661: Lent 1A (2/22/2026)

661: Lent 1A (2/22/2026)

Author: Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler February 15, 2026 Duration: 1:02:26

Notes

  1. Matthew 4:1-11
  2. Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7
  3. 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 Jesus.
  • The narrative of Jesus' temptation is foundational for understanding his mission.
  • Satan's role in the temptation narrative raises questions about the nature of evil.
  • Baptism is a key theme that connects Jesus' identity to his temptations.
  • The Genesis story of Adam and Eve introduces complex themes of choice and consequence.
  • Shame and pain are significant outcomes of humanity's choices in the Genesis narrative.
  • Paul's writings emphasize the relational aspect of sin and grace.
  • The concept of original sin is debated in light of modern interpretations.
  • Curiosity and intelligence can lead to both good and evil outcomes.
  • The podcast encourages a deeper exploration of biblical texts and their implications.

 


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: 50

Pulpit Fiction Podcast
Podcast Episodes
691: Proper 20A OT25 (9/20/2026) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:34
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 fair…
690: Proper 19A OT24 (9/13/2026) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:26
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…
689: Proper 18A OT23 (9/6/2026) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 53:10
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…
688: Proper 17A OT22 (8/30/2026) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 53:37
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 t…
REBROADCAST 555: Proper 16A for 8/23/2026 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:35
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, Pro…
686: Proper 15A OT20 (8/16/2026) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:53
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, forgiven…
685: Proper 14A OT19 (8/9/2026) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:24
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 minis…
684: Proper 13A OT18 (8/2/2026) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:42
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 strugg…
REBROADCAST 551: Proper 12A for 7/26/2026 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:41
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, Ordina…