Thy Strong Word from KFUO Radio artwork

Thy Strong Word from KFUO Radio

1,205 episodes - English - Latest episode: 16 days ago - ★★★★★ - 73 ratings

Thy Strong Word reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations.

Thy Strong Word is hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, and graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation.

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Episodes

Proverbs 6:1-19: A Father’s Practical Warnings

April 11, 2024 17:00 - 57 minutes - 78.8 MB

Solomon begins by advising against becoming financially entangled through guarantees for debts, emphasizing the importance of quick action to free oneself from such commitments. He then extols the virtues of diligence and foresight, using the ant as a model of hard work and preparation. Following this, Solomon strongly condemns laziness and the consequences of sloth and enumerates seven things that are detestable to God, including haughty eyes, lying, shedding innocent blood, devising wicked ...

Proverbs 5: The Forbidden Woman

April 10, 2024 17:00 - 58 minutes - 79.9 MB

Solomon, in the context of a father’s advice to his son, offers wisdom and guidance on the dangers of succumbing to the temptations of adultery. He contrasts the fleeting pleasures of immoral relationships with the lasting satisfaction of faithfulness within marriage. He advises the reader to cherish and be satisfied with their own spouse, warning that straying leads to dire consequences, including loss of honor, wealth, and health. But is there more to these verses than sexual purity? The...

Proverbs 4: Passing Down Wisdom from Fathers to Sons

April 09, 2024 17:00 - 55 minutes - 76.8 MB

This chapter begins with a father encouraging his sons to embrace godly wisdom, citing his own father's teachings to illustrate wisdom's value and its ability to guide one towards righteousness and away from wickedness. He then contrasts the prosperous path of wisdom with the ruinous ways of the wicked. In the final set of instructions, the father advises his son to steadfastly follow the path of wisdom, highlighting the importance of maintaining focus and purity of heart to navigate life. ...

Proverbs 3:13-35: Wisdom is More Precious than Silver and Gold

April 08, 2024 17:00 - 56 minutes - 77.6 MB

Solomon presents godly wisdom and understanding as treasures that surpass all material wealth, emphasizing their unparalleled value in securing a fulfilling and prosperous life. Through these verses, he delineates the manifold blessings of embracing wisdom, including longevity, peace, divine favor, and protection. Solomon advises his readers to lean not on their own insight but to trust wholly in the Lord, to honor God with their resources, and to perceive divine discipline as an expression o...

Free-Text First Friday: Confessing Our Sins

April 05, 2024 17:00 - 58 minutes - 80.7 MB

Following His resurrection, one of the first things Jesus did was to give His church a profound gift: the authority to forgive sins, as well as the duty to withhold forgiveness from those who remain unrepentant. This significant aspect of faith may have been a topic of discussion in your Confirmation classes, yet the question remains—have you fully embraced this divine gift? This episode delves into the profound significance of Jesus' institution of the Office of the Keys and the practice of ...

Proverbs 3:1-12: Trust in the Lord

April 04, 2024 17:00 - 59 minutes - 81.5 MB

Solomon emphasizes adherence to God's commandments and teachings, promising a long life, prosperity, and peace as rewards. The passage highlights the importance of trust in the Lord and discourages reliance on one’s own understanding, advocating instead for acknowledgment of God in all aspects of life to ensure proper direction. Solomon proclaims kindness, generosity, and fairness as virtues that lead to favor both with God and people. The Rev. Christopher Craig, pastor of Bethlehem Luther...

Proverbs 2: Search for Wisdom

April 03, 2024 17:00 - 57 minutes - 78.2 MB

This chapter contains a moral dichotomy, contrasting the path of the righteous with the ways of the wicked. It warns against the enticements of evil men and the seductions of the adulterous woman, suggesting that these paths lead to darkness and estrangement from God. The righteous, on the other hand, are promised protection and a fruitful life in adherence to God’s wisdom. The Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to stud...

Proverbs 1:20-33: Lady Wisdom Cries Out

April 02, 2024 17:00 - 55 minutes - 75.9 MB

In this second half of chapter one, wisdom emerges as a vivid character, personified and calling out in the streets and squares, urging the simple to heed her voice and turn from folly. She warns of the consequences of rejecting wisdom, portraying calamity and destruction as the inevitable fate of those who refuse her counsel. Yet, to those who listen and embrace wisdom, she promises security, peace, and a flourishing life. The Rev. Kevin Parviz, pastor of Congregation Chai v’ Shalom in St...

Proverbs 1:1-19: Wisdom and the Fear of the LORD

April 01, 2024 17:00 - 56 minutes - 77.5 MB

Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings, poems, and instructions authored by King Solomon that cover a wide range of topics related to practical living, moral conduct, and spiritual wisdom. Utilizing literary devices such as parallelism, metaphors, and contrasts, Proverbs conveys divine truths recorded in poetic ways. In Proverbs 1:1-19, we discover the essential building blocks of a life well-lived: the fear of the Lord, the rejection of sinful enticements, and the unwavering commitment to ...

NEW SERIES: The Book of Proverbs

April 01, 2024 16:45 - 30 seconds - 713 KB

Step into the spiritually rich landscape of the Book of Proverbs, a text divinely inspired and attributed to Solomon, the sage king endowed by God with unsurpassed wisdom. This ancient scripture begins with heartfelt lessons from a father to a son, laying a foundation of moral and ethical guidance before unfolding into a collection of timeless proverbs. It uniquely personifies wisdom and folly as two paths that stand before humanity, offering a choice between a life filled with virtue, fear o...

Deuteronomy 33-34: The Death of Moses

March 27, 2024 17:00 - 57 minutes - 78.6 MB

In these last two chapters of Deuteronomy, Moses delivers his final blessings upon the tribes of Israel in Chapter 33, highlighting their unique attributes and roles within the community. As he stands on Mount Nebo in Chapter 34, overlooking the Promised Land, Moses peacefully concludes his remarkable life and leadership, passing the mantle to Joshua. Despite his longing to enter Canaan, Moses accepts God's decree, acknowledging his earlier act of disobedience. With a vision of the land befor...

Deuteronomy 31:30-32:52: The Song of Moses

March 26, 2024 17:00 - 54 minutes - 74.6 MB

This chapter in Deuteronomy features the Song of Moses, which serves as a poetic testament to God's faithfulness throughout Israel's history. The song begins with a call for heaven and earth to hear the words of Moses, as he proclaims the greatness, righteousness, and faithfulness of God. Moses recounts Israel's history, highlighting God's guidance, provision, and protection despite their rebellion and faithlessness. He warns of the consequences of turning away from God and worshipping false ...

Deuteronomy 31:1-29: Moses Commissions Joshua to Lead

March 25, 2024 17:00 - 57 minutes - 78.6 MB

Moses, aware of his impending death, reassures the people of God's faithfulness, emphasizing that He will go before them and destroy the nations in the promised land. Moses commissions Joshua as his successor before the entire assembly, urging them to be strong and courageous as they enter the land flowing with milk and honey. Moreover, Moses writes down the law and entrusts it to the Levitical priests for safekeeping, foreseeing that the Israelites will soon forsake the covenant and face dir...

Deuteronomy 30: Repentance and Forgiveness

March 22, 2024 17:00 - 57 minutes - 78.5 MB

As they stand at the crossroads of their journey, poised to enter the promised land, Moses offers them a profound choice: between life and death, blessings and curses. He assures them that even if they have strayed from the path of righteousness, there is always a way back to God through repentance and obedience. Through heartfelt exhortation, Moses paints a picture of hope, promising that God's mercy and grace will never be far from those who earnestly seek Him. The Rev. Steven Theiss, pa...

Deuteronomy 29: The Covenant is Renewed at Moab

March 21, 2024 17:00 - 58 minutes - 80 MB

Moses recounts the journey from Egypt, the miraculous interventions of God, and the countless blessings bestowed upon them. Yet, Moses also warns of the dangers of straying from the covenant, urging the people to remain steadfast in their commitment to God's commandments. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt entreaty, he implores them to consider the weight of their choices, emphasizing that their decisions will impact not only their own lives but also the future generations of Israelites. ...

Deuteronomy 28: Blessings and Curses

March 19, 2024 17:00 - 57 minutes - 79.2 MB

Moses, speaking on behalf of YHWH, vividly depicts the blessings that will overflow upon the Israelites if they faithfully adhere to the commandments, promising prosperity, abundance, and victory over their enemies. Conversely, he outlines the dire curses that will befall them should they turn away from God, describing a litany of calamities that will plague every aspect of their lives, from their health and livelihoods to their relationships and security. The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Tr...

Deuteronomy 27: Blessings and Curses at the Threshold

March 18, 2024 17:00 - 57 minutes - 78.3 MB

Moses leads the Israelites in a solemn ceremony, instructing them to erect large stones upon entering the promised land and inscribe upon them the words of the law. As the people stand on the brink of their new home, Moses lays out a stark choice: blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience. This chapter serves as a poignant reminder of the gravity of the covenant between God and His people, emphasizing the importance of honoring His commandments and living in accordance with His will...

Deuteronomy 26: First Fruits and Tithes

March 15, 2024 17:00 - 56 minutes - 77.5 MB

Moses imparts a profound lesson on gratitude and covenantal reciprocity to the Israelites. Here, the Israelites are instructed in the ritual of offering the first fruits of their land as a token of thanksgiving to the Lord for bringing them into the promised land. Through this act, Moses emphasizes the importance of remembering their history, acknowledging God's faithfulness, and sharing the blessings they have received with those in need, including the Levites, foreigners, orphans, and widow...

Deuteronomy 24-25: Divorce, Duty, and Dignity

March 14, 2024 17:00 - 56 minutes - 77.9 MB

Moses delivers a powerful and varied set of instructions in Deuteronomy 24-25, touching on social justice, family life, and individual responsibility within the Israelite community. From laws concerning divorce and remarriage to protecting workers and the poor, these chapters emphasize the importance of compassion, fairness, and kindness in dealings with others. Moses also addresses more personal aspects of life, such as regulations on loans and pledges, the treatment of foreigners, orphans, ...

Deuteronomy 23: The Boundaries of Who Belongs

March 12, 2024 17:00 - 57 minutes - 78.3 MB

Through Moses, YHWH continues to outline a diverse set of laws and ordinances that further shape the moral and social fabric of the Israelite community. This chapter delves into various aspects of communal life, including rules on exclusion from the assembly, purity within the camp, regulations concerning usury, and guidelines for vows and agreements. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining purity and holiness among the people, ensuring their practices reflect their special covenant relat...

Deuteronomy 22: Various Property and Purity Laws

March 11, 2024 17:00 - 58 minutes - 79.6 MB

Moses now tackles a wide range of legal topics, from the treatment of lost property and the protection of the vulnerable to the preservation of purity and the consequences of sexual immorality. This chapter is a fascinating blend of practical wisdom and divine instructions that shed light on the values and expectations of ancient Israelite society. The Rev. Christopher Craig, pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Sylvan Grove, KS, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Deuteronomy 22. C...

Deuteronomy 21: Cursed is He Who Hangs on a Tree

March 08, 2024 18:00 - 56 minutes - 77.2 MB

Deuteronomy 21 outlines laws and regulations regarding various societal issues, such as the handling of unsolved murders, regulations for marrying captive women, inheritance rights for the firstborn, and the dealing with a rebellious son. It emphasizes justice, responsibility, and compassion within the community, reflecting the broader themes of law, morality, and social order in the context of Israel's covenant with God. The Rev. Jim Daub, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Havelock, N...

Deuteronomy 20: Rules of Warfare

March 07, 2024 18:00 - 55 minutes - 76.7 MB

With a unique blend of moral and practical guidance for warfare, Moses emphasizes the need for the people of Israel to place their hope in God and behave ethically. He reassures the Israelites not to fear their enemies, for God is with them. This chapter details a strategy for approaching conflicts, including offering peace to distant cities before engagement and, if necessary, how to conduct a siege. For cities within their promised land, it commands complete destruction to prevent the adopt...

Deuteronomy 18: A Prophet Like Moses

March 04, 2024 18:00 - 58 minutes - 80.4 MB

Moses shines the spotlight on the roles and responsibilities of the Levites and priests, the custodians of spiritual and moral guidance for Israel. YHWH not only outlines the support system ordained by God for these spiritual leaders but also introduces the promise of a prophet like Moses, who would be raised from among their own. This prophecy was fulfilled again and again until it was ultimately fulfilled in Jesus. The Rev. Matthew Tooman, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church of Wahpeton, ...

Free-Text First Friday: Are Seders Appropriate for Christians?

March 01, 2024 18:00 - 56 minutes - 77.6 MB

You’ve undoubtedly heard of the Seder meal: a ritual feast that began the festival of weeks, also known as Passover. The Seder meal that modern Jews observe is a far departure from what Jesus and his disciples would have had when he instituted the Lord’s Supper. So why do we see many Christians over the past few decades trying to reclaim the Seder meal for use in churches? Many argue that Christ’s institution of the Lord’s Supper should supersede and preclude any practice of Seders among Chri...

Deuteronomy 16-17: The Festivals of Israel

February 29, 2024 18:00 - 57 minutes - 79.4 MB

In these chapters, YHWH, through Moses, provides instructions on celebrating the three major Israelite festivals—Passover, the Festival of Weeks, and the Festival of Booths—emphasizing the importance of joy, remembrance, and community in worship. It also establishes guidelines for appointing judges and officials to ensure justice, detailing procedures for legal decisions, warnings against idolatry, and rules for appointing a king. The Rev. Derek Waffel, pastor of Ascension Lutheran Church ...

Deuteronomy 15: Debt Forgiveness and New Beginnings

February 27, 2024 18:00 - 56 minutes - 77.6 MB

Moses introduces the revolutionary concept of the Sabbath year, a time of debt forgiveness and liberation, underscoring God's deep concern and compassion within the Israelite community. He instructs the people to cancel debts every seven years, urging them to lend generously and without hesitation, knowing that God's blessing would compensate their generosity. Moses also commands the humane treatment of Hebrew slaves, who are to be freed in the seventh year with sufficient resources to start ...

Deuteronomy 14: Foods and Tithes

February 26, 2024 18:00 - 56 minutes - 77.6 MB

Moses delivers instructions to the Israelites, emphasizing their unique status as a people chosen by God. He outlines dietary laws, distinguishing between clean and unclean animals, and setting a standard for holiness and health in their community. With compassion and foresight, Moses also addresses tithing, ensuring the support of the Levites and the care for the poor, fostering a spirit of generosity and unity. Through these commands, Moses not only reinforces the Israelites' commitment to ...

Deuteronomy 12-13: God’s Laws for Worship

February 23, 2024 18:00 - 58 minutes - 79.9 MB

These chapters are pivotal in understanding the Israelites' relationship with God and the stringent expectations set forth for worship and obedience. Chapter 12 outlines the centralization of worship, commanding the Israelites to destroy all places where the nations they dispossess worship their gods and instead worship the Lord in the place He will choose. Chapter 13 escalates the seriousness of maintaining fidelity to God, with stark warnings against the temptations of idolatry, even if it ...

Deuteronomy 11: God Blesses the Obedient

February 22, 2024 18:00 - 56 minutes - 77.4 MB

Moses paints a vivid contrast between the land of Egypt, with its dependence on human irrigation, and the Promised Land, a place watered by the heavens. Moses implores Israel to love and obey God wholeheartedly, promising blessings of abundance and security if they do. He warns that consequences await if they turn away but reassures them that God's eyes are always watching over the land. The Rev. Jacob Hercamp, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Noblesville, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Bo...

Deuteronomy 10: The Covenant Renewed

February 20, 2024 18:00 - 56 minutes - 76.9 MB

Moses recounts the dramatic moment when God calls him back up the mountain. Here, God will reinscribe the shattered tablets of the Ten Commandments, restoring the broken covenant with Israel. But this chapter offers more than a new set of laws; it reveals the Israelites' struggle with obedience and God's unwavering desire for a relationship with His chosen people. This chapter delves into themes of repentance, forgiveness, and the profound love of God. The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinit...

Deuteronomy 9: It’s Not You, It’s Them

February 19, 2024 18:00 - 57 minutes - 78.9 MB

Moses speaks to the Israelites, emphasizing that their imminent entry and conquest of the Promised Land are not due to their own virtue, but because of the wickedness of those nations being displaced and the fulfillment of the promise God made to their ancestors. He recounts their rebelliousness since leaving Egypt, including the infamous incident of the Golden Calf, underscoring the theme of God's mercy and patience despite human failings. The Rev. Martin Schultheis, Chief Ministry Office...

Deuteronomy 8: Man Does Not Live on Bread Alone

February 16, 2024 18:00 - 56 minutes - 77.1 MB

Moses urges the people to remember the trials they face and how the Lord humbled them to teach them dependence on Him, emphasizing that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. This chapter highlights the importance of obedience to God's commandments as a condition for prosperity in the Promised Land, warning against the dangers of forgetting God and becoming prideful in times of abundance. The Rev. David Boisclair, pastor of Our Redeemer Lu...

Deuteronomy 7: The Coming Holy War

February 15, 2024 18:00 - 56 minutes - 77.9 MB

God, through Moses, gives instructions to the Israelites as they are about to enter the Promised Land. God commands them to completely destroy all the nations that they will dispossess, warning them not to make any treaties with them or to intermarry, lest they be led astray to serve other gods. God also reassures the Israelites of his love for them and His choice of them as a special people, not because of their numerical strength but because of His faithfulness to the covenant made with the...

Deuteronomy 6: Catechize Your Children

February 13, 2024 18:00 - 57 minutes - 79.1 MB

Moses conveys a crucial message to the Israelites, stressing the significance of wholeheartedly loving the Lord with every aspect of their being. In this chapter, the Shema is presented, a key confession of faith that highlights the distinctiveness of YHWH as the one and only true God. Moses directs the people to faithfully adhere to God's laws, passing them down to their children and catechizing them in all aspects of daily life—whether at home, traveling, going to bed, or rising. Moses also...

Deuteronomy 5: The 10 Commandments: Redux

February 12, 2024 18:00 - 58 minutes - 79.8 MB

Moses delivers a dramatic encore of the Ten Commandments, directly linking Israel's future prosperity and divine favor to their adherence to these timeless laws. Set against the backdrop of their impending entry into the Promised Land, this chapter is not just a reminder but a call to action. Moses' passionate plea serves as a powerful testament to the enduring importance of God’s commandments, positioning them as the cornerstone of Israel's identity and their key to unlocking a prosperous fu...

Deuteronomy 4: Obedience Required; Idolatry Forbidden

February 09, 2024 18:00 - 58 minutes - 79.8 MB

Deuteronomy 4 serves as a powerful call to obedience and remembrance for the Israelites as they stand on the threshold of the Promised Land. Moses implores the people to heed God's laws and decrees faithfully. He reminds them of the unique relationship they share with God, who spoke to them face to face at Mount Sinai, and the catastrophic consequences of idolatry, drawing from their own history to underscore the dangers of forgetting God's works. The Rev. Jeremy Swem, pastor of Our Savior...

Deuteronomy 3: Moses Reflects and Regrets

February 08, 2024 18:00 - 59 minutes - 81.5 MB

Deuteronomy 3 continues Moses' retrospective on Israel's journey to the Promised Land, focusing on their encounters and victories over the Amorite kings Sihon and Og. It details the allocation of conquered lands to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, while also highlighting Moses' personal disappointment at being forbidden by God to enter the Promised Land. This chapter underscores the themes of divine providence, leadership, and the consequences of disobeying God. T...

Deuteronomy 2: Lessons from the Wilderness

February 07, 2024 18:00 - 58 minutes - 79.5 MB

Deuteronomy 2 recounts the Israelites' lengthy journey around the territory of Edom, as commanded by God, marking a period of wandering in the wilderness. This chapter reflects on the Israelites' encounters with various peoples, including the Edomites, Moabites, and Ammonites, emphasizing God's instructions not to provoke these groups into conflict since He had granted them their own lands. It also details the defeat of the Amorites under King Sihon of Heshbon, highlighting this victory as a ...

Deuteronomy 1: The Journey Thus Far

February 06, 2024 18:00 - 54 minutes - 75.2 MB

We witness Moses as he stands before a new generation, recounting the trials and tribulations from Horeb to Moab, the rise of leaders from among the people, and the pivotal moment of disbelief that turned a short journey into a 40-year odyssey. This chapter sets the stage for Moses' final, powerful instructions—a call to remember, to learn, and to move forward with trust in YHWH for what lies ahead. The Rev. Kevin Parviz, pastor of Congregation Chai v’ Shalom in St. Louis, MO, joins the Re...

NEW SERIES: Deuteronomy

February 06, 2024 17:45 - 30 seconds - 711 KB

Come along as we dive into the timeless wisdom of Deuteronomy. This ancient book is more than history; it's a vibrant blueprint for living in harmony with God's will. Discover the profound teachings on law, justice, and morality, and hear how they resonate in our lives today. Deuteronomy calls us to obedience, love for our neighbor, and the crucial task of imparting faith to future generations. It's a narrative of love, responsibility, and the blessings of faithfulness, juxtaposed with warnin...

Lamentations 5: Restore Us to Yourself, O LORD!

February 05, 2024 18:00 - 56 minutes - 77.4 MB

This final chapter, written as a prayer, differs from the acrostic poems of the previous chapters, yet it maintains the tone of deep sorrow and mourning. It vividly describes the profound suffering of the people, the loss of their heritage, and the desolation of their land. The narrator pleads for God’s attention and mercy, acknowledging their sins and the enduring consequences. The chapter ends with a powerful appeal to God to not forsake them, reflecting a blend of despair and hope, and a y...

Free-Text First Friday: A Christian Approach to Political Discourse

February 02, 2024 18:00 - 55 minutes - 75.6 MB

How can Christians navigate the complex world of politics while staying true to their biblical values? On this special, First-Friday Free Text episode, tune in as Professor Joel Biermann and Pastor Booe explore how to engage in political discussions with grace and wisdom. This is an hour of insightful conversation and practical guidance on living out your faith in the public arena. The Rev. Dr. Joel Biermann, systematics professor at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil B...

Lamentations 4: The LORD Himself Has Scattered Them

February 01, 2024 18:15 - 58 minutes - 79.8 MB

The chapter vividly describes the dire state of the city and its people. It talks about how the streets of Jerusalem, once bustling with the joyous laughter of children, are now silent and desolate. The gold and sacred stones of the temple, symbols of the city's wealth and faith, are scattered and tarnished, mirroring the fallen state of the nation. This chapter has an underlying lament for the loss of the city's glory and mourning over the sins that led to such devastation. It is a poignant ...

Lamentations 3:25-66: You Have Made Us Scum and Garbage

January 31, 2024 18:00 - 57 minutes - 79.1 MB

These verses begin with a declaration of hope in the Lord, emphasizing that good comes to those who wait for Him and seek Him. The passage then shifts to a personal reflection of suffering, underscoring the speaker's anguish and despair, yet maintaining a sense of hope and trust in God's ultimate justice. This part of Lamentations is a poignant reminder of the enduring human struggle between despair and hope, injustice and the yearning for divine intervention. It captures the essence of a sou...

Lamentations 3:1-24: The Lord Will Not Cast Off Forever

January 30, 2024 18:00 - 57 minutes - 78.4 MB

This chapter is a deeply personal and poignant narrative set against the backdrop of Jerusalem's destruction. In this episode, we’ll be covering the first 24 verses. It contrasts starkly with other chapters by focusing on individual suffering and endurance. The speaker vividly describes intense personal afflictions, symbolizing the experience of God's wrath. Yet, amidst this despair, the chapter shifts to themes of hope and faith, highlighting God's enduring mercies and faithfulness.  Rev....

Lamentations 2: The Daughter of Zion is Covered in Darkness

January 29, 2024 18:00 - 56 minutes - 77.9 MB

In this second of five poems of lament—or dirges, the imagery is stark and powerful, depicting the Lord in his anger, darkening the “Daughter of Zion's” splendor and casting down from heaven to earth the majesty of Israel. The chapter serves not only as a historical recount of sorrow and devastation but also as a profound meditation on the nature of suffering, divine justice, and the consequences of turning away from spiritual responsibilities. Rev. Stewart Crown, pastor of Trinity Luthera...

Lamentations 1: The Princess Has Become a Slave and a Widow

January 26, 2024 18:00 - 54 minutes - 74.8 MB

Lamentation is a poetic masterpiece that captures the profound sorrow of a once-glorious Jerusalem now laid to waste. Chapter 1 paints a vivid picture of the city personified as a lonely widow, utterly deserted and mourning her losses after the Babylonian invasion. It's a poignant exploration of the themes of suffering, the consequences of turning away from God, and the stark reality of exile. The Rev. Brian Heller, manager of Specialized Spiritual Care Ministry for the LCMS Office of Nati...

NEW BOOK: Lamentations

January 26, 2024 17:45 - 30 seconds - 711 KB

Embark on a journey through the Book of Lamentations, a deeply moving poetic reflection on the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. This book is a profound expression of grief, portraying the desolation of a city and a people who have experienced immense suffering. Each chapter brings its unique perspective, from the vivid portrayal of Jerusalem as a lonely, grieving widow to the poignant pleas for mercy and reflection on the unyielding justice of God. The imagery is stark and emotive...

Colossians 4: Christ is Our Savior, a Mystery Revealed

January 25, 2024 18:00 - 58 minutes - 80.1 MB

The Apostle closes his letter to the Colossians with practical advice and personal notes. He emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer, wise behavior towards non-believers, and gracious speech. He requests prayers for his own ministry and encourages making the most of every opportunity in spreading the gospel. The chapter also contains personal greetings and mentions several fellow workers, highlighting the communal aspect of Paul's ministry and the church. The Rev. Chris Matthis, pas...

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