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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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Christmastide 2 (1/4/2026) REB
Pulpit Fiction Podcast
Originally boradcast 1/3/2021 w Richard Bruxvoort Colligan w Mason Parks
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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,...
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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...
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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....
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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,...
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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...
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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, focusing on Joseph's role.
Joseph's righteousness is highlighted as he chooses compassion over the law.
Isaiah's prophecy about Emmanuel emphasizes God's presence with us.
Advent is a time of waiting and preparation, calling for active faith.
The third way of trusting in God amidst challenges is crucial.
The names of Jesus carry deep meaning and significance.
Paul's letter to the Romans connects the promise of God to all people.
The role of adoptive fathers is an important theme in the narrative.
Faith in God calls us to action and advocacy for justice.
The conversation encourages a deeper understanding of scripture and its application.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Advent and the Gospel Readings
06:57 Exploring Matthew 1:18-25 - The Birth of Jesus
25:48 Isaiah 7:10-16 - The Prophecy of Emmanuel
27:31 The Context of Isaiah and Ahaz
30:05 The Third Way: Trusting in God
33:22 Vulnerability and the Sign of a Child
39:17 Active Faith in a Troubled World
44:34 Eschatology and the Promise of Christ