Pulpit Fiction Podcast

Notes Matthew 22:34-46 Deuteronomy 34:1-12 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler discuss the lectionary readings for the week, focusing on the greatest commandment from Matthew, the death of Moses from Deuteronomy, and the implications of these texts for faith and community. They reflect on the importance of asking questions in faith...

Notes Matthew 22:15-22 Exodus 33:12-23 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy explore the lectionary texts for the week, including Matthew 22, Exodus 33, and First Thessalonians. They discuss the significance of these passages for preaching and the themes of hypocrisy, divine presence, and stewardship. The conversation highlights the...

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Notes Matthew 21:33-46 Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20 In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy delve into the parable of the wicked tenants from Matthew 21. They explore the implications of the parable in the context of Jewish leadership and the rejection of prophets, emphasizing the need for accountability and the importance of producing good fruits in ministry....

Notes Matthew 21:23-32 Exodus 17:1-7 In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler delve into the Gospel of Matthew, focusing on the theme of authority as Jesus confronts the religious leaders. They explore the implications of the parable of the two sons, discussing how authority is perceived and challenged in contemporary ministry. The conversation emphasizes th...

Notes Matthew 20:1-16 Exodus 16:2-15 In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy delve into the parable of the Workers in the Vineyard from Matthew 20:1-16. They explore themes of fairness, grace, and the nature of the Kingdom of God, challenging traditional perceptions of work and reward. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the broader c...

Notes Matthew 18:21-35 Exodus 14:19-31 In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler delve into the theme of forgiveness as presented in the Gospel of Matthew. They explore the parable of the unforgiving servant, emphasizing the importance of mercy and the interconnectedness of community. The discussion highlights the complexities of forgiveness, the role of debt...

Notes Matthew 18:15-20 Exodus 12:1-14 In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy explore the themes of conflict resolution, community, and reconciliation as presented in the Gospel of Matthew. They reflect on the legacy of Dolly Parton and the importance of direct communication in resolving conflicts. The conversation emphasizes the challenges of addressing sys...

In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler discuss the lectionary texts for Proper 17, focusing on Matthew 16:21-28, where Jesus predicts his suffering and challenges his disciples to understand the true nature of discipleship. They explore the implications of following a Christ who leads to the cross, the cost of discipleship, and the importance of inviting t...

8/23/2026 REBROADCAST 555: Proper 16A (August 27, 2023) Hello and welcome to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, the lectionary podcast for preachers, seekers and Bible geeks. This is episode 555 for Sunday, August 27, 2023, Proper 16, Ordinary 21, Year A. Matthew 16:13-20 Who do you say that I am? Exodus 1:8-2:10 Shiphrah, Puah, and Miriam Romans 12:1-8 Living sacrifice with Robin Lovett-Owen

Notes Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28 Genesis 45:1-15 This episode explores the complex and transformative stories of Jesus' interactions with the Canaanite woman and the story of Joseph, highlighting themes of growth, forgiveness, and social justice. (00:00) Episode intro and the lectionary texts for Proper 15A   (01:35) Listener emails, including Mabel Laird's insight on Matthew 21   (05:57) Matthew 15...

Notes Matthew 14:22-33 Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28 In this episode, we explore the profound lessons from the story of Peter walking on water, emphasizing the importance of faith, self-trust, and the need for self-care in ministry. We discuss how these biblical insights can inspire and guide contemporary faith practices. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode and main themes 01:53 Jesus walking on wa...

Notes Matthew 14:13-21 Genesis 32:22-31 Join us as we explore the rich biblical stories of the feeding of the five thousand and Jacob's wrestling with God, delving into themes of abundance, compassion, and faith's struggles. This episode offers deep insights into scripture's relevance for faith and life today. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode and biblical context 05:13 The feeding of the...

7/26/2026 REBROADCAST 551: Proper 12A (July 30, 2023) Welcome to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, the lectionary podcast for preachers, seekers and Bible geeks. This is episode 551 for Sunday, July 30, 2023, Proper 12, Ordinary 17, Year A. Romans 8:26-39  Nothing Can Separate Us - No voice in the wilderness - checkout previous show. Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52  Mustard Seed, Yeast, Pearls and the Kingdom o...

Notes Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 Genesis 28:10-19a

Notes Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 Genesis 25:19-34 In this episode, we explore the parable of the soils from Matthew 13, examining its themes of faith, receptivity, and the nature of God's grace. We also discuss the story of Jacob and Esau from Genesis 25, highlighting themes of family dynamics, favoritism, and divine purpose. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 05:12 Exploring the...

Notes Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 In this episode, Robb and Eric explore the depths of biblical stories, focusing on themes of agency, justice, and the critique of Christian nationalism. They analyze passages from Matthew and Genesis, offering insights into how these texts challenge and inspire faith communities today. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Po...

Notes Matthew 10:40-42 Genesis 22:1-14 In this episode, we explore the challenging and complex stories of Genesis 22 and Matthew 10, examining themes of faith, sacrifice, hospitality, and God's justice. Join us as we unpack these biblical narratives and their relevance today. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 01:22 Contemplative Prayer and Its Importance 05:39 Exploring the...

Notes Matthew 10:24-39 Genesis 21:8-21 In this episode, we explore the challenging teachings of Jesus in Matthew 10, the story of Hagar in Genesis 21, and their implications for faith, family, and social justice. We also discuss the importance of context, interpretation, and standing with the marginalized. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 02:00 Weather and Climate Change D...

Notes Matthew 9:35-10:8 (9-23) Genesis 18:1-15 This episode explores the biblical themes of hospitality, divine promise, and social justice through the stories of Abraham, Sarah, and the teachings of Jesus in Matthew. It emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, compassion, and challenging misinterpretations of scripture, especially during Pride Month. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context of...

Notes Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26 Genesis 12:1-9 This episode explores the calling of Matthew and Abram, highlighting themes of inclusion, divine blessing, and God's ongoing work through imperfect people. It challenges listeners to reflect on how God's grace extends to all, especially those marginalized or misunderstood. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 03:00 Exploring the Readi...

Notes Matthew 28:16-20 Genesis 1:1-2:4A Exploring the profound themes of the Great Commission and Genesis 1, this episode delves into the nature of faith, doubt, and the ongoing work of creation. Join us as we unpack the theological depths of Matthew 28 and Genesis 1, emphasizing community, God's authority, and intrinsic goodness. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Great Commission and Context 03:...

Notes Acts 2:1-21 Summary This episode explores the rich symbolism and theological significance of Pentecost, including its pre-Christian roots, the gift of the Spirit, and ways to celebrate and embody Pentecost in community. The hosts discuss the connection between Pentecost and the giving of the law, the inclusive nature of the Spirit, and practical ideas for worship and reflection. Chapters 00:...

Notes John 17:1-11 Acts 1:6-14 This episode explores the profound themes of Jesus' prayer in John 17 and the Great Commission in Acts 1, emphasizing unity, vulnerability, and the call to witness. It offers deep insights into the nature of glorifying God through love, service, and community, encouraging listeners to embody these principles in their faith journey. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Asce...

Notes John 14:15-21 Acts 17:22-31 Explore the profound themes of John 14 and Acts 17, focusing on the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Truth and Paul's approach to evangelism. Discover how these scriptures guide us in understanding love, truth, and community in faith. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context of the Episode 04:13 Discussion on John 14:15-21 09:16 The Commandments and Love 11:37 The Spir...