Pulpit Fiction Podcast

Notes John 10:1-10 Acts 2:42-47 Summary Exploring the rich metaphors of Jesus as the Good Shepherd and the Gate in John 10, and their implications for inclusive community and spiritual life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Good Shepherd Sunday 02:51 Exploring John 10: The Gate and the Shepherd 05:45 Contextualizing the Text: Inclusivity vs Exclusivity 09:07 The Role of the Shepherd in Caring for the Community 11:56 Understanding the Gate: Pathways to Abundant Life 15:08 The Thief vs The Good Shepherd 18:06 Living a Meaningful Life vs Material Abundance 21:10 The Call to Follow Jesus' Voice 24:04 Contemporary Applications of the Text 26:56 Exploring the Concept of Peace 28:11 Acts 2: The Early Church Community 29:23 Radical Transformation and Community Dynamics 31:24 Salvation Through Community 34:43 The Four Pillars of Community 38:10 The Role of Food in Building Community 40:45 Radical Reshaping of Enough 42:00 The Community Beyond Believers 46:27 Closing Thoughts and Community Engagement  

Notes Luke 24:13-35 Acts 2:14a, 36-41 Summary This episode explores the profound Easter story from Luke 24 and Acts 2, focusing on recognition, community, and transformation through the resurrection of Jesus. Join us as we unpack the significance of breaking bread, baptism, and the ongoing call to embody Christ's love. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Easter Season 02:57 Reflections on Easter Services 03:51 The Road to Emmaus: A Journey of Recognition 08:52 Understanding the Disciples' Confusion 14:48 The Breaking of Bread: A Moment of Revelation 22:40 The Role of the Church in Sharing the Good News 25:10 The Significance of Table Fellowship 28:31 Community and Revelation in Faith 31:13 Experiencing Jesus Beyond the Pulpit 32:51 Peter's Call to Action in Acts 40:30 Transformation Through Repentance and Community

Notes John 20:19-31 Acts 2:14A, 22-32 Summary Exploring the profound themes of Easter and Pentecost in John 20 and Acts 2, this episode delves into the significance of belief, forgiveness, and the transformative power of resurrection. Join us as we unpack these scriptures and their relevance for faith communities today. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context of the Episode 04:52 Exploring the Story of Doubting Thomas 10:02 The Significance of Belief and Forgiveness 15:02 The Role of the Holy Spirit and Community 19:59 The Challenge of Forgiveness in Today's Context 23:44 The Weight of Forgiveness 24:51 Peace and Reconciliation in the Resurrection 27:05 The Nature of Jesus' Peace 29:02 Belief Beyond Sight 31:12 Transformative Love and Community 32:53 The Challenge of Change 34:27 Peter's Proclamation at Pentecost 36:16 Understanding Resurrection Through Scripture 39:00 The Role of David in the Resurrection 42:01 The Significance of Jesus' Resurrection 46:04 Grounding Faith in Historical Context  

Notes Matthew 28:1-10 John 20:1-18 Summary This episode explores the Easter resurrection stories from Matthew and John, analyzing their unique elements, theological themes, and practical implications for preaching and faith. It emphasizes the significance of seeing, believing, and living in the hope of the resurrection. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Easter Readings 04:48 Exploring Matthew's Resurrection Narrative 21:09 The Significance of Seeing in Matthew's Gospel 27:11 Embracing Grief and Fearlessness 27:55 Understanding Fear in a Privileged World 30:10 The Call to Action: Don't Be Afraid 32:07 Seeing and Acting: The Encounter with Jesus 33:59 The Resurrection Narrative in John 20 37:09 Belief and Understanding in the Empty Tomb 40:16 The Role of Mary Magdalene in the Resurrection 42:04 Experiencing Resurrection: A Call to Action 44:25 Intimacy and Grief in the Resurrection Encounter 51:24 Conclusion and Reflections on the Resurrection  

Notes Matthew 21:1-11 Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy delve into the significance of Palm Sunday, focusing on Matthew 21:1-17. They explore the themes of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the cleansing of the temple, and the political implications of these actions. The conversation highlights the symbolism of the donkey, the role of religious authorities, and the contrasting responses of marginalized voices versus established power. The hosts reflect on contemporary issues and the importance of service and protest in the face of oppression, ultimately encouraging listeners to consider how these themes resonate in today's world. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Palm Sunday and Episode 666 02:47 Exploring Matthew 21: The Triumphal Entry 06:03 The Cleansing of the Temple 08:58 Symbolism of the Donkey and the Cult 11:48 Jesus as the New Moses 15:03 Political Implications of Jesus' Entry 18:04 The Role of the Religious Authorities 21:02 Children's Prais

Notes John 11:1-45 Ezekiel 37:1-14 Romans 8:6-11 Summary Exploring the profound themes of resurrection, faith, and community through biblical stories from John 11, Ezekiel 37, and Romans 8, this episode delves into how these scriptures inspire hope and renewal in challenging times. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 03:10 Lent Preparations and Sanctuary Updates 04:43 Exploring the Gospel of John: Lazarus' Story 09:03 The Significance of Jesus' Miracles 11:18 The Irony of Death for God's Glory 14:25 Understanding Jesus' Control Over Life and Death 18:09 The Importance of Timing in Jesus' Actions 20:34 Mary, Martha, and the Depth of Jesus' Love 24:41 Jesus Weeps: A Moment of Human Connection 27:29 Thomas: The Brave Disciple 30:43 Reflections on Thomas and the Cost of Discipleship 31:25 The Complexity of Belief and Doubt 32:00 Come and See: The Invitation to Witness 34:18 Living into Jesus: The Promise of Resurrection 40:19 Ezekiel's Vision: Dry Bones and New Life 52:20 Life in the Spiri

Notes John 9: 1-41 1 Samuel 16:1-13 Ephesians 5:8-14 Summary This episode explores the profound themes of sight, blindness, and community in John 9, alongside insights from 1 Samuel 16 and Ephesians 5. Join us as we unpack the spiritual and social implications of these passages, emphasizing justice, love, and God's call to see beyond appearances. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 01:52 Survey Results and Community Engagement 04:28 Exploring John 9: The Healing of the Blind Man 09:05 Understanding the Johannine Community's Struggles 12:00 The Significance of Jesus' Healing 17:47 Reframing Disability and Divine Works 22:03 The Blindness of the Pharisees 25:53 Community and the Fear of Expulsion 29:50 Judgment and Illness in Modern Contexts 32:10 The Blind Beggar: A Community's Responsibility 34:07 God's Mighty Works: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion 37:05 Anointing: Seeing Beyond Appearance 40:45 The Power of Anointing in Worship 42:51 Chosen for Responsibility: The Weight of Anointin

Notes John 4:5-42 Exodus 17:1-7 Romans 5:1-11 Psalm 95 Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler explore the readings for the third Sunday of Lent, focusing on the Gospel of John 4:5-42, the story of the Woman at the Well. They discuss the cultural context of the passage, the significance of Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman, and the themes of transformation and evangelism. The conversation also delves into Exodus 17, examining the Israelites' struggles in the wilderness, and Romans 5, reflecting on justification and the nature of God's love. The hosts emphasize the importance of recognizing God's presence in our lives and the call to embody faith through action. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 02:59 Exploring the Gospel of John 4: The Woman at the Well 08:03 Cultural Context and Significance of the Encounter 14:06 Theological Implications of Living Water 18:44 Transformation and Evangelism: The Woman's Testimony 26:00 Understa

Notes John 3:1-17 Genesis 12:1-4a Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 02:57 Exploring John 3: Nicodemus and the Concept of Being Born Again 13:13 The Journey of Faith: Nicodemus' Transformation 19:20 Understanding 'Born Again': A Deeper Look 24:03 The Significance of Jesus Being Lifted Up 29:10 The Invitation of Belief: A Call to All 30:36 The Way of Jesus: A Universal Understanding 35:50 Genesis 12: The Call of Abram 48:59 Romans 4: Abraham's Faith and Righteousness Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy explore the themes of faith, transformation, and the journey of understanding through biblical texts. They delve into John 3, discussing Nicodemus's encounter with Jesus and the concept of being 'born again.' The conversation transitions to Genesis 12, where God calls Abram to be a blessing to all nations, and concludes with a discussion on Romans 4, emphasizing justification by faith. The hosts reflect on the implic

Notes Matthew 4:1-11 Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 Romans 5:12-19 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 03:03 Exploring the Temptation of Jesus 12:00 Understanding the Nature of Satan 20:00 The Connection Between Baptism and Temptation 29:58 The Genesis Narrative: The Fall of Humanity 50:00 Paul's Perspective on Sin and Grace Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler explore the readings for the first Sunday of Lent, focusing on the temptation of Jesus in Matthew 4:1-11, the Genesis narrative of Adam and Eve, and Paul's reflections on sin and grace in Romans 5:12-19. The conversation delves into the nature of Satan, the significance of baptism, and the implications of human choice, shame, and the quest for knowledge. Through a thoughtful examination of these texts, the hosts encourage listeners to reflect on their own faith journeys and the complexities of biblical interpretation. Takeaways The first Sunday of Lent focuses on the temptation of Jes

Notes Matthew 17:1-9 Exodus 24:12-18 2 Peter 1:16-21 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Transfiguration Sunday 05:31 Exploring the Transfiguration of Jesus 12:02 The Significance of Transfiguration Sunday 20:35 The Role of Festivals in Worship 27:21 Transitioning into Lent 30:01 The Encounter with Moses in Exodus 39:35 Understanding 2nd Peter and Its Context Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy delve into the significance of Transfiguration Sunday, exploring the biblical texts from Matthew, Exodus, and 2nd Peter. They discuss the importance of transformation in faith, the role of festivals in worship, and the transition into Lent. The conversation highlights the need for churches to balance sacred spaces with active ministry in the community, emphasizing the call for believers to be transformed by their faith and to recognize the presence of God in their lives. Takeaways Transfiguration Sunday is a pivotal moment in the Christian calendar. The stories of the T

Notes Matthew 5:13-20 Isaiah 58:1-12 1 Corinthians 2:1-16 Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler discuss the readings for the fifth Sunday after Epiphany, focusing on Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-12, and 1 Corinthians 2:1-16. They explore themes of identity, the importance of community engagement, and the call to live out one's faith through action. The conversation emphasizes the significance of being 'salt and light' in the world, the necessity of justice in worship, and the transformative power of Christ's message. Takeaways The Beatitudes set the foundation for understanding our value in God's eyes. Being 'salt of the earth' means recognizing our worth and the impact we can have. Worship should lead to action and justice in the community. Christ's crucifixion serves as a model for nonviolent protest against injustice. The importance of context in interpreting biblical passages cannot be overstated. Our voices and actions matter in the pursuit of justice

Notes Matthew 5:1-12 Micah 6:1-8 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 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 Beatitudes highlight the values of the Kingdom of God. Building relationships with other Christian communities is essential for support during crises. Micah 6 emphasizes justice, mercy, and humility as core requirements from God. The message of the cross challenges worldly wisdom and power structures. Preachers should focus on the heart of the Beatitudes rather than just the te

Notes Matthew 4:12-23 Isaiah 9:1-4 1 Corinthians 1:10-18 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 the upcoming readings from Isaiah and 1 Corinthians, drawing connections between the texts and contemporary issues of division within the church and society. Takeaways Jesus's call to the fishermen is immediate and transformative. The Gospels present different perspectives on the same events. The arrest of John the Baptist serves as a catalyst for Jesus's ministry. Ch

Notes John 1:29-42 Isaiah 49:1-7 1 Corinthians 1:1-19 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 podcast discusses the lectionary readings for the second Sunday after Epiphany. Current events and political realities are impacting the church's message. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy is a significant theme for this weekend's sermons. The Gospel of John presents a unique perspective on the calling of the disciples. Isaiah's servant songs provide a prophetic framework for und

Notes Matthew 3:13-17 Isaiah 42:1-9 Acts 10:34-43 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 significance of Jesus' baptism lies in its connection to humanity. Understanding baptism requires exploring its theological implications. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the life of believers. Baptism is not just a personal act but a communal responsibility. God's message is inclusive and reaches all people. The act of baptism symbolizes a commitment to justice and service.

Originally boradcast 1/3/2021 NOTES John 1:1-18 Jeremiah 31:7-14 Psalm 147:12-20 w Richard Bruxvoort Colligan Psalmimmersion.com @pomopsalmist Patreon  Ephesians 1:3-14 w Mason Parks

Notes Matthew 2:1-12 Isaiah 60:1-6 Ephesians 3:1-12 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, encouraging listeners to consider their role in the community and the importance of showing up for one another. Takeaways Epiphany is a significant day in the Christian calendar, often overlooked. The visit of the Magi symbolizes the universal reach of Christ's message. The gifts of the Magi were practical and essential for Mary and Jesus. Understanding the context of biblical st

Notes Matthew 2:13-23 Isaiah 63:7-9 Hebrews 2:10-18 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 lectionary readings for the first Sunday of Christmas. Attendance challenges during the holiday season are common for many churches. The flight to Egypt is a significant and often overlooked part of the Christmas story. Herod's actions reflect the tyranny and fear of oppressive regimes. The theme of hospitality is crucial in the context of the Holy Family's journey. Connections betw

Notes Luke 2:1-20 John 1:1-14 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. Takeaways This year Christmas falls on a Wednesday, which is exciting for many. The podcast will focus on the Gospel of Luke and John for Christmas Eve. Rob is hosting a preaching retreat in January for those interested in planning their sermons. The story of Jesus' birth is often simplified, but it holds deeper meanings. The concept of 'no room at the inn' can be reframed to highlight hospitality. S