663: Lent 3A (3/8/2026)

Notes John 4:5-42 Exodus 17:1-7 Romans 5:1-11 Psalm 95 Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler explore the readings for the third Sunday of Lent, focusing on the Gospel of John 4:5-42, the story of the Woman at the Well. They discuss the cultural context of the passage, the significance of Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman, and the themes of transformation and evangelism. The conversation also delves into Exodus 17, examining the Israelites' struggles in the wilderness, and Romans 5, reflecting on justification and the nature of God's love. The hosts emphasize the importance of recognizing God's presence in our lives and the call to embody faith through action. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 02:59 Exploring the Gospel of John 4: The Woman at the Well 08:03 Cultural Context and Significance of the Encounter 14:06 Theological Implications of Living Water 18:44 Transformation and Evangelism: The Woman's Testimony 26:00 Understanding Shame and Acceptance in the Narrative 31:53 The Depth of Relationship in Evangelism 36:05 Navigating the Wilderness of Sin 41:39 Understanding Suffering and Faith 48:57 The Power of Christ's Faith 58:20 The Counter-Cultural Message of Jesus Takeaways The Woman at the Well is a transformative story of faith. Cultural context enriches the understanding of biblical narratives. Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman highlights themes of evangelism. The significance of the wilderness in the Israelites' journey is profound. Suffering can lead to endurance and character development. God's faithfulness is central to the message of Romans 5. The call to action in faith is essential for believers. Justice and faith often challenge societal norms. The importance of community in understanding faith is emphasized. Recognizing God's presence in our struggles is crucial.