Voxology

How the radical intertwining of critical race theory, biblical economics, and systemic sin challenges modern Christian assumptions around capitalism, race, and justice. Continuing their Exile Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford welcome back theologian Timothy Gombis to explore how the teachings of Jesus, Paul, and the Old Testament offer a countercultural vision for economic and social life rooted in repentance, restoration, and community. From the Lord's Prayer's plea to "forgive debts" to Paul's vision of a just and unified humanity under Christ, this episode uncovers how deeply Christianity has been co-opted by capitalist ideology, individualism, and white supremacy—and what it might look like to reclaim the Jesus way in the public, economic, and racial spheres of our society. Key Takeaways: • Critical Race Theory and the Gospel – Understanding CRT as a biblical tool to help Christians identify and dismantle racism baked into culture, law, and power—not as a political threat, but as an opportunity for justice and transformation. • Jubilee Economics vs. Capitalism – Exploring how God's economy of debt forgiveness, land redistribution, and care for the poor clashes with modern capitalist assumptions about profit, property, and merit. • Why Individualism Fails – How evangelicalism's overemphasis on individual sin blinds us to the powers and systemic evil Paul confronts in his letters. • God's Preferential Focus – Learning to emulate a God who listens to the oppressed and acts for their liberation—and recognizing that justice, not comfort, is the call of Christian discipleship. • What Discipleship Really Costs – Why following Jesus must mean unlearning inherited racial, economic, and theological assumptions, and how it might reshape our church budgets, politics, and personal lives. Guest Highlights: Timothy Gombis – Bible scholar, professor, and host of the "Faith Improvised" podcast, Gombis offers a prophetic yet humble perspective on race, economics, and Christian complicity in injustice. With his upcoming commentary on the gospel of Mark and a lifelong journey of being "a student in process," Gombis models how to wrestle faithfully with scripture and the systems we live in. Resources Mentioned: • Faith Improvised Podcast – Hosted by Timothy Gombis • Book: "Resurrecting Justice" by Douglas Harink • Robert P. Jones – "White Too Long" • Matthew 25:31–46 – The call to justice as criteria for the final judgment • Deuteronomy 15 – Jubilee and debt forgiveness • Kevin Kruse – "One Nation Under God" Be part of a community that's asking better questions, embracing costly discipleship, and seeking the justice of God's kingdom over cultural allegiance. Don't forget to subscribe, review, and follow Voxology on your favorite platform. We love hearing your perspectives! Email us your thoughts at [email protected], or engage with us on social media. Watch on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab Vox Merch: Etsy Store Learn more about the show: VoxologyPodcast.com Subscribe via Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Listen to curated music on Voxology Radio – Spotify Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook: Voxology Podcast Follow Mike Erre: twitter.com/mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford // @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the structure and theology of the Lord's Prayer reveal the core of Jesus's ministry, reshape the way we engage with God, and invite us to embody the kingdom of heaven here and now. Mike and Tim dive deep into Matthew 6 in this Sermon on the Mount series entry, revealing the prayer not as a script to memorize, but as a revolutionary way of aligning our lives with God's transformative mission in the world. From reimagining what "Our Father in Heaven" means to understanding God's will "on earth as it is in heaven," this conversation offers a rich, practical guide to prayer that pushes beyond cliché into responsive, active discipleship. Key Takeaways: • The Lord's Prayer as an Outline for Life – Jesus provides more than a liturgical formula; it's a framework for participation in the renewal of all things. • Heaven and Earth Reunited – Reframing heaven not as a distant place but as the realm of God's will, overlapping and reuniting with earth through our daily obedience. • Praying as a Revolutionary Act – Declaring "Your kingdom come" is a personal pledge to live as an agent of that kingdom, practicing justice, mercy, and forgiveness. • Forgiveness as Formation – Yielding our right to retaliate is central to the way of Jesus, not just for personal healing but as a proclamation of God's grace. • Daily Bread and Dependence – Receiving daily provision as a gift reshapes how we view everything from wealth and privilege to systemic injustice. • Resisting Evil – Prayer acknowledges the reality of opposition—be it internal, external, or spiritual—and anchors us in dependence on the Spirit to navigate it. Guest Highlights: Seth Eerie makes a surprise, joyful appearance—from giving thanks to sharing pie and impromptu blessings, reminding us of the childlike heart that Jesus praised. Resources Mentioned: • The Dark Tower Series by Stephen King – Tim's quarantine collection project • Sermon on the Mount – Matthew 6:9-13 – Bible Gateway Link • NT Wright – Reflections on prayer's mystery and power • The 18 Benedictions (Amidah) – Historical Jewish prayer tradition echoing themes in the Lord's Prayer • The Bible Project's Tim Mackie – Insight on God's name and Star Wars as a metaphor for hallowing Rediscover prayer not as obligation but as formation—shaping our vision, reshaping our lives, and aligning us with God's redemptive work in the world. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone wrestling with how to pray and what it means to follow Jesus. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How reframing prayer as a relationship between a child and a parent opens the door to deeper faith, vulnerability, and trust. In this powerful installment of the Exile Series, Mike and Tim explore Jesus' teachings from Matthew 6 and 7 and how his use of the word "Father" (Abba) radically redefines what it means to talk with God in a world driven by performance, control, and religious cliches. They unpack the difference between performative and formulaic prayers versus the genuine, raw posture Jesus invites us into—a relationship rooted in trust, not fear or manipulation. Through personal stories (including shirtless podcasting), cultural context, and lived wrestling with unanswered prayer, this episode helps listeners reconsider what it means to ask, seek, knock—and be heard. Key Takeaways: • The Dangers of Performative and Voodoo Prayer – Why Jesus critiques religious prayer done to impress and anxious prayer done to manipulate outcomes. • God as Abba, Not a Cosmic Vending Machine – How understanding God as a parent reshapes how we pray and process silence, disappointment, and hope. • Why Ask if God Already Knows? – Exploring the mystery of petition and the role of partnership with God in shaping both our hearts and the world. • Trust, Surrender, and the Struggle for Control – How prayer mirrors our desire to control God and how Jesus invites us to trust instead. • Letting Go of Christian Cliches – Honest reflections on the harm of transactional thinking in churches and the need to reclaim prayer as relationship, not outcome. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 6:5–8 – Jesus' teaching on prayer from the Sermon on the Mount • Matthew 7:7–12 – Ask, seek, knock—and the image of God as a good parent • Dallas Willard – "The Divine Conspiracy" (Chapter on the power of asking) • Greg Boyd, Tim Mackie, N.T. Wright – Theological insights discussed throughout the episode • Genesis & the Abraham/Isaac Narrative – Connection to father-son dynamics in Jewish tradition • "Dude Perfect," rage monsters, and booby-trapped trucks – Kids, prayer, and the chaos of everyday life Whether you're struggling with prayer, feeling let down by unanswered cries, or tired of sentimental church answers, this episode offers honesty, wisdom, and hope. Join us to rediscover why Jesus invited us to call God not just Father—but Abba. Don't miss the next episode as we dive into the Lord's Prayer and explore its revolutionary structure and intent. Subscribe to keep up with this journey through Exile and beyond! Leave a review, share with a friend, and follow us online to stay part of the conversation. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Unpacking how the distorted gospel we've inherited may be enabling spiritual hypocrisy rather than cultivating Christlike transformation, Mike and Tim continue the Sermon on the Mount Series by diving into Jesus' sobering words in Luke 12. From confronting religious duplicity to reframing what it means to be "saved," this episode explores how the yeast of hypocrisy infects individuals and institutions—and what living in true covenant with Jesus actually looks like. This conversation invites us to move beyond the consumerized, transactional gospel toward a kingdom-centered vision of discipleship grounded in relational covenant, daily participation, and communal transformation. Through analogies like marriage and authentic faith as action, the episode offers a deeply challenging yet hopeful vision of the Jesus way. Key Takeaways: • The Infectious Nature of Hypocrisy – Why Jesus warns it spreads subtly and pervasively like yeast in dough, impacting both our inner lives and public witness. • Judgment as the Revelation of Truth – Reframing divine judgment as the great uncovering where outward performance and internal reality are laid bare. • The Courtroom vs. Covenant Gospel – Critiquing the transactional "legal" gospel and inviting deeper engagement with Jesus through a participatory, covenantal lens. • Discipleship After the Vows – How faith, like marriage, is more than a one-time profession—it's a daily act of trust, alignment, and surrender. • Living Today for the Coming Kingdom – Why caring for justice, creation, and community now is central to Christ's message of restoration. Resources Mentioned: • Book Reference: John Barclay on Grace (exact title not recalled, but highly recommended for theological study) • Luke 12 – Jesus' warning about hypocrisy and judgment • Romans – Paul's multifaceted metaphors of salvation (legal, familial, participatory) • Matthew 7 – "Not everyone who says to me 'Lord, Lord'…" referenced in discussion Join the Voxology community as we wrestle with reclaiming the beauty, cost, and joy of Jesus's call to take up the cross—not just recite a prayer. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to continue learning and unlearning together. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email questions to [email protected], and engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more: Voxology Podcast Website Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the show on Patreon Listen to the Voxology curated music channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the early church's proclamation that "Jesus is Lord" became a radical act of resistance—and how today, it's at risk of becoming a hollow cliché. Mike and Tim push back against spiritual bypassing, toxic positivity, and performative righteousness in this honest conversation about political polarization, theological language, and what it really means to live the Sermon on the Mount in modern America. They dive into the origins of hypocrisy, the performative nature of modern faith, and invite listeners to deconstruct and reclaim authentic discipleship rooted in vulnerability, justice, and community. Key Takeaways: • Jesus Is Lord as a Cry of Resistance – Why this phrase was never meant to promote passivity and how it originated with the marginalized as a declaration against oppressive systems. • The Danger of Toxic Positivity – How common Christian phrases like "God is in control" can be weaponized to silence grief and shield privilege. • Virtue Signaling and Public Piety – Unpacking the Sermon on the Mount's warnings about performative righteousness, and how hypocrisy manifests today through social media, activism, and church culture. • Hypocrisy vs. Humility – Why real righteousness is quiet, lived, and rooted in love—not polished, performative, or rewarded with likes, applause, or hashtags. • The Need for Community – Why honest community fosters spiritual growth and helps expose self-deception, blind spots, and the subtle masks we wear. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 6:1–18 – The basis for this week's Sermon on the Mount reflection: fasting, giving, and secrecy. • Dallas Willard – Teachings on spiritual reality and the kingdom of God never being in trouble. • Vox Facebook Community – Join the discussion and connect with others journeying through this series. • Enneagram Fours & Fives Resource – YourEnneagramCoach.com for deeper insight into community and personality in spiritual life. • Didache – Early Christian document referenced in connection with discipleship and fasting practices. • Atlantic Article on "Two Americas" – Discussing the cultural and political divide referenced by Mike. Join our growing community of listeners wrestling with faith, justice, and what Jesus really invites us into. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on your favorite podcast platform — and as always, we'd love to hear from you. Send questions, feedback and musings to [email protected]—and don't forget to connect and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. Find us on YouTube at VOXOLOGY TV. Check out our Merch Store on ETSY Explore more of the Voxology podcast at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Could the way we've been taught to vote "pro-life" actually undermine the outcomes we most desire? Continuing the Exile Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by Holy Post co-host and author Skye Jethani for a challenging and eye-opening conversation around abortion, presidential politics, and Christian ethics. Together, they examine whether single-issue voting on abortion—particularly in presidential elections—actually aligns with a holistic pro-life ethic and Kingdom values. Skye brings research, historical context, and biblical wisdom to bear on the complex reality of abortion in the U.S., questioning whether appointing pro-life justices truly impacts abortion rates. Rather than advocating for a partisan stance, this episode encourages Christians to pursue informed, faithful, and compassionate engagement in how and why they vote. Key Takeaways: • Voting Beyond the Presidency – Why focusing solely on the presidential vote to overturn Roe v Wade may not be the most effective pro-life strategy. • The Myth of Supreme Court Impact – Skye shares surprising stats about the limited long-term influence of Supreme Court appointments on abortion law. • What Actually Reduces Abortion Rates – Local policies like expanded healthcare access, adoption support, and community-based outreach often yield greater, longer-term reductions in abortions than national litigation. • A Holistic Pro-Life Ethic – Exploring what it means to be "pro-life from womb to tomb," including concerns about poverty, immigration, war, and access to healthcare. • Three Types of Pro-Life Voters – Skye outlines the "solution-oriented," "symbolic," and "shielded" voter—and why these distinctions matter for meaningful political engagement. Guest Highlights: Skye Jethani – Co-host of the Holy Post Podcast and respected voice on faith, politics, and culture, brings clarity and nuance to polarized debates around abortion and voting. With a pastoral heart and sharp analysis, Skye helps listeners wrestle with how Christians might faithfully live out Kingdom values in the voting booth and beyond. Resources Mentioned: • Holy Post Video: "Yes, But Abortion" – Watch here • David French – The French Press – Link • LifeWay Research Report on Evangelical Voters – Link • Delaware & Texas Abortion Data – Comparative stats from both conservative and progressive policy approaches. • Sermon on the Mount – Reference for understanding Jesus' call to embodied justice and mercy. Join us as we challenge assumptions and pursue political engagement that reflects the radical compassion, justice, and love of Jesus. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to keep the conversation going. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the rhythms of modern political culture are shaping Christians more deeply than we realize—and how faithful discipleship calls for a radical reimagining of our political engagement. In this special election-season conversation, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by author and theologian Kaitlyn Schiess to explore the core ideas from her provocative book, "The Liturgy of Politics." They dive into how media habits, partisan narratives, and cultural assumptions form us daily—and why spiritual formation must be political without becoming partisan. From the seductive promises of security and prosperity to the damaging marriage of Christian identity with political party platforms, this episode challenges listeners to reconsider what faithful kingdom engagement really looks like in our polarized society. Get ready for an unflinchingly honest reflection on how the church has been shaped by modern political liturgies—and how Christian communities can recover a holistic witness rooted in Jesus's own upside-down kingdom. Key Takeaways: • Political Formation vs. Partisan Politics – Why the problem isn't being "too political," but not being political enough in Christlike, redemptive ways. • The Liturgies We Live By – How the repetitive, embodied practices in media, entertainment, and political discourse shape our hearts and values—often more than Sunday worship or Scripture study. • Rethinking Allegiance – How Christians have come to prioritize individual freedom, safety, and national identity over gospel-shaped public life. • Hope Beyond the Ballot – Why true Christian political involvement must extend beyond voting to our everyday, embodied life together. • Counter-Formation through the Church – How communal practices like Eucharist, prayer, worship, and service re-train our imaginations toward neighborly love, justice, and humility. Guest Highlight: Kaitlyn Schiess – Author of "The Liturgy of Politics," theologian, and student of church history and political theology. Kaitlyn brings a powerful combination of academic insight and pastoral concern, offering a compelling vision for why the church must engage politics with more integrity, intentionality, and theological depth. Resources Mentioned: • The Liturgy of Politics by Kaitlyn Schiess – Link to book • Kaitlyn's Pre-election Prayers and Practices – caitlinschess.com • Luke Bretherton – Scholar referenced for defining politics as "the forming, norming, and sustaining of our common life" • Eucharist and Baptism as countercultural practices of resistance and community identity Don't miss this timely episode helping us discern and live out the complex, beautiful calling of being political disciples of Jesus—not pawns of empire. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone navigating political exhaustion. As always, we welcome your thoughts and questions. Email us at [email protected] and join the ongoing conversation on Instagram and Facebook. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the podcast: Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

What does it look like to engage politically in a way rooted in the cross and not coercion? In this special bonus episode from the archives, Mike Erre continues the "Faith & Politics" series by diving deep into the transformative implications of Paul's conversion—for both the early church and our modern political landscape. Drawing from Paul's radical encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, Mike explores how the Apostle's understanding of politics, salvation, nationalism, and power underwent a complete overhaul. Listeners are invited to reimagine civic engagement not through partisanship but through the cruciform vision of the Kingdom of God, where allegiance to Jesus as Lord reshapes all identities, systems, and priorities. Key Takeaways: • Paul's Political Awakening – How meeting the crucified and risen Jesus reoriented Paul's theology from zealotry to sacrificial love and non-coercive kingdom living. • Resurrection as Political Symbol – Seeing resurrection not as escapism but as God's holistic plan for the world: economic, social, and political renewal. • The Cross as a Political Statement – Understanding the Roman cross as the ultimate political symbol, and how Jesus's death subverts and reclaims power structures through loving victory. • The Birth of a New Humanity – How the church, drawn from every tribe and nation, is called to be a new polis—a holy, justice-oriented political community shaped by the Spirit and mission of Jesus. • Jesus Is Lord (Not Caesar) – Why the early Christian proclamation directly challenged the empire and what it means for modern believers navigating political identity. Resources Mentioned: • Ephesians 1 – Paul's sweeping vision of Jesus's cosmic lordship (Read Ephesians 1) • Michael Gorman – Insights on "cruciform" theology and non-coercive power • Books and themes of Jonah and Exodus 19 – For understanding election, vocation, and God's heart for the nations • Tim Gombis – Writings on empire and Pauline theology Join us as we wrestle with what it means to live as a politically faithful church in an era of division, nationalism, and misplaced allegiance. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone questioning how faith truly intersects with politics. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the "deeper righteousness" of the kingdom defies religious performance, upends cultural norms, and reveals a radical vision for the Church's role today. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford return to their series on the Sermon on the Mount, offering a deep-dive reflection into Matthew 5 and setting the stage for chapter 6. Reframing righteousness as something more than performative piety, this episode highlights how Jesus redefines power, purity, and politics in his upside-down kingdom. Along the way, Mike opens up about a significant personal transition—his unexpected return to pastoring—and what it reveals about healing, trust, and embodying authenticity in church life. Key Takeaways: • The Kingdom as a Political Reality – Jesus lays out not a doctrine for personal beliefs, but a reordering of community life in light of God's rule. • Righteousness Beyond Legalism – From anger to lust, retaliation to loving enemies, Jesus expands righteousness to address the heart, not just actions. • Reclaiming the Role of the Church – A moving exploration of why church still matters and how it can become a transformative community, not a performance space. • Hypocrisy & Virtue Signaling – How Jesus anticipates modern-day grandstanding with his critique of public righteousness done "to be seen." • Wrestling With Church Hurt – A heartfelt listener question opens up a raw conversation on church dysfunction, spiritual leadership, and what shepherding should actually look like. • Mike's Personal Update – Mike shares his decision to rejoin church leadership—why he's doing it now, what he's learned along the way, and what gives him hope. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5 & 6 – Sermon on the Mount reflections • Genesis 1–2, 12 – Roots of vocation and God's mission • Tim Gombis on Ecclesiological Engagement – Faith Improvised Podcast • Patreon support – patreon.com/voxology Join us as we navigate what it looks like to be "trustworthy" kingdom people in a world addicted to appearance. If you're wrestling with anger, church disillusionment, or the role of performance in faith, this episode brings clarity and challenge. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social to stay part of the conversation. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue this journey together. Questions or feedback? Email us at [email protected] or connect on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Check out our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support the Voxology community on Patreon Listen to the Voxology Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How can Christians engage in politics without becoming partisans? In this double-feature episode—an encore from two years ago—Mike Erre revisits the roots of faith, power, and politics with new context for our current cultural moment. Drawing from Tim Gombis, Michael Goheen, and N.T. Wright, Mike reframes Paul's theology as inherently political, uncovering how early church teachings speak directly into the chaos of today's polarized political climate. This is the first two parts of the Faith and Politics Series—republished to provide grounding and clarity during a fraught election season. Mike explores Paul's journey from Saul the Pharisee to Apostle of Jesus, highlighting a dramatic political reorientation—one from coercion and judgment to service, humility, and subversive citizenship in the Kingdom of God. Key Takeaways: • Understanding "Politics" Biblically – Redefining politics not as partisanship, but as the communal ordering of social life under the reign of Jesus. • Paul's Political Imagination – How Saul's pre-conversion zeal mirrored today's political idolatry, and how Jesus radically reshaped his political posture. • The Gospel as Political Announcement – Why preaching is inherently political and how churches should function as alternative communities ("polis") embodying justice, mercy, and humility. • Lessons for Today's Church – What modern Christians can learn from the tension between faith and nationalism, power and witness, and how we move forward with redemptive engagement. Resources Mentioned: • Michael Goheen – Writings on missional theology • N.T. Wright – Gospel and Empire themes • Tim Gombis – Scholarly work on Paul and political theology • Book of Acts – The transformation of Saul to Paul • Old Testament texts – Deuteronomy, Jeremiah, Isaiah (New Exodus themes) • Hebrew Bible themes – Shalom, exile, holiness, and priesthood Join the conversation as we unpack how Paul's political transformation can help us navigate our own divisive landscape with gospel-centered wisdom. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology on social media to stay informed and inspired. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue truth together. Feel free to email your thoughts to [email protected] and engage with us on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube if you're into that kinda thing: VOXOLOGY TV – https://www.youtube.com/@voxology Our Merch Store: ETSY – https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market Learn more about the podcast: https://voxologypodcast.com/ Subscribe on iTunes – https://apple.co/1Lla1Nj Or on Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr?si=KJoEXxxxTsqE-HiGL-PfIA Support the podcast on Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/voxology Listen to Voxology Radio on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/user/nj2l08pd1zt6zk3azs1plhmdy?si=3fb86269da0449ed Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford – https://www.timothyjohnstafford.com Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How to reshape your spiritual and relational life through the revolutionary ethic of enemy love, as taught by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. In this installment of the Sermon on the Mount Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford explore Jesus' transformative call to love our enemies—a command that challenges deeply embedded cultural and religious narratives, and redefines what it truly means to embody the character of God. Key Takeaways: • Beyond Sentimentality – Why biblical love isn't about feelings or liking others, but about willing and acting for the good of even those who oppose us. • Enemy Love as the Essence of God – Understanding how Jesus frames love for enemies not just as an ethic, but as the very nature of God's perfection and a requirement to reflect God's character. • Reframing Perfection – What Jesus really meant when he said "be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect"—and why it's about completeness in love, not moral flawlessness. • The Politics of the Kingdom – How Jesus' teaching uproots natural human impulses and worldly political categories by calling us into a community defined by sacrificial love. • Discipleship as George Costanza Discipleship – Flipping the world's instincts upside down and choosing to follow God's wisdom, no matter how counterintuitive it feels. • Practical Practices of Enemy Love – Daily rhythms like praying for those who oppose you as an intentional act of resisting resentment and retributive tendencies. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5:43-48 – The passage explored during the episode. • Leviticus 19 – The origin of "love your neighbor" and the surrounding context debated by First-Century rabbis. • Scandalous Witness by Lee Camp – Perspectives on how Christian witness intersects with public life and politics. • The Faith and Politics Series – A series Tim is re-releasing mid-week as bonus episodes during election season. Guest Highlight: Seth Erie – Makes another joyful, unfiltered appearance to end the episode with the Shema and some comic relief. Join the conversation as we unlearn cultural scripts and rediscover the radical love of Jesus that empowers us to break cycles of vengeance and alienation. Subscribe to stay connected with the series, leave a review to share the message, and follow us on social for updates and community fellowship. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV → https://www.youtube.com/@voxology Our Merch Store! → https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market Learn more about the Voxology Podcast → https://voxologypodcast.com/ Subscribe on: • iTunes – https://apple.co/1Lla1Nj • Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr?si=KJoEXxxxTsqE-HiGL-PfIA Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon → https://www.patreon.com/voxology Listen to the Voxology Spotify Channel → https://open.spotify.com/user/nj2l08pd1zt6zk3azs1plhmdy?si=3fb86269da0449ed Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford → https://www.timothyjohnstafford.com/ Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How a deeper understanding of American history, systemic injustice, and evangelical complicity can help Christians live out the gospel in today's racially charged culture. Mike and Tim sit down with Phil Vischer—creator of VeggieTales, co-host of The Holy Post Podcast, and cultural commentator—to walk through the historical realities that shaped our current racial divide and the church's role in both perpetuating and healing those wounds. This episode is a powerful call for Christians—especially white evangelicals—to listen, reflect, and act with humility and courage. Key Takeaways: • The Legacy of Inequity – Phil unpacks the data behind racial disparities in household wealth, systemic exclusion from housing and economic opportunity, and how the church must reckon with its part in that history. • Evangelicalism and Segregation – A shocking look into how the religious right was politically mobilized not by abortion, but by the defense of segregated schools—and how the abortion issue was strategically adopted later. • Beyond Individualism – Why saying "I didn't own slaves" or "I'm not racist" misses the point of biblical justice and the Christian call to stand in solidarity with those oppressed, regardless of personal blame. • Why 'Systemic Racism' Isn't Just a Buzzword – Even without using the term, the episode illustrates how policy choices and national priorities have historically sidelined Black communities—and why that damage persists today. • Historical Honesty as Gospel Witness – Reliving American history with humility and honesty is not about hating your country—it's about understanding the roots of injustice so the church can become a healing force in the world. Guest Highlight: Phil Vischer – Co-host of The Holy Post and creator of VeggieTales. Transforming his platform into a catalyst for truth-telling and grace-filled justice, Phil offers clear, fact-driven insights about America's racial past and a biblical vision for the future. Resources Mentioned: • Phil Vischer's Race & American History Video – Watch on YouTube • "Sky Jethani's Abortion Thread" on Twitter – A breakdown of abortion's politicization and the limits of conservative policy • Holy Post Podcast – theholypost.com • Christianity Today archive exploring fundamentalism and neo-evangelicalism – [Link] Ready to dive deeper into kingdom-minded justice and uncomfortable truths? Subscribe to Voxology, leave a review if this episode resonated, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook to keep the conversation going. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we grow together. Reach out anytime with questions at [email protected]! We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more: Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support us at Patreon Follow the Voxology Spotify channel – Voxology Radio Instagram & Twitter: @voxologypodcast | @GoneTimothy | @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Discover how Jesus dismantles the ancient law of revenge and invites us into a countercultural way of living rooted in honor, humility, and creative nonviolence. In the seventh installment of the Exile Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford explore Jesus's teaching in Matthew 5:38–42, diving deep into the cultural context of "eye for an eye," unpacking how the Kingdom of God turns the law of reciprocity upside down. Using vivid biblical examples—from Samson and the endless cycles of vengeance in Judges to Roman occupation and public humiliation—Mike and Tim reveal how Jesus wasn't calling us to passivity, but to a bold, subversive love that exposes evil without perpetuating it. Whether it's turning the other cheek, giving your cloak, or going the extra mile, each of Jesus's examples ignites dignity, disrupts cycles of retaliation, and models how we can live out a new kind of justice in the here and now. Key Takeaways: • Resisting Evil Without Retaliation – How Jesus redefines resistance by refusing to escalate harm and instead calling us toward honorable nonviolence. • The Power of Subversive Acts – What turning the other cheek, handing over your cloak, and going the second mile meant in honor-shame culture—and how they unmask the oppressor's injustice. • Reciprocity Replaced by Grace – Why Jesus calls us to abandon "getting even" and embrace creative, loving responses to persecution and insult. • Personal Application – How these teachings reshape everyday interactions: from social media spats to marriage conflicts and road rage moments. • The Political Reality of the Kingdom – Why Jesus's teachings were far more than personal morality—they were a radical vision for a transformed society. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5:38–42 – Read on Bible Gateway • Judges 15 – The story of Samson's escalating revenge • Leviticus 24:19–20; Exodus 21:23–25; Deuteronomy 19:21 – Old Testament sources of "eye for an eye" • Dallas Willard's concept of Joyful Non-Compliance Join us as we continue this challenging but eye-opening journey through Jesus's Exile teachings. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast to be part of an evolving community seeking the radical, redemptive heart of Jesus. We want to hear from you! Send your questions, reflections, or pushback to [email protected] or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. We're also on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab some Vox Merch here: ETSY Shop Find all things Vox at the Voxology Website Subscribe on your favorite platform: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Support transformative conversations like this at Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like the community on Facebook: Voxology Podcast Tweet with Mike: twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

What does it look like to be a people of radical honesty in a culture built on manipulation, spin, and social performance? In this continuation of the Sermon on the Mount Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford unpack one of Jesus's seemingly simple yet deeply subversive teachings: letting your "yes" be yes and your "no" be no. Using Matthew 5:33–37 as a launch point, they explore how oath taking in the ancient world functioned as a tool for verbal manipulation and how Jesus cuts straight through that tradition to call his followers into truthfulness rooted in love and trust. The conversation digs beneath the surface of swearing oaths to examine how modern Christians still cloak self-interest in spiritual language, project inauthentic personas, and often use "God talk" to avoid honesty and vulnerability. Along the way, Mike shares revealing insights on spiritual maturity, personal therapy breakthroughs, and what it means to speak truth in love—even when it's uncomfortable. This episode is a challenge and a comfort for anyone seeking to live with integrity in polarized political environments, performative church culture, and the day-to-day moments where honesty feels risky. Key Takeaways: • The Kingdom Way of Speaking – Why Jesus doesn't prohibit oaths because they're formal, but because they represent a deeper issue of manipulation and spin. • Verbal Manipulation as Spin – How invoking God to justify personal decisions, political stances, or hidden agendas misuses His name and distorts the gospel. • A Call to Integrity – What it means to literally let your "yes" be yes and your "no" be no, and why healthy community depends on that truthfulness. • Naming the Religious Game – Exploring how spiritual leaders, churches, and even worship music often subtly encourage "Christian performativity" over honesty. • Resistance as Truth-telling – How truth, confession, and integrity function as a form of resistance in a culture of misinformation, hype, and partisanship. • Grace and Growth – A hopeful reminder that growing in truthfulness is a process and that the gospel makes space for confession and course correction. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5:33–37 – Jesus's teaching about oaths in the Sermon on the Mount • Matthew 23 – Jesus critiques Pharisaic oath traditions • Leviticus 19 and Exodus 20 – The Old Testament context of oath-taking and the misuse of God's name • The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard – dwillard.org • Tim Gombis – Episodes and perspective on Christian misuse of authority and God-talk • Ecclesiastes ("Let your words be few…") • The Book of Acts – "It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us…" as a model for discernment • Song Reference: "Let My Words Be Few" and Michael Jackson's "Man in the Mirror" quote cameo Join the conversation and reflect on what being truth-tellers really looks like in our moment. Want to help others discover what Jesus's kingdom really looks like? Subscribe, rate the podcast, and share this episode with someone wrestling with what it means to speak with integrity today. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected] and to engage in the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Explore how Jesus confronts divorce and remarriage in first-century Jewish culture by exposing the double standards that marginalized women and distorted God's vision of marriage. Continuing the Sermon on the Mount Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford break down Matthew 5 and Matthew 19, unpacking Jesus's radical reinterpretation of Deuteronomy 24 and its implications for relationships, gender roles, lust, adultery, and the grace of God's Kingdom. Rather than offering a rigid rulebook, Jesus reframes divorce not as a legal loophole but as a heart issue—warning men about consumer-based relationships, and liberating women held captive by oppressive systems. The episode also dives deep into purity culture, the damage of shame-based teachings, and the lifelong journey of reshaping our vision of marriage, sex, and human connection through the lens of Jesus' compassion and truth. Key Takeaways: • Jesus Redefines Adultery to Liberate and Confront – How His interpretations of Deuteronomy 24 and Genesis 1-2 elevate women and expose patriarchal hypocrisy. • Exposing the "Any and Every Reason" Divorce Culture – Tracing how first-century rabbis debated the legal basis for divorce and how Jesus upended their assumptions. • God's Ideal vs. Human Concession – Understanding how the Bible presents marriage not as personal fulfillment but as covenant and responsibility. • When Divorce Is Permissible – The tension between theology and pastoral care, and how Scripture permits divorce in cases of adultery, abuse, and abandonment. • Reforming Our Views on Purity, Sex, and Intimacy – A vulnerable conversation about how shame, legalism, and false reward systems impacted personal stories and how to teach new generations differently. Guest Highlights: • Seth Erie – Makes a joyful surprise appearance at the end of the episode, dropping hilarious and heartfelt commentary with dad Mike and a shoutout to Chick-fil-A, Tim Tims, and the entire Vox community. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5 & Matthew 19 • Deuteronomy 24 & Exodus 21 – Foundational references for divorce in the Torah • 1 Corinthians 7 – Paul's insight on divorce and abandonment • The Mishnah – Jewish oral tradition illuminating the debates between Rabbi Shammai and Rabbi Hillel • Teachings from Tim Mackie and David Instone-Brewer on biblical divorce and remarriage Don't miss this rich, challenging episode that will stretch your theology, deepen your empathy, and help reshape how we talk about relationships in the church. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social to join the ongoing conversation. As always, we encourage and welcome your thoughts as we journey together. Email questions to [email protected] and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. We're also on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Support the Voxology Podcast: Patreon Official Website: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Check out our Spotify music channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How reimagining Jesus' teaching on lust liberates us from shame, reframes desire, and challenges harmful patterns in purity culture. Continuing their Sermon on the Mount Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford break down one of Jesus' most misinterpreted instructions, engaging with the Greek text, touching on double standards around adultery, and wrestling with the weight of toxic sexuality within the church. Through blunt honesty and biblical exegesis, they uncover a subversive call to holiness—a holiness that centers dignity, community, and healing. Key Takeaways: • Lust Is Not Just Desire—It's Coveting – Jesus uses the language of covetousness, reframing lust as a willful orientation toward possessing what is not ours rather than simply feeling attraction or desire. • Smashing the Double Standard – Jesus critiques the patriarchal framing of adultery and lust by placing moral responsibility on men, breaking from ancient purity codes that blamed women. • The Commodification of Human Beings – A warning against objectification and the addictive, soul-hollowing nature of unchecked lust and pornographic consumption. • Beyond Shame: A Better Theology of Sex – Sexuality is not a curse but a gift. Jesus and the Bible affirm desire when stewarded rightly, honoring the whole person. • Making Space for Healing – Personal confession and communal solidarity are essential. Healing doesn't come through suppressing desire or shaming ourselves, but through grace, truth, and genuine transformation. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5:27–30 – Jesus' teaching on lust in the Sermon on the Mount • Exodus 20 – Commandments against adultery and coveting • Ephesians 4:17–19 – Paul on desensitization and lust • CS Lewis' concept of "Shadowlands" • White Witch & Turkish Delight example from The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe • Talmudic examples on modesty and rabbinic purity laws • Episode guest reference: Dr. Celeste Holbrook • "I Have a Dream" by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Join the Voxology community as we untangle centuries of misused theology and boldly reclaim the beauty of Jesus' vision for human dignity and embodied love. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow along on social media to be part of thoughtful, healing conversations. As always, we welcome your questions and reflections. Email us at [email protected] or connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. We're also on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Check out our Merch Store on Etsy Visit voxologypodcast.com to learn more Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

A deep-dive into the assumptions behind modern evangelism and the true meaning of discipleship as explored through the Great Commission. Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and New Testament scholar Dr. Timothy Gombis unpack how biblical calls to faithfulness, community, and embodied kingdom living have been distorted by individualistic and results-driven evangelistic models. Drawing from Matthew, Paul's letters, and early church history, this episode challenges prevailing interpretations and explores how the church can better reflect Jesus in a polarized and post-pandemic world. Key Takeaways: • Discipleship Over Conversion – The Great Commission in Matthew 28 is not a mandate to produce converts but a call for the church to cultivate lifelong learners rooted in radical kingdom community. • Evangelism Reframed – There are no New Testament commands to evangelize in the modern sense. Instead, the church's communal life—marked by love, hospitality, and justice—is itself the proclamation. • Witness Through Embodiment – Especially in times of societal upheaval, the church's faithfulness is not shown in arguments but in living out alternative, Jesus-shaped values through care for the marginalized and mutual support. • Reclaiming the Biblical Narrative – A call to shift from a salvation framework centered on hell to one rooted in Jesus, creation, and the holistic redemptive story of God. • Conspiracy vs. Kingdom – Distinguishing between fear-driven reactions to cultural instability and the sober, hopeful posture Jesus calls his people to in chaotic moments. Guest Highlights: Dr. Timothy Gombis – Biblical scholar, podcast host of Faith Improvised, and author focused on Pauline theology. Gombis lends his voice to reimagining core aspects of Christian practice, inviting listeners to move away from coercive evangelism toward community-based discipleship and kingdom witness. Resources Mentioned: • Faith Improvised Podcast – Link • Matthew 28:16-20 – The "Great Commission" text in light of Greek grammar and kingdom context. • 1 Corinthians 11 – The church's shared meal as the proclamation of the gospel. • Mark 13 – Jesus' warnings about upheaval as a call to faithful community. • Books by Tim Gombis on Ephesians and Pauline theology – Amazon Author Page Reclaim a vision of faithfulness that emphasizes community, humility, and the long road of discipleship over quick conversions. Subscribe to Voxology to continue the journey of reshaping our imaginations around Jesus and his Kingdom. Leave a review and follow along on social to stay connected! As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue truth together. Email us at [email protected] or connect on Instagram and Facebook. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab some gear at our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more: VoxologyPodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the show on Patreon Listen to curated music: Voxology Radio on Spotify Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Practicing reconciliation and learning how to process anger is vital to embodying the upside-down kingdom Jesus introduced in the Sermon on the Mount. Continuing their series, Mike and Tim dive into Matthew 5:21–26, exploring Jesus' stark warning that harboring contempt for others—especially in religious or political conflicts—is more dangerous than we realize. In the wake of listener feedback and a personal confrontation with their own tone in prior episodes, the hosts model public repentance while unpacking what righteous anger actually looks like and how Christians are called to engage with others—especially when we disagree. Whether you're struggling with outrage culture, frustrated by politics, or passionate about social justice, this episode offers a powerful invitation to humbly examine our motives, pursue reconciliation, and reimagine how we witness to the world through Jesus-shaped confrontation. Key Takeaways: • The anatomy of anger and contempt – Why Jesus equates chronic anger with murder and how contempt poisons community and witness. • Repenting from partisan self-righteousness – The importance of naming when our tone, assumptions, or posture misrepresent Jesus and damage relationships. • Lessons from Jesus' righteous anger – When is anger appropriate, and what should it produce in us? (Hint: think healing and reconciliation, not destruction.) • Overcoming political idolatry – How the siege mentality shapes Christians into tribal combatants rather than kingdom peacemakers. • Reconciliation over religion – Jesus teaches that repairing relationships is more important than religious rituals. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5:21–26 – Bible Gateway • Leviticus 19 – Bible Gateway • Dallas Willard on Joyful Non-Compliance • Study on catharsis and anger escalation [Link if available] • David Brooks' article on Siege Mentality [Link if available] • The story of Daryl Davis and redemptive table fellowship [Link if available] Let's be the kind of community that confesses quickly, seeks reconciliation earnestly, and chooses grace when the world chooses contempt. Subscribe, leave us a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on your favorite social platforms. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue truth together. Email us questions at [email protected], and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube if video's your thing: VOXOLOGY TV Grab some merch from our store: VOXOLOGY on Etsy Explore past episodes or learn more: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support what we're doing on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Follow on Instagram: @voxologypodcast or like us on Facebook Follow Mike Erre on Twitter: @MikeErre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the Voxology community can respond to the growing influence of conspiracy thinking through faithful discipleship, critical reflection, and a fresh understanding of Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount. In this powerful installment of the Sermon on the Mount Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford welcome Skye Jethani—author of "What If Jesus Was Serious?"—to unpack the growing grip of conspiracy theories like QAnon among Christians, why evangelical subculture is vulnerable to them, and how Jesus' call to truth radically challenges our need for control and hidden knowledge. This episode weaves biblical theology, psychology, and cultural critique into a vital conversation about how fear, spiritual immaturity, and a history of anti-intellectualism have paved the way for misinformation and mistrust to spread like wildfire in Christian communities. Key Takeaways: • Why conspiracy theories thrive on fear, control, and the human impulse to find patterns—and how this mimics religious thinking. • A deep dive into QAnon as a cultural and religious phenomenon—and why many white evangelicals are drawn in. • How a misreading of the end times, spiritual warfare, and persecution narratives fuel conspiratorial thinking. • What Jesus actually said about truth, evil, and trust, and how a Christ-centered worldview resists conspiracy by choosing love, wisdom, and humility. • Positive practices disciples of Jesus can adopt to respond to misinformation and uphold truth in today's polarized environment. Guest Highlight: Skye Jethani – Author, pastor, and co-host of The Holy Post podcast. Skye shares deep insights from his new book, "What If Jesus Was Serious?", and helps listeners wrestle with how we can take Jesus' words in the Sermon on the Mount seriously in the age of conspiracy culture. Resources Mentioned: • "What If Jesus Was Serious?" by Skye Jethani – Buy from Moody Publishers • QAnon and The Atlantic article – The Atlantic: "The Prophecies of Q" • Matthew 5–7 – The Sermon on the Mount Read Online Help us create a community anchored in truth and love. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast wherever you listen. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Voxology Spotify Channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the Sermon on the Mount radically redefines righteousness, challenges religious legalism, and reshapes the political imagination of the church. In part five of the Sermon on the Mount series, Mike and Tim unpack Matthew 5:17–20—one of the most theologically and politically rich passages in the entire Gospel. What does it mean for Jesus to "fulfill" the law and prophets? Why is he so adamant about not "abolishing" the Torah? And how does this reframe our understanding of justice, righteousness, and political engagement in the kingdom of God? The conversation explores Jesus' use of rabbinic language, corrects popular misunderstandings about the Old Testament, and calls out modern-day examples of misuse of Scripture in political discourse. From culture war Christianity to selective Bible quoting, this episode holds a mirror to the American church and invites a deeper allegiance to the way of Jesus. Key Takeaways: • Jesus as Fulfillment of Torah – Understanding how Jesus reinterprets and embodies the Torah, not abolishing it but showcasing its heart through correct teaching and practice. • A New Kind of Righteousness – Digging into what Jesus meant when he said "your righteousness must surpass that of the Pharisees" and how the Sermon on the Mount critiques performative holiness. • Law, Light, and Heavy Commands – Exploring Jewish rabbinic categories of "light" and "heavy" commandments and how Jesus uses them to elevate even the smallest parts of the Torah. • Hearts Over Legalism – Why attitude and motive matter as much as action; Jesus' greater righteousness begins in the heart and goes far beyond rule-keeping. • Political Implications – Critiquing how both progressive and conservative Christians cherry-pick Bible verses to fit their platforms. What does it mean to be a people who hold the whole witness of Scripture together? Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5:17–20 – [Link] • "Scandalous Witness" by Lee Camp – Example of the "Slave Bible" and selective Scripture misuse. • Jeremiah 31 – The promised New Covenant written on hearts. • Mark 7 – Jesus' critique of Pharisees for nullifying commandments for tradition. • Deuteronomy 22:6-7 – Example of a "light" command. • Exodus 20:12 – "Honor your father and mother" as a "heavy" command. Call to Action: Let this conversation challenge and reshape how you engage Scripture—especially when it comes to politics, justice, and righteousness. Subscribe, review, and share the podcast to help others explore the radical teachings of Jesus. Engage with us on social media or email us at [email protected]. We love your questions and reflections, and we invite you to walk this journey alongside us as we rediscover what it means to live as salt and light in a divided world. Watch us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the podcast on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the Sermon on the Mount radically reshapes our understanding of discipleship, power, the Church, and what it actually means to follow Jesus. In this third installment of the Sermon on the Mount Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford explore Matthew 5:13–16—Jesus' iconic words about being salt and light—and how these metaphors confront and correct the often diluted, political, and performative expressions of modern Christianity. Far from being a call to performative evangelism or cute youth group slogans, "salt and light" is a commission to become a prophetic community marked by humility, weakness, and faithfulness. This episode dives deep into how Jesus takes on Israel's vocation and hands it to the unlikely crowd gathered at the mountainside—and how that redefines what it means to be Church today. Key Takeaways: • Being "Salt of the Earth" Means Prophetic Contrast – Saltiness was about pervasive usefulness and presence, but can be utterly compromised when diluted by power, partisanship, or religiosity. • Light to the World as a Communal Witness – Not individual evangelism, but a collective embodiment of God's faithfulness in front of a watching world. • Beatitude People Are the "You" – Jesus applies Israel's covenantal vocation to a new community made up of the poor in spirit, the meek, the mourners, and the merciful. • Political Without Partisanship – A call to embrace kingdom politics rooted in service, hospitality, anti-violence, and justice—not power games or cultural domination. • Reconstructing the Church – How communities formed around the wrong metrics (platforms, celebrity, performance) have lost their saltiness, and how we might recover it. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5:13-16 – Read the passage • Isaiah 51 & 60 – Prophetic background for Jesus' "light of the world" imagery • Leviticus (re: salt covenants) • Tony Campolo and Red Letter Christians – Red Letter Christians • Book of Acts – For contrasts between early Church and modern church structures • Tim Gombis – Faith Improvised Podcast Join the journey of reimagining what the Church can and should be. Subscribe, leave a review, and join us on social media for ongoing conversations about embodying the true mission of Jesus. As always, we encourage conversation, questions, and critique. Email us at [email protected] or engage with us on Instagram and Facebook. Check out VOXOLOGY TV on YouTube Grab merch from the Voxology Etsy store Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the Beatitudes challenge political assumptions and offer a radical vision of Jesus's kingdom built on humility, mercy, and justice. Kicking off their Sermon on the Mount Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford unpack Matthew 5:1–12 to reveal why the Beatitudes aren't ethical commands to climb, but a radical redefinition of who is truly blessed in God's kingdom. Key Takeaways: • Jesus's Beatitudes are not personal moral checklists—they are declarations of divine blessing for the poor, meek, and forgotten because the kingdom is already present and available to them. • These blessings are steeped in Old Testament echoes, especially Isaiah and the Psalms, pointing to the restoration of Israel through an upside-down kingdom. • The Beatitudes reflect a communal vision of society that centers the marginalized while indicting systems of power that oppress. • Jesus redefines "blessing" to illuminate how proximity to power or wealth can often blind us to divine reality—and how pain and suffering can prepare hearts to receive the kingdom. • Christians are called not to "be meek" to get blessed, but to recognize the already-blessed nature of those who the world devalues. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5:1–12 – Link to passage • Isaiah 61 – Link • Psalms 24, 37, 107 – Key background to the images in the Beatitudes • Tim Mackie (BibleProject) on "stringing pearls" – BibleProject.com • Lee Camp's "Scandalous Witness" – Book on Amazon • The Didache (early Christian church manual) – Link to translation • Shadow art examples – Google search: Shadow Art Sculptures Join us as we challenge traditional readings of Scripture and explore the revolutionary Jesus we often miss. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social to stay up-to-date and contribute to the conversation. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV – YouTube Channel Our Merch Store! – ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast – voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How elevating Jesus' countercultural vision in the Sermon on the Mount invites us to deconstruct politics as usual, reimagine our role as the people of God, and embody a different way of being in a divided world. Mike and Tim kick off a brand new journey through the Sermon on the Mount by laying crucial groundwork: asking how the teachings of Jesus are inherently political — not in the Republican vs. Democrat idea of politics, but in how we shape life together as communities of faith. With insight from Lee Camp's Scandalous Witness and personal reflections on the dangers of partisanship, this episode explores why Jesus' way is "neither right, nor left, nor religious," and what that means for the church in America today. Key Takeaways: • Jesus Is Political — But Not Partisan: How the Sermon on the Mount redefines what it means to be "political" by offering a radical alternative to coercive power and political idolatry. • Deconstructing the American Church's Political Entanglement: Understanding why neither conservatism nor progressivism reflects the full vision of the Kingdom of God. • Unlearning Cultural Christianity to Recover Jesus: Why starting with the words and way of Jesus — especially post-deconstruction — helps reorient faith toward the radical love, justice, and mercy of the Gospel. • The Church as a New Political Community: Embracing our identity as a people marked by reconciliation, hospitality, nonviolence, repentance, and self-sacrificial love. • Living "Proleptically" in a Not-Yet Kingdom: How the church is called to embody God's future now — resisting both escapism and culture war postures that miss the heart of Christ. Resources Mentioned: • Scandalous Witness by Lee Camp – Amazon Link • Faith Improvised Podcast with Tim Gombis – Link • Tim Schell Podcast with Bonnie – [Link pending] • The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7) – Bible Gateway Join the conversation as we rediscover the Sermon on the Mount not as spiritual suggestions but as revolutionary marching orders for the people of Jesus. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology on social media to make sure you don't miss any of the series. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue this journey together. Email us your thoughts or questions at [email protected] and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more at the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Find curated playlists and bonus tracks at our Voxology Spotify channel Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How do we know when an apology is real? What does it mean to be the Church when buildings are closed? What if the Garden of Eden wasn't the whole world? This listener Q&A episode is packed with raw honesty, timely spiritual insight, and deep theological reflection. As Mike and Tim reflect on Bonnie's new season outside the podcast and share personal moments from their marriages, they tackle the chaos of 2020—from political division to church stagnation—and respond to powerful listener questions about repentance, institutional complicity, and how Genesis might be telling a different story than we were taught. This episode is rich with pastoral wisdom, cultural critique, and unvarnished vulnerability, offering much-needed space for disillusioned believers to wrestle with their faith, ask hard questions, and rediscover their longing for authenticity in Christian community. Key Takeaways: • Real Repentance and the Fruit of Change – Why true apology can't be rushed or polished and how enduring fruit—not buzzwords—prove authenticity. • The Problem with Image Management – Exploring the dangerous temptation to build public personas by weaponizing vulnerability. • Church Reimagined in Crisis – How COVID-19 has exposed the American church's obsession with Sunday services and the need for local, relational discipleship. • Rediscovering Eden and Rethinking Genesis – What if Adam and Eve weren't the only humans? Exploring new theological frameworks rooted in John Walton and John Sailhammer's take on Genesis. • Land, Covenant, and Redemption – Understanding the Bible's story through the lens of land and people, where Eden is less a universal prototype and more the promised land of God's chosen mission. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis Unbound by John Sailhammer – Amazon Link • The Lost World Series by John Walton – IVP Link • The Epic of Eden by Sandra Richter – Amazon Link • Faith Improvised Podcast by Tim Gombis – Link • Tim Schell Podcast with Bonnie – Link Call to Action: Join the conversation as we wrestle honestly with faith in a fractured world. Subscribe to Voxology, leave us a review, and follow along on social media to stay up to date with upcoming episodes and updates on where we're headed next. As always, we encourage and welcome your questions and feedback. Feel free to email us at [email protected] or engage with us on Facebook and Instagram. Catch us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab some merch from our ETSY Shop Learn more: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support Voxology on Patreon Follow on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook Music by Timothy John Stafford | IG & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How faith, systemic injustice, and American Christianity collide: In this powerful and raw continuation of the Exile Series, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and special guests Bonnie Lewis and Dr. Tim Gombis reflect deeply on the ways capitalism, white supremacy, and an individualized gospel have distorted the church's call to justice, community, and spiritual wholeness. Sharing personal stories, announcing new podcast ventures, and diving deep into difficult truths, the team examines why racial reconciliation isn't a social add-on to the gospel—it's at its core. Key Takeaways: • A Gospel Distorted by Individualism – How American evangelicalism has traded the New Testament's communal call for justice with a privatized salvation that separates personal faith from systemic injustice. • The Economic Roots of Racism – Exploring Coates' claim that "racism is the child of economic injustice" and examining how capitalism structurally inhibits the church from pursuing racial reconciliation. • Reclaiming the Biblical Vision – From Ephesians 2 to 1 Corinthians 11 and James, how the early church tackled racism, classism, and power—and what the modern church must relearn. • A Call to Repentance and Reconstruction – Why hope for transformation lies in radical honesty, community confession, and long-term, relational commitments between diverse churches. • Learning to be the Church Again – From imagining Exodus through new lenses, to practicing economic generosity and long-haul solidarity, practical ideas for reorienting church life around the lived gospel of Jesus. Guest Highlights: Bonnie Lewis – Making her bittersweet final appearance as official co-host, Bonnie shares hilarious personal anecdotes and also announces her new podcast, Tim Schell, releasing the same day as this episode! Dr. Tim Gombis – Theologian, political theorist, and longtime Vox guest unveils his upcoming podcast, Faith Improvised, and offers deep insight into biblical justice, systemic racism, and the failures of white evangelicalism. Resources Mentioned: • Ephesians 2 – Exploring the new humanity formed by the cross • 1 Corinthians 11 & James – Textual examples of church injustice • "Faith Improvised" with Tim Gombis – Launching July 14 • Timshell Podcast with Bonnie Lewis – [Link coming soon] • "Between the World and Me" by Ta-Nehisi Coates – [Link] Be a part of a church that looks, loves, and lives more like Jesus. Subscribe to Faith Improvised and Tim Schell, share this episode with those wrestling with the church's complicity in injustice, and follow Voxology on social to engage more deeply. We'd love to hear from you—email questions or reflections to [email protected]. Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support us on Patreon Watch on VOXOLOGY TV Grab merch on ETSY Follow on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How can Christians move beyond performative allyship toward true racial reconciliation? Mike, Bonnie, and Tim are joined by Faith Brooks—director of programs at Be the Bridge—for a transformative conversation on the role of systemic racism in American culture and the Church, and how confession, repentance, and genuine community can lead us to healing. Faith shares openly about her experiences as a Black woman navigating predominantly white evangelical spaces, encountering microaggressions, and advocating for structural change. Together, they explore what it means to listen first, leverage influence, and follow the leadership of Black voices—specifically Black women—who have long been leading the movement for racial justice. Whether you're just beginning your anti-racism journey or looking for guidance on deepening your practice, this episode offers practical insights for personal transformation and communal healing rooted in the gospel. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Systemic Racism and White Privilege – How American institutions have historically—and currently—benefit white people while disadvantaging BIPOC communities. • Microaggressions and Everyday Harm – What subtle racial slights look like in real life and why language matters in building inclusive communities. • The Power of Representation in the Church – Why true diversity in churches means more than just plans and platforms—it's about empowering diverse leadership at every level. • Be the Bridge 101 – How this guide fosters community-led conversations on race and reconciliation across churches, friend groups, and workplaces. • Steps Toward Authentic Allyship – From inner work and humility to practicing repentance and relinquishing control, white Christians are invited into a posture of long-term learning and support. Guest Highlights: Faith Brooks – Director of Programs at Be the Bridge, justice advocate, and compelling voice for racial reconciliation and healing. Faith brings her passion for equity and her lived experience to guide listeners into meaningful action rooted in relational connection. Resources Mentioned: • Be the Bridge – bethebridge.com • Faith Brooks' Website – faithbrooks.com • Be the Bridge Guide – Available via the shop on bethebridge.com • Be the Bridge on Social Media – @beabridgebuilder and @faithbritt on Instagram and Twitter Let's be people who pursue justice with humility and courage. Subscribe, leave us a review, and follow Voxology Podcast for more essential conversations that challenge, inspire, and equip you to follow Jesus in countercultural ways. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email questions to [email protected], and engage with the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How reimagining biblical translation can open the door to healing, spiritual restoration, and a deeper understanding of God's inclusive nature. As co-host Bonnie Lewis steps away from Voxology to launch the new Timshal Podcast, she shares her journey of authoring the groundbreaking idiomatic Bible translation "Timshal," releasing a new series diving into biblical stories with theological, literary, and psychological depth. In this episode, Mike, Tim, and Bonnie celebrate a season of growth while sharing reflections on how creative reinterpretation of sacred texts—especially through the lens of the marginalized and the divine feminine—restores power, voice, and belonging to those long omitted from the evangelical tradition. Key Takeaways: • A New Way to Engage Scripture – How "Timshal" blends historical context, psychological insight, and narrative storytelling to revitalize familiar Bible stories and elevate voices often left out. • The Power of Calling It a Translation – Why naming the project a "translation" affirms the text is for everyone, reclaiming access to Scripture for those excluded by religious gatekeeping. • God Beyond Gender – Exploring how feminine metaphors for God found in Ezekiel 37 and other texts restore balance to the deeply masculine-dominated theological narrative. • The Birth of the Timshal Podcast – Behind-the-scenes insights into Bonnie's new show featuring conversations around each chapter of the book, exploring translation choices, creativity, and emotional impact. • Radical Wellness and Embodiment – How Bonnie's work with Radical Wellness interweaves emotional healing and spiritual reconstruction, especially for women exploring the divine feminine. Guest Highlights: Bonnie Lewis – Author of "Timshal: An Idiomatic Bible Translation," spiritual coach, and departing Voxology co-host. Bonnie opens up about tackling criticism, staying true to the Spirit of Scripture, and empowering others to rediscover faith through a lens of empathy and inclusion. Resources Mentioned: • Buy the "Timshal" Book – timshaltranslation.com • Follow Bonnie on Instagram – @bonniegaillewis • Radical Wellness Collective – radicalwellness.co • Timshal Podcast (Launching July 6) – Follow on iTunes and Spotify soon! Join us in honoring the prophetic voice of Bonnie Lewis and supporting her next chapter in reshaping how we encounter the sacred story. Subscribe to the Timshal Podcast and make sure to preorder your copy of the book today! And don't forget to stay connected with us here—we'll be back next week with more conversations about Exile, justice, and the mission of Jesus. As always, we'd love to hear from you. Email your thoughts to [email protected] and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. Find us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Shop our merch: Voxology on Etsy Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and Facebook: Voxology Podcast Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the pandemic exposes our certainty, drives us deeper into faith, and invites us to rediscover God's mercy, justice, and holiness with biblical theologian Walter Brueggemann. In this rich and heartfelt episode, Mike, Tim, and Bonnie welcome Dr. Brueggemann—one of the most prolific theological voices of our time—for an unforgettable conversation on God, suffering, community, and courageous imagination. At 87, Brueggemann challenges us to reconsider what we think we know about the Bible, divine judgment, white supremacy, and the role of lament and protest in spiritual life—all while sharing poetic insights that spark introspection and hope. Key Takeaways: • Virus as a Summons to Faith – Drawing on the biblical concept of pestilence to explore the pandemic as a deep spiritual call to repentance, humility, and renewed purpose. • God's Holiness Beyond Formulas – Understanding divine action through three biblical frameworks: retributive justice, divine intent for liberation, and the mysterious, unsearchable holiness of God. • Reading the Bible for Transformation, Not Certainty – Why we must resist transactional readings of Scripture that serve empire and instead engage in playful, imaginative interpretation steeped in community. • Protest as Hope – How biblical lament differs from resignation and how authentic groaning becomes the birthplace of new creation. • Racial Justice and Theological Responsibility – Brueggemann's call to dismantle white supremacy in policy, culture, and biblical interpretation, and to embody gratitude for God's mercy through redistribution and justice. • Recovering the Language of Prayer – How to pray truthfully in crisis, with "no-holds-barred" honesty, expressing both suffering and hope as acts of faith. Guest Highlights: Dr. Walter Brueggemann – One of the world's most respected Old Testament scholars and the author of over 100 books, including the featured work of this episode, Virus as a Summons to Faith. Brueggemann brings a rare blend of poetic insight, deep scholarship, and prophetic imagination to the most urgent questions of our time. Resources Mentioned: • Virus as a Summons to Faith by Walter Brueggemann – Amazon • Dr. Brueggemann's Website – walterbrueggemann.com • Romans 5 – "Suffering produces endurance, endurance produces character, and character produces hope." • Elijah and Elisha narratives in 1 & 2 Kings – Examples of subversive oral theology • Psalmic Lament – Models of protest-filled praise in the Hebrew Scriptures Join the conversation and reflect on how the unknowable holiness of God invites us not into fear, but into community, mercy, and faithful resistance. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay connected. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV → https://www.youtube.com/@voxology Our Merch Store! → https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market Learn more about the podcast: https://voxologypodcast.com/ Subscribe on iTunes → https://apple.co/1Lla1Nj Subscribe on Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr?si=KJoEXxxxTsqE-HiGL-PfIA Support the podcast on Patreon → https://www.patreon.com/voxology Voxology Spotify Channel → https://open.spotify.com/user/nj2l08pd1zt6zk3azs1plhmdy?si=3fb86269da0449ed Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford → https://www.timothyjohnstafford.com Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the church's complicity in white supremacy distorts the gospel—and how to confront it with humility and courage. Mike, Tim, and Bonnie sit down with pastor, author, and diversity trainer Brit Barron for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about race, justice, theology, and the responsibility of the church in a time of social upheaval. Drawing on her personal experiences as a queer woman of color, former megachurch pastor, and co-pastor of the inclusive community New Abbey in Pasadena, Britt offers prophetic insight, careful nuance, and radical hope for a better way forward in both faith and society. Key Takeaways: • Understanding the Church's Role in Racism – Why white supremacy, power structures, and theological interpretations go hand-in-hand—and how churches must reform from within to dismantle those ties. • Diversity vs. Charity – Exploring how "charity" approaches to racial justice reinforce power dynamics, and why real change requires internalizing the work. • Personalizing the Journey – Why white complicity in racism is about more than action steps—it's about doing your own work, confronting personal fears, and being willing to change. • Navigating Hard Conversations – Insights on interracial marriage, family dynamics, and staying grounded in painful seasons of world-shaking injustice. • Creating a Truly Inclusive Church – How deauthorizing leadership, centering marginalized voices, and practicing real-time political engagement leads to authentic gospel embodiment. Guest Highlights: Brit Barron – Pastor, speaker, author of the upcoming book Worth It, and co-leader of New Abbey Church in Pasadena. Britt shares her wisdom on race, church, LGBTQ+ identity, and social justice with clarity, humor, and hope. Resources Mentioned: • Brit's website and anti-racism guide – brittbarron.com • New Abbey Church – newabbey.org • Britt on Instagram – @brittbarron • Book: Worth It by Britt Barron – Coming July 21 Come be part of the movement toward a more just, honest, and loving church. Subscribe to the Voxology Podcast, leave a review, and follow us on social to continue the conversation. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Standing in collective lament and solidarity, this episode features a moment of silence and protest as part of the podcast blackout movement—recognizing the loss of Black lives due to police brutality. Tim Stafford speaks on behalf of the Voxology community to affirm their commitment to listening, learning, and mourning with those who grieve. By naming the victims, this episode becomes a space of remembrance and protest against systemic injustice. Key Themes: • Honoring the lives lost to racial injustice through a spoken memorial. • A public and spiritual practice of lament aligned with the biblical call to mourn with those who mourn. • Centering the importance of listening, empathy, and standing in solidarity with marginalized communities. • Highlighting the church's prophetic role in naming sin and injustice in society. Reflection Focus: Rather than commentary or discussion, this episode acts as a sacred pause—a responsive act of solidarity through silence and the power of naming. Call to Action: Take time to reflect, lament, and educate yourself on racial justice. Seek ways to stand alongside communities affected by systemic violence. Subscribe, share, and follow the Voxology Podcast to continue engaging in conversations about justice, faith, and the true mission of Jesus. As always, we welcome your thoughts and stories as we pursue this journey together. Email your reflections to [email protected] and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Visit our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How reframing the gospel as the enthronement of King Jesus—not just personal forgiveness—transforms our understanding of salvation, faith, and the mission of the church. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by theologian and author Dr. Matthew Bates to uncover how early Christian proclamations of the gospel centered on Jesus' kingship, not just his atonement. This episode dives deep into controversial theological waters, challenging common evangelical interpretations of faith, grace, salvation, and works—with the goal of recentering our gospel language around the lordship and kingship of Jesus Christ. Key Takeaways: • The Full Christ Event as Gospel – Why the gospel must include Jesus' incarnation, life, death, resurrection, ascension, and enthronement—not just his death for sin. • Faith as Allegiance – How the New Testament concept of "faith" (pistis) includes embodied loyalty and allegiance, not just belief in promises. • Reframing Grace and Works – How our traditional individualistic view of "grace" may limit the biblical message, and why responding to grace isn't legalism. • Salvation as Communal and Cosmic – Understanding salvation as deliverance into the new creation and Spirit-filled community, not just an individual ticket to heaven. • Ephesians 2 Reexamined – Breaking apart four key gospel words—grace, saved, faith, and works—and revealing how they support allegiance-based discipleship. Guest Highlights: Dr. Matthew Bates – Theology professor at Quincy University and author of Salvation by Allegiance Alone and Gospel Allegiance. Bates offers a fresh scholarly framework for rediscovering the gospel as King Jesus proclaimed it—centered on the claim that Jesus is enthroned as King and worthy of our total allegiance. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew Bates – matthewwbates.com • Books: Salvation by Allegiance Alone & Gospel Allegiance by Matthew Bates • Book: Paul and the Gift by John M.G. Barclay • Podcast: OnScript Podcast • Ephesians 2:8–10 • Romans 2:16, 3:21–26 • Mark 1:14–15 (Jesus' proclamation of the kingdom) • Luke's Gospel – Narrative of salvation through discipleship Join us as we unpack a more complete and compelling view of the gospel that doesn't end at the cross, but enthrones Jesus as King, Savior, and Lord. Subscribe, leave a review, and share the journey with us on social media! As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. 📺 Watch on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV 🛍 Merch Store on Etsy: VOXOLOGY Shop 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: ➤ Apple Podcasts ➤ Spotify 💡 Support the show on Patreon: Patreon.com/voxology 🎵 Music by Timothy John Stafford – timothyjohnstafford.com Twitter & Instagram: @GoneTimothy 📻 Listen to curated playlists on our Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Follow the convo: Instagram: @voxologypodcast Facebook: Voxology Podcast Twitter: Mike Erre As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the spiritual vision rooted in Isaiah and Micah, combined with raw grassroots action, is reshaping the modern American conversation around gun violence. Shane Claiborne joins Mike Erre and Tim Stafford for a moving conversation about gun reform, Christian nonviolence, and the community-driven approach to peacemaking that challenges systems of fear and violence. This episode explores how proximity to suffering awakens faith into action and provides a prophetic witness to what it means to follow Jesus in a world shaped by trauma and fear. Key Takeaways: • Gun Violence as a Spiritual Crisis – Shane Claiborne calls the American obsession with guns not just a political issue but a soul issue that contradicts the Sermon on the Mount and Jesus' teachings. • The Power of Proximity – How living in a North Philly neighborhood affected by gun violence transformed Shane's understanding of justice, safety, and Christian responsibility. • Faith Over Fear – Why choosing love instead of fear must be central to Christian identity, especially when fear is weaponized to justify violence. • Repurposing Weapons into Tools for Life – The story behind RAWtools and Shane's blacksmithing practice that turns guns into garden tools and symbols of peace. • Redefining "Pro-Life" – How embracing a consistent ethic of life includes confronting gun violence, racism, the death penalty, and environmental degradation. Guest Highlights: Shane Claiborne – Author, activist, and founder of The Simple Way, a community-oriented movement in Philadelphia. Shane shares his journey from growing up around guns in Tennessee to becoming a blacksmith repurposing weapons into symbols of restoration. His passion for the marginalized and courageous critique of Christian nationalism places him at the forefront of faith-based activism. Resources Mentioned: • Beating Guns: Hope for People Who Are Weary of Violence by Shane Claiborne and Michael Martin – Link • RAWtools – Learn more and get involved at rawtools.org • Everytown for Gun Safety Faith Network – everytown.org • Gunning of America by Pamela Haag – Historical deep dive into the gun industry's rise through profit over ethics • Prophetic Scriptures Referenced – Isaiah 2:4, Micah 4:3 • Watch the Beating Guns Documentary – Available via Amazon and Vimeo Let's disrupt violence by building peace. Join the conversation and help reimagine a future where faith leads us away from fear. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology on social media to stay connected. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the Beatitudes in Matthew reveal a radical, countercultural path to human flourishing—offering a lasting peace and joy our culture can't replicate. Mike, Tim, and Bonnie welcome pastor and author Jonathan Dodson for an in-depth conversation around his book "Our Good Crisis: Overcoming Moral Chaos with the Beatitudes." Together, they unpack the meaning behind Jesus's powerful moral vision, juxtapose it with America's obsession with self-fulfillment, and explore how spiritual poverty, grief, meekness, and peacemaking lead to deeper blessing and healing. Key Takeaways: • Redefining Blessing Through the Beatitudes – Jesus calls "blessed" those who mourn, are poor in spirit, and persecuted—not the empowered, comfortable, or self-sufficient. • The Age of the Big Me vs. Spiritual Humility – Exploring how modern culture promotes pride through activism, therapy, and personal branding, while Jesus invites us into humble dependence on God. • Peacemaking vs. Performative Outrage – How followers of Jesus are called to enter cultural conversations with empathy, humility, and a longing for full reconciliation—not just online posturing. • Embracing Mourning and Lament – Finding comfort not by escaping grief, but by embracing it as part of the Christian journey. Learning how lament brings healing and integrates loss into our lives. • The Power of Meekness in a Hostile Age – Why true strength looks like restraint, listening, and self-sacrifice—and how this radically subverts traditional narratives about leadership and influence. Guest Highlights: Jonathan Dodson – Founding pastor of City Life Church in Austin, TX, and author of Our Good Crisis. Jonathan shares inspiring stories, biblical wisdom, and a timely challenge to embrace the beauty of the Beatitudes in the midst of cultural confusion and moral upheaval. Resources Mentioned: • Our Good Crisis by Jonathan Dodson – Amazon • Jonathan Dodson's writings and blog – jonathandodson.org • City Life Church, Austin – citylifeaustin.org • The Road to Character by David Brooks • Be the Bridge (Latasha Morrison) – bethebridge.com • The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk • Podcast on Lament – [Link to previous Voxology episode on lament] Join the conversation and rediscover how the Beatitudes can help you reclaim hope, humility, and purpose in the chaos. Subscribe to the podcast, leave us a review, and follow along on social media to stay present in this journey. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

A reflection-driven conversation unpacks key questions raised by the "God Is Not In Control" series with Dr. Timothy Gombis and Dr. Peter Enns. Hosts Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and Bonnie Lewis revisit listener feedback, dive deep into the theology of prayer, biblical lament, supernatural healing, and the nuance of divine sovereignty. Using the Lord's Prayer and Psalms as guideposts, they explore how Christians are called to pray with humility, hope, and honesty—even when answers don't come as expected. Key Takeaways: • Exploring the Distinction Between Provision and Comfort – How "daily bread" in the Lord's Prayer speaks to trust in divine provision, not necessarily personal ease. • The Mystery of Prayer and Outcomes – Reflecting on why a faith-based approach to healing and intercession can't be reduced to formulas or outcomes. • Covenantal Context of the Psalms – Understanding how the Old Testament covenantal framework shapes the tone and expectations of prayers in the Psalms, and how we can still learn from them. • Prayer in Lament, Protest, and Surrender – Moving beyond consumeristic prayer toward solidarity with God's purposes and communal brokenness. • The Dallas Willard Approach – Reframing prayer as spiritual formation, where aligning our hearts with God takes precedence over specific results. Guest Highlights: • This episode features an ensemble of the regular co-hosts—Mike, Tim, and Bonnie—offering pastoral reflections and personal experiences as they answer listener questions and prepare to bring Dr. Gombis back for a live Zoom Q&A. Resources Mentioned: • Dallas Willard – Renovation of the Heart • Book of Psalms – Link • The Lord's Prayer – Matthew 6:9–13 (Link) • 1 Peter 5:7 – "Cast all your cares on him" (Link) • Jude 1:24–25 Benediction – Link Want more conversations like this? Subscribe, leave us a review, and follow us on social! As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV – YouTube Channel Merch Store: ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support the podcast on Patreon Check out our curated Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How reframing the Bible as a companion of wisdom rather than a rulebook can transform your faith and bring fresh insight into spiritual growth, deconstruction, and the struggles of modern Christianity. Featuring a deep and thought-provoking conversation with author, scholar, and podcaster Pete Enns, this episode from Voxology reflects on how scripture, community, and divine mystery guide us through seasons of doubt and spiritual evolution. Key Takeaways: • Reclaiming the Bible After Deconstruction – Why discarding the Bible isn't the only option after faith shifts, and how to engage it anew without fear or rigidity. • The Bible as Wisdom Literature – Moving away from transactional reading and embracing a communal, contextual approach to scripture rooted in discernment. • Inspiration vs. Interpretation – Exploring how the Bible's ancient context, genre, and diversity invite interpretation that leads to spiritual maturity, not confusion. • Paul, Plagues, and Proverbs – Reexamining misunderstood or misused scriptures with humility and curiosity as essential tools in the journey of faith. • Trusting the Journey – Acknowledging doubt, divergence, and divine mystery as not only valid but necessary components of a deepening spiritual life. Guest Highlights: Pete Enns – Scholar, author of How the Bible Actually Works, co-host of The Bible for Normal People podcast, and professor at Eastern University. Pete brings decades of theological expertise paired with a relatable approach to rethinking Christianity, the Bible, and the wisdom tradition. Resources Mentioned: • Pete Enns's website – https://peteenns.com • The Bible for Normal People podcast – https://thebiblefornormalpeople.com • How the Bible Actually Works – Book link • The Sin of Certainty – Book link • The Creation and the Persistence of Evil by Jon D. Levenson – Book link • How to Read the Bible by James Kugel – Book link • The Bible and the Believer (Pete Enns, Marc Zvi Brettler, Daniel J. Harrington) – Book link • Bible Tells Me So by Pete Enns – Book link Reimagining faith doesn't mean walking away—it might just mean walking deeper into mystery, wonder, and freedom. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to continue exploring the true mission of Jesus with us. Have thoughts or questions? We'd love to hear from you at [email protected] and invite you to join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. Check out our YouTube channel: VOXOLOGY TV Grab some fresh Voxology merch on Etsy: VOXOLOGY Store Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe via Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow the Voxology Spotify music channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike Erre on Twitter: twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

What if the chaos we fear is part of the invitation? In part 2 of this conversation with Dr. Timothy Gombis—aka "Freaking Gombis"—we go deep into the mystery and discomfort of prayer during crisis. Picking up where Part 1 left off, Gombis stuns the crew with a bold observation about God's posture in the midst of suffering and unanswered prayer, leading to a rich exploration of lament, divine sovereignty, and the church's calling in a broken world. From Romans 8 to Psalm 44 to punk bands and Bob Ross, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, Bonnie, and Gombis uncover how deeply our theology of prayer reflects our assumptions about control, pain, and God's character. Key Takeaways: • Challenging Conventional Prayer – Why most of our prayers don't align with Scripture, especially when driven by comfort, fear, or certainty. • The Power of Lament – Re-centering our prayers on lament, mercy, grief, and solidarity with a creation groaning for redemption. • How God Intervenes – Exploring the provocative claim that God's primary intervention is through human agents pursuing justice and healing—not supernatural micromanagement. • Prayer as Participation in God's Mission – Viewing prayer not as a tool to control outcomes, but a means of joining God's sorrow and hope. • Rethinking God's Sovereignty – Is God "in control" as we imagine—or is he grieving with us, stunned and heartbroken by the choices of humanity? Guest Highlights: Dr. Timothy Gombis – Theologian, author, and professor who returns in this follow-up episode with penetrating insight and a brand-new theological "gut punch." Gombis challenges easy answers about divine intervention and invites us to press deeper into mystery, solidarity, and kingdom community. Resources Mentioned: • Romans 8 – On creation groaning and the Spirit interceding. • Psalm 44 (via Eugene Peterson's paraphrase) – Inspiration behind U2's "Wake Up Dead Man." • Tom Wright – Article in TIME Magazine on the role of lament in the church. • "Faith Improvised" Blog by Timothy Gombis – faithimprovised.blogspot.com • U2's "Wake Up Dead Man" and "Yahweh" – Songs capturing lament and the cry for divine presence in the dark. • Genesis 1–3 – The tension between transcendence and intimacy in God's nature. BONUS: Delightful tangents about Bob Ross calendars, lockdown reboots of "My Sharona," and barefoot Seth Erie sightings in the rain—just another day in the Voxology universe. Join us as we reimagine what faithful prayer can sound like in a broken world, and discover how God's people are meant to be his hands—and heart—in the middle of it. Subscribe, leave us a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to keep these conversations going. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue. Email your thoughts or questions to [email protected] and engage with us on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

A candid and provocative conversation with theologian Dr. Tim Gombis kicks off a special four-part series unraveling one of Christianity's most common yet misunderstood phrases: "God is in control." In this first episode, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and Bonnie Lewis explore what it actually means to say that God is sovereign, and why saying "God is in control" may hinder rather than help a healthy understanding of suffering, divine action, and human vocation. Gombis challenges us to take seriously the biblical portrayal of God as king, not controller, and to reimagine what divine sovereignty looks like in a chaotic world. Drawing deeply from Genesis, Revelation, and Pauline theology, the conversation lays a powerful foundation for understanding God's complex relationship with human freedom, suffering, and control. Key Takeaways: • Understanding God's Sovereignty vs. "Control" – Why the phrase "God is in control" oversimplifies the theological richness of scripture and misrepresents God's relationship with creation. • The Human Role in God's Kingdom – How Genesis portrays humans as image bearers empowered to extend God's shalom, and what happens when we opt for chaos instead. • Suffering, Chaos, and the Illusion of Safety – Distinguishing between God's kingship and the unpredictability of a broken world, especially for middle-class Western Christians who may be shielded from suffering. • The Church's Projection of Power – Exploring how Western theology's emphasis on control, knowledge, and safety reflects our cultural desires more than God's nature revealed through Christ. • A Biblical View of Grief and Hope – Why the appropriate response to suffering isn't false assurances but grieving alongside a God who suffers with us—while still planting hope in the future resurrection. Guest Highlights: Dr. Tim Gombis – New Testament scholar, regular guest of the Voxology Podcast, and insightful voice on the intersection of theology, scripture, and lived faith. His controversial blog post "God is Not in Control" sparked deep conversations about divine sovereignty during times of crisis. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis 1–3 – Humanity's original vocation and fall. • Romans 8 – God's Spirit groaning with us in suffering. • Mark 13 – Jesus' warning against reading events as divine judgment. • Job – A biblical critique of formulaic thinking about suffering and divine logic. • Exodus 34 – God's self-revelation to Moses. • Revelation – God's identity as the one who is coming to reclaim his world. • Tim Gombis's Blog – [Available on Facebook] for ongoing posts and dialogue. This is Part 1 of a four-part arc. Tune in next week as we continue the conversation with Tim Gombis in Part 2 and explore the implications for how we read the Bible with Pete Enns. Join the discussion—email your thoughts or questions to [email protected] and connect with our micro communities on Facebook. We encourage you to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on your favorite platform to stay connected with the journey. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY More from the Voxology Podcast: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast "Like" us on Facebook Mike on Twitter: twitter.com/mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How viewing Jesus through the lens of first-century Judaism can enrich faith, correct common misconceptions, and reshape our understanding of the New Testament. In this highly engaging and eye-opening episode, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and Bonnie are joined by New Testament scholar and Jewish academic Dr. Amy-Jill Levine (aka "AJ") to explore how Jesus' Jewish context clarifies theology, deepens spiritual practice, and invites a reexamination of the Christian narrative. Dr. Levine, University Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies at Vanderbilt University, offers an extraordinary blend of deep scholarship, humility, and humor, challenging long-held assumptions about the law, women in Judaism, Paul, and more. The conversation spans Jesus's teachings in the Gospels, Paul's relationship to Torah, Christian misconceptions about ancient Judaism, and the modern relevance of recovering Jesus' historical Jewish identity. Key Takeaways: • Jesus Was Fully Jewish – Understanding Jesus as a Torah-following first-century Jew radically reorients modern Christian interpretations of his teachings, particularly around ethics, law, and salvation. • Common Misreadings of Judaism – Dr. Levine debunks ideas like legalism, harsh treatment of women, and spiritual emptiness often wrongfully attributed to Jewish practice, demonstrating how these misperceptions distort the gospel. • Paul Within Judaism – Instead of abandoning Judaism, Paul's teachings are shown to operate within Jewish thought, especially as he addressed Gentiles exploring Jesus without converting to Judaism. • Seeing the Law as Freedom, Not Burden – Obedience to Torah, from AJ's perspective, is joyfully communal and rooted in identity—not in fear or a merit system. • Reading Scripture with Nuance – Whether it's parables or Jesus' sayings in the Sermon on the Mount, AJ highlights the importance of literary context, intention, and the Jewish practice of "building a fence around the law." • Rethinking Christian Spirituality – Jesus's moral teachings point toward tangible actions and transformation now—not just salvation later. Guest Highlights: Dr. Amy-Jill Levine ("AJ") – A world-renowned Jewish scholar of the New Testament, AJ's groundbreaking work (including The Jewish Annotated New Testament, Short Stories by Jesus, and children's books on parables) bridges interfaith dialogue, clears up centuries of misunderstanding between Judaism and Christianity, and offers fresh insight into the life and teachings of Jesus. Resources Mentioned: • The Jewish Annotated New Testament – Oxford University Press • Short Stories by Jesus: The Enigmatic Parables of a Controversial Rabbi – Amazon • The Book of Legends (Sefer Ha-Aggadah) – A collection of Jewish midrashic stories, recommended for deeper understanding of Jewish spiritual storytelling. • Nathan Eubank's work on Ransom Theory – Exploration of the economic motifs behind atonement metaphors in ancient scripture. • Children's book by AJ: Who Counts? 100 Sheep, 10 Coins, and 2 Sons – Amazon Join the journey of unlearning and rediscovering: Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to help reclaim Jesus' cultural and historical context as central to Christian faith. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue truth together. Send in questions to [email protected] and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. Watch full episodes on VOXOLOGY TV. Support the podcast and shop the Vox Merch Store on ETSY Learn more at VoxologyPodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the ancient themes of Passover, liberation, and wilderness speak directly into our lives during a global pandemic. Rabbi Nahum Ward-Lev joins Bonnie, Mike, and Tim for a powerful and timely conversation that explores the Hebrew prophetic tradition and how its liberative framework can offer hope, transformation, and solidarity in the face of disruption and isolation. Drawing from his book, The Liberating Path of the Hebrew Prophets Then and Now, Ward-Lev invites listeners to rediscover the biblical wilderness as a space of creativity, growth, and divine intimacy. Key Takeaways: • Rediscovering the Wilderness – How the biblical concept of "midbar" (wilderness) as the "wide place" is not just a location of hardship, but a sacred space where healing, creativity, and relational connectedness emerge. • Liberation as an Ongoing Spiritual Journey – Passover isn't just a historical event, but an invitation to engage in continual internal and communal transformation, especially in times of collective crisis. • God of the Margins – Understanding the divine identity rooted in liberation theology: "I am the Lord your God who brought you out of bondage," highlighting God's preferential option for the oppressed. • From Pharaoh's Pyramids to the People's Tabernacle – A compelling contrast between oppressive structures built by forced labor and communal spaces birthed from mutual creativity, justice, and shared story. • Darkness as a Place of Birth and Revelation – Reframing the "plague of darkness" and quarantine as womb-like—spaces where new imagination, connection, and justice-centered community can be born. Guest Highlights: Rabbi Nahum Ward-Lev – Spiritual director, retreat leader, and author of The Liberating Path of the Hebrew Prophets Then and Now. Based in New Mexico, he leads the multi-faith study group Baymidrash and offers spiritual guidance nationwide. Rabbi Ward-Lev shares how Jewish spirituality holds a deep call to moral awakening, emphasizing that justice, relational wholeness, and co-creation with God are central to our human vocation. Resources Mentioned: • The Liberating Path of the Hebrew Prophets Then and Now – Order the Book • Walter Brueggemann – Writings on prophetic imagination and resisting royal narratives • Children's Book: "God Must Be Like That" – Illuminating how we see God through justice, kindness, and love • Ezekiel 37 – The dry bones as a metaphor for spiritual rebirth and collective awakening • Martin Luther King Jr.'s "Beloved Community" – A vision rooted in mutuality, justice, and compassion Let's continue to walk this liberating path together. Subscribe, leave us a review, and share this conversation with someone needing hope in the wilderness. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How embracing the Enneagram as a tool for spiritual formation and self-understanding can deepen your empathy, reshape your identity, and lead you toward relational and emotional wholeness. Bonnie and Tim are joined by Enneagram coach and spiritual director Annie Dimond, who brings a rich, narrative-based understanding of the Enneagram to this dynamic conversation. Broadcasting from her farmhouse in Scotland—where she moonlights as a yoga teacher and soon-to-be lambing shepherdess—Annie dives deep into how the Enneagram can be more than just a personality tool. From understanding childhood survival strategies to engaging with the "false self vs. true self" dynamic, this episode explores how spiritual direction, emotional integration, and body awareness come together to form a holistic approach to transformation. Key Takeaways: • The Narrative Enneagram Tradition – A method that emphasizes stories, body awareness, and personal experience over rigid typology. • False Self vs. True Self – How the Enneagram reveals not just who we are but how our survival strategies have shaped us—and how we can grow beyond them. • The Spiritual Roots of the Enneagram – Exploring its origins in Jesuit formation, Jewish mysticism, Sufism, and early Christian monasticism. • Holy Ideas and Core Struggles – Each type holds a divine spark and a distortion of that holy idea (e.g., Type 4's longing for uniqueness vs. envy). • Using the Enneagram in Crisis – How different types are experiencing the pandemic and how compassion, not judgment, helps us better respond. • The Enneagram as Invitation – A call to listen to the emotions we normally suppress (like envy, fear, and grief), not as enemies, but as teachers. Guest Highlights: Annie Dimond – A spiritual director, yoga teacher, PhD student, and certified Enneagram coach in the Narrative Tradition, Annie helps individuals and communities use the Enneagram for deeper healing and holistic spiritual formation. Her theological work bridges psychology, mysticism, and Christian discipleship in ways rooted in community and transformation. Resources Mentioned: • Annie's Website – enneagramforwholeness.com • Contact Annie – [email protected] • Beatrice Chestnut – The Complete Enneagram – A comprehensive book exploring 27 subtypes and the psychological and spiritual roots of the Enneagram. • Upcoming Podcast – Annie's new show (title TBD), launching Fall 2024, will explore the Enneagram in the context of religion and spirituality. Discover new invitations toward healing and wholeness by understanding your story—and others'—through the lens of the Enneagram. Ready to go deeper? Make sure to subscribe to Voxology, leave a review, and follow us on Instagram or Facebook to engage with our growing community. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Responding to a cultural moment that disrupted daily rhythms, community gatherings, and global certainty, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and Bonnie Lewis come together in a special quarantine episode to ask four essential questions: What do we believe God is doing in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic? What is being exposed in us, our culture, and the Church? What does faithful witness look like right now? And how can communities like Voxology step up during a crisis? Exploring both personal and theological layers, the conversation examines old views of judgment vs. participation, public theology vs. quiet presence, and how to engage empathetically when isolation looks different for each person. And yes—there are moments of humor, real talk, and even a surprise cameo from a passing train. Key Takeaways: • Rejecting a Narrative of Judgment – Unpacking why attributing the pandemic to divine punishment misrepresents the character of God, especially in light of Jesus's covenant and ministry. • Seeing God in Slowness and Solidarity – Discovering how global slowing and human connection reveal God's presence through relief work, neighborly compassion, and personal introspection. • Faithful Witness Looks Like Action – Decentering Sunday services and rediscovering the roots of the Church through proximity to Jesus, supporting the vulnerable, and advocating for justice. • The Church Beyond the Stage – Challenging the church's over-reliance on Sunday gatherings and inviting a radical reformation of resources and priorities, especially for those most impacted by isolation or poverty. • When Home Isn't Safe – Acknowledging victims of domestic abuse, the immunocompromised, and the economically marginalized—groups whose struggles are amplified in lockdown. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 25 – Exploring Jesus' call to serve "the least of these." • Acts 4 – Centering the conversation around the disciples' transformation and faithful boldness under pressure. • The Book of Ruth – An example of partnering with God in the midst of uncertainty. • Sunday Spiritual Direction w/ Bonnie Lewis – 8:30am PT on Instagram & Facebook Live. • Facebook + Instagram Live Chats w/ Mike Erre – Starting April 1 (Wednesdays and Fridays at 12pm ET). • Voxology Community Zoom Call – April 7 at 9pm ET / 6pm PT – Stay tuned for signup info. Join us in building a faithful, creative and compassionate church for right now. Subscribe to the Voxology Podcast, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay connected. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected] and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

A powerful and deeply personal follow-up to episode 224 ("Together in Process"), this conversation invites listeners into the real-time journey of healing, restoration, and redemption. Mike Erre returns to share openly about his months-long process of owning his failures, confronting entrenched patterns of shame, and embracing the hard work of inner transformation. With contributions from co-hosts Bonnie and Tim, this episode models courageous vulnerability, celebrates emotionally healthy spirituality, and illuminates what it means to be pursued—even when exposed. Hear how Mike's journey has been shaped through therapy, spiritual direction, tools like the Enneagram, and a deeply impactful experience at Onsite—a secular therapeutic program that helped reveal the sturdy presence of Jesus in unexpected spaces. The team reflects on the role of shame, the difference between sharing wounds and scars, and the powerful grace of being sung back into wholeness by a supportive community. This episode is for anyone navigating failure, hiding in shame, or yearning to believe redemption is possible—even in ministry spaces. It's a story about how the grace of Jesus finds us in the dark and how true community helps us walk in the light. Key Takeaways: • Healing Requires More Than Behavior Management – True transformation isn't about quick fixes but uncovering deeper wounds and habituating new patterns of living. • Holistic Growth Through Unlikely Tools – From the Enneagram to secular therapy, Mike shares how unexpected resources aligned with the gospel to bring genuine change. • Vulnerability and Boundaries – The wisdom of sharing scars, not open wounds, and how premature vulnerability can masquerade as authenticity. • Pursued in Our Shame – A reassuring reminder that Jesus doesn't recoil from our brokenness. Instead, he meets us there—with grace. • Doing the Inner Work in Community – How friendships, relational accountability, and being truly known create the space for sustainable growth. Resources Mentioned: • Episode 224 – "Together in Process" • Onsite Workshops (Residential Therapy Programs) – onsiteworkshops.com • The Wisdom of the Enneagram by Don Riso & Russ Hudson • Poem: "Autobiography in Five Short Chapters" by Portia Nelson • Spiritual Direction info – voxologypodcast.com/resources • Dallas Willard's Teachings on Formation • VOXOLOGY TV – YouTube Join our evolving, grace-filled conversation and help us cultivate spaces where honesty, healing, and discipleship grow together. Don't forget to rate and review, subscribe, and follow us on social media—we'd love to hear your story and walk alongside you. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion. Email us at [email protected] or engage with us on Facebook and Instagram. Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Check out our Merch Store: Etsy Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook: Voxology Podcast Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the theology of "hopeful inclusion" and a reimagined understanding of judgment can expand your vision of redemption, freedom, and the character of God. In this eye-opening conversation, author and theologian Brad Jersak joins Voxology to discuss his acclaimed book, "Her Gates Will Never Be Shut," which explores biblical and historical perspectives on hell, divine judgment, and the ultimate redemption of all things. Brad shares how a deeper dive into scripture, the early church fathers, and the layered symbolism of Revelation shifts our understanding of God's justice from punishment to purification, and hell from eternal torment to transformative love. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has wrestled with fear-based theologies, inherited beliefs about hell, or the unsettling silence around what judgment really means. Key Takeaways: • The Spectrum of Hell Theology – Breaking down common views including eternal conscious torment, conditional immortality (annihilationism), and ultimate redemption (a form of hopeful universalism). • Reorienting Judgment Through Love – Understanding God's fire not as vengeance but restoration, drawn from numerous passages like Malachi 3 and 1 Corinthians 3. • Hope After Death – Revelation's final chapters suggest the gates of the New Jerusalem are never shut, symbolizing ongoing invitation—even post-judgment. • Jesus in Hades – Exploring early Christian traditions of Jesus descending to Hades, setting captives free, and what it means for God's victory over death itself. • There's No Doctrine of Hell in the Creeds – Why hell was not considered a core requirement of Christian belief for the early church, and what that means for us today. • A Gospel of Love, Not Fear – Why the early Christian evangelists never used hell to convert, and how re-centering on Christ's love transforms how we live and share our faith. Guest Highlight: Brad Jersak – Reverend, theologian, and author of more than 20 books including "Her Gates Will Never Be Shut." Brad serves as Dean of Theology & Culture at St. Stephen's University and offers a compelling vision of God's restorative love, grounded in scripture and the teachings of the early church. Resources Mentioned: • Her Gates Will Never Be Shut by Brad Jersak – Amazon • St. Stephen's University – ssu.ca • Book: Jesus Showed Us (children's book by Brad Jersak) • Ephesians 2, Malachi 3, 1 Corinthians 3, Revelation 20–22 • The Gospel of Nicodemus – Early Christian writing referenced in discussion Join the community of listeners engaging in conversations that challenge, affirm, and ultimately point us to the radical love of Jesus. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to be part of the evolving conversation. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast "Like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How artifacts like broken pottery, ancient bread ovens, and fingerprints in clay awaken us to the real lives and faith of biblical peoples—and what that means for us today. Tim and Bonnie welcome Dr. Cynthia Shafer-Elliott, professor of Hebrew Bible and archaeology at William Jessup University, to talk all things context—biblical genre, ancient family structures, and why daily life matters just as much as kings and temples when reading scripture. Dr. Cynthia brings fresh perspective through her academic work and archeological field experience in Israel, digging into Iron Age homes from the time of Hezekiah and Isaiah. You'll hear what she's learned from excavating ancient kitchens, how she distinguishes mythic genres from historic timelines, and why focusing on the "mundane" aspects of life radically reframes our understanding of God's people in the Old Testament. Key Takeaways: • Valuing the Mundane – Why archeology focuses less on big discoveries and more on everyday items that reveal how people lived, worked, and worshiped. • Genre Shapes Meaning – How understanding biblical genres—like mythical history or household narratives—can transform how we interpret Old Testament passages. • Rethinking "Biblical Households" – Exploring how ancient Israelite households functioned under survival conditions with shared authority between matriarchs and patriarchs. • Women's Roles in Ancient Culture – How archaeology challenges assumptions about patriarchy by revealing the essential role of women in food preparation, trading, and household leadership. • Living Faith in Dirt and Clay – What ancient fingerprints on pottery can teach us about God's ongoing work through real human lives. Guest Highlight: Dr. Cynthia Shafer-Elliott – Associate Professor of Hebrew Bible and Archaeology at William Jessup University. With excavation experience at multiple sites in Israel and a specialization in daily life in ancient Judah, Cynthia brings both scholarly depth and tangible insight to the biblical text. Resources Mentioned: • NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible – [Link] • New Oxford Annotated Bible (NRSV) – [Link] • William Jessup University – jessup.edu • Bible for Normal People Podcast (Pete Enns, Jared Byas) – biblefornormalpeople.com • BibleProject – bibleproject.com Want to keep digging into scripture with a richer lens? Subscribe to Voxology, leave a review, and follow us on IG @voxologypodcast for updates and bonus content. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Listen to the Voxology Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Discover how perfect love, humble conviction, and courageous listening can help Christians engage politics without being divisive. Mike, Tim, and Bonnie welcome author, pastor, and activist Eugene Cho to talk about his new book, Thou Shalt Not Be a Jerk: A Christian's Guide to Engaging Politics. They dig into what it looks like to bring thoughtful, compassionate discipleship into political engagement in an era of fear, outrage, and division. The group explores what it means to love our neighbors on both sides of the political aisle, how fear-based ideologies distort faith, and why being faithful to the gospel is inherently political—but never partisan. Eugene shares his own story as a Korean immigrant and pastor navigating the often fraught intersections of justice, theology, and civic responsibility. Whether you're tired of political shouting matches or seeking to live a more grounded Christian witness in divisive times, this conversation provides wisdom, challenge, and hope for reclaiming a better way. Key Takeaways: • Faith Before Politics – Why theology must inform political values—not the other way around—and how political idolatries distort the witness of the church. • Rejecting Fear & Embracing Love – Examining how fear hinders faithful action and how perfect love casts it out, especially in divisive election seasons. • Whole-Life Ethic – Understanding what it means to be pro-life from "womb to tomb" and how voting with the marginalized in mind shapes Christ-like action beyond the ballot box. • The Creativity of Table Fellowship – Exploring how shared meals, listening, and humanizing conversations (like Make America Dinner Again) invite transformation in a polarized culture. • A Call to Humble Conviction – Why being grounded in Scripture, vulnerable to community, and open to being wrong are necessary postures for engaging political complexity as followers of Jesus. Guest Highlight: Eugene Cho – Speaker, pastor, and author of Thou Shalt Not Be a Jerk, Eugene is the founder of Quest Church in Seattle and One Day's Wages, a humanitarian org fighting global poverty. He offers a prophetic yet pastoral voice on Christian engagement in politics, identity, neighborliness, and gospel-based justice. Resources Mentioned: • Thou Shalt Not Be a Jerk by Eugene Cho – Find it here • One Day's Wages – onedayswages.org • Make America Dinner Again – makeamericadinneragain.com • 1 John 4:18 – "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear…" Let's commit to resisting fear, building bridges, and loving well in the public square. Subscribe to Voxology, leave a review, and share your thoughts on social—your input helps us shape a better conversation. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the biblical pattern of liberation empowers us to confront economic injustice, redefine power, and co-create a more just world. In this dynamic episode of Voxology, Bonnie and Tim are joined by Don Golden—author, activist, theologian, and leader in faith-centered impact investing. Don brings decades of experience in international relief, political advocacy, and theological reflection to guide a conversation that challenges listeners to think deeply about what it means to be God's liberating people in today's complex world. From Exodus to economics, Don unpacks a prophetic framework of four biblical locations—Egypt, Sinai, Jerusalem, and Babylon—that mirror the spiritual and societal cycles we live in today. The episode explores how privilege distorts our reading of Scripture, how American Christianity risks irrelevance by aligning with earthly power, and how marginalized voices and refugee realities should shape the conscience of the church. Don also reflects on his journey from World Relief to founding JCQ—a consultancy committed to mobilizing generous capital for socially just businesses solving climate and poverty challenges in Africa and across the globe. Whether it's microfinance in Burundi, refugee ministry, or AI cameras preventing elephant poaching, Don's vision of "faithful finance" offers practical pathways for Christians to embody the mission of Jesus. Key Takeaways: • The Bible as a Book of Social Arrangements – Exploring how Scripture consistently centers justice for the marginalized and calls God's people to live in covenantal community. • Power, Privilege, and Hermeneutics – How those with influence often misread the Bible and resist displacement, and why equality can feel like oppression to the powerful. • Four Biblical Locations of Spiritual Formation – Understanding Egypt, Sinai, Jerusalem, and Babylon as stages in personal and national transformation, and how the U.S. church might be repeating Israel's cycle. • Refugees, Not Politics – What the dramatic drop in refugee resettlement under evangelical-aligned political leadership reveals about the American church's abandonment of the gospel ethic. • Impact Investing for the Kingdom – Connecting capital with justice through small and medium enterprise growth, microfinance, and sustainable development as faithful expressions of Christian mission. Guest Highlights: Don Golden – Former Executive Director of Red Letter Christians and longtime leader at World Relief, Don offers a powerful convergence of theology, justice, and finance. As founder of JCQ (Just Capital Quotient), he now helps connect donors, churches, and investors to redemptive opportunities around the world through innovative impact investing. Resources Mentioned: • Don Golden's Consultancy – donrgolden.com | Contact Don directly at [email protected] • Ghana Climate Innovation Centre – Promoting climate-smart enterprise development • Hope International – hopeinternational.org • Talanton Impact Investing – talantonllc.com • TrailGuard AI – AI camera tech for anti-poaching featured on Robert Downey Jr.'s The Age of AI • Matthew 25 – The parable of the sheep and goats • Microfinance & Village Banking – Initiatives referencing Muhammad Yunus and Grameen Bank • Previous Voxology Episode with Matthew Soerens – Deep dive into refugee conversations (Ep. 204) Join the conversation on justice, economic generosity, and the true mission of Jesus by subscribing, leaving a review, and connecting with Voxology Podcast on social media. Tell us your liberation story or share how your community is putting freedom into action. As always, we encourage and invite discussion as we pursue these ideas together. Email questions to [email protected] and follow the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. Watch on VOXOLOGY TV Shop Vox Merch on ETSY Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Follow us on Instagram @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook Follow Mike Erre on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford – Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How rethinking sexuality beyond purity culture can lead to healing, empowerment, and deeper intimacy. Bonnie and Tim are joined by sexologist Dr. Celeste Holbrook for an honest, hilarious, and deeply needed conversation about disentangling shame, reframing abstinence, and reclaiming sexual wholeness within a Jesus-centered framework. Key Takeaways: • Separating Purity Culture from Abstinence – Why defining abstinence by fear and shame is damaging, and how making informed, autonomous decisions empowers both men and women. • Addressing Shame and Fear – How purity culture instilled unspoken trauma and confusion around sex, and how to begin the healing process from those messages. • Sex as a Behavior, Not a Drive – Reframing male sexuality away from uncontrollable urges and toward mutual emotional and physical connection. • Communal Healing Around Sexuality – How conversation, education, and sensual presence can begin to undo harmful narratives and help couples rediscover intimacy. • Intentional Parenting – Why the best sex ed starts early, involves real anatomical language, and begins with parents healing their own sexual narratives. Guest Highlights: Dr. Celeste Holbrook – A practical sexologist helping individuals and couples create healthy, pleasure-filled sex lives through education, open dialogue, and healing from shame. Celeste shares her personal story of sexual pain rooted in fear-based messaging and how it led her to a career helping others find sexual liberation and freedom in truth. Resources Mentioned: • Dr. Celeste Holbrook's Website – drcelesteholbrook.com • 20 Sex-Enhancing Questions – Free downloadable couples' resource from Celeste's site • "Don't F*** With Cats" (Netflix Documentary) – Referenced in a pop-culture sidebar (seriously) • Esther Perel's Work – On intimacy, desire, and the psychological frameworks of sexuality • Voxology Episode Archives – Look for the "Sex, Love, and God" series with Mike Erre • Circle of Sensual Women – Dr. Celeste's private Facebook group for discussion and support Let's keep the conversation going. If you have further questions for Celeste, want a follow-up episode, or need a resource clarification, we'd love to hear from you! As always, we encourage thoughtful dialogue as we pursue wholeness in every area of life. Email us at [email protected] or engage with us on Instagram and Facebook. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy If today's episode helped challenge old beliefs or spark a needed conversation, share it, leave a review, and tell a friend about Voxology. We're all on this journey together—and you're not alone. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How reframing vocation through theology can transform our understanding of purpose, identity, and calling. In this enlightening conversation, Bonnie and Tim welcome author and Holy Post co-host Skye Jethani to explore the often misunderstood topic of vocation. Drawing upon Reformation theology, personal experience, and a global mindset, Skye breaks down the biblical framework of calling: the highest calling to God, our shared Christian callings, and our individual, Spirit-led callings. Whether you've felt pressure to choose between "sacred" and "secular" work, wrestled with vocational guilt, or wondered how desires intersect with God's will, this episode unpacks how the church can better support believers in every walk of life and why your "ordinary" job may be more spiritual than you think. Key Takeaways: • Three Levels of Calling – Recovering the Puritan model of highest, common, and specific callings—and why it matters. • Your Job Isn't Your Identity – How your value comes from being in communion with God, not your title or paycheck. • The Myth of Ministry Superiority – Debunking the sacred/secular divide and exploring how the church mistakenly reinforces vocational hierarchies. • Desire vs. Calling – How personal passions, career goals, and God's direction can relate and sometimes misalign. • Vocational Discernment with Humility – Why circumstances, privilege, and spiritual maturity all shape how we live out our callings. Guest Highlights: Skye Jethani – Author, spiritual thought leader, and co-host of the Holy Post Podcast. He shares powerful insights from his experiences, historical theology, and his time mentoring students wrestling with calling. Skye also hosts The Movie Proposal Podcast. Resources Mentioned: • The Holy Post Podcast – HolyPost.com • The Movie Proposal Podcast – Apple Podcasts Link • Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson – Book Link • Radical Wellness - Spiritual Direction – radicalwellness.co • Tim's New Book "Timshel" – Now available to backers; more details soon! Join us as we reflect on vocation not as a single career path, but as a response to God's invitation into purpose, wherever we are and whatever we do. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and be a part of our Voxology community online. As always, we encourage and welcome your questions and thoughts. Email us at [email protected] and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. Watch full episodes on YouTube – VOXOLOGY TV Shop our merch at ETSY Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify Support the podcast on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford | Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How can pastors lead with openness, authenticity, and courage—especially in the face of anxiety, societal pressure, and denominational tension? In this powerful episode, Bonnie Lewis and Tim Stafford introduce Jenny Smith, a United Methodist pastor from Washington, who shares her deeply personal and transformational journey with anxiety, ministry, and discovering a contemplative rhythm called "Palms Up." Whether you're a pastor, ministry leader, or seeker longing for a more integrated faith, this conversation offers wisdom, practical tools, and a compassionate invitation to lead and live with vulnerability and freedom. Key Takeaways: • Palms Up Leadership – Learn Jenny Smith's four-step contemplative practice designed to cultivate presence, spiritual awareness, and trust in difficult moments: Show Up, Pay Attention, Cooperate with God, and Release the Outcome. • Courage in Vulnerability – Jenny shares a life-changing moment when she experienced a panic attack mid-sermon—and how her congregation's response transformed her leadership, ministry, and relationship with authenticity. • Mental Health in Ministry – Why addressing anxiety and high-functioning stress in church leadership is essential to protecting wellbeing, longevity, and spiritual integrity in ministry. • The Power of Going First – How sharing struggles as a leader creates space for others to access healing, dismantle stigma, and cultivate more honest spiritual communities. • Contemplative Practices and Conflict – How practicing "Palms Up" can equip us to engage difficult conversations—including political and theological disagreements—with grace, presence, and humility. Guest Highlights: Jenny Smith – A United Methodist pastor, writer, and speaker who is passionate about spiritual formation, women in leadership, and creating safe, grace-filled spaces for transformation. Jenny is developing resources around Palms Up Leadership, including a forthcoming podcast. Resources Mentioned: • Jenny Smith's Website – palmsup.co • Jenny Smith on Instagram – @jennysmithwrites • Elaine Heath's Work – [Link] • "Love Does" by Bob Goff – [Link] • EMDR Therapy Info – [Link to EMDR resources] • Rob Bell Communication Workshop – [Link to Rob Bell events] Join the conversation and deepen your faith by learning to lead with your palms up. Subscribe to the Voxology Podcast, share your favorite takeaway, and follow us on Instagram or YouTube to stay connected with thought-provoking conversations and spiritual growth. We love hearing from you—email questions and reflections to [email protected] and follow the discussion on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the local church can embody the reign of Christ through self-giving love, radical hospitality, and a commitment to justice in the face of national political chaos. This powerful conversation with New Testament scholar Tim Gombis unpacks how Christians can resist cultural currents shaped by sin and death—instead bearing witness to the kingdom of God through embodied practices rooted in community. Tim Stafford, Bonnie Lewis, and Tim Gombis wade through important (and often overwhelming) questions about national politics, collective Christian identity, denominational history, modern evangelicalism, and the ripple effects of our everyday actions. But don't worry—before diving in, the trio also shares favorite films, irrational fears, strange personal facts, and why mayonnaise divides the room. Key Takeaways: • Kingdom Dynamics Over Culture Wars – Gombis outlines how Paul frames the world through the cosmic realms of the present evil age and the in-Christ reality, and what that means for the modern church. • Embodied Faithfulness – Why the truest political action for Christians happens in local churches through faithful presence, community care, and radical love—not through national allegiance or party loyalty. • Decolonizing Christian Identity – Exploring how white evangelicalism's history has shaped today's entanglement with political power, and the call for a reconstructed identity rooted in discipleship rather than dominance. • Voting as Part, Not the Point – Reframing activism beyond the ballot box by asking who is being clothed, fed, loved, welcomed, and restored by our communal commitments. • Spiritual Energy in Our Actions – A fascinating exploration into how even small daily actions participate in larger spiritual realities of renewal or destruction—a theological lens that reframes everything from neighborly kindness to the toxic cycles of social media debates. Guest Highlights: Tim Gombis – New Testament professor and host of the Faith Improvised podcast. A brilliant theological mind, Tim brings deep insight into Pauline thought, political theology, and the Enneagram, all while calling the church to rediscover its rootedness in Christ, not culture. Resources Mentioned: • Heated Conversation Event with Tim Gombis & Paul Martin – February 7 in Costa Mesa, CA • "Why We Dream" – Book recommendation exploring the purpose of dreaming and how the brain interprets reality • "Little Women", "Jojo Rabbit", "Parasite", "The Lighthouse" – Recent film recommendations and cultural reflections • Faith Improvised Podcast – Tim Gombis's podcast Get involved in the conversation and bring your whole self to the journey of rediscovering Christ's political vision. Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with others who long to see the church recover her prophetic calling. As always, we encourage and love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store: ETSY - VOXOLOGY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy