify our hostility by pointing to their perceived sin. However, it must be understood that every act of hostility on our part is a clear indication that we have started down the road of sin and are not justified in our obsession.Notice also that these religious leaders exercised their hostility toward Jesus by interrogating Him. In other words, in their anger, they kept asking Him questions so as to find some fault with Him. They tried to trick Him and trap Him with their speech using God's very Law handed down through Moses and the prophets. But they manipulated that Law so as to justify their hostility and, out of pride, to falsely accuse Jesus.Think about any times in your life in which you found yourself somewhat obsessed with what you judged to be the sin of another. Hostility in this case can even be passive, meaning you may present a kind disposition on the surface, but interiorly you are obsessively thinking about how you can condemn the person. Often when this happens, we can feel justified in that we convince ourselves that justice must be done and that we are the dispensers of that justice. But if God is in control of our lives, He will not call us to obsessive plotting in regard to another. Instead, when we are following the will of God, we will sense Him inspiring us to act with immediacy, calm, joy, kindness, honesty, and freedom from all anger and obsession. Reflect, today, upon any way that you have seen this misguided tendency within your own life. If you can identify a time when you struggled with hostility toward another, look at the fruit it bore. Was God glorified through your actions? Did this leave you at peace or agitated? Were you fully objective in your thinking? Be honest with these questions and you will begin to discover the road to freedom from such obsessive thinking. God wants you to be at peace. If there is injustice, trust that our Lord will sort it out. You, for your part, must continually work to forgive, act with charity, and direct your attention to the will of God as it is gently presented to you. My patient and kind Lord, You were falsely accused and condemned by many of the religious leaders of Your time because You spoke the pure truth with love, clarity and boldness. When I act with hostility and anger toward another, help me to turn from these sins so that I will never condemn, never judge and never manipulate Your divine Law for my own purposes. Fill me with Your peace and charity alone, dear Lord. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Duccio di Buoninsegna, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

As the Song concludes, Solomon brings us to the theological point. His love for his bride sets her as a seal, meaning that she is his. As Solomon notes how powerful love is, he uses the divine name for the only time in the Song, allowing us to see that God's love for us pursues us even to death and brings us out of the grave. As the others wonder and ask concerning this love, the Church is given a concern for the gift of chastity and marriage. As the Song extols God's gift of marriage throughout, so God has given us the opportunity to rejoice in the love that Christ has for His Church.  Rev. Andy Wright, pastor at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Topeka, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Song of Solomon 8:5-14.  To learn more about St. John's, visit stjohnlcmstopeka.org. “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God's Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroom, and His Church, the Bride.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

Jesus commissions his twelve disciples and sends them out with power to heal and proclaim the kingdom. But this isn't a feel-good pep talk. He equips them with authority, gives them clear instructions to travel light and depend on God's provision, and then tells them exactly what to expect: rejection, persecution, family betrayal, and trials. Yet he promises the Spirit will give them words to speak and he reminds them that servants aren't greater than their master.  The Rev. Timothy Koch, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church, Linn, KS, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 10:1-25.  To learn more about Zion Lutheran, visit zionlinn.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.

If you were edified by this recording, please share it with others, leave a review and a comment on ApplePodcasts, Spotify, or any podcasting platform to help others find the faithful preaching of Holy Scripture. ___________________Subscribe & Share:• Apple Podcasts: Christ For You• Spotify: Christ For You on Spotify• Website: ZionWG.org/podcastStay Connected:• Email: PastorRojas@ZionWG.org• Website: ZionWG.org

The bride seeks her husband in the garden, and there he praises her beauty. His delight in his wife's beauty is a blessed gift of God within the context of holy matrimony, a delight that God still gives to husbands and wives today. The garden imagery throughout this section recalls the Garden of Eden in the beginning and the heavenly garden of the book of Revelation, pointing us to the love that Christ has for the Church and the Church's joyful response of love to Him.  Rev. David Vandercook, pastor at Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church in Crawford, NE and Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church in Harrison, NE, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Song of Solomon 6:11-8:4.  “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God's Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroom, and His Church, the Bride.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

Jesus faces tough questions about His ministry, raises a young girl from the dead, and heals those who reach out to Him in desperate faith. But the passage culminates with something even more powerful: Jesus looking at the crowds with deep compassion and declaring that the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. We'll explore what it means to see people the way Jesus sees them, why He chose the metaphor of a harvest field, and how this ancient call to pray for laborers still echoes in our lives today.   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 Matthew 9:14-38.  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 bride's sloth in answering her husband's knock provides a picture of the Church when she ignores the Lord's Word. Our heavenly Bridegroom uses His Law for the sake of love in order to draw His bride back to Himself. When others question the goodness of the Bridegroom, the Church recalls with joy who her Lord is, leading others to seek Him as well. The husband's joy in his bride in Song of Solomon shows the Lord's great delight over His Church.  Rev. James Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottumwa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Song of Solomon 5:2-6:10.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit trinitylutheranottumwa.com. “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God's Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroom, and His Church, the Bride.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

In this episode, Matthew bears witness to the many ways Jesus reveals Himself as God. Jesus calms a storm that leaves even seasoned fishermen terrified. He confronts a legion of demons in Gentile territory and is then begged to leave by the frightened locals. Returning home, Jesus heals a paralyzed man in full view of skeptical religious leaders, demonstrating His authority to forgive sins. Finally, we hear how Jesus calls Matthew, a tax collector, into discipleship. Jesus shares a meal with Matthew and his friends—sinners in the eyes of the religious elite—provoking questions about who truly belongs at God's table and just who this Jesus is.  The Rev. David Hinz, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Sauk Rapids, MN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 8:23-9:13.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit trinitysr.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.

If you were edified by this recording, please share it with others, leave a review and a comment on ApplePodcasts, Spotify, or any podcasting platform to help others find the faithful preaching of Holy Scripture. ___________________Subscribe & Share:• Apple Podcasts: Christ For You• Spotify: Christ For You on Spotify• Website: ZionWG.org/podcastStay Connected:• Email: PastorRojas@ZionWG.org• Website: ZionWG.org

The bridegroom continues to extol the beauty of his bride, calling her to his home and longing for her kinship. His words are borne out of thankfulness for God's gift of the marital union, rejoicing in the delight that God gives to a husband and wife in holy matrimony. Her love requites his love, and the marriage is joyfully consummated.   Rev. Sean Daenzer, director of worship for The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and chaplain for the International Center in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Song of Solomon 4:8-5:1.  “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God's Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroom, and His Church, the Bride.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

Jesus descends from the mountain straight into a whirlwind of miracles: a leper made clean with a touch, a Roman centurion whose faith amazes even Christ, and demons fleeing at His word. Yet when eager followers promise to follow Him anywhere, Jesus warns them that foxes have holes and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head. Power and poverty, authority and homelessness collide as Matthew shows us the mysterious nature of the Messiah's mission.  The Rev. Robert Smith, pastor emeritus in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 8:1-22.  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.

If you were edified by this recording, please share it with others, leave a review and a comment on ApplePodcasts, Spotify, or any podcasting platform to help others find the faithful preaching of Holy Scripture. ___________________Subscribe & Share: • Apple Podcasts: Christ For You • Spotify: Christ For You on Spotify • Website: ZionWG.org/podcastStay Connected: • Email: PastorRojas@ZionWG.org • Website: ZionWG.org

The bride is longingly looking for her bridegroom in the night and suddenly finds him to her great delight, in a scene very reminiscent of Mary Magdalene searching for Jesus after His resurrection. The wedding procession begins and includes imagery reminiscent of the LORD's protection of His people as they journeyed through the wilderness to the Promised Land. As the bridegroom looks upon his bride, he praises her beauty, recognizing his wife as God's gift to him in marriage.  Rev. Andrew Belt, pastor at Christ Lutheran Church in Marshfield, WI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Song of Solomon 3:1-4:7.  To learn more about Christ Lutheran, visit christmarshfield.org. “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God's Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroom, and His Church, the Bride.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

Jesus warns against judging others while blind to our own sins. He teaches about the narrow gate that few will find and exposes false prophets who come as wolves in sheep's clothing. The Sermon concludes with two builders: one whose house on rock weathers the storm, another whose house on sand collapses completely. When Jesus finishes, the crowds are astonished because He teaches with authority, unlike their scribes.  The Rev. Ryan Kleimola, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Toledo, OH, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 7:1-29.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit trinitylutheran.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.

Although the bride sees herself as one flower among many, Solomon views his beloved as the only one for him. He protects her from the dangers that their love faces as he sets a feast for her. The union that exists between the bride and the bridegroom is one in which they belong to each other and share all that they have. Through their relationship, we see a picture of the way Christ makes His Church lovely and bestows upon her all that is His.  Rev. Matt Ulmer, pastor at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church--Friedheim, just outside Decatur, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Song of Solomon 2:1-17.  To learn more about Zion Lutheran, visit zionfriedheim.org. “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God's Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroom, and His Church, the Bride.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

Where's your treasure? Jesus exposes our divided hearts, warning that we cannot serve both God and money. Then He turns to our anxious minds, pointing to birds who don't sow yet are fed and lilies that outshine Solomon without spinning a thread. Seek first His kingdom, Jesus promises, and everything else falls into place.  The Hon. Rev. Scot Kerns, pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Easton, PA, joins guest-host Rev. Doug Griebenaw, Mission Advocate for KFUO Radio, to study Matthew 6:19-34.  To learn more about Faith Lutheran, visit faithlcms.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 Song of Solomon was likely written by King Solomon early in his reign. Despite the way his wives multiplied later in life, Solomon's song speaks of the joy of marriage between one man and one woman. As the bride and the bridegroom speak to one another, they await with joy their coming marriage and praise the excellent qualities of each other. Throughout the Song, the love between Solomon and his bride provides a picture of the love that exists between Christ and His Church.  Rev. David Boisclair, pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Song of Solomon 1:1-17.  To learn more about Our Redeemer Lutheran, visit ourredeemerstl.org. “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God's Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroom, and His Church, the Bride.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

Jesus exposes the religious theater of the Pharisees who turn prayer, fasting, and charity into performances staged for human applause rather than acts of love for God and neighbor. Here Christ teaches the perfect prayer, the Our Father, and shows us that genuine righteousness flows from the heart toward God, not from a desire for public recognition. Your Father who sees in secret knows the difference between faith and show.  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 6:1-18.  To learn more about Our Savior and Agnus Dei Lutheran, 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.

One of the Twelve Apostles, he was a Galilean by birth. His name means "twin." The twentieth chapter of St John's Gospel describes how, when he doubted the appearance of the Risen Lord, Christ appeared to him again, saying "Reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side; and be not faithless, but believing," at which Thomas cried out "My Lord and my God!" Through this one event the Holy Scriptures attest that Christ is risen bodily, not merely as a spirit, as some heresies claim; and that He is in fact God. After Pentecost, St Thomas proclaimed the Gospel in the East, and established the Christian faith as far as India, where the small remnant of the ancient Church still traces its foundation to him. According to some accounts he met a martyr's end; according to others, he reposed in peace. St John Chrysostom mentions that his tomb was in Edessa in Syria; his relics may have been translated there from India in the fourth century.

“God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God's Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroom, and His Church, the Bride.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

In considering God's gift of marriage, it's helpful to start at the beginning. Moses records God's institution of marriage in Genesis 2. Because it was not good for the man to be alone, God created the woman to be the helper he needed. Adam's joy at the gift of Eve is the same joy God gives to husbands and wives today as they take delight in each other, help each other, and receive the gift of children through their union. God's institution of marriage shows this holy estate to be anything but a burden— it is a precious gift.  Rev. Nate Hill, pastor at St. Michael's Lutheran Church in Winchester, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 2:18-25.  To learn more about St. Michael's Lutheran, visit stmichaelswinchester.org. “God's Gift of Marriage” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies the Song of Solomon and other key texts from the Bible concerning marriage. Although the world is terribly confused concerning what marriage is, God's Word reveals how good a gift marriage truly is and points us to the relationship between Christ, the Bridegroom, and His Church, the Bride.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

You haven't murdered anyone? Jesus says your anger makes you guilty. Never committed adultery? Your lustful look already has. Six times Christ declares, "You have heard it said... but I say to you," crushing us with impossible standards that culminate in the command to be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect.  The Rev. Dr. Matthew Richard, pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Minot, ND, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 5:21-48.  To learn more about St. Paul's Lutheran, visit anchoredminot.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.

If you were edified by this recording, please share it with others, leave a review and a comment on ApplePodcasts, Spotify, or any podcasting platform to help others find the faithful preaching of Holy Scripture. ___________________Subscribe & Share: • Apple Podcasts: Christ For You • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0q7o8mzLFcEBBVnrYBKYWx?si=UjpbczgJTtWPMG-_MgTSnQ • Website: https://www.zionwg.org/podcastStay Connected: • Email: PastorRojas@ZionWG.org • Website: ZionWG.org

The coming destruction of Nineveh is full of woe for Assyria as a consequence of their idolatry and sin. The LORD is against them and will leave them with nothing but shame because they have rejected Him as their comforter. As the Egyptian city of Thebes was once powerless before Assyria, so Nineveh will now be powerless before the LORD, as will anyone who rejects the gift of faith in Christ. Though the kings of Assyria could not keep the people of Nineveh safe, the LORD as the Good Shepherd will gather His people into His holy Church.  Rev. Jeremy Swem, pastor at Our Savior Lutheran Church and School in Grand Rapids, MI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Nahum 3:1-19.  To learn more about Our Savior, visit oursavior-gr.org. “Majoring in the Minors” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Hosea, Joel, Jonah, Micah, and Nahum. Although the books of these prophets are shorter, the Word of God they preached was important in the years leading up to the coming of the Christ, and that Word remains important for the Church today. Just as we still need to listen to their call to repentance over our idolatry, so we still need to heed their call to trust in the Savior, Jesus.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

Modern funerals increasingly look like Pinterest boards and social media tributes rather than Christian worship. How should believers think about death when it comes knocking? We'll explore why Christians need to write down their funeral wishes, what Scripture teaches about the intermediate state between death and resurrection, and why burial versus cremation matters theologically. Death remains our enemy, but it's a defeated enemy. Christians mourn, but not without hope. From building relationships with funeral directors to understanding what happens the moment after we die, this conversation tackles the questions we often avoid until it's too late.  The Rev. Philip Hoppe, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Colby, KS, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to discuss the Christian view of death.  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.

Episode 150: 27th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Year C In today's episode, our main focus will be on the second reading for this upcoming 27th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Year C, taken from 2 Timothy 1:6-8, 13-14. There are couple of details that we will focus one. One relates to the topic of Apostolic Succession. The other relates to Sacred Tradition. The Gospel reading, taken from Luke 17:5-10, does provide us a detail worthy reflecting on, but it is not apologetical in nature even though it can help us in our apologetics ministry. Hey everyone, Welcome to The Sunday Catholic Word, a podcast where we reflect on the upcoming Sunday Mass readings and pick out the details that are relevant for explaining and defending our Catholic faith. I'm Dr. Karlo Broussard, staff apologist and speaker for Catholic Answers, and the host for this podcast. In today's episode, our main focus will be on the second reading for this upcoming 27th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Year C, taken from 2 Timothy 1:6-8, 13-14. There are couple of details that we will focus one. One relates to the topic of Apostolic Succession. The other relates to Sacred Tradition. The Gospel reading, taken from Luke 17:5-10, does provide us a detail worthy reflecting on, but it is not apologetical in nature even though it can help us in our apologetics ministry. Here’s the second reading, 2 Timothy 1:6-8, 13-14. Paul writes, Beloved: I remind you, to stir into flame the gift of God that you have through the imposition of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control. So do not be ashamed of your testimony to our Lord, nor of me, a prisoner for his sake; but bear your share of hardship for the gospel with the strength that comes from God. Take as your norm the sound words that you heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Guard this rich trust with the help of the Holy Spirit that dwells within us. The first detail that I want to highlight is Paul's statement, “the gift of God that you have through the imposition of my hands.” There's a considerable amount of debate surrounding this passage as it relates to Apostolic Succession. And that's what I'd like to focus on. For some Catholics, this passage is clear-cut evidence for Apostolic Succession—the idea that the apostles ordained others to succeed them in the apostolic ministry. Paul speaks of a “gift” given to Timothy, which would seem to be a reference to the indelible mark that's given in priestly ordination. Paul also says that this gift was given through “the imposition of hands,” which would also fit with the Catholic understanding of priestly ordination. So what should we make of this interpretation? Well, let's first take the appeal to the “gift.” I don't think this refers specifically to the character or mark that's given in priestly ordination. The reason is that such a character, in the words of R. J. Foster in A Catholic Commentary on Holy Scripture, “would have no need of being revived and is incapable of diminution or decline” (pg. 1148). Rather, it seems to be a reference to what theologians call “the grace of a calling,” actual graces that a minister has access to for the sake of fulfilling the duties that the office requires. Foster argues this is evidenced by Paul adding, “For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control.” Now, this doesn't mean this is not a reference to priestly ordination, since “the grace of a calling” comes with the priestly ordination. And that it is a reference to Timothy's priestly ordination is strongly supported by this “gift” being given through the “imposition of hands.” We have to be careful, however, with our appeal to the imposition of hands. The “laying on of hands” has multiple meanings in the Bible. Curtis Mitch and Scott Hahn give a nice list in their Ignatius Catholic Study Bible: It's a gesture used to perform healings (Mark 16:18), confer bles

Nahum vividly describes the coming destruction of Nineveh at the hands of the Babylonian army. No matter what preparations the Assyrians attempt to make, the LORD will lead the Babylonian army in bringing His destruction. Nineveh will be plundered and left desolate as the LORD carries out His judgment against the unrepentant city.  Rev. Phillip Fischaber, pastor at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Walnut, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Nahum 2:1-13.  To learn more about Holy Trinity, visit htlcwalnut.org. “Majoring in the Minors” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Hosea, Joel, Jonah, Micah, and Nahum. Although the books of these prophets are shorter, the Word of God they preached was important in the years leading up to the coming of the Christ, and that Word remains important for the Church today. Just as we still need to listen to their call to repentance over our idolatry, so we still need to heed their call to trust in the Savior, Jesus.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

Jesus sits on a mountainside and turns the world upside down: the poor are blessed, the meek inherit the earth, and persecution becomes cause for rejoicing. Christ calls His followers salt and light, then makes a shocking claim: He hasn't come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it, and unless our righteousness exceeds that of the Pharisees, we'll never see the kingdom.  The Rev. Lance O'Donnell, pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Oconomowoc, WI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 5:1-20.  To learn more about St. Paul's, visit splco.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.

Friends of the Rosary,Today, October 2, the Church celebrates the Memorial of the Holy Guardian Angels.Today's feast appeared in Spain during the sixteenth century as an invitation to pray to our guardian angels, and it was extended to the universal Church one century later.It's a truth of our faith that the moment of conception, when the soul is infused, a personal guardian angel is assigned to each person, with the mission of watching over him and helping to attain salvation.This protection continues throughout our earthly life. The guardian angel accompanies our soul to purgatory or heaven, and becomes our coheir in the heavenly kingdom.Guardian angels are servants and messengers from God — "Angel" in Greek means messenger.These spirits guide us to heaven only if we desire it. Because, as St. Thomas Aquinas wrote, angels cannot act directly upon our will or intellect.They protect us from physical danger in unseen ways, assist us in our work and studies, and help us resist temptation.From the Gospel of today's liturgy, we read: "See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father" (Matthew 18:10).We are invited to cherish a reverence for our guardian angel, not doubting his presence because we do not see him.These spirits — a kind of trustworthy, intelligent, and strong bodyguards — are sent by the Father to be our protectors and our guides. We follow and remain close to them, to dwell in the protection of the Most High.As St. Bernard of Clairvaux wrote, “Call out to him and say: Lord, save us, we are perishing.”And, by the way, the Mother Church discourages the practice of assigning names to the Holy Angels, except in the cases of Gabriel, Raphael, and Michael, whose names are contained in Holy Scripture.The prayer to the guardian angels has been present in the Church since at least the beginning of the 12th century:Angel of God,my Guardian dear,to whom His lovecommits me here,ever this daybe at my side,to light and guard,to rule and guide.Amen.Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• ⁠October 2, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

If you were edified by this recording, please share it with others, leave a review and a comment on ApplePodcasts, Spotify, or any podcasting platform to help others find the faithful preaching of Holy Scripture. ___________________Subscribe & Share: • Apple Podcasts: Christ For You • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0q7o8mzLFcEBBVnrYBKYWx?si=UjpbczgJTtWPMG-_MgTSnQ • Website: https://www.zionwg.org/podcastStay Connected: • Email: PastorRojas@ZionWG.org • Website: ZionWG.org

If you were edified by this recording, please share it with others, leave a review and a comment on ApplePodcasts, Spotify, or any podcasting platform to help others find the faithful preaching of Holy Scripture. ___________________Subscribe & Share: • Apple Podcasts: Christ For You • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0q7o8mzLFcEBBVnrYBKYWx?si=UjpbczgJTtWPMG-_MgTSnQ • Website: https://www.zionwg.org/podcastStay Connected: • Email: PastorRojas@ZionWG.org • Website: ZionWG.org

Although little is known about Nahum himself, the meaning of his name, “comfort,” describes well what is found in his preaching. The people of God had been regularly oppressed by the nation of Assyria and its capital city, Nineveh. Therefore, the LORD comforts His people by speaking about the destruction of Nineveh. To those who are the LORD's enemies, He comes with vengeance and wrath. He promises that Nineveh will not be able to withstand Him. While there is no comfort for all who stand against the LORD, those who take refuge in Him have Him as their stronghold and rejoice in the good news that He sends to them.  Rev. Ned Moerbe, pastor at Memorial Lutheran Church and School in Houston, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Nahum 1:1-15.  To learn more about Memorial Lutheran, visit mlchouston.org “Majoring in the Minors” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Hosea, Joel, Jonah, Micah, and Nahum. Although the books of these prophets are shorter, the Word of God they preached was important in the years leading up to the coming of the Christ, and that Word remains important for the Church today. Just as we still need to listen to their call to repentance over our idolatry, so we still need to heed their call to trust in the Savior, Jesus.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

After forty days of fasting in the wilderness, Jesus faces three temptations from Satan and responds with Scripture alone. Following John's arrest, Jesus moves to Capernaum in Galilee to begin His public ministry, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy about light dawning in darkness. He calls four fishermen to follow Him and begins teaching in synagogues, preaching the kingdom, and healing throughout the region. Matthew 4 shows Christ succeeding where Israel failed and launching the mission that would transform the world.  The Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 4.  To learn more about Prince of Peace, 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.

If you were edified by this recording, please share it with others, leave a review and a comment on ApplePodcasts, Spotify, or any podcasting platform to help others find the faithful preaching of Holy Scripture. ___________________Subscribe & Share: • Apple Podcasts: Christ For You • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0q7o8mzLFcEBBVnrYBKYWx?si=UjpbczgJTtWPMG-_MgTSnQ • Website: https://www.zionwg.org/podcastStay Connected: • Email: PastorRojas@ZionWG.org • Website: ZionWG.org

If you were edified by this recording, please share it with others, leave a review and a comment on ApplePodcasts, Spotify, or any podcasting platform to help others find the faithful preaching of Holy Scripture. ___________________Subscribe & Share: • Apple Podcasts: Christ For You • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0q7o8mzLFcEBBVnrYBKYWx?si=UjpbczgJTtWPMG-_MgTSnQ • Website: https://www.zionwg.org/podcastStay Connected: • Email: PastorRojas@ZionWG.org • Website: ZionWG.org

If you were edified by this recording, please share it with others, leave a review and a comment on ApplePodcasts, Spotify, or any podcasting platform to help others find the faithful preaching of Holy Scripture. ___________________Subscribe & Share: • Apple Podcasts: Christ For You • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0q7o8mzLFcEBBVnrYBKYWx?si=UjpbczgJTtWPMG-_MgTSnQ • Website: https://www.zionwg.org/podcastStay Connected: • Email: PastorRojas@ZionWG.org • Website: ZionWG.org

Micah's concluding sermon is a play on his name. Who is like God? Only the LORD passes over the sins of His people, for He is the God of steadfast love. His compassion comes anew so that our sins are cast into the depths of the ocean, and they will never be fished out. He remembers His promise made to our fathers in the faith, and He has kept that promise in the Lord Jesus Christ.  Rev. Jacob Heine, pastor at Faith Lutheran Church in Topeka, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Micah 7:18-20.  To learn more about Faith Lutheran, visit faithlutherantopeka.com. “Majoring in the Minors” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Hosea, Joel, Jonah, Micah, and Nahum. Although the books of these prophets are shorter, the Word of God they preached was important in the years leading up to the coming of the Christ, and that Word remains important for the Church today. Just as we still need to listen to their call to repentance over our idolatry, so we still need to heed their call to trust in the Savior, Jesus.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

A thunderous voice cries out from the Judean wilderness, calling an entire nation to turn back to God. John the Baptizer, the last of the rugged Old Testament prophets, confronts the corrupt religious leaders and urges repentance. Jesus appears and, despite being our sinless Savior, wades into a pool of our sins and submits to John's baptism to fulfill all righteousness. Join us as we witness the incredible moment when the heavens open and the Holy Trinity is revealed at the Jordan River.  The Rev. Matthew Kusch, pastor of King of Glory Lutheran Church in Elgin, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Matthew 3.  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.

Along with the faithful remnant, Micah confesses that no one is righteous. Even the closest family relationships are torn by sin. Yet Micah and the faithful people of God look to the LORD for their salvation, knowing that He will vindicate them in the end. As they call upon the LORD to be their Shepherd, the LORD answers and promises that He will bring His salvation as He once did in the land of Egypt.  Rev. Tim Storck, pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Chesterfield, MI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Micah 7:1-17.  To learn more about Good Shepherd Lutheran, visit facebook.com/GoodShepChesterfield. “Majoring in the Minors” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Hosea, Joel, Jonah, Micah, and Nahum. Although the books of these prophets are shorter, the Word of God they preached was important in the years leading up to the coming of the Christ, and that Word remains important for the Church today. Just as we still need to listen to their call to repentance over our idolatry, so we still need to heed their call to trust in the Savior, Jesus.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org