Pulpit Fiction Podcast

684: Proper 13A OT18 (8/2/2026)

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 five thousand: story and significance 07:22 Reframing communion through the miracle of abundance 11:29 Contrast of banquets: violence vs. compassion 16:19 Psalm 23 and the Good Shepherd imagery 20:33 Temptations and the kingdom of God 22:12 Jesus' ministry of feeding and inclusion 33:25 Jacob's wrestling with God: story and symbolism 34:35 Jacob's encounter and transformation 40:31 Jacob's complex character and faith journey 42:04 God's naming of Jacob and the wrestling with identity 46:32 The importance of wrestling with faith and faults 48:52 Reflections on faith, forgiveness, and humility

REBROADCAST 551: Proper 12A for 7/26/2026

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 of God Genesis 29:15-28 Jacob's Sister Wives Robb hosting a men's retreat in Wheatland. Go to chmiowa.org, go to News and Events, select Prairie Calendar, then find his "Big Steppers" retreat.

682: Proper 11A OT16 (7/19/2026)

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

681: Proper 10A OT15 (7/12/2026)

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 Parable of the Soils 10:26 The Role of the Sower 16:24 Judgment and Compassion in the Parable 19:38 Tending the Garden: Community and Support 22:23 The Fruit of the Spirit and Generosity 24:53 The Nature of Soil and Spiritual Growth 27:00 Deconstruction and Spiritual Resilience 29:47 Exploring the Abrahamic Narratives 31:40 The Rivalry of Jacob and Esau 39:01 Subversion of Norms in Biblical Narratives 44:58 Tension and Resolution in Family Dynamics

680: Proper 9A OT14 (7/5/2026)

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 Podcast 01:14 Personal Reflections on Grief and Community Engagement 02:40 Experiences from Camp and Annual Conference 03:46 Pride Celebrations and Community Involvement 04:47 Cultural Reflections on Weddings and Traditions 05:42 World Cup Excitement and Cultural Commentary 06:12 Navigating the 250th Anniversary of the U.S. 11:10 Exploring the Gospel Reading from Matthew 11 12:05 Contextualizing Jesus' Teachings and Condemnations 18:32 The Invitation to Transformation and Rest 25:21 Orthodoxy vs. Orthopraxis 26:24 Christian Nationalism and Its Implications 27:22 Wisdom and Justice in the Pursuit of Faith 28:43 Liberation from Burdens of Patriarchy 30:02 The Story of Isaac and Rebecca 34:03 Rebecca's Agency and Power 39:06 The Complexity of Family Narratives 42:51 Critiquing Biblical Narratives 49:04 Love and Agency in Relationships