Podcast appearances and mentions of john lutheran church

With the temple rebuilding stalled and God's people discouraged, the prophet Zechariah receives a series of stunning night visions. Who are the angelic horsemen patrolling a world that is dangerously "at ease"? And what are the four powerful horns and four mysterious craftsmen that signal a clash of cosmic powers? Professor Reed Lessing joins us as we explore God's passionate call to return, His promise of comfort for Jerusalem, and His pledge to bring judgment on all who oppose His people.  The Rev. Dr. Reed Lessing, professor and chair of Old Testament Studies, director of the Pre-Seminary Program, and the director of the Center for Biblical Studies at Concordia University in St. Paul, MN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Zechariah 1.  To learn more about Concordia University, St. Paul, visit csp.edu. The Persian king Cyrus issues an astonishing decree: the exiles may go home. Among them are the Jews—God's chosen people—whom this pagan ruler not only repatriates, but commands to rebuild the temple of the Lord. Ezra 1–4 tells of their return, the joy of restored worship, and the crushing opposition that brings construction to a standstill. Then the prophets Haggai and Zechariah speak with God's authority, calling His people to courage, repentance, and hope. In Ezra 5–8 the temple is completed, worship flourishes, and hearts are renewed in God's Word. This series on Thy Strong Word follows the events in the order they happened, revealing how the Lord moves kings and prophets, overcomes opposition, and restores His people. 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.

You finally commit to that project you've been putting off for years. You dive in with enthusiasm, start making real progress, and then reality hits. It's smaller than you dreamed, less impressive than you imagined, especially when compared to what others have accomplished. That's exactly where we find God's people three weeks into rebuilding the temple. The older folks who remembered Solomon's magnificent temple were saying, 'This is nothing compared to what we had before.' The workers were getting discouraged. And that's when God shows up with His promise: 'The latter glory of this house shall be greater than the former” not because of outward appearances, but because God dwells within and will bless his people.  The Rev. David Boisclair, senior pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Haggai 2.  To learn more about Our Redeemer, visit ourredeemerstl.org. The Persian king Cyrus issues an astonishing decree: the exiles may go home. Among them are the Jews—God's chosen people—whom this pagan ruler not only repatriates, but commands to rebuild the temple of the Lord. Ezra 1–4 tells of their return, the joy of restored worship, and the crushing opposition that brings construction to a standstill. Then the prophets Haggai and Zechariah speak with God's authority, calling His people to courage, repentance, and hope. In Ezra 5–8 the temple is completed, worship flourishes, and hearts are renewed in God's Word. This series on Thy Strong Word follows the events in the order they happened, revealing how the Lord moves kings and prophets, overcomes opposition, and restores His people. 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.

We left off in Ezra chapter 4, where the returned exiles had started rebuilding the temple with great enthusiasm, but then hit a wall of opposition from their enemies. The work stopped. The people got discouraged, scattered to focus on their own lives, and for 16 long years, the temple lay in ruins while they built beautiful homes for themselves. In this chapter, God breaks his silence through Haggai and calls the people to repent of their misplaced priorities.  The Rev. Ryan Kleimola, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Toledo, OH, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Haggai 1.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit trinitylutheran.org. The Persian king Cyrus issues an astonishing decree: the exiles may go home. Among them are the Jews—God's chosen people—whom this pagan ruler not only repatriates, but commands to rebuild the temple of the Lord. Ezra 1–4 tells of their return, the joy of restored worship, and the crushing opposition that brings construction to a standstill. Then the prophets Haggai and Zechariah speak with God's authority, calling His people to courage, repentance, and hope. In Ezra 5–8 the temple is completed, worship flourishes, and hearts are renewed in God's Word. This series on Thy Strong Word follows the events in the order they happened, revealing how the Lord moves kings and prophets, overcomes opposition, and restores His people. 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 people of God in Ezra's time experienced opposition strikingly similar to what many Christians face today. Societies and governments have changed, but the tactics haven't. Ezra 4 reveals three familiar strategies: syncretistic offers of "unity" that require compromising the Gospel, bureaucratic warfare that weaponizes legal systems against believers, and the use of government power to forcibly shut down God's work. When the Jews reject their neighbors' insincere help to rebuild the Temple, these adversaries shift from being conciliatory to spreading misinformation and bribing officials to stop the work entirely. Ezra even points forward to examples of God's opponents securing royal decrees to stop the reconstruction of Jerusalem itself as examples of the opposition God's people face in this world.  The Rev. Dr. Curtis Deterding, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Fort Myers, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Ezra 4.  To learn more about Zion Lutheran, visit zionfmdev.wpcomstaging.com. The Persian king Cyrus issues an astonishing decree: the exiles may go home. Among them are the Jews—God's chosen people—whom this pagan ruler not only repatriates, but commands to rebuild the temple of the Lord. Ezra 1–4 tells of their return, the joy of restored worship, and the crushing opposition that brings construction to a standstill. Then the prophets Haggai and Zechariah speak with God's authority, calling His people to courage, repentance, and hope. In Ezra 5–8 the temple is completed, worship flourishes, and hearts are renewed in God's Word. This series on Thy Strong Word follows the events in the order they happened, revealing how the Lord moves kings and prophets, overcomes opposition, and restores His people. 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.

Have you ever cried in worship? Maybe it was a familiar hymn that carried you through a dark valley, memories of loved ones who once sat beside you, or seeing your children receive the faith you once received or lamenting that they've strayed from it. Ezra 3 reveals a moment when an entire congregation experienced both sorrowful tears and shouts of joy so intermingled that no one could distinguish between them. The people are returning from exile, the work of rebuilding the Temple has begun, and foundations are being laid—not just of stone and cedar, but of a renewed life with God.  The Rev. John Lukomski, co-host of Wrestling with the Basics on KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Ezra 3. Find Wrestling with the Basics at kfuo.org/wrestlingwiththebasics.  The Persian king Cyrus issues an astonishing decree: the exiles may go home. Among them are the Jews—God's chosen people—whom this pagan ruler not only repatriates, but commands to rebuild the temple of the Lord. Ezra 1–4 tells of their return, the joy of restored worship, and the crushing opposition that brings construction to a standstill. Then the prophets Haggai and Zechariah speak with God's authority, calling His people to courage, repentance, and hope. In Ezra 5–8 the temple is completed, worship flourishes, and hearts are renewed in God's Word. This series on Thy Strong Word follows the events in the order they happened, revealing how the Lord moves kings and prophets, overcomes opposition, and restores His people. 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 Persian king Cyrus issues an astonishing decree: the exiles may go home. Among them are the Jews—God's chosen people—whom this pagan ruler not only repatriates, but commands to rebuild the temple of the Lord. Ezra 1–4 tells of their return, the joy of restored worship, and the crushing opposition that brings construction to a standstill. Then the prophets Haggai and Zechariah speak with God's authority, calling His people to courage, repentance, and hope. In Ezra 5–8 the temple is completed, worship flourishes, and hearts are renewed in God's Word. This series on Thy Strong Word follows the events in the order they happened, revealing how the Lord moves kings and prophets, overcomes opposition, and restores His people.  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. Thy Strong Word is graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Through the mission gifts of people like you, LHF translates, publishes, distributes and introduces books that are Bible-based, Christ-centered and Reformation-driven. Learn more at lhfmissions.org.

The Executive Director of Lutheran Family Service expands upon the Gospel-driven mercy work LFS carries out across several LCMS districts, from adoption, pregnancy counseling, mental health services, life advocacy in the public square, and crisis response for churches and schools. Also addressed is the recent confusion surrounding similarly named organizations targeted by the government and affirmed LFS's commitment to serving the Church without government funding.  The Rev. Max Phillips, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Bouton and Zion Lutheran Church in Ogden, IA, Executive Director of Lutheran Family Service, and CEO of Perry Lutheran Homes, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe for a special Free Text First Friday episode.  To learn more about Lutheran Family Service, visit lutheranfamilyservice.org. 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 came first, the law or the promise? Paul explains that the covenant with Abraham was not replaced by the law, but fulfilled in Christ. The law had a role to play, but now that faith has come, believers are no longer under a guardian. All who are baptized into Christ are clothed with Him and belong to the one family of faith.  The Rev. Neil Wehmas, pastor of St. Paul in Ida Grove, IA, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Galatians 3:15–29.  To learn more about St. Paul, visit www.stpaulig.org. There's urgency in Paul's voice. No warm greetings. No slow build. Just a sharp rebuke: “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you.” The stakes are that high.   Galatians is Paul's bold stand for the pure Gospel message: Christ crucified and risen, apart from works of the law. When freedom in Christ is threatened by legalism or confused with license, Paul doesn't hold back. He calls the Church back to the cross, to the promise, and to the Spirit. In this series on Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through one of the most foundational and explosive letters in the New Testament. The message is clear: You are justified by faith, not by what you do.   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.

Paul is astonished. The Galatians began with the Spirit, but now they are turning to the law to finish what only God can complete. By pointing to Abraham, Paul reminds them that righteousness has always come through faith. Those who rely on works are under a curse, but Christ became that curse for us so that we might receive the blessing.  The Rev. Mitchell Gowen, pastor of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Aiea, HI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Galatians 3:1–14.  To learn more about Our Savior Lutheran, visit oursaviorhawaii.com. There's urgency in Paul's voice. No warm greetings. No slow build. Just a sharp rebuke: “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you.” The stakes are that high.   Galatians is Paul's bold stand for the pure Gospel message: Christ crucified and risen, apart from works of the law. When freedom in Christ is threatened by legalism or confused with license, Paul doesn't hold back. He calls the Church back to the cross, to the promise, and to the Spirit. In this series on Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through one of the most foundational and explosive letters in the New Testament. The message is clear: You are justified by faith, not by what you do.   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.

Paul recounts a crucial moment in the history of the early Church, including a direct confrontation with Peter. The heart of the Gospel is laid bare: we are justified by faith in Christ, not by works of the law. Paul makes it clear that anything added to the cross of Christ is not the Gospel at all.  The Rev. Nathan Scheck, associate pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Seward, NE, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Galatians 2:1–21. To learn more about St. John Lutheran, visit stjohnseward.org. There's urgency in Paul's voice. No warm greetings. No slow build. Just a sharp rebuke: “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you.” The stakes are that high.   Galatians is Paul's bold stand for the pure Gospel message: Christ crucified and risen, apart from works of the law. When freedom in Christ is threatened by legalism or confused with license, Paul doesn't hold back. He calls the Church back to the cross, to the promise, and to the Spirit. In this series on Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through one of the most foundational and explosive letters in the New Testament. The message is clear: You are justified by faith, not by what you do.   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.

From the very first verses, Paul confronts the Galatians for turning to a different gospel, one that is no gospel at all. This chapter is more than a rebuke. It is also Paul's testimony about how the Gospel came to him directly from Christ and changed everything. He speaks with urgency because the truth of salvation is at stake.  The Rev. Dr. Alfonso Espinosa, pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Irvine, CA, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Galatians 1:1–24.  To learn more about St. Paul's, visit saintpaulsirvine.org There's urgency in Paul's voice. No warm greetings. No slow build. Just a sharp rebuke: “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you.” The stakes are that high.   Galatians is Paul's bold stand for the pure Gospel message: Christ crucified and risen, apart from works of the law. When freedom in Christ is threatened by legalism or confused with license, Paul doesn't hold back. He calls the Church back to the cross, to the promise, and to the Spirit. In this series on Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through one of the most foundational and explosive letters in the New Testament. The message is clear: You are justified by faith, not by what you do.   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.

There's urgency in Paul's voice. No warm greetings. No slow build. Just a sharp rebuke: “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you.” The stakes are that high. Galatians is Paul's bold stand for the pure Gospel message: Christ crucified and risen, apart from works of the law. When freedom in Christ is threatened by legalism or confused with license, Paul doesn't hold back. He calls the Church back to the cross, to the promise, and to the Spirit. In this series on Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through one of the most foundational and explosive letters in the New Testament. The message is clear: You are justified by faith, not by what you do. 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 final chapter brings a clear and serious call from St. Paul: take a hard look at your faith. Not to stir up fear or doubt, but to encourage repentance and renewal. The warnings are real, but they come from an apostolic and pastoral heart that cares deeply and wants to build up, not tear down. Thus, Paul's letter ends not with rebuke, but with blessing—offering one of the most beautiful benedictions in all of Scripture: the grace of Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.  The Rev. Steven Theiss, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in New Wells, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 13.  What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within? On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you. 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.

An extraordinary vision of paradise sets the stage, but the focus quickly shifts to a thorn in the flesh—a painful, humbling reminder of total dependence on God. Despite pleading for relief, God does not answer as Paul expects. Instead of removing the “thorn” (whatever it may have been) God reveals, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” True strength is not found in ecstatic experiences or spiritual highs, but in trusting the sufficiency of Christ amidst weakness.  The Rev. Matthew Lorfeld, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 12.  To learn more about St. John Lutheran, visit stjohnkellner.org. What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within? On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you. 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.

Paul engages in what he calls “foolish boasting,” but his point is anything but foolish. Instead of bragging about power or success, he lists his hardships, beatings, and close calls with death. These things are the source of mockery by some, but the Apostle boasts about his weaknesses. His suffering is not a sign of failure, but evidence of his devotion to Christ. In a world obsessed with strength, Paul teaches that it is in weakness that God's power is most clearly seen.  The Rev. Dr. John Hellwege, Jr., pastor of Salem Lutheran Church in Farrar, MO, and Zion Lutheran Church in Crosstown, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 11:16-33.  To learn more about Salem and Zion Lutheran, visit salemlutheran8.wixsite.com/SalemandZion. What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within? On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you. 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.

Paul continues his defense, not to protect his reputation, but to guard the Corinthians and the purity of the Gospel. With sharp irony and deep pastoral concern, he exposes the deceit of false apostles who disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. His so-called "foolish" boasting is really a faithful plea to keep the church from being led astray. This is a spiritual battle for the heart of the bride of Christ.  The Rev. Sean Willman, pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Hillsdale, MI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 11:1-15.  To learn more about St. Paul's Lutheran, visit www.stpauls-hillsdale.org. What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within? On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you. 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 tone of the Apostle's letter shifts in chapter 10. After a great deal of warm encouragement and generous appeal, Paul turns to confront the critics who have been undermining his authority and distorting his message. He writes with the sharp edge of apostolic boldness but remains anchored in the meekness and gentleness of Christ. This isn't a personal vendetta for Paul, it's a pastoral defense of the Gospel itself. As we enter the final section of this letter, Paul draws a clear line between human boasting and divine authority, between self-promotion and Spirit-formed obedience.  The Rev. Jim Daub, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Havelock, NC, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 10.  To learn more about St. Paul Lutheran, visit stpaulhavelock.com. What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within? On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you. 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's heartfelt appeal for generosity to support the saints in Jerusalem is far from a high-pressure fundraising pitch. Instead, the Apostle paints a vivid picture of gospel-driven generosity, emphasizing joy, freedom, and abundance rooted in God's overflowing grace. In this episode, discover how cheerful giving is intertwined with confidence in the gospel, as Paul encourages believers to give not out of obligation, but as an opportunity to express love toward their neighbor and faith and trust toward God.  The Rev. David Boisclair, senior pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 9.  To learn more about Our Reedeemer, visit ourredeemerstl.org. What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within? On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you. 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.

David reflects upon his own sinfulness and the LORD's grace. He considers how the LORD shapes the lives of His people whom He has made His own by grace and faithfulness. Those who belong to the LORD walk according to the Word He has given, which influences the words of their mouths and the deeds of their hands. Those who belong to the LORD love those who share the true faith but ignore those whose way is wicked. The one who lives thus in the LORD is immovable, for he is founded upon Jesus, the One who has done these things perfectly.   Rev. Sam Beltz, pastor at St. John Lutheran Church in Oskaloosa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 15.  To learn more about St. John Lutheran, visit www.stjohnosky.org. Join Sharper Iron this summer to study selected Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to speak back to Him in prayer. Even in the great variety of the Psalms, each one points us to our Savior, Jesus Christ.  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

Have you ever felt that tug-of-war between wanting to be generous and wanting to feel secure? It's tough when you want to give but worry about not having enough for yourself. In 2 Corinthians 8, the Apostle Paul shares an incredible example from the Macedonian churches. Even though they were experiencing hardship, they were full of joy and eager to share. What inspired these struggling Christians to ask for more opportunities to give? The answer is grace—God's amazing grace!  The Rev. Chris Matthis, pastor of Epiphany Lutheran Church in Castle Rock, CO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 8.  To learn more about Epiphany Lutheran, visit epiphanylc.org. What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within? On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you. 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.

Have you ever had to say something difficult to someone you love and spent sleepless nights worrying if it damaged your relationship? St. Paul understands that feeling. After expressing concern that his previous letter might have hurt the Corinthians, St. Paul now rejoices—not because they were saddened, but because their sorrow led to true repentance. In chapter 7, we see Paul exemplifying both pastoral courage and tender affection. This reminds us that in the Church, confrontation isn't about 'winning' but about reconciliation.  The Rev. Matthew Wurm, pastor of Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Brookings, SD, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 7.  To learn more about Mount Calvary Lutheran, visit mountcalvary1.org. What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within? On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you. 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 Apostle pleads with the Corinthians, and with us, not to receive the grace of God in vain. That is, not to treat it casually, not to compartmentalize it, and not to keep Jesus at arm's length when He's called us to new life. As an Apostle, Paul shares the cost of faithful ministry—beatings, imprisonments, sleepless nights—and yet he opens his heart wider, not smaller. He reminds us that the Christian life is lived now, in the tension between earthly hardship and heavenly promise. It's not enough to avoid evil; we're called to be visibly, purposefully set apart.  The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 6.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit trinitylutheranministries.org. What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within? On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you. 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 kind of courage does it take to face death with confidence? In 2 Corinthians 5, Paul pulls back the curtain on eternity. This earthly tent will one day be torn down, but a better dwelling awaits. While we groan now, we walk by faith, not by sight. And in the meantime, we're not aimless—we're ambassadors, driven by Christ's love, called to the ministry of reconciliation. Paul shows us what it means to live for Christ because He is the One who died for all and rose again.  The Rev. Mark Loder, pastor of St. James Lutheran Church and School in Howard Lake, MN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 5.  To learn more about St. James, visit www.stjameshl.org. What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within? On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you. 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 kind of vessel carries the Gospel? Not gold, not crystal, not anything the world would admire. Paul says it's clay: fragile and weak. That's what ministry looks like. That's what the Christian life looks like. In this chapter, we hear that God has placed His priceless treasure—the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ—into weak human vessels, so that the surpassing power may be seen as coming from Him, not us.  The Rev. Robert Smith, pastor emeritus in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 4.  What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within? On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you. 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.

Have you ever thought about what your life says to others? Whether we realize it or not, our actions, words, and attitudes communicate something to those around us. In fact, each of us is like a living letter: telling a story through how we live. But whose story are we telling? This episode unpacks where the Apostle Paul describes believers as 'letters of Christ,' written not with ink but by the Spirit of God Himself. What does that mean for us today?  The Rev. Ryan Kleimola, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Toledo, OH, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 3.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit  www.trinitylutheran.org. What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within? On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you. 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 goal of church discipline is reconciliation, not punishment. It isn't complete until forgiveness is given. In this chapter, Paul urges the Corinthians to restore a repentant sinner, reminding them that Satan doesn't just tempt us to sin, he tempts us to withhold grace. The Apostle urges them not to be victims to the schemes of Satan, but through it all, to continue carrying the pleasant aroma of Christ to a dying world.  The Rev. Dr. Curtis Deterding, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Fort Myers, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 2:5-17.  To learn more about Zion Lutheran, visit zionfm.org. What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within? On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you. 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 happens when your motives are put under a microscope and people assume the worst? That's where Paul finds himself in this passage. Some in Corinth are questioning Paul's honesty and even his faithfulness to Christ; was it all because he changed his travel plans? Paul responds with open-hearted honesty, explaining the real reason for his decisions, even sharing the tears and anguish behind them. Explore what Christian integrity and pastoral care look like when trust is fragile and feelings are raw.  The Rev. John Lukomski, co-host of Wrestling with the Basics on KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 1:12-2:4. Find Wrestling with the Basics at kfuo.org/wrestlingwiththebasics.  What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within? On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you. 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 does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within?   On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you.  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.

Paul begins this letter to the Christians of Corinth by blessing God, calling Him the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort. Despite his praise of God, Paul's journey has not been easy. He writes after enduring intense suffering, likely in Asia, where he says he was burdened beyond strength and felt certain he was going to die. This experience, Paul demonstrates, taught him to stop relying on himself and to trust fully in the God who raises the dead. As he writes again to the Corinthians (perhaps for the third or fourth time), Paul doesn't hide his affliction. He shares it so that the comfort he received from Christ might be passed on to others.   The Rev. Dennis McFadden, assistant pastor at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Corinthians 1.   What does it mean to follow Christ in weakness? What does true ministry look like in the face of criticism, suffering, and spiritual warfare? And how can the Church hold fast to the Gospel when pressured by the world—and even by false teachers within?   On Thy Strong Word, we walk verse by verse through, arguably, the apostle Paul's most personal, emotional, and paradoxical letter: 2 Corinthians. From forgiveness and reconciliation to generous giving and boasting only in the Lord, 2 Corinthians calls every believer to follow Christ boldly. This is the way of the cross, where God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in you.  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 Independence Day edition of Headlines features multiple rounds of patriotism-themed headlines, with two fabricated by the host and one real headline. The guest's challenge is to identify the real headline, which serves as a springboard for a deeper theological discussion. This episode explores the limits of patriotism and what it means to submit to governing authorities as duty to God.  The Rev. Jacob Hercamp, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church, Noblesville, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to explore patriotism-related headlines.  To learn more about Christ Lutheran, visit www.clc-in.org. 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.

With Jacob dead, the brothers fear Joseph's revenge. They even fabricate a message from their father, begging Joseph's forgiveness. But Joseph weeps at their words and speaks one of Scripture's most profound theological statements: "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive." Joseph sees beyond human schemes to divine sovereignty. He promises to provide for them and their children, speaking kindly to comfort their hearts. As Joseph dies at 110, he echoes his father's faith, making his brothers swear to carry his bones out of Egypt when God visits them. Genesis ends with a coffin in Egypt, but with eyes fixed on the promised exodus.  The Rev. Kelly Krieg, pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Brenham, TX, joins guest host Rev. Doug Griebenaw, Mission Advocate for KFUO Radio, to study Genesis 50:15-26.  To learn more about Bethlehem, visit www.bethlehemwmpenn.org. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.

With his final breath, Jacob commands his sons to bury him in the cave of Machpelah with Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebekah, and Leah. This last request reveals where his heart truly lies—not in the prosperity of Egypt but in the promises of God. Joseph honors his father with a royal Egyptian funeral: forty days of embalming, seventy days of mourning, and a massive funeral procession including Egyptian dignitaries. Yet this grand Egyptian send-off ends in a simple cave in Canaan. Even Pharaoh's servants witness that Israel's hope lies not in Egypt's glory but in God's covenant promise. The journey to bury Jacob becomes a prophetic rehearsal for a greater exodus to come.  The Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins guest host Rev. Doug Griebenaw, Mission Advocate for KFUO Radio, to study Genesis 49:29-50:14.  To learn more about Prince of Peace, visit princeofpeacebuffalo.org. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.

Jacob gathers his twelve sons for his final prophetic blessing—though for some, it sounds more like judgment. Reuben loses his preeminence, Simeon and Levi are scattered for their violence. But when Jacob reaches Judah, the prophecy soars: "The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between his feet, until tribute comes to him." This messianic promise identifies the tribe from which David and ultimately Christ would come. Each son receives words that will shape their tribal destiny. Some are difficult to understand, but all are part of God's sovereign plan. The dying patriarch speaks not his own wishes but God's revealed will for the future of His people.    The Rev. Bryan Stecker, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Waconia, MN, joins guest host Rev. Dustin Beck of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX to study Genesis 49:1-28.  To learn more about Triinity Lutheran, visit www.trinitywaconia.org. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.

Joseph brings his sons to the dying Jacob for a blessing, carefully positioning Manasseh, the firstborn, at Jacob's right hand. But Jacob crosses his hands, placing his right hand on younger Ephraim's head. When Joseph tries to correct this apparent mistake, Jacob refuses: "I know, my son, I know." This deliberate reversal echoes throughout Genesis—Abel over Cain, Isaac over Ishmael, Jacob over Esau—God consistently choosing the younger, the weaker, the unexpected. Jacob adopts Joseph's sons as his own, granting them full tribal status in Israel. The crossed hands of blessing point forward to another wooden cross where all God's promises find their "Yes" and "Amen."  The Rev. Dr. Matthew Tassey, pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Shawnee, OK, joins guest-host Rev. David Boisclair of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO to study Genesis 48.  To learn more about Redeemer Lutheran, visit redeemershawnee.org. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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 famine intensifies until all Egypt and Canaan have no money left. Joseph implements a systematic plan: first accepting money, then livestock, then land, and finally the people themselves in exchange for grain. Some see harshness here, but Joseph saves countless lives while securing Egypt's future prosperity. As Jacob nears death, he makes Joseph swear to bury him not in Egypt but with his fathers in Canaan. Even in his final days, Jacob's faith looks beyond the present blessing to the promised inheritance.    The Rev. Steven Theiss, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in New Wells, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 47:13-31.  Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.

Judah goes ahead to prepare the way, and Joseph meets his father in Goshen. The reunion is deeply emotional—Joseph weeps on his father's neck "a good while," and Jacob declares he can now die in peace. Joseph wisely prepares his brothers for their audience with Pharaoh, instructing them to identify as shepherds, knowing this will secure them land in Goshen, separated from Egyptian society. When Pharaoh meets them, he grants them the best of the land and even offers employment for the capable among them. At 130 years old, Jacob blesses Pharaoh—a beautiful picture of God's promise that through Abraham's seed, all nations would be blessed.  The Rev. Dr. Michael Nielsen, pastor of Salem Lutheran Church in Barron, WI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 46:28-47:12.  To learn more about Salem, visit stjohnsnp.org. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.

Jacob sets out for Egypt but pauses at Beersheba, on the very edge of the Promised Land, to sacrifice, worship, and seek assurance from YHWH as he heads out of Canaan into Egypt. There, God speaks to him in visions of the night: "Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for there I will make you into a great nation." With divine reassurance of his covenantal promise, Israel takes his entire family (seventy persons in all) down to Egypt. More than a list of names, this genealogy shows the growing seed of God's promise to Abraham taking root. Four hundred years later, these seventy will have become a mighty nation, ready for the Exodus.   The Rev. Tim Winterstein, pastor of University Lutheran Church in Bloomington, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 46:1-27.  To learn more about University Lutheran, visit www.indianalutheran.com. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.

Unable to control himself any longer, Joseph sends out every Egyptian and reveals himself to his brothers. "I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?" Terror grips them—the brother they sold into slavery now holds their lives in his hands. But instead of vengeance, Joseph offers theological perspective: "Do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life." Three times he emphasizes that God, not they, sent him to Egypt. This stunning declaration of divine sovereignty and human forgiveness becomes one of Scripture's most powerful pictures of reconciliation. Joseph weeps, embraces his brothers, and sends them to bring Jacob to Egypt with Pharaoh's full blessing.  The Rev. Jacob Hercamp, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Noblesville, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 45.  To learn more about Christ Lutheran, visit www.clc-in.org. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.

Joseph orchestrates one last test. He has his silver cup planted in Benjamin's sack and sends his servant to “discover” it as the brothers depart. They rend their garments when the cup is discovered, and they are hauled back to Egypt. Would they abandon Benjamin as they once abandoned him? That's part of the test. But something has changed. Judah, the same brother who suggested selling Joseph—now offers himself as a slave in Benjamin's place. His impassioned plea reveals a transformed heart, as he speaks of their father's grief and his own guarantee of Benjamin's safety. This substitutionary offer echoes through history, pointing to Judah's descendant who would offer Himself for the sins of the world. Joseph's testing has revealed what he needed to know: his brothers are no longer the men who betrayed him, and the heart of Christ is seen in both Joseph and Judah.  The Rev. Dan Torkelson, pastor of Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Madison, WI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 44.  To learn more about Mount Olive Lutheran, visit www.molc.us. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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 famine reaches Canaan, and Jacob sends ten of his sons to Egypt to buy grain. Well, everyone except Benjamin, whom he fears might be harmed as he believed Joseph had been. When the brothers bow before Egypt's governor, they unknowingly fulfill Joseph's dreams from decades earlier. But Joseph, now unrecognizable in Egyptian royal robes and speaking through an interpreter, doesn't reveal himself. Instead, he tests them harshly, accusing them of being spies and imprisoning them for three days. As they discuss their guilt regarding Joseph in Hebrew, not knowing he understands every word, Joseph turns away and weeps. The path to reconciliation will be long and painful, but God is already at work, using even their guilt to bring about repentance and restoration.  The Rev. Ryan Kleimola, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Toledo, OH, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 42.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit www.trinitylutheran.org. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.

Pharaoh recognizes something extraordinary in Joseph: "Can we find a man like this, in whom is the Spirit of God?" In a stunning reversal, the Hebrew slave becomes second only to Pharaoh himself. Given an Egyptian name, an Egyptian wife, and the very signet ring of Pharaoh, Joseph begins the monumental task of preparing for the coming famine. During the seven years of plenty, he gathers grain "like the sand of the sea." When famine strikes, Egypt alone has bread, and all the world comes to Joseph. Looking back, it is evident that God's providence transforms a family's betrayal into the salvation of nations, pointing us forward to the greater Joseph who would save the world from a far deadlier famine of sin and death.  The Rev. David Vandercook, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Little Rock, AR, and Shepherd of Peace Lutheran Church in Maumelle, AR, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 41:37-57.  To learn more about Trinity, visit trinitynlr.com. To learn more about Shepherd of Peace, visit shepeace.com. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.

Two full years have passed. Joseph remains in prison, forgotten by the cupbearer whose dream he interpreted. But God's timing is perfect. Then, the most powerful ruler on the planet is disturbed twice by strange dreams. When Pharaoh's dreams baffle all of Egypt's wise men, the cupbearer finally remembers Joseph! Joseph is hastily brought from the dungeon, but he deflects any personal glory: "It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer." In these dreams, God reveals seven years of plenty followed by seven years of devastating famine, and through Joseph, He provides the wisdom to save not just Egypt, but the surrounding nations, including his own family.     The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 41:1-36.  To learn more about Trinity, visit trinitylutheranministries.org. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.

Likely feeling alone and forgotten in an Egyptian prison, two dreams will change Joseph's life forever. However, they're not his dreams, but those of two imprisoned officials of Pharoah. We witness how God works even through bitter disappointment and suffering to accomplish His kingdom purposes. Joseph's trials remind us that waiting on the Lord's timing isn't wasted time, it's an act of faith. This episode explores how dreams, dungeons, and divine delays all point us forward to Christ the true interpreter of God's will and the faithful “rememberer” of His people.   The Rev. Max Phillips, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Bouton and Zion Lutheran Church in Ogden, Iowa, Executive Director of Lutheran Family Service, and CEO of Perry Lutheran Homes, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 40.  To learn more about Christ Lutheran Bouton, visit www.facebook.com/CLCBouton. To learn more about Zion Lutheran, visit www.facebook.com/ZionLutheranOgdenIa. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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 Jacob's daughter Dinah ventures into the city, what begins as a simple visit becomes a catalyst for one of the Bible's most shocking tales of deception and revenge. Her brothers' response will leave an entire city paying the ultimate price—but was their brutal justice righteous protection or inexcusable violence? Ancient questions about justice, family loyalty, and moral boundaries collide in ways that still challenge us today. Note: this episode includes discussion of sexual assault and, therefore, may not be suitable for everyone.  The Rev. Jeremy Klaustermeier, St. John Lutheran Church in Warrenton, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 34.  To learn more about St. John Lutheran, visit www.stjohnswarrenton.com. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.

Twenty years ago, Jacob fled for his life from a brother who vowed to kill him. Now, as 400 armed men approach with Esau at their head, Jacob prepares for the worst - arranging his family for maximum survival, bowing seven times in desperate humility. But what happens next will take your breath away, as human forgiveness becomes a stunning picture of divine grace.  The Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 33.  To learn more about Prince of Peace, visit princeofpeacebuffalo.org. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.

Twenty years ago, Jacob fled for his life from a brother who vowed to kill him. Now, as 400 armed men approach with Esau at their head, Jacob prepares for the worst - arranging his family for maximum survival, bowing seven times in desperate humility. But what happens next will take your breath away, as human forgiveness becomes a stunning picture of divine grace.  The Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 33.  To learn more about Prince of Peace, visit princeofpeacebuffalo.org. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.

Jacob is no longer running from Laban, but he's not yet safe. The road ahead leads straight to Esau, the brother he betrayed, the man he hasn't seen in twenty years. As he prepares for the encounter, Jacob divides his camp, sends gifts ahead, and prays like a man caught between two dangers. But this night will hold more than fear. Before the sun rises, Jacob will be alone—and he will wrestle with God.  The Rev. Sean Daenzer, Director of Worship for the LCMS and Chaplain of the International Center, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 32.  Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.

Jacob escapes with his family, crossing into Gilead while Laban gives chase. When he catches up, accusations fly, but Laban fails to prove that anyone in Jacob's camp stole his household gods. With no evidence and mounting tension, the two men draw a line in the sand—literally—by forging a covenant of peace. This treaty, sealed with a meal and an oath, marks a turning point as Jacob steps further into the promises of God.  Rev. Craig Wehmeyer, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Washington, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 31:21-55.  To learn more about Immanuel Lutheran, visit IMLutheran.org. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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 twenty years of toil, manipulation, and double-dealing, Jacob has had enough and is ready to go home. God himself appears to him and gives him assurance that the time has come. But leaving Laban isn't as simple as packing a few bags. There are flocks to tend to, his wives and children to protect, and his desire to escape without any further trouble from Laban. The Rev. Dr. Brian Saunders, president of the Iowa District East--LCMS, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 31:1-21.  Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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 chapter unfolds like a domestic battlefield. The Holy Spirit makes us witnesses of envy, rivalry, superstition, and even more deceptive schemes within the Patriarch Jacob's household. Rachel and Leah are locked in competition for children; they even barter mandrakes and offer up their maidservants in an effort to prevail as the most honored wife and mother. And Jacob? He's caught in the middle, but he's not without sin. He willingly participates in this baby battle and succeeds in multiplying sons, but not peace. However, behind it all YHWH is still at work fulfilling his promises.   The Rev. Dr. Walter Maier, III, professor of exegetical theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 30.  Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. 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.