655: Baptism of Christ A (1/11/2026)

655: Baptism of Christ A (1/11/2026)

Author: Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler January 4, 2026 Duration: 1:01:23

Notes

  1. Matthew 3:13-17
  2. Isaiah 42:1-9
  3. 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.
  • Baptism connects believers to the mission of Christ.
  • The voice from heaven during Jesus' baptism emphasizes His belovedness.
  • The church's role is to educate and inspire about the meaning of baptism.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Baptism of Christ
06:06 Reflections on Christmas Services
12:44 Understanding Baptism: A Deeper Dive
19:34 The Significance of Jesus' Baptism
26:37 Belovedness and Community in Baptism
28:05 Understanding Our Belovedness
29:28 The Journey of Epiphany
36:20 The Servant's Role in Justice
41:22 Baptism: A Call to Action
49:34 Community and Diversity in Justice
51:43 The Power of Witnessing God's Work


Every week, Reverend Robb McCoy and Reverend Eric Fistler sit down for a conversation that feels more like a thoughtful chat between friends than a formal sermon. Their Pulpit Fiction Podcast uses the weekly Revised Common Lectionary readings as a starting point, but the discussion quickly branches into the unexpected. You’ll hear them draw connections between ancient scripture and contemporary movies, television, and headlines, creating a space where faith feels immediately relevant. This approach makes the podcast an invaluable resource for pastors and laypeople crafting a Sunday message, but its real appeal is much broader. It’s for anyone who appreciates a deep, critical, and often humorous dive into the Bible without pretense. Listening feels like being included in a genuine dialogue where curiosity is welcomed, and hard questions are met with intellectual honesty and pastoral care. The hosts’ dynamic brings both scholarly insight and everyday practicality, ensuring that each episode offers not just interpretation, but meaningful application. Whether you’re deeply rooted in Christian tradition or simply exploring spiritual ideas, this podcast provides a unique blend of theological reflection and cultural commentary that challenges and enriches.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Pulpit Fiction Podcast
Podcast Episodes
650: Advent 3A (12/14/2025) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:09
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…
649: Advent 2A (12/7/2025) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:23
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 Bapti…
648: Advent 1A (11/30/2025) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:55
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,…
647: Proper 29C (11/23/2025) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:30
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…
646: Proper 28C (11/16/2025) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:04
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 p…
Proper 27C (11/9/2025) REB [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:07
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
All Saints (11/2/2025) REB [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:12
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
645: Proper 26C (11/2/2025) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:04
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…
644: Proper 25C (10/26/2025) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:34
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. Just…
Proper 24C (10/19/2025) REB [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:01
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