Thy Strong Word from KFUO Radio
1,218 episodes - English - Latest episode: 9 days ago - ★★★★★ - 73 ratingsThy 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
Jonah 1-2: Going Overboard with Jonah (Rebroadcast)
November 23, 2023 18:00 - 55 minutes - 76.1 MBThe Rev. Thomas Eckstein, pastor of Concordia Lutheran Church in Jamestown, ND, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Jonah 1 & 2. Jonah receives a divine command to preach in Nineveh, but he attempts to thwart God's will by boarding a ship in the opposite direction. His disobedience seems to incite a fierce storm that threatens to destroy the vessel. When the terrified sailors learn Jonah is running from his God, they reluctantly cast him into the raging sea at his request. Swallowed by a...
Mark 14:26-52: Jesus is Betrayed in the Garden of Gethsemane
November 22, 2023 18:00 - 57 minutes - 79.4 MBThe Rev. Phillip Fischaber, pastor of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Walnut, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 14:26-52. This passage depicts the poignant moments leading up to Jesus' betrayal and arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane. After sharing the Last Supper with his disciples, Jesus foretells Peter's denial and leads them to Gethsemane to pray. Overwhelmed with sorrow, Jesus wrestles with the weight of his impending sacrifice while his disciples struggle to stay awake. J...
Mark 14:1-25: The Last Supper and the Plot Against Jesus
November 21, 2023 18:00 - 57 minutes - 79.1 MBThe Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 14:1-25. In Bethany, a devoted woman anoints Jesus with costly perfume, much to the consternation of those like Judas who saw it as a waste. Then, even as Jesus faces betrayal by Judas and denial by His own disciples, He lovingly serves them at a final Passover meal where He institutes the Lord's Supper, declaring that the bread and wine is His body and blood, given and po...
Mark 13: Jesus Returns at the End of Time
November 20, 2023 18:00 - 58 minutes - 79.8 MBThe Rev. Peter Burfeind, pastor of Agnus Dei Lutheran Church in Marshall, MI & Our Savior Lutheran Church in Union City, MI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 13. Jesus delivers an urgent warning to his disciples about tumultuous events to come before his return - false messiahs, wars, natural disasters, persecution. He advises them to stay alert and steadfast in their faith despite the trials ahead because the Son of Man's return will be sudden and only the Father knows the hour....
Mark 12:18-44: Resurrection Riddles and the Widow’s “Might”
November 17, 2023 18:00 - 54 minutes - 74.8 MBThe Rev. David Boisclair, pastor of Faith and Bethesda Lutheran Churches in Pine Lawn, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 12:18-44. Jesus is challenged by the Sadducees regarding the concept of resurrection and then by one of the scribes on what the greatest commandment is. After Jesus rebuffs these challenges with his infinite wisdom, he then shames the ostentatious displays of wealth by the wealthy with the sacrificial giving of a poor widow. Jesus underscores the value of he...
Mark 11:27-12:17: What is God’s and What is Ceasar’s
November 16, 2023 18:00 - 55 minutes - 75.9 MBThe Rev. Jesse Baker, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Hardwick, MN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 11:27-12:17. The chief priests, scribes, and elders challenge Jesus' authority to teach and perform miracles. Jesus responds with a question about John the Baptist's authority, leaving them unable to answer. He then shares the parable of the tenants, illustrating God's rejection of Israel's religious leaders. The Pharisees and Herodians try to trap Jesus with a question about pa...
Mark 11:1-26: WWJD? Cursing Fig Trees and Overturning Tables
November 15, 2023 18:00 - 54 minutes - 75.2 MBThe Rev. Thomas Eckstein, pastor of Concordia Lutheran Church in Jamestown, ND, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 11:1-26. As Jesus rides triumphantly into Jerusalem on a colt, greeted by jubilant crowds waving palm branches, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Yet, beneath the surface, tension simmers as Jesus confronts the religious establishment and challenges their practices. We then witness a powerful demonstration of Jesus' authority, as he curses a barren fig tree,...
Mark 10:32-52: Greatness in the Kingdom of God
November 14, 2023 18:00 - 55 minutes - 76.1 MBThe Rev. John Lukomski, co-host of Wrestling with the Basics on KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 10:32-52. Find Wrestling with the Basics at kfuo.org/WrestlingWithTheBasics. Jesus predicts his death and resurrection for the third time, and he explains to his disciples the true meaning of greatness and service in his kingdom. He also heals a blind beggar named Bartimaeus, who recognizes him as the Son of David and follows him on the way to Jerusalem. Beneath the fas...
Mark 10:1-31: Marriage, Minors, and Money
November 13, 2023 18:00 - 56 minutes - 77.1 MBThe Rev. Doug Griebenaw, pastor and Mission Advocate at KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 10:1-31. Jesus confronts the Pharisees who test him on the issue of divorce, and he affirms that God’s original design was for a lifelong union between a man and a woman. He also welcomes the little children who come to him and declares that the kingdom of God belongs to those who receive it like a child. Finally, he encounters a rich young man who asks him how to inherit eternal ...
Mark 9:30-50: Temptation? Cut it off!
November 10, 2023 18:00 - 57 minutes - 79.4 MBThe Rev. Kevin Yoakum, pastor of Christ the King Lutheran Church in Riverview, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 9:30-50. Jesus and His disciples leave the region of the Decapolis and head back to Galilee, making their way southeast toward Capernaum and Jesus once again predicts his death and resurrection to his disciples privately. They did not understand but were afraid to ask more. Jesus urges humility, service, care for the vulnerable, and especially the removal of temptat...
Mark 9:2-29: Mountaintop Majesty and Mercy in the Valley
November 09, 2023 18:00 - 58 minutes - 81 MBThe Rev. Adam DeGroot, pastor of Calvary Lutheran Church in Rio Rancho, NM, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 9:2-29. In his transfiguration, Jesus has an amazing and miraculous encounter with Moses and Elijah, revealing his glory to three disciples who were there to witness it. Later, at the foot of the mountain, a desperate father asks Jesus to heal his demon-afflicted son after the disciples failed to do so. With compassion, Jesus rebukes the evil spirit and heals the boy. B...
Mark 8:22-9:1: Once Blind, Now We See
November 08, 2023 18:00 - 56 minutes - 77.3 MBThe Rev. Dr. Curtis Deterding, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Fort Myers, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 8:22-9:1. Blindness gives way to sight and insight as Jesus restores a man's vision. Then, when Peter correctly confesses Jesus to be the Christ, Jesus foretells his impending suffering and death before promising some disciples would see the kingdom of God come in power. Through miraculous healing, pointed questioning, and prophetic revelations, Jesus revealed his div...
Mark 8:1-21: Jesus: Master of Abundance
November 07, 2023 18:00 - 54 minutes - 74.4 MBThe Rev. Kevin Parviz, pastor of Congregation Chai v’ Shalom in St. Louis, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 8:1-21. Jesus performs miracles that reveal his divine power and compassion, feeding thousands with scarce food. He also warns his disciples to beware of the dangerous influence of the Pharisees and Herod. Despite witnessing Jesus' wonders, the disciples still struggle with spiritual blindness, misunderstanding his teachings. Yet Jesus patiently ministers to all who nee...
Mark 7:24-37: We Are All Dogs, This is True
November 06, 2023 18:00 - 51 minutes - 70.9 MBThe Rev. Doug Minton, pastor of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Milford, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 7:24-37. Jesus embarks on a surprising detour that will radically expand the boundaries of his ministry. After resistance from religious leaders, Jesus withdraws from Galilee to the unlikely Gentile regions of Tyre and Sidon. There he grapples with the determined faith of a Canaanite woman begging his help. Later, in the Decapolis, Jesus performs a dramatic healing by uncon...
Free-Text First Friday: Christian Discipline and Discipleship
November 03, 2023 17:00 - 45 minutes - 41.2 MBThe Rev. James Helms, Jr., pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Greenbelt, MD, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to discuss Christian discipleship. The discussion turns to discipline in this last Free-Text First Friday of 2023. What does it mean to be disciplined as a follower of Christ? Far from the negative connotations of punishment or rigid control, biblical discipline is rooted in the overflow of God's love. Through the Holy Spirit, God patiently transforms believers into the image of J...
Mark 7:1-23: Traditions of Men
November 02, 2023 17:00 - 57 minutes - 78.5 MBThe Rev. Christopher Craig, pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Sylvan Grove, KS, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 7:1-23. Tensions erupt as Jesus faces criticism from the Pharisees about his disciples' failure to observe ritual handwashing before meals. When questioned, Jesus boldly accuses these religious leaders of rank hypocrisy and misplaced priorities. Jesus teaches that external rituals cannot make one spiritually clean. Rather, it is the evil desires and intentions tha...
Mark 6:30-56: Jesus Feeds Body and Soul with Miraculous Compassion
November 01, 2023 17:00 - 56 minutes - 77.6 MBThe Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 6:30-56. Exhausted from ministry, Jesus and his disciples seek rest but are besieged by the demanding crowds. As evening falls with no provisions in sight, Jesus performs a miraculous mass feeding with mere scraps of food. He then retreats alone to the mountain before miraculously walking upon the sea to join his beleaguered disciples. Their reaction shifts from terro...
Mark 6:7-29: The Cost of Discipleship
October 31, 2023 17:00 - 55 minutes - 75.5 MBThe Rev. Dr. Mike Nielsen, pastor of Salem Lutheran Church in Barron, WI joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 6:7-29. Jesus sends out his disciples on a mission of preaching and healing, but the passage takes a dark turn with the chilling account of John the Baptist's beheading. This juxtaposition between the disciples' empowered mission and John's tragic end highlights the profound challenges and sacrifices faced by those who bear witness to the truth, making it a riveting explorati...
Mark 5:21-6:6: The Markan Sandwich
October 30, 2023 17:00 - 59 minutes - 82.3 MBThe Rev. Christopher Maronde, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Hastings, IA, and St. Paul Lutheran Church in Oakland, IA joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 5:21-6:6. This passage opens with Jairus, a desperate synagogue leader, seeking Jesus' help to save his dying daughter. Interrupting this urgent mission is a miraculous encounter with a woman who has suffered from a chronic ailment for twelve years takes center stage, illustrating the profound impact of unwavering faith. Th...
Mark 4:35-5:20: Storms Stilled, Demons Defeated
October 27, 2023 17:00 - 56 minutes - 77.2 MBThe Rev. Steven Theiss, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in New Wells, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 4:35-5:20. Jesus and his disciples embark on a journey by boat across the Sea of Galilee. Midway, they encounter a violent storm, illustrating the power of Jesus to command nature. Upon reaching the other side, they are met by a man possessed by a legion of demons, residing among the tombs and exhibiting incredible strength. In a dramatic confrontation, Jesus casts out th...
Mark 4:1-34: The Purpose of Parables
October 26, 2023 17:00 - 1 hour - 82.7 MBThe Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 4:1-34. Jesus teaches in parables to crowds by the sea, relating the parable of the Sower, the lamp on a stand, the growing seed, and the mustard seed. He explains the purpose of parables to his disciples, and interprets the parable of the Sower, describing how the word takes root in those who hear. After dismissing the crowds, we learn that Jesus taught publicly in p...
Mark 3:7-35: Beware Blaspheming the Holy Spirit!
October 25, 2023 17:00 - 57 minutes - 78.6 MBThe Rev. Ben Maton, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Charlottesville, Virginia, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 3:7-35. As Jesus and his disciples withdraw near the Sea of Galilee, huge crowds follow from all over. Jesus heals the sick and casts out demons while reminding people not to make him known for his time had not yet come. He appoints the twelve disciples, granting them authority to preach and cast out demons. Meanwhile, teachers of the law from Jerusalem accuse Jes...
Mark 2:13-3:6: Jesus calls Levi and has Dinner with Sinners
October 24, 2023 17:00 - 49 minutes - 68.6 MBThe Rev. Dr. Burnell Eckardt, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Kewanee, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 2:12-3:6. Jesus calls the tax collector Levi to follow him, and Levi hosts a dinner for Jesus with many other sinners. When questioned by Pharisees for associating with such people, Jesus declares he has come for the sick, not the righteous. He is then questioned for allowing his disciples to pluck grain on the Sabbath to eat. Jesus responds by declaring himself the L...
Mark 1:21-2:12 Audacious Absolution: The Scandal of Forgiveness
October 23, 2023 17:00 - 57 minutes - 79.4 MBThe Rev. Luke Brown, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Ellsworth, Kansas, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 1:21-2:12. This section begins with Jesus' teaching in a synagogue in Capernaum, where his authoritative and powerful teaching amazes the people. During his sermon, he exorcises an unclean spirit from a man, further demonstrating his divine authority. Jesus then heals Simon Peter's mother-in-law, and the news of his miraculous deeds spreads rapidly. In response to the gr...
Mark 1:1-20: A Wilderness Man and a Galilean Preacher
October 20, 2023 17:00 - 56 minutes - 77.6 MBThe Rev. David Boisclair, pastor of Faith and Bethesda Lutheran Churches in Pine Lawn, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Mark 1:1-20. The gospel of Mark wastes no time launching into the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. This chapter introduces John the Baptist, a prophet sent to prepare the way for Christ's arrival. When Jesus comes to the Jordan to be baptized, a voice from heaven declares Him God's beloved Son. Immediately thereafter, Jesus is compelled by the Spirit into the w...
Jonah 3-4: A Vine, a Worm, and a Whiny Prophet
October 19, 2023 17:00 - 58 minutes - 79.6 MBThe Rev. Nabil Nour, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Hartford, SD and fourth vice president of the LCMS, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Jonah 3 & 4. After his ordeal at sea, Jonah finally obeys God's command and preaches repentance in Nineveh. To his surprise, the wicked city heeds his words and turns from evil, sparking widespread repentance. Instead of rejoicing, Jonah becomes angry with God for relenting in judgment against Nineveh. After sheltering under a plant for shade, ...
Jonah 1-2: Going Overboard with Jonah
October 18, 2023 17:00 - 55 minutes - 76.1 MBThe Rev. Thomas Eckstein, pastor of Concordia Lutheran Church in Jamestown, ND, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Jonah 1 & 2. Jonah receives a divine command to preach in Nineveh, but he attempts to thwart God's will by boarding a ship in the opposite direction. His disobedience seems to incite a fierce storm that threatens to destroy the vessel. When the terrified sailors learn Jonah is running from his God, they reluctantly cast him into the raging sea at his request. Swallowed by a...
Joshua 24: “Choose this Day:” The Covenant Renewed
October 17, 2023 17:00 - 57 minutes - 78.2 MBThe Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 24. The curtain falls on Joshua's leadership as he has assembled the Israelites at Shechem. With the Promised Land secured and challenges met Joshua delivers his final address, underscoring the pivotal choice between serving the one true God or following false idols. “Choose this day whom you will serve!” This often-misapplied verse emphasizes the theme of this chapter, ...
Joshua 23: Leading While Leaving: Joshua's Farewell
October 16, 2023 17:00 - 52 minutes - 72.2 MBThe Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study the Joshua 23. The aging leader, Joshua, has gathered the Israelites at Shechem, the sacred ground of their forefathers' covenant with God. With Canaan conquered, Joshua imparts his final counsel, emphasizing the crucial balance of faith and obedience, urging the people to remain steadfast in their covenant with the Almighty. This chapter encapsulates Joshua's legacy of unwavering...
Joshua 22: “Altar” Egos and Misunderstood Motives
October 13, 2023 17:00 - 56 minutes - 77.1 MBThe Rev. Robert Paul, associate pastor and headmaster of Memorial Lutheran Church and School in Houston, TX, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 22. This chapter takes us to the eastern side of the Jordan River, where the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh have settled. As they prepare to return to their own lands, they erect an altar at the river's edge, sparking fears of apostasy among the other tribes in the Promised Land. Poised for war, a delegation is sent...
Joshua 20-21: Sanctuary Cities, Avengers of Blood, and the Levites
October 12, 2023 17:00 - 58 minutes - 80.7 MBThe Rev. Keith Lingsch, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Naples, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 20 and 21. In Joshua 20, we witness the establishment of six cities of refuge strategically located throughout the land, providing sanctuary for those who accidentally took another's life, ensuring fair judgment and protection against avengers of blood. Chapter 21 then unveils the meticulous allocation of the cities and lands to Levi, a process executed with unwavering precis...
Joshua 19: The Allotment Continues
October 11, 2023 17:00 - 55 minutes - 76.8 MBThe Rev. Dr. Curtis Deterding, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Fort Myers, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 19. From the unique inheritance for Simeon to the maritime tribe of Zebulun, nestled along the Mediterranean coast, to the territories awarded to Naphtali, Asher, and others, we witness the intricate design of God's promises being fulfilled. In chapter 19, as we navigate through these unique allotments, we not only gain a geographical understanding of the land but a...
Joshua 18: War is Over, Time to Divvy up the Land
October 10, 2023 17:00 - 57 minutes - 79.1 MBThe Rev. John Lukomski, co-host of Wrestling with the Basics on KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 18. Find Wrestling with the Basics at kfuo.org/WrestlingWithTheBasics. Seven Israelite tribes still anxiously await their allotted portions of the promised land. In this chapter, Joshua summons their leaders and commands them to traverse the unconquered territories, measuring every hill and valley. Armed with surveying tools, the men meticulously map the regions, determi...
Joshua 16-17: The Allotment for Ephraim and Manasseh
October 09, 2023 17:00 - 55 minutes - 76.1 MBThe Rev. Doug Griebenaw, pastor and Mission Advocate at KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 16 and 17. These chapters reveal how the territory in the Promised Land was divided among the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. Chapter 16 outlines the specific boundaries and cities within Ephraim's territory, while chapter 17 delves into how land was assigned to the half-tribe of Manasseh. In particular, we hear the story of Zelophehad's daughters, who successfully advocated for...
Free-Text First Friday: The Past and Future of Church Membership
October 06, 2023 17:00 - 1 hour - 42.6 MBThe Rev. Brandt Hoffman, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church and School in Coos Bay, OR, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to discuss the topic of church membership. This special episode features a provocative discussion about the changing landscape of church membership and what it means to belong to a congregation. The pastors outline the modern view that casts members as volunteers, attendees, and financial contributors and contrast that with historic notions of membership rooted in confession a...
Joshua 15: Setting the Stage for Jesus
October 05, 2023 17:00 - 54 minutes - 75.4 MBThe Rev. Paul Cain, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sheridan, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 15. This chapter unfolds before us the allotment of the Promised Land for the tribe of Judah. As we traverse the diverse territories assigned to this, the most important of Israelite tribes, we see the historical context that would later play a pivotal role in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Beyond the geographical boundaries, Joshua 15 carries a timeless message abou...
Joshua 14: Resting on the Promises of God
October 04, 2023 17:00 - 56 minutes - 77.1 MBThe Rev. Ryan Kleimola, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Toledo, OH, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 14. We now encounter the inspirational account of Caleb, a man of unwavering faith who, at the age of 85, fueled by his resolute determination and trust in God's promises, boldly requests the mountainous region of Hebron as his inheritance. Caleb was among the twelve spies who initially scouted the land of Canaan, and his faith remained unshaken despite the daunting challen...
Joshua 13: From Conquests to Allotments
October 03, 2023 17:00 - 54 minutes - 75.4 MBThe Rev. Kevin Parviz, pastor of Congregation Chai v’ Shalom in St. Louis, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 13. Joshua, the leader of the Israelites, is instructed by God to divide the remaining territories, particularly focusing on the regions that were not yet conquered. The chapter lists specific regions and their rulers, emphasizing the importance of completing the conquest and distribution of the land to fulfill God's promises to the Israelites. This chapter serves as ...
Joshua 12: Kings God Defeated through Moses and Joshua
October 02, 2023 17:00 - 51 minutes - 70.6 MBThe Rev. Jacob Heine, pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Topeka, KS, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 12. This chapter serves as a captivating historical ledger, meticulously listing the kings and territories conquered by the Israelites under the leadership of Joshua. It's a compelling testament to the fulfillment of God's promise and the relentless determination of the Israelites as they secure their foothold in the Promised Land. The Book of Joshua is a compelling account ...
Joshua 10:29-11:23: Canaan Conquests in the North and South
September 29, 2023 17:00 - 55 minutes - 76.5 MBThe Rev. Matthew Kusch, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church and School - Aurora, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 10:29-11:23. Joshua and the Israelites press on in their military campaign to conquer the southern and northern regions of the Promised Land. Throughout these victories, they follow the command of YHWH to utterly destroy these cities and their people, leaving no survivors. Their success in capturing the cities, along with their respective kings and inhabitants, d...
Joshua 10:1-28: The Sun Stood Still and The Battle was Won
September 28, 2023 17:00 - 53 minutes - 73.9 MBThe Rev. Ross Shaver, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church and School in Nampa, Idaho, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 10:1-28. The chapter begins with the news that the city of Gibeon, a Canaanite city, has formed an alliance with Israel by tricking Joshua into making a covenant of peace. When the neighboring Amorite kings learn of this alliance, they unite to attack Gibeon. In response, Joshua leads his forces on a grueling overnight march to rescue Gibeon. What follows is an extr...
Joshua 9: The Gibeonite Deception
September 27, 2023 17:00 - 55 minutes - 76.2 MBThe Rev. Prof. Adolph Harstad, professor emeritus at Bethany Lutheran Theological Seminary, Mankato, MN, and author of Concordia Commentary: Joshua, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 9. A group of Canaanite inhabitants from the city of Gibeon devise a cunning plan to deceive the Israelites. They pretend to be travelers from a distant land and seek a peace treaty with the Israelites, who are in the process of conquering the Promised Land. Joshua and the Israelites, unaware of th...
Joshua 8: The Battle of Ai: Take Two
September 26, 2023 17:00 - 57 minutes - 78.2 MBThe Rev. Brian Davies, pastor of Lord of Glory Lutheran Church in Grayslake, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 8. Having learned from their previous mistake at Ai, Joshua and the Israelites devise a brilliant military strategy, orchestrated with divine guidance. This chapter narrates the successful siege of Ai, as the Israelites employ a clever ambush tactic. The renewed confidence and unity of the Israelite army, along with their adherence to God's instructions, lead to a r...
Joshua 7: Achan Takes Forbidden Loot (and Pays a Heavy Price)
September 25, 2023 17:00 - 58 minutes - 79.9 MBThe Rev. James Helms, Jr., pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Greenbelt, MD, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 7. After the miraculous victory at Jericho, the Israelites are filled with confidence, but things take a sudden turn. The chapter reveals the story of Achan, who disobeys God's command by taking forbidden plunder from Jericho. This act of disobedience brings a devastating consequence, as the Israelites suffer a defeat at the hands of the city of Ai. Joshua's bewild...
Joshua 6: The Walls Came Tumbling Down
September 22, 2023 17:00 - 56 minutes - 78 MBThe Rev. Steven Theiss, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in New Wells, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 6. Joshua 6 unveils one of the most iconic stories in the Bible—the miraculous fall of Jericho's walls. In this chapter, we witness Joshua's divine strategy for conquering this formidable city. The Israelites, led by priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant, march around Jericho for seven days, while trumpets sound. On the seventh day, the walls of Jericho dramatically ...
Joshua 5: Promised Land Passover
September 21, 2023 17:00 - 55 minutes - 76 MBThe Rev. Matthew Tassey, pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Shawnee, OK, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 5. Encamped near Jericho, the Israelites undergo the rite of circumcision—something they had failed to do for a generation — signifying their renewed covenant with God and their commitment to His commandments as they prepare to confront the formidable city. This chapter also describes the observance of the Passover, a sacred feast celebrating God's deliverance and provis...
Joshua 3-4: The Israelites Cross on Dry Ground (Again!)
September 20, 2023 17:00 - 55 minutes - 76.8 MBThe Rev. Thomas Eckstein, pastor of Concordia Lutheran Church in Jamestown, ND, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 3-4. As the Israelites stand on the banks of the Jordan River, Joshua receives specific instructions from YHWH to have the priests, bearing the Ark, step into the river's rushing waters and stand still. In an event that mirrors the earlier crossing of the Red Sea, the Jordan miraculously halts its flow, allowing the entire Israelite nation to cross over on dry ground...
Joshua 2: Rahab Helps the Israelite Spies
September 19, 2023 17:00 - 56 minutes - 77.8 MBThe Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 2. Joshua sends two spies to secretly scout the city of Jericho. These spies find refuge in the home of Rahab, a Canaanite prostitute. Rahab's courageous decision to hide the Israelite spies and her declaration of faith in the God of Israel shine as key elements of this chapter. Her plea for protection and her willingness to cooperate with the spies results in an allianc...
Joshua 1: Be Strong and Courageous
September 18, 2023 17:00 - 56 minutes - 77.3 MBThe Rev. Tyler Hauptmeier, pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Doniphan, NE, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Joshua 1. A significant transition in Israelite history occurs as Joshua takes the mantle of leadership from Moses. This first chapter is characterized by God's direct command to Joshua to be strong and courageous, assuring him of divine guidance. It's a moment of profound responsibility and faith as the Israelites prepare to cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. ...
NEW BOOK: Joshua
September 18, 2023 16:45 - 27 seconds - 642 KBThe Book of Joshua is a compelling account of the Israelites' conquest of Canaan under the leadership of Joshua. It narrates their journey from the crossing of the Jordan River to the triumphant capture of the Promised Land. Filled with military campaigns, divine guidance, and moments of faith and obedience, this book underscores the fulfillment of God's promises and the importance of unwavering commitment to their divine mission. It stands as a powerful testament to the faith, resilience, an...