Pulpit Fiction Podcast

Notes Matthew 25:14-30 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy delve into the Parable of the Talents from Matthew 25, discussing themes of stewardship, faithfulness, and the implications of risk in the context of church endowments and community service. They explore the balance between fear and faithfulness in how individuals and churches manage their resources, emphasizing the importance of investing in the kingdom of God rather than merely accumulating wealth. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of these teachings for church growth and community engagement. In this conversation, Eric Fistler and Robb McCoy explore the themes of wealth, community, and the importance of encouragement within the church. They discuss the tension between prosperity and kingdom work, emphasizing the need for churches to collaborate rather than compete. The conversation also touches on the call to stay awake and be prepared for challenges, as well as the nature of peace and security in a community context. Ultimately, they highlight the significance of building each other up in faith and the communal aspect of salvation. Chapters 00:00 Episode 699: readings, hosts, and election-week context 06:43 Matthew 25: the parable of the talents 09:10 Why the parable is not a prosperity-gospel lesson 14:14 A talent meant 20 years of wages 17:08 Investing the gifts of life in the kingdom 23:04 Church resources, partnerships, and kingdom work 28:40 Matthew's parable compared with Luke's version 30:55 Sanctified Art's Advent resources and webinar 34:19 1 Thessalonians 5: stay awake and encourage one another 39:57 Questioning "peace and security" and the Pax Romana 43:06 Salvation, mutual support, and communal faithfulness 46:23 Read on: comfort the discouraged and pursue the good

Notes Matthew 25:1-13 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler explore the themes of preparation and faith through the lens of Matthew 25:1-13, the Parable of the Bridesmaids. They discuss the significance of Advent, the context of the parable, and the importance of being spiritually prepared for the unexpected. The conversation delves into the absurdity of the parable, the challenges of faith, and the role of community in supporting one another during difficult times. In this conversation, Eric Fistler and Robb McCoy explore themes of judgment, community, and hope as they discuss the implications of death and the rapture theology found in Thessalonians. They emphasize the importance of understanding these concepts within the context of faith and community, while also addressing the dangers of misinterpretation in theology. The discussion culminates in a call to reclaim the language of the second coming, encouraging a deeper exploration of hope and reunion in faith. Chapters 00:00 Lectionary readings and the approach of Advent 04:36 Matthew 25: the ten bridesmaids and the closed door 06:09 Why preachers can admit a parable is difficult 11:09 Jesus' final discourse and the choice between life and death 13:19 Readiness as a life, not a last-minute act 16:10 Matthew's community and the delayed return of Jesus 19:24 The parable's absurd details and the meaning of transformation 21:33 What if the bridesmaids had waited in the darkness? 23:17 Sharing light, faith, and community 27:10 Letting hard passages remain open to interpretation 30:14 1 Thessalonians 4: comfort for people grieving 31:14 Why the passage is not a rapture blueprint 33:52 Preaching against rapture theology with care 37:16 "We will always be with the Lord" 41:11 Context, proof-texting, and the dangers of combining passages 45:04 Reading Thessalonians within its original community

Reverend Adam Hamilton, founding pastor of Church of the Resurrection, joins hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy to discuss his book *Half Truths* and how familiar religious sayings can distort theology or wound people in crisis. They also talk about preaching through controversy, sustaining a demanding ministry, and Hamilton's work with a White House advisory council focused on poverty.

In this rebroadcast of a 2014 conversation, Pulpit Fiction hosts Rob McCoy and Eric Fistler speak with the Rev. Dr. Adam Hamilton, founding pastor of Church of the Resurrection and author of Making Sense of the Bible. Hamilton explains how historical context, the humanity of scripture, and the life of Jesus can help readers engage difficult biblical passages, then shares practical approaches to sermon planning, church unity, racial reconciliation, and building community in a large congregation.

Notes Matthew 23:1-12 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13  summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy discuss the lectionary readings for November 1st, 2026, focusing on themes of humility, legacy, and the importance of community engagement. They celebrate milestones within their congregations, reflect on All Saints Day, and navigate the complexities of discussing elections within a faith context. The conversation delves into Matthew 23, emphasizing the critique of religious authority and the dangers of hypocrisy, while also highlighting the need for genuine action over mere virtue signaling. In this conversation, Eric Fistler and Robb McCoy explore the themes of generosity, justice, and the relational dynamics within the early Christian community. They discuss the importance of integrating faith with action, particularly in the context of social issues like affordable housing. The dialogue also delves into Paul's relationship with the Thessalonians, emphasizing the mutual respect and care that characterized their interactions. Furthermore, they address the challenges and opposition faced by early Christians, highlighting the need for authenticity and humility in sharing the gospel. The episode concludes with practical resources for ministry, particularly in preparation for the Advent season. Chapters 00:00 Proper 26 readings and the episode's focus 01:43 Community celebrations, legacy, and advance directives 05:47 Preaching and voting before Election Day 08:06 Matthew 23: Jesus warns against religious status 09:13 Why the passage is an internal critique, not anti-Jewish polemic 12:24 From political complaints to faithful action 16:37 The Sermon on the Mount behind Matthew's warnings 20:16 Virtue signaling, stewardship, and justice 23:29 Titles of honor and the Jewish context of the debate 26:24 Advent resources and a longest-night liturgy 29:17 1 Thessalonians: ministry rooted in relationship 32:15 Paul's time in Thessalonica and the community's bond 35:49 Reading the difficult passage without anti-Semitism 39:07 Motives in evangelism, generosity, and church leadership 42:10 A community centered on Christ, not a pastor

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, the role of love in the Christian mission, and the legacy of Moses as a leader. The conversation emphasizes the need for engagement and understanding in theological discussions, as well as the significance of community service and support. In this conversation, Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler explore the themes surrounding the death of Moses, the conclusion of the Torah, and the significance of choosing life over mere destination. They discuss the importance of lamentation in contemporary culture, particularly in the context of loss and grief, and how it relates to moving forward as a community. The conversation transitions into the teachings of Thessalonians, emphasizing the call to community and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a world that often values popularity over truth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest 04:11 Overview of the week's lectionary passages 07:49 The question about the Messiah's identity 11:53 The importance of questions in faith and theology 14:08 Legalism, debate, and the wisdom of Jesus 15:58 The love of God, neighbor, and self as a mission 19:52 The challenge of authentic engagement and questions 21:49 The variations of the Great Commandment in Scripture 24:10 Understanding the Hebrew concepts of heart, soul, and strength 25:54 The biblical roots of loving one's neighbor 28:06 The importance of justice and compassion in love 30:10 The death of Moses and its theological reflections 33:58 Moses' final moments and leadership transition 36:06 The end of the Torah and the journey of Israel 37:56 The promise and ambiguity of the promised land 40:05 The ongoing journey of faith and community 41:55 Lamentation, mourning, and moving forward 44:11 The cultural and spiritual significance of mourning periods 46:03 The importance of lament and shared grief 47:53 The influence of culture on faith and leadership 50:08 Reflections on community, leadership, and legacy 52:10 The call to love and serve in faith 53:46 The challenge of authenticity and vulnerability 56:05 The influence of culture on Christian leadership 57:48 The importance of sharing our lives and struggles 59:48 The dangers of seeking popularity over faithfulness 01:01:51 The role of influence and humility in ministry 01:03:52 Supporting the podcast and community engagement 01:05:00 Closing thoughts and gratitude

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 relationship between Jesus and the Pharisees, as well as Moses' request to see God's glory. The hosts encourage listeners to engage deeply with scripture and reflect on their faith. In this conversation, Eric Fistler and Robb McCoy explore the intimate dialogue between Moses and God, emphasizing the nature of faith, the mystery of God, and the importance of community. They discuss the context of First Thessalonians, highlighting the significance of gratitude and the joy of serving in the church. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace uncertainty in their faith journey while recognizing the communal aspect of being chosen by God. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 03:42 Exploring the Texts: Matthew, Exodus, and Thessalonians 04:12 The Tax Trap: Jesus and the Pharisees 25:22 Moses in the Presence of the Lord 30:04 Moses and God's Intimate Dialogue 35:16 The Nature of Faith and Certainty 39:00 Embracing the Mystery of God 42:00 Introduction to First Thessalonians 44:06 Understanding the Context of Thessalonica 47:57 Celebrating Community and Gratitude 51:04 The Joy of Serving and Imitating Christ

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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. The conversation highlights the role of empathy and transformation in addressing issues of injustice and the call for churches to reflect on their impact in the community. The episode also touches on the significance of stewardship and the responsibility of congregations to care for the least of these. In this episode, Eric Fistler and Robb McCoy delve into the themes of worship, the significance of the Ten Commandments, and the relevance of the Sabbath in contemporary life. They explore the importance of benedictions in worship, the need for a holistic understanding of the commandments, and the implications of misusing God's name. The conversation emphasizes the commandments' role in fostering community and justice, while also challenging listeners to examine their priorities and the cultural relevance of these ancient laws. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Parable of the Wicked Tenants 02:28 Context of the Parable in Matthew 21 04:00 Jesus' Parable and Its Immediate Response 05:22 Historical and Theological Interpretations 07:38 Addressing Anti-Semitism and Misinterpretations 09:15 Justice, Injustice, and Modern Applications 12:02 Hope and New Leadership in the Parable 16:37 The Role of Empathy and Compassion 22:51 God's Response and the Rejection of Violence 24:38 Invitation to Justice and Transformation 27:43 Sanctified Art Advent Resources 31:21 Exodus 20 and the Ten Commandments 34:16 The Heart of the Commandments: Love and Rest 39:40 Living the Commandments Today 44:31 Misusing the Name of God and Justice 48:15 Universal Humanity and the Commandments 50:22 Justice in Society and Economy 52:13 Closing and Call to Reflection

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 the importance of recognizing the voices of marginalized individuals and the transformative nature of Jesus' message. In this episode, Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler discuss the importance of conviction and truth in faith, the resources available for understanding scripture, and the lessons from Exodus about community and leadership. They emphasize the need for compassion and sustained care in addressing the basic needs of individuals, while also exploring the role of faith in fostering a supportive community. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 01:00 Gospel Reading and Contextual Setup 05:00 Exploring Authority in the Gospel of Matthew 13:46 The Parable of the Two Sons and Its Implications 21:00 The Nature of Authority and Its Relevance Today 26:07 The Power of Conviction and Truth 28:14 Resources for Understanding Scripture 33:36 Exploring Exodus: Water from the Rock 49:20 Community and Leadership in Faith