Pulpit Fiction Podcast

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

Notes Matthew 1:18-25 Isaiah 7:10-16 Romans 1:1-7 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, 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 R

Notes Matthew 11:2-11 Isaiah 35:1-10 James 5:7-10 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 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

Notes Matthew 3:1-12 Isaiah 11:1-10 Romans 15:4-13 Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler discuss the readings for the second Sunday of Advent, focusing on John the Baptist's message of repentance and the concept of the Kingdom of Heaven. They explore the significance of bearing good fruit in faith, the role of religious leaders, and the historical context of the Pharisees and Sadducees. The conversation emphasizes the importance of embodying faith through actions and the continual nature of repentance. In this conversation, Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler explore the themes of continuity between Jesus and John the Baptist, the significance of Isaiah's prophecy, and the transformative imagery of the stump. They discuss the hope embedded in these biblical narratives and the role of Gentiles in the Christian faith, emphasizing the importance of radical welcome and compassion within communities. The conversation highlights the intrinsic value of individuals and the

Notes Matthew 24:36-44 Isaiah 2:1-5 Romans 13:8-14 Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy discuss the themes of Advent, focusing on the readings from Matthew 24, Isaiah 2, and Romans 13. They explore the significance of the unexpected hour in Matthew, the vision of peace in Isaiah, and the call to love in Romans. The conversation emphasizes the importance of action, hope, and the transformative nature of faith as they navigate the complexities of the church year and the messages of the scriptures. Takeaways Advent marks a new beginning in the church year. Matthew 24 reminds us to stay alert and prepared. Isaiah 2 offers a vision of peace and unity among nations. Romans 13 emphasizes love as the fulfillment of the law. The unexpected hour calls for active participation in faith. Traditions like the chrysmon tree enrich the Advent experience. The connection between Noah and the second coming is significant. Apocalyptic literature serves as a reminder of God's

Notes Luke 23:33-43 Jeremiah 23:1-6 Colossians 1:11-20 Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler explore the significance of Christ the King Sunday, discussing the readings from Luke 23, Jeremiah 23, and Colossians 1. They delve into the themes of forgiveness, God's promise of a good shepherd, and the supremacy of Christ over all creation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding righteousness and justice in the context of faith, encouraging listeners to reflect on their allegiance to Christ over earthly powers. Takeaways This episode discusses the significance of Christ the King Sunday. The readings for the day include Luke 23, Jeremiah 23, and Colossians 1. Luke 23 presents Jesus on the cross, emphasizing forgiveness even in suffering. Jeremiah 23 speaks of God's promise to gather and care for His people. Colossians 1 highlights the supremacy of Christ over all creation. The conversation reflects on the historical context of Christ the Kin

Notes Luke 21:5-19 Isaiah 65:17-25 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13 Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Robb McCoy explore the themes of apocalyptic literature, the signs of the times as presented in Luke 21, and the hopeful message of Isaiah 65. They discuss the importance of community, faithfulness, and the ongoing work of God in creating a new heaven and earth, while also addressing the challenges of undisciplined lives as mentioned in 2 Thessalonians. The conversation emphasizes the need for hope and action in the face of adversity, encouraging listeners to participate in God's work of justice and renewal. Takeaways The destruction of the temple is a significant event in the Gospels. Apocalyptic literature often arises in times of despair and upheaval. Jesus' prophecy offers a radical reinterpretation of destruction as fulfillment of God's plan. God's faithfulness remains despite signs of disaster and destruction. Isaiah 65 presents a vision of hope and renewal for the fu

Rebroadcast from 11/10/2019 NOTES AND COMMENTARY Luke 20:27-38 Haggai 1:15b-2:9 Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21 w/ Richard Bruxvoort Colligan www.psalmimmersion.com/ 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17

Rebroadcast from 11/3/2019 NOTES AND COMMENTARY Luke 6:20-31 Ephesians 1:11-23 Psalm 149 w/ Richard Bruxvoort Colligan www.psalmimmersion.com

Notes Luke 19:1-10 Habakkuk 1:1-4, 2:1-4 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12 Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler explore the readings for the week, focusing on the Gospel of Zacchaeus, the lament of Habakkuk, and insights from 2 Thessalonians. They discuss the often misunderstood nature of Zacchaeus' actions, the powerful protest against injustice found in Habakkuk's lament, and the encouragement offered to the early church in 2 Thessalonians. The conversation emphasizes themes of justice, hospitality, community, and the importance of maintaining faith amidst societal challenges. Takeaways The podcast introduces the readings for the week, focusing on Zacchaeus, Habakkuk, and 2 Thessalonians. Zacchaeus is often misunderstood; his actions reflect a pre-existing commitment to justice rather than a conversion. The crowd's grumbling about Zacchaeus highlights societal judgments and the need for hospitality. Habakkuk's lament serves as a powerful protest against inju

Notes Luke 18:9-14 Joel 2:23-32 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18 Takeaways The Pharisee's self-righteousness contrasts with the humility of the tax collector. Humility is essential in discussions of justice and righteousness. Justice and righteousness must be balanced with compassion and understanding. The parable challenges listeners to reflect on their own self-perception. The context of Jesus' parable is crucial for understanding its message. Joel's message of hope is relevant in times of despair. The Holy Spirit's outpouring is a transformative force for all. Paul's reflections in 2 Timothy highlight the importance of perseverance in faith. Legacy is built on the actions we take in our lives. The ongoing impact of our lives continues even after we are gone. Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy explore the themes of humility, justice, and the transformative power of faith through the lens of biblical texts. They discuss the parable of the Pharisee and the tax co

Rebroadcast from 10/20/2019 NOTES AND COMMENTARY Luke 18:1-8 Jeremiah 31:27-34 Psalm 19 w/ Richard Bruxvoort Colligan www.psalmimmersion.com/ 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5

Rebroadcast from 10/13/2019 NOTES AND COMMENTARY Luke 17:11-19 Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7 Psalm 66:1-12 w/ Richard Bruxvoort Colligan www.psalmimmersion.com/ 2 Timothy 2:8-15

Rebroadcast from 10/6/2019 NOTES AND COMMENTARY Luke 17:5-10 Lamentations 1:1-6; Lamentations 3:19-26 Psalm 137 (w/ notes!) w/ Richard Bruxvoort Colligan www.psalmimmersion.com/ 2 Timothy 1:1-14

Rebroadcast from 9/29/2019 NOTES AND COMMENTARY Luke 16:19-31 Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15 Psalm 91:1-6, 14-16 1 Timothy 6:6-19 w/ Richard Bruxvoort Colligan www.psalmimmersion.com/

Rebroadcast from 9/18/2022 NOTES AND COMMENTARY Luke 16:1-13 Jeremiah 8:18 - 9:1 1 Timothy 2:1-7 Psalm 4 w/ Richard Bruxvoort Colligan www.psalmimmersion.com/

Rebroadcast from 9/15/2019 NOTES AND COMMENTARY Luke 15:1-10 Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28 1 Timothy 1:12-17 Psalm 14 w/ Richard Bruxvoort Colligan www.psalmimmersion.com/  

Rebroadcast from 9/8/2019 NOTES AND COMMENTARY Luke 14:25-33 Jeremiah 18:1-11 Philemon 1:1-21 Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 w/ Richard Bruxvoort Colligan www.psalmimmersion.com/

Rebroadcast from 9/1/2019 NOTES AND COMMENTARY Luke 14:1, 7-14 Jeremiah 2:4-13 Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16 Psalm 81:1, 10-16 w/ Richard Bruxvoort Colligan www.psalmimmersion.com/  

Rebroadcast from 8/25/2019 NOTES AND COMMENTARY Luke 13:10-17 Jeremiah 1:4-10 Hebrews 12:18-29 Psalm 71:1-6 w/ Richard Bruxvoort Colligan www.psalmimmersion.com/