Podcasts about Trinity Lutheran Church

Omri, the commander of Israel's army, came out on top when the dust settled after Zimri's death. Although Omri established Samaria and brought Israel to greater political prominence during his reign, the writer of 1 Kings judges Omri as an unfaithful king whose wickedness before the LORD is the worst so far. Omri didn't remain on that pedestal for long, as his son Ahab was more wicked still, influenced by his pagan wife Jezebel. Nonetheless, the LORD remained faithful to Israel in those days and sent Elijah as one of His greatest prophets. Elijah's ministry began by predicting a drought as judgment against Israel's wickedness, even as the LORD provided for Elijah during that time of no rain.  Rev. Stephen Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Vinton, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Kings 16:21-17:7.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit trinitylcmsvinton.org. "A Kingdom Divided” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Kings. The division in the kingdom of Israel in this part of history was greater than a matter of north and south. The biggest division was between the people and their God. Yet even as the people rebelled against the LORD as their King, still He remained faithful to call them back to Himself through His prophets, working through history to send the good and gracious King, 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

As 1 Kings records the reigns of four kings of whose rule began during the reign of King Asa of Judah, the situation only grows worse and worse. Nadab, son of Jeroboam, only reigns for two years before Baasha comes and kills the whole house of Jeroboam, in fulfillment of the Word of the LORD. Baasha's reign over Israel is longer, but his unfaithfulness leads to his family's destruction by the Word of the LORD. That word is fulfilled when Elah, the son of Baasha, is killed along with the rest of his family by Zimri. Zimri's reign is only seven days long, a reminder of the chaos that holds sway in Israel due to the way the people hold onto the idolatry Jeroboam instituted.  Rev. David Vandercook, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Little Rock, AR and Shepherd of Peace Lutheran Church in Maumelle, AR, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Kings 15:25-16:20.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit trinitynlr.com. To learn more about Shepherd of Peace Lutheran, visit shepeace.com. "A Kingdom Divided” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Kings. The division in the kingdom of Israel in this part of history was greater than a matter of north and south. The biggest division was between the people and their God. Yet even as the people rebelled against the LORD as their King, still He remained faithful to call them back to Himself through His prophets, working through history to send the good and gracious King, 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

Bible Study at Trinity Lutheran Church, Murdock, NE (25 May 2025)

Sermon preached at Trinity Lutheran Church, Murdock, NE (25 May 2025). John 16:33

The servant tells his story, giving glory to God for guiding him straight to Rebekah. Her family consents, and she boldly agrees to leave everything behind for the sake of Isaac and the promise. In a quiet and touching scene, she meets her husband and becomes his comfort after the loss of his mother. In this union, God's covenant continues forward through faith and love.  The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 24:34–67.  To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, 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.

Bible study at Trinity Lutheran Church, Murdock, NE (18 May 2025).

Sermon preached at Trinity Lutheran Church, Murdock, NE (18 May 2025). Text: John 13:32-35.

Safe in the Shepherd's Hands | John 10:22-33 In a world filled with countless voices clamoring for our attention, one voice stands apart—clear, faithful, and comforting. Jesus promises, “My sheep hear my voice.” Unlike the fleeting calls that leave us lost and alone, His voice remains steadfast and unwavering. Death could not silence Him, and His ascension did not distance Him. Today, He speaks through His Word, proclaimed by His apostles and pastors, ensuring His sheep are never without His guidance. When we wander, bruised and breathless, He does not scold; instead, He rejoices and gently gathers us into His embrace. You are never abandoned to life's chaotic noise. Your Good Shepherd calls you personally, leading you beside still waters. Join us as we explore the profound assurance of being safely held in the hands of our Good Shepherd. Key Takeaways: Jesus' voice offers comfort, direction, and assurance. His promise ensures we are never alone or abandoned. Through His Word and Sacraments, Christ continually calls and cares for us.

The details given about Solomon's palace in Jerusalem indicate its splendor, yet the brevity of the text compared to the details of the temple remind us that the LORD's house is the one that matters. The craftsmanship described concerning the pillars, the sea, and the basins is quite intricate, as the LORD equipped Hiram the craftsman for the task. Each of the details describes not only the functionality of the temple but points to the purpose of the LORD coming to His people with His forgiveness.  Rev. Jacob Dandy, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Atchison, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Kings 7:1-51.  "A Kingdom Divided” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Kings. The division in the kingdom of Israel in this part of history was greater than a matter of north and south. The biggest division was between the people and their God. Yet even as the people rebelled against the LORD as their King, still He remained faithful to call them back to Himself through His prophets, working through history to send the good and gracious King, 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

Safe in the Shepherd's Hands | John 10:22-33 In a world filled with countless voices clamoring for our attention, one voice stands apart—clear, faithful, and comforting. Jesus promises, “My sheep hear my voice.” Unlike the fleeting calls that leave us lost and alone, His voice remains steadfast and unwavering. Death could not silence Him, and His ascension did not distance Him. Today, He speaks through His Word, proclaimed by His apostles and pastors, ensuring His sheep are never without His guidance. When we wander, bruised and breathless, He does not scold; instead, He rejoices and gently gathers us into His embrace. You are never abandoned to life's chaotic noise. Your Good Shepherd calls you personally, leading you beside still waters. Join us as we explore the profound assurance of being safely held in the hands of our Good Shepherd. Key Takeaways: Jesus' voice offers comfort, direction, and assurance. His promise ensures we are never alone or abandoned. Through His Word and Sacraments, Christ continually calls and cares for us.

Safe in the Shepherd's Hands | John 10:22-33 In a world filled with countless voices clamoring for our attention, one voice stands apart—clear, faithful, and comforting. Jesus promises, “My sheep hear my voice.” Unlike the fleeting calls that leave us lost and alone, His voice remains steadfast and unwavering. Death could not silence Him, and His ascension did not distance Him. Today, He speaks through His Word, proclaimed by His apostles and pastors, ensuring His sheep are never without His guidance. When we wander, bruised and breathless, He does not scold; instead, He rejoices and gently gathers us into His embrace. You are never abandoned to life's chaotic noise. Your Good Shepherd calls you personally, leading you beside still waters. Join us as we explore the profound assurance of being safely held in the hands of our Good Shepherd. Key Takeaways: Jesus' voice offers comfort, direction, and assurance. His promise ensures we are never alone or abandoned. Through His Word and Sacraments, Christ continually calls and cares for us.

Bible study at Trinity Lutheran Church, Murdock, NE (11 May 2025).

Sermon preached at Trinity Lutheran Church, Murdock, NE (11 May 2025)

Safe in the Shepherd's Hands | John 10:22-33 In a world filled with countless voices clamoring for our attention, one voice stands apart—clear, faithful, and comforting. Jesus promises, “My sheep hear my voice.” Unlike the fleeting calls that leave us lost and alone, His voice remains steadfast and unwavering. Death could not silence Him, and His ascension did not distance Him. Today, He speaks through His Word, proclaimed by His apostles and pastors, ensuring His sheep are never without His guidance. When we wander, bruised and breathless, He does not scold; instead, He rejoices and gently gathers us into His embrace. You are never abandoned to life's chaotic noise. Your Good Shepherd calls you personally, leading you beside still waters. Join us as we explore the profound assurance of being safely held in the hands of our Good Shepherd. Key Takeaways: Jesus' voice offers comfort, direction, and assurance. His promise ensures we are never alone or abandoned. Through His Word and Sacraments, Christ continually calls and cares for us.

He was ninety-nine years old. His wife, nearly ninety. God's promise of descendants, a great nation, a covenant forever, must have still seemed impossible to Abram and Sarai. Then, the Lord appeared. Not with vague reassurance, but with clarity, power, and a new name. Abram became Abraham. Sarai became Sarah. And the sign of circumcision marked a covenant that would shape generations.  The Rev. Ryan Kleimola, pastor Trinity Lutheran Church in Toledo, OH, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 17.  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.

Sermon preached at Trinity Lutheran Church, Murdock, NE (4 May 2025). Text: Acts 9:1-22.

The Gospel is God's work through Christ's death and resurrection for the sake of our forgiveness, life, and salvation. This Gospel is lavishly generous with His gifts: spoken Word, Baptism, the Sacrament of the Altar, the Office of the Keys, and the mutual consolation of the saints. By His grace, God provides these gifts, so that His people might receive this undeserved salvation. Rev. Joshua Willadsen, pastor of Bethel Lutheran Church, Fort Smith, AR and Trinity Lutheran Church, Sallisaw, OK, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to study the Gospel and Holy Baptism. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org. Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org. 

April 26, 2025 Today's Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:19-26Daily Lectionary: Exodus 19:1-25; Hebrews 13:1-21“For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.” (1 Corinthians 15:21-22)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.He is Risen! He is Risen, Indeed! Alleluia! Amen. Adam really messed things up for us. He had the perfect life. He had dominion over everything. He had the perfect wife in Eve and the perfect relationship with God. Everything was perfect. God even declared it to be “Very Good” at the end of Genesis chapter 1. Yet, in Genesis chapter 3, we read about the Fall of man. It isn't Adam, though, who is doing the initial eating. It is Eve who is speaking to the serpent. It is Eve who takes from the tree. Adam gets the blame. Rightfully so, as it was Adam whom God spoke to about eating from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, not Eve. Adam was with Eve while the dialogue between the serpent and Eve transpired. He was questioning the validity of God's command regarding eating the forbidden fruit. Did God speak the truth when He said, “You will surely die?” Let's do a little beta-testing with Eve and see if she will die when she eats from the tree. She didn't die right there from Adam's perspective.  Man did die. Man lost the image of God. In Genesis 3, when Adam and Eve are confronted by God, and the curses are delivered to the serpent, to Eve, and to Adam. Adam's curse is death. You will die. Through Adam's selfish act of failing to be a faithful groom, death is ushered into all mankind. No longer did they have the image of God. Sin now separated them from their creator. On account of Adam, we will all die. Our hearts will stop beating. Our lungs will no longer receive air. Our minds will be silent. We will die. The consequence of sin is death.As Paul writes to the church at Corinth, he reminds them that their hope is not in their wisdom and understanding of the things of this world. He points the church back to Christ. In Christ, the world is reconciled to God. No longer are we separated but we are reunited with our creator through Jesus. In your Baptism, you have been reconciled to God. No longer does God look down upon us and see our sin and our deadliness. He sees Christ and His robe of righteousness over us. He sees all the works of Christ upon us. He sees us through Jesus. Sin still exists. Death is still coming upon us. In Christ, we are given the sure and certain hope that all is conquered. In our Baptisms, we are in Christ, and if we are in Christ, we are alive. His resurrection is our resurrection. He is Risen! He is Risen, Indeed! Alleluia! Amen.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.What these sacrifices promised From a God who sought to bless, Came at last a second Adam Priest and King of Righteousness; Son of God incarnate Savior, Son of Man both Christ and Lord, Who in naked shame would offer On the cross His blood outpoured. (LSB 572:3)-Rev. Timothy Davis, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Athens, GA.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Andrew R. Jones identifies ten lies Satan uses in attempts to dismantle God's people and His kingdom. Find encouragement in God's Word of Truth and remember the final victory we have in our Savior, Jesus Christ.

April 25, 2025Today's Reading: Mark 16:14-20Daily Lectionary: Exodus 18:5-27; Hebrews 12:1-24“Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16:16)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The end of Mark gives us language that is reminiscent of Matthew's ending: the admonition to proclaim the Gospel and baptize the nations. The sacrament of Baptism is laid before Mark's readers as a life-giving Gift from God. Luther even uses the end of Mark as part of his explanation in the Small Catechism on Baptism, the second part, regarding the benefits of Baptism. Your Baptism saves you.  Baptism is no small, insignificant part of our lives. It is not a once-and-done “the box is checked, life is good, let's not talk about it until confirmation when we can start preparing for the real sacrament, Holy Communion.” Baptism gives to us all the blessings and benefits that Christ has done for us. It is a Means Of Grace. It is a vessel that God uses to bring us the forgiveness of sins, life everlasting, faith, and the Holy Spirit.  Our world cannot comprehend how God works through the simplest things to do miraculous work. Water and His word together bring us these benefits and blessings. It is not our faith that makes Baptism valuable but rather faith that is given to us in Baptism. It is God's work through Baptism that His robe of righteousness is placed over us. The world sees only water. The world hears just simple words. It is these two components together that give us Baptism.  We are Baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. We carry the name of the triune God upon us. His cross is placed both upon our forehead and upon our hearts to mark us as one redeemed by Christ the crucified. His name, His death, and His resurrection are our identity in Baptism. We are no longer left out in the world, lost and condemned. Sin does not prevail. Satan no longer can condemn us. We are baptized into Christ. It is our condition that we live in each day. We boldly say, “I am baptized!”In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.In a wat'ry grave are buried All our sins that Jesus carried; Christ, the Ark of Life, has ferried Us across death's raging flood. (LSB 597:2)-Rev. Timothy Davis, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Athens, GA.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Andrew R. Jones identifies ten lies Satan uses in attempts to dismantle God's people and His kingdom. Find encouragement in God's Word of Truth and remember the final victory we have in our Savior, Jesus Christ.

April 24, 2025Today's Reading: Isaiah 65:17-25Daily Lectionary: Exodus 17:1-16; Hebrews 11:1-29“For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind.” (Isaiah 65:17)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.He is Risen! His is Risen Indeed! Alleluia! Amen. A new creation sure sounds like a great idea. The people of the southern kingdom were certainly wanting a new creation as the creation that they were living in was not ideal. The Babylonians had ransacked the kingdom. The temple was destroyed. The deportation had taken place. The land flowing with milk and honey had been ravaged by the Baal worshippers. A message of a new creation resonated in the ears of God's people. A new creation where the old things are not remembered sounds even better—no memory of the calamity and desolation that was experienced under Babylonian rule. God's people were anxiously waiting for a restoration to take place.We, too, are waiting for a restoration. Right now, we live in a world that is full of chaos and uncertainty. The Holy Law of God is redacted to almost oblivion. People bend the knee to the various gods of this world, from wealth and power to self-indulgence and selfish behaviors. The concept of “love thy neighbor” is transactional. I will love my neighbor only if I can get something out of it. What's in it for me is the way we live our lives with our neighbors. The world today seeks ways in which to exploit God's creation, especially the crown of His creation: mankind. We post comments on social media platforms that hurt and harm our neighbor's reputation. We share information that was meant to be private and confidential in order to make ourselves look better. Hope seems lost, and we are left feeling abandoned, lonely, and destitute in this world.The words of Isaiah are for us, too. As God writes through the prophet, He points His people not only to the immediate restoration of the kingdom of Judah but also to the return of the Messiah. In the end, God will restore the entire creation to how He had made it. He will declare once again that it is very good. He will send His son, our savior Jesus Christ, as the final sacrifice. He will rise from the dead. Death will be conquered. We hear the words of Isaiah and are pointed back to the cross and resurrection, while at the same time, we are pointed forward to the return of Christ. As the people of Isaiah's time waited anxiously for their restoration, we, too, anxiously wait for the return of Jesus. Our hope and focus is not of this world but in the promises given to us that we will rise from the grave and stand upon a new earth. He is Risen! He is Risen, Indeed! Alleluia! Amen.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Sing with all the saints in glory, Sing the resurrection song! Death and sorrow, earth's dark story, To the former days belong. All around the clouds are breaking; Soon the storms of time shall cease; In God's likeness we awaken, Knowing everlasting peace. (LSB 671:1)-Rev. Timothy Davis, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Athens, GA.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Andrew R. Jones identifies ten lies Satan uses in attempts to dismantle God's people and His kingdom. Find encouragement in God's Word of Truth and remember the final victory we have in our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Joab rebukes David's overwhelming grief over the death of one who meant David harm, lest the people of Israel abandon their rightful king. Upon receiving Joab's rebuke, David begins to make plans for his return to Jerusalem, starting with allegiance from his kinsmen in Judah. As David encounters those who both harmed and helped him during his time away from Jerusalem, he is consistently gracious and merciful to them, even as the rest of Israel wants to make sure that they have a share in David's kingdom along with Judah.  Rev. Peter Ill, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Millstadt, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 19:1-43.  "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord 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

April 23, 2025Today's Reading: John 21:1-14Daily Lectionary: Exodus 16:13-35; Hebrews 10:19-39“Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.” (John 21:13-14)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.He is Risen! He is Risen, Indeed! Alleluia! Amen. Jesus gives them bread and fish to eat. The first time that John records the use of fish and bread to feed the people, the local people wanted to make Him the Bread King. In John chapter 6, Christ reminds them that the purpose of the miracle was not so that their bellies could be filled and that they would never go hungry but that He is God incarnate right there in their midst. Standing before them was the creator of all things. Unfortunately, the people did not want to hear this message. The people were more interested in this man because He could feed them forever. We want signs and wonders to know God's will for us. In sin, we see Jesus as the handyman who has come to fix our lives. He will feed our bellies. He will explicitly show us what decisions we are to make about life choices. We look for the mysterious and the unexplained events in our lives as God speaking to us. We want God to speak clearly to us about His will for us and His desires for us. We search for His voice in places where He has not promised to speak. We cry out, “Show me a sign!” when we want to know what He wants us to do in our lives. He does speak to us. He speaks to us through the means that He has already promised to work. He reveals Himself to us through His word and sacraments. He speaks His words of Absolution upon us. He gives to us His Body and Blood for the forgiveness of sins. He takes water and His word and marks us as His children. He takes ink and paper and gives to us a living, breathing document that reveals His son as our Savior. In His word is the true testament of our Savior, who has paid the price for our sins and given to us the resurrection from the dead. No longer does death prevail. It is conquered. The war is won. Christ is victorious. He is Risen! He is Risen, Indeed! Alleluia! Amen.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Almighty God, by the glorious resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ, You destroyed death and brought life and immortality to light. Grant that we who have been raised with Him may abide in His presence and rejoice in the hope of eternal glory; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. (Collect for Easter Wednesday)-Rev. Timothy Davis, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Athens, GA.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Andrew R. Jones identifies ten lies Satan uses in attempts to dismantle God's people and His kingdom. Find encouragement in God's Word of Truth and remember the final victory we have in our Savior, Jesus Christ.

April 22, 2025Today's Reading: Luke 24:36-49Daily Lectionary: Exodus 15:19-16:12; Hebrews 10:1-18“See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” (Luke 24:39)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.He is Risen! He is Risen, Indeed! Alleluia! Amen. In the Third Article of the Apostle's Creed, we confess that we believe in the resurrection of the dead. It is a confession that has deep implications in our lives as children of God. When we confess the resurrection of the dead, we are saying that death is conquered. We are saying that in our bodies, in our flesh, we will come from the dead. We will not be spirits, we will not be ghosts, we will not be angels— we will be human beings in the flesh.In the resurrection of Christ, we are given what will happen to us in the resurrection. The language of the narratives from the Gospels give witness to what the disciples and followers of Jesus saw after His resurrection. They saw Jesus. They heard Jesus. They touched Jesus. Yes, touched Jesus. He was not a ghost or some anomaly from the proverbial spirit world. He was fully human. He was alive and breathing, eating and drinking as humans do every day. He completely rose from the dead.Oftentimes, we hear about life everlasting in some existential context. Life everlasting is taught as something that is “way out there.” We cannot grasp it, so it is taught like fairytales and make-believe stories. Life everlasting becomes supernatural, where the dead end up as ghosts or angels. We are to believe that eternal life is really an experience in nirvana, where we do not have bodies and that we become one with the universe. All of these false teachings take us away from the Scriptures and what we confess in our creeds. We believe, teach, confess, and practice that on the Last Day, we will rise from the dead in our flesh. We will be able to see, taste, touch, smell, and hear. We will walk again upon a restored earth. No longer will there be death. In Christ's resurrection is our resurrection.In Christ's resurrection is your resurrection. Death is conquered. Death is destroyed. Right now, you have eternal life. Jesus invites His followers to touch Him after the resurrection. He is in the flesh, resurrected from the dead. When you confess, “I believe in the resurrection of the dead.” you confess that you will rise from the dead as Christ rose from the dead. In the flesh. He is Risen! He is Risen, Indeed! Alleluia! Amen.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Almighty God, through the resurrection of Your Son You have secured peace for our troubled consciences. Grant us this peace evermore that trusting in the merit of Your Son we may come at last to the perfect peace of heaven; through the same Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. (Collect for Easter Tuesday)-Rev. Timothy Davis, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Athens, GA.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Andrew R. Jones identifies ten lies Satan uses in attempts to dismantle God's people and His kingdom. Find encouragement in God's Word of Truth and remember the final victory we have in our Savior, Jesus Christ.

✝ Good Friday – John, The Gospel Writer John 19:25–37 | Behold the Lamb of God, Pierced for Us On this most solemn day, we behold Christ crucified—our Savior lifted high upon the cross. In John 19:25–37, the Gospel writer gives us a deeply personal and eyewitness account of Jesus' final moments. John stood at the foot of the cross. He saw the blood and water flow. He heard Christ's final words and watched Him breathe His last. “John, The Gospel Writer” draws us into that moment—not as distant readers, but as those who have been called to witness and believe. Through John's eyes, we see the fulfillment of Scripture, the depth of Christ's love, and the beginning of the Church's life flowing from His pierced side.

✝ Good Friday – John, The Gospel Writer John 19:25–37 | Behold the Lamb of God, Pierced for Us On this most solemn day, we behold Christ crucified—our Savior lifted high upon the cross. In John 19:25–37, the Gospel writer gives us a deeply personal and eyewitness account of Jesus' final moments. John stood at the foot of the cross. He saw the blood and water flow. He heard Christ's final words and watched Him breathe His last. “John, The Gospel Writer” draws us into that moment—not as distant readers, but as those who have been called to witness and believe. Through John's eyes, we see the fulfillment of Scripture, the depth of Christ's love, and the beginning of the Church's life flowing from His pierced side.

Absalom's plot against his father's throne takes shape right under David's nose until Absalom's followers grow strong enough to declare him king at Hebron. David quickly recognizes the great danger and gathers a group of faithful followers to go with him from Jerusalem, even while he directs certain supporters of his to remain and thwart Absalom's work in the capital city. David's weeping and flight from Jerusalem by way of the Mount of Olives looks forward to our Lord Jesus' tears and passion on Maundy Thursday.  Rev. James Preus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottumwa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 15:1-37.  "A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord 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

Genesis 1 gave us the wide-angle view of creation—majestic, ordered, cosmic. But Genesis 2 zooms in. Here, the Creator gets His hands dirty. He forms man from dust, breathes life into his lungs, and places him in a garden unlike any other. This chapter isn't a second creation account—it's a deeper one, more personal, more intimate. Meet the first man and the first woman, their first vocation, and the first commandment.  The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 2.  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.

Before there was light, sky, sea, or land, and before time itself ticked its first second, there was only God. Not a god of myth or imagination, but the living Creator who speaks, and by His Word, worlds are born. In this opening chapter of Genesis, the foundations of everything—truth, order, purpose, even the Gospel—are laid bare. And it's not just ancient history. It's your story too. Join us as we step into the grandeur, the mystery, and the beauty of the creation account—and as we begin our journey through the book of Genesis, where the seeds of salvation history are planted in the very soil of Eden.  The Rev. President Terry Forke, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Harlowton, MT and St. Paul in Roundup, MT, and president of the Montana District—LCMS, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 1. 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.

Bible study at Trinity Lutheran Church, Murdock, NE (13 April 2025)

Sermon preached at Trinity Lutheran Church, Murdock, NE (13 April 2025.

Holiness. Brotherly love. Contentment. Hebrews calls us to live as those who belong to an unshakable kingdom. The author sharpens his focus: ‘Pursue peace… see to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God… offer worship that pleases Him.' These verses are a call to live the faith we confess in community, in love, in steadfast trust in the Christ who never changes. Yet, the warning is clear: do not refuse Him who speaks.   The Rev. Ryan Kleimola, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Toledo, OH, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Hebrews 12:4-13:8.  For centuries, God spoke through prophets, in visions, through fire and thunder on Mount Sinai. But now, Hebrews tells us, He has spoken fully and finally in His Son. This book isn't just another epistle—it's the key that unlocks the Old Testament, revealing how everything was always pointing to Christ. The prophets, the angels, the priesthood, the sacrifices—all find their fulfillment in Him. Over the next several weeks, we'll walk through Hebrews, uncovering its depth, its urgency, and its breathtaking vision of Jesus as the great High Priest, the perfect sacrifice, and the One who is greater than all who came before. If you've ever wondered how the Old and New Testaments connect, how the shadows become substance, this is the book to study. 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.

Sermon preached at Trinity Lutheran Church, Murdock, NE (9 April 2025).

Hebrews 11:23–40 continues the powerful “Hall of Faith,” highlighting men and women who trusted God in the face of danger, hardship, and uncertainty. From Moses' parents defying Pharaoh to the prophets who endured persecution, this passage celebrates those who chose faith over fear, obedience over comfort, and eternal hope over temporary safety. Some saw great victories; others suffered and died without receiving what was promised—yet all were commended for their faith. Together, their stories point beyond themselves to the greater fulfillment found in Christ.  The Rev. Nathaniel Brown, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Correll, MN, Trinity Lutheran Church in Bellingham, MN, and Trinity Lutheran Church in Odessa, MN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Hebrews 11:23-40.  For centuries, God spoke through prophets, in visions, through fire and thunder on Mount Sinai. But now, Hebrews tells us, He has spoken fully and finally in His Son. This book isn't just another epistle—it's the key that unlocks the Old Testament, revealing how everything was always pointing to Christ. The prophets, the angels, the priesthood, the sacrifices—all find their fulfillment in Him. Over the next several weeks, we'll walk through Hebrews, uncovering its depth, its urgency, and its breathtaking vision of Jesus as the great High Priest, the perfect sacrifice, and the One who is greater than all who came before. If you've ever wondered how the Old and New Testaments connect, how the shadows become substance, this is the book to study. 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.