658: Epiphany 4A (2/1/2026)
Pulpit Fiction Podcast
Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Robb McCoy explore the Beatitudes from the Gospel of Matthew, Micah 6's call for justice and humility, and the message of the cross in 1 Corinthians. They discuss the importance of community relationships in ministry, the depth of the Beatitudes, and the implications of Micah's message for contemporary faith practice. The conversation emphasizes the need for justice, mercy, and humility in the Christian life, while also addressing the foolishness of worldly wisdom in light of God's truth. Takeaways The...
info_outline
657: Epiphany 3A (1/25/2026)
Pulpit Fiction Podcast
Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler delve into the Gospel reading from Matthew 4:12-23, which recounts the calling of the fishermen. They explore the significance of Jesus' call to Simon Peter and Andrew, as well as James and John, emphasizing the differences in the Gospel narratives. The discussion highlights the socio-political context of Galilee, where Jesus begins his ministry amid Roman oppression, and the implications of being 'fishers of men' as a call to advocate for justice rather than mere evangelism. The hosts also touch on...
info_outline
656: Epiphany 2A (1/18/2026)
Pulpit Fiction Podcast
Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy explore the lectionary readings for the second Sunday after Epiphany, focusing on the Gospel of John, Isaiah's servant songs, and Paul's letter to the Corinthians. They discuss the significance of Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy, the challenges of navigating ordinary time amidst current events, and the importance of community and spiritual gifts in the church. The conversation emphasizes the prophetic voice in ministry and the call to action for preachers and congregations alike. Takeaways The...
info_outline
655: Baptism of Christ A (1/11/2026)
Pulpit Fiction Podcast
Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler explore the significance of the Baptism of Christ as described in Matthew 3:13-17, alongside readings from Isaiah 42 and Acts 10. They discuss the implications of baptism, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the inclusivity of God's message. The conversation reflects on the importance of understanding baptism as a rite of initiation into the community of faith, emphasizing justice and the call to action for all believers. Takeaways Baptism is a rite of initiation into the community of faith. The...
info_outline
Christmastide 2 (1/4/2026) REB
Pulpit Fiction Podcast
Originally boradcast 1/3/2021 w Richard Bruxvoort Colligan w Mason Parks
info_outline
654: Epiphany (1/4/2026)
Pulpit Fiction Podcast
Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Robb McCoy explore the significance of Epiphany, focusing on the visit of the Magi and the gifts they brought. They discuss the importance of understanding the context of the Magi's visit, debunking common myths, and emphasizing the practical and symbolic meanings of the gifts. The conversation also touches on themes of maternal health, community support, and the universal message of God's grace for all people. The hosts reflect on the prophetic words of Isaiah and the secret plan revealed in Ephesians,...
info_outline
653: Christmas 1A (12/28/2025)
Pulpit Fiction Podcast
Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler discuss the lectionary readings for the first Sunday of Christmas, focusing on Matthew 2:13-23, the flight to Egypt, and the implications of Herod's tyranny. They explore themes of hospitality, the significance of the Old Testament connections, and the faithfulness of God as highlighted in Isaiah 63. The conversation also delves into the humanity of Christ as presented in Hebrews 2, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of the incarnation in today's context. Takeaways The podcast discusses the...
info_outline
652: Christmas Eve (12/24/2025)
Pulpit Fiction Podcast
Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy explore the significance of Christmas Eve, focusing on the Gospel of Luke and John. They discuss the nativity story, emphasizing themes of hospitality, community, and the deeper meanings behind familiar narratives. The conversation highlights the importance of welcoming God into our lives and the transformative power of the incarnation. Through reflections on the shepherds and the poetic nature of John's Gospel, the hosts invite listeners to engage with the Christmas story in a meaningful way....
info_outline
651: Advent 4A (12/21/2025)
Pulpit Fiction Podcast
Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb and Eric discuss the readings for the fourth Sunday of Advent, focusing on Matthew 1:18-25, Isaiah 7:10-16, and Romans 1:1-7. They explore the significance of Joseph's role in the birth of Jesus, the prophetic message of Isaiah regarding Emmanuel, and the implications of Paul's letter to the Romans. The conversation emphasizes themes of faith, the importance of trusting in God, and the call to action for believers during the Advent season. Takeaways The birth of Jesus is a significant event in the Gospel of Matthew,...
info_outline
650: Advent 3A (12/14/2025)
Pulpit Fiction Podcast
Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Robb McCoy discuss the themes of Advent, focusing on the readings from Matthew, Isaiah, and James. They explore the challenges faced by churches during winter weather, the significance of John the Baptist's message, and the tension between expectations and reality during the Advent season. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, patience, and the transformative power of faith, while also addressing the need for inclusivity and understanding in the church. Takeaways Advent is a time of...
info_outlineSummary
In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Robb McCoy discuss the themes of Advent, focusing on the readings from Matthew, Isaiah, and James. They explore the challenges faced by churches during winter weather, the significance of John the Baptist's message, and the tension between expectations and reality during the Advent season. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, patience, and the transformative power of faith, while also addressing the need for inclusivity and understanding in the church.
Takeaways
- Advent is a time of reflection and preparation for the coming of Christ.
- John the Baptist's doubts highlight the human experience of uncertainty.
- Jesus invites us to see the good news in our midst, even amidst disappointment.
- The readings from Isaiah emphasize hope and restoration for the community.
- Patience in faith is not passive; it requires active engagement and community building.
- Transformation is a key theme in the Christmas narrative.
- The kingdom of God is present in acts of love and justice.
- Inclusivity is essential in understanding the message of the Gospel.
- Advent invites us to hold the tension between joy and sorrow.
- The church's role is to support and uplift those in need.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Advent and Church Challenges
05:53 Joy Sunday and Its Significance
13:09 John the Baptist's Doubts and Human Expectations
18:47 The Tension of Advent: Joy and Struggle
24:38 Exploring Isaiah: Faithfulness and Renewal
27:32 Jesus and Isaiah: A Transformative Connection
28:34 Understanding Isaiah's Context: Exile and Hope
29:03 The Vision of Transformation: Community and Creation
30:40 Walking the Road to Wholeness: A Spiritual Journey
32:51 Inclusion and Acceptance: Redefining Community
35:52 The Holy Way: A Journey for All
39:02 The Unclean and the Clean: Choices in Community
40:25 Patience and Action: The Call of James
46:41 Building the Kingdom: A Collective Effort