Voxology

How salvation was understood by Jesus and his first-century audience is a far cry from the transactional, "pray the prayer" model often found in modern Christianity. In a passionate and wide-ranging mailbag episode, Mike Erre explores questions around what it means to be saved, the cultural and psychological dynamics of shame (particularly in the context of abortion), and how to remain present and faithful in Christian community when we profoundly disagree—especially on issues like LGBTQ inclusion. This episode offers a deep reexamination of salvation through a biblical lens shaped by the Exodus narrative and New Testament examples, revealing a holistic, relational vision that contrasts sharply with many contemporary church models. Mike also responds to real listener questions about controversial church practices like tithing mandates for staff and offers practical wisdom for navigating Christian spaces with empathy, humility, and discernment. Key Takeaways: • Rethinking Shame and the Gospel – Clinical insights into how shame affects people differently in collectivist vs. individualist cultures, and why shaming women facing difficult decisions rarely leads to healing or hope. • Salvation in a First-Century Context – The Exodus-shaped, multi-dimensional view of salvation held by Jesus and his audience, including physical, political, and spiritual restoration. • Faith as Visible Allegiance – Why salvation in the Gospels isn't tied to a single prayer but shown through actions of trust and allegiance to Jesus. • Living with Theological Disagreement – A guide to engaging fellow Christians who hold different views on LGBTQ+ issues, including how Jesus's posture and tone offer a radically different model than fear-based theology. • Problems with Performance-Based Tithing – Critical thoughts on controlling church cultures that tie staff compensation or advancement to mandatory giving practices, and why generosity must remain an act of freedom, not coercion. Resources Mentioned: • Scripture References – John the Baptist & the Kingdom of God (Matthew 3-4), Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13), Stories of Zacchaeus, the Woman Who Anointed Jesus, and the Paralyzed Man • Dallas Willard – Writings on joyful non-compliance and spiritual formation • Facebook Live Q&A Sessions – Every other Monday at 9pm ET on the Voxology Facebook Page Join the conversation and rediscover a richer, more faithful imagination for salvation, community, and spiritual engagement. Don't forget to subscribe to Voxology, leave a review, and follow us on social media for more thought-provoking content. We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Email us at [email protected] and join the dialogue on Facebook and Instagram. Watch us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab Voxology merch: ETSY Store Learn more: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support us on Patreon Instagram & Twitter: @voxologypodcast Follow Mike: 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 do we rebuild faith after church hurt, betrayal, and deconstruction? Sophie Cherry joins Mike Erre for a powerful and timely conversation about navigating spiritual trauma, gender roles in the church, and finding a renewed passion for Jesus that survives the brokenness of Christian institutions. Drawing from her own story of being raised a pastor's kid, burned by ministry, and rediscovering the gospel, Sophie offers a fresh, compassionate perspective for those grappling with disillusionment. Together, Mike and Sophie dive into what it looks like to love Jesus while wrestling with the harm his followers sometimes cause, including powerful insights on cultural apologetics, deconversion trends, and the role of women in the modern church. They also take on listener questions related to faith in the workplace, gender dynamics, sexuality, and whether Leviticus really still matters. Key Takeaways: • Restoring Faith After Church Hurt – Sophie recounts her painful experience of being ostracized by a ministry community, what it taught her about grace, and how it opened her eyes to the marginalization many experience at the hands of Christians. • The Power of Apologetics in a Post-Christian World – Cultural apologetics helps address not just whether Christianity is plausible, but whether it is desirable—a question increasingly at the heart of the modern deconstruction movement. • Jesus vs. Christendom – Disentangling the beauty of Jesus from the brutality of how his name is often represented by toxic Christian behavior. • Gender, Power, and the Church – An honest examination of complementarian vs. egalitarian theology, women in church leadership, and how male-dominated structures often protect abuse and diminish female voices. • How to Witness with Wisdom – Sophie and Mike respond to a listener's heartfelt dilemma about being missional while maintaining safety and healthy boundaries in male-dominated workplaces. • Leviticus, Sexual Ethics, and Cultural Tension – Responding to questions about Old Testament law, modern sexuality, and how to read ancient commands through a Jesus-centered lens. Guest Highlights: Sophie Cherry – Cultural apologist, mom, and former ministry intern turned thoughtful Jesus-follower. Her story of redemption through disillusionment offers poignant insight for the spiritually displaced. Sophie brings empathy, clarity, and a deep love for outsiders while never losing sight of the beauty of the gospel. Resources Mentioned: • Oxford Bible Fellowship – https://oxfordbiblefellowship.org/ • Young Life Ministries – http://younglife.org • Dallas Willard – On joyful non-compliance and spiritual formation • Ray Vander Laan – Teachings on biblical landscapes and cultural context • Leviticus 18 – Scripture context for biblical sexual ethics (https://biblegateway.com) • NT Wright Podcast – https://www.ntwrightonline.org/podcast/ Join the ongoing conversation around faith, doubt, and rediscovering the true mission of Jesus. Subscribe, leave a review on Apple or Spotify, and follow us on Instagram for more thoughtful, grace-filled conversations. As always, we encourage and welcome listener feedback. Email your questions to [email protected] and join 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 through 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 do we love the church in her brokenness while faithfully engaging with the complex realities of faith, sexuality, and gender? That's the central question raised in this candid and courageous edition of Vox in the Raw. Mike Erre is joined by theologian and author Preston Sprinkle, director of the Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender, for a brutally honest conversation that embodies both truth and grace. They explore how theology and pastoral care intersect when it comes to LGBTQ+ inclusion, the ways the church has fallen short, and how followers of Jesus can engage with clarity, humility, and compassion. If you've ever wrestled with the church's treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals, been confused by the affirming vs. non-affirming divide, or wondered how to hold to biblical conviction while making space for real people and relationships—this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: • A Third Way Beyond the Binary – Preston shares how his ministry avoids extremes by upholding a traditional biblical theology of marriage while radically embracing and serving LGBTQ+ individuals with delight and hospitality. • The Church's Mixed Legacy – Why many churches are either unclear or unloving on LGBTQ+ issues and how the "bait and switch" dynamic causes real pain for queer believers. • Groundbreaking Theology and Pastoral Practice – A deep dive into what scripture actually says, objections to both affirming and non-affirming stances, and why this issue demands nuanced, faithful theology. • A Missional and Relational Approach – How churches can create spaces where gay and lesbian couples aren't pushed out but are invited into meaningful relationships that reflect Jesus. • On Eucharist and Inclusion – Mike and Preston unpack 1 Corinthians 11 and discuss whether communion was ever meant to be an exclusive act, challenging long-held evangelical assumptions with robust biblical insight. • Rethinking Church Structures – They talk about the need to reimagine church beyond celebrity pastors and buildings, and the importance of community-shaped leadership, honesty, and real discipleship. Guest Highlights: Dr. Preston Sprinkle – Author of People to Be Loved and Embodied, co-founder and president of The Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender. Preston brings an academic depth and pastoral heart to one of the most complex issues facing the church, rooted in a desire to love all people without compromising faithfulness to Christ. Resources Mentioned: • Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender – www.centerforfaith.com • People to Be Loved by Preston Sprinkle – Amazon • "Two Views on Homosexuality, the Bible, and the Church" – Edited by Preston Sprinkle • Voxology Q&A with Mike and Tim – voxologypodcast.com • Voxology on YouTube – VOXOLOGY TV • Voxology Merch – Etsy Store Let's reimagine what it looks like to follow Jesus in truth, grace, and a posture of welcome. Subscribe today, leave us a review, and share this episode with someone who's navigating the nuances of faith and sexuality. As always, we invite you into the conversation—email us at [email protected] and connect with the Voxology community on Instagram and Facebook. Support the podcast through Patreon and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre 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 Christian imagination can be restored in a disenchanted world, and why helping others see Christianity as desirable—not just true—is crucial to spiritual renewal. Mike Erre is joined by long-time friend and philosopher Dr. Paul Gould to unpack core themes from Paul's new book, Cultural Apologetics. Through laughter, inside jokes, and deep reflection, they explore how recovering an enchanted view of the world can help both believers and skeptics rediscover the beauty, truth, and goodness of Jesus. Key Takeaways: • What Is Cultural Apologetics? – Understanding how evangelism has shifted from rational defense of Christianity to restoring the sense that the faith is good, beautiful, and desirable—not just true. • The Crisis of Disenchantment – Exploring how our modern, secular culture has silenced transcendence and suppressed deep spiritual longings, even inside the church. • God and the Human Imagination – Why wonder, art, music, literature, and even stories like Harry Potter or Star Wars can awaken our desire for the divine. • Reenchanting Our Faith – Five practical ways to reawaken beauty and meaning in a spiritually numb world—from engaging Scripture on its own terms to embracing beauty in everyday life. • Engaging the Culture Missionally – Why becoming students of culture helps us meet people where they are while inviting them to "return to reality" in the story of Jesus. Guest Highlights: Dr. Paul Gould – Philosopher, professor, and author of Cultural Apologetics. He's also the founder of the Two Tasks Institute, which advocates for showing Christianity as both reasonable and desirable. Paul shares how his own journey—from streaking in college with Mike Erre to writing intellectual works on meaning and morality—has led him to believe that beauty and imagination are essential in today's gospel conversations. Resources Mentioned: • Cultural Apologetics by Paul Gould – Buy the book • Two Tasks Institute – 2tasksinstitute.org • Augustine's Confessions – A spiritual classic exploring desire, beauty, and the search for God • CS Lewis: "Talking About Bicycles" and Mere Christianity • Wendell Berry & Marilynne Robinson – Contemporary authors who explore faith, place, and beauty • Acts 17 – Paul's missionary encounter in Athens Help us bring beauty, truth, and goodness back into the conversation by reimagining what it means to follow Jesus in a culture hungry for wonder. If this episode stirred your imagination or renewed your desire for God, subscribe, leave us a review, and share Voxology with someone on their own journey of faith. Email your thoughts or questions to [email protected], and join us on Facebook and Instagram to keep the dialogue going. Check out Voxology on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab some rad merch at our ETSY store Learn more at the Voxology Podcast website Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon 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

Deepening our collective understanding of how Christ calls his followers to navigate complex ethical and pastoral questions, this Voxology mailbag episode takes on listener questions around abortion, trauma, shame, and biblical interpretation. Mike Erre reflects thoughtfully on difficult circumstances—like when life-threatening pregnancies or birth defects are involved—and compassionately addresses real-life dilemmas that listeners are wrestling with across theological and relational lines. With honesty and humility, Mike explores how the church can hold space for grace and truth without shaming, how biblical passages like Numbers 5 have been misunderstood in the abortion debate, and how Jesus invites us to lead with empathy rather than moral certainty, especially toward those facing agonizing decisions. This episode is grounded in the Imago Dei and the call to love well, even amidst deep disagreement. Key Takeaways: • Abortion and Nuance – Why one-size-fits-all moral arguments often fall short, especially in cases involving rape, incest, and life-threatening complications. • Redemptive Engagement – How to counsel without coercion and approach tough conversations—both within marriage and the church—with grace, listening, and mutual discernment. • Re-examining Numbers 5 – Understanding this controversial Old Testament passage as a protection for women in a patriarchal culture, not as a divine endorsement of abortion. • The Role of Shame – Unpacking the difference between ancient honor-shame dynamics and modern uses of shame, and why Jesus models compassion for the vulnerable while reserving rebuke for the religiously self-righteous. • Building a Church of Welcome – How shame-based activism may harm the gospel witness by barring people from the very place of healing and grace. Resources Mentioned: • Alastair Roberts's blog: Adversaria – A deep dive into the cultural and theological interpretation of Numbers 5: alastairadversaria.com • Scripture References: Numbers 5, Luke 7:36–50 • "Imago Dei" Theology – Exploring how recognizing every human as made in God's image should inform our response to abortion and pastoral care Join the discussion with us as we journey together through difficult terrain, seeking truth, justice, and the heart of Jesus. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay updated and be part of the Voxology community. As always, we encourage and welcome your input and reflections. Email your questions to [email protected] or engage with the conversation on Instagram and Facebook. Watch episodes on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Shop our merch: Voxology on Etsy Support us: Patreon – Voxology Podcast Listen on your favorite platform: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook: Voxology Podcast 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 deeply vulnerable and vital conversation between Mike Erre and theologian and Bible translator Bonnie Lewis around abortion, loss, and what it means to truly be pro-life. This episode goes far beyond politics, diving into Bonnie's personal story of stillbirth, grief, and theological reflection. Together, Mike and Bonnie challenge simplistic narratives and offer a broader, more compassionate lens on abortion—one rooted in a gospel that centers dignity, healing, and community over condemnation. Key Takeaways: • Abortion is Not Just a Political Issue – Reframing our understanding by centering the stories of women and the complexity of their experiences. • The Power of Maternal Instinct – How Bonnie's experience affirmed the critical importance of listening to women's deeply intuitive connection with their bodies and unborn children. • Pro-Life Is Pro-Woman – A call to expand the pro-life conversation to include emotional, mental, and spiritual care for mothers at all stages—before, during, and after pregnancy. • Theological Reflection on Grief and Choice – How Bonnie's journey has reshaped her theology of life, death, soul, and the deeply embodied reality of carrying and losing a child. • Can Protest Do Harm? – A nuanced examination of whether shaming women at abortion clinics aligns with the way of Jesus, and how we miss the mark when we separate ends from means. • Birth Control, Premarital Sex, and Wisdom – Pushing past purity culture binaries to ask deeper questions about harm, safety, and human flourishing in a broken sexual culture. Quotes Worth Sharing: • "Being pro-life should include being pro-woman. You can't care for the baby and ignore the mother." • "There's a difference between worry and knowing. We need to trust women when they say something is wrong." • "If Jesus calls us to love and not condemn, then louder protests that bring shame might not be the way." From raw testimony to sharp theological critique, this episode embodies the Voxology ethos: courageously naming the tension between grace and truth, nuance and conviction. Resources Mentioned: • Email the show: [email protected] • Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/voxology • Vox Merch Store: VOXOLOGY on Etsy • Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify • Voxology Radio on Spotify: Voxology Radio • YouTube Channel: VOXOLOGY TV Join the conversation on Instagram @voxologypodcast and on Facebook. If this conversation moved you—or challenged your thinking—subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with others seeking to rediscover Jesus's way of compassion and justice. 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 Greco-Roman worldview around deformity, ability, and perceived human "worth" continues to influence our modern ethics on abortion, disability, and human dignity. Mike Erre returns to the cultural and spiritual roots of the abortion debate, drawing deeply from early Christian history, Hellenistic philosophy, and his own experience as the father of a child with Down syndrome. This episode (Part 2 of the abortion conversation) explores how early Christians responded to practices like infanticide and exposure—not with protest, but with sacrificial love—and what that could mean for Christians in today's world. Key Takeaways: • Hellenism Then and Now – How the ancient Greek worldview placed human perfection and reason at the center of worth, and how that ethos lives on today in modern humanism and cultural values. • Exposure and Infanticide in the Roman World – Examining the brutal treatment of infants deemed "unfit" or "imperfect," especially those with disabilities or born female, and the philosophical justifications behind these practices. • Early Christian Response to Abortion and Infanticide – How the early church countered cultural brutality not with politics or protests, but through rescuing and raising unwanted children as acts of love and defiance. • Human Value Beyond Utility – A powerful reflection on how the worth of Seth (Mike's son with Down syndrome) challenges a society obsessed with IQ, productivity, and physical "perfection." • Embryo Selection and the Return of Eugenics – Addressing emerging medical technologies like IQ-based embryo profiling and their disturbing parallels to ancient and modern eugenic thought. Notable Quotes: "We don't call it Hellenism anymore—we just call it humanism." "The earliest Christians didn't protest Caesar—they just walked into dump sites and rescued babies." "Any system that seeks to build a hierarchy of image bearers over other image bearers is demonic and from the pit of hell." Resources Mentioned: • Destroyer of the gods by Larry Hurtado – [Link] • The Rise of Christianity by Rodney Stark – [Link] • "The Eye of the Deformity" by Robert Garland – [Link] • Medical article on embryo IQ screening – [Link] • Book of the Didache – [Link] • Tertullian and Early Church Writings on Infanticide – [Link] 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 Imago Dei—humanity made in God's image—shapes a consistent, compassionate, and Christ-centered approach to the complex issue of abortion. In this special two-part reflection, Mike Erre opens up about profoundly personal experiences surrounding abortion, pregnancy, and his son with Down syndrome as he responds to a listener's heartfelt question: "What is your view of abortion, and what advice would you give someone struggling with that decision?" Avoiding oversimplified policies or blanket moral statements, Mike calls for a relational and deeply human approach rooted in the radical love and life-affirming orientation of the kingdom of God. Key Takeaways: • A Relational Approach Over Policy Statements – Why nuanced, personal conversations about abortion matter more than sweeping declarations or political stances. • Embodying a Consistent Pro-Life Ethic – Mike critiques inconsistencies in the modern pro-life movement while advocating for a view that includes the unborn, the vulnerable, the poor, immigrants, and even the elderly. • Living Out Gospel-Centered Compassion – An invitation to not only encourage life-affirming choices but to sacrificially support those making them—offering real help, not just opinions. • The Sacredness of Every Human Through the Imago Dei – A theological exploration of Genesis, image-bearing, and what gives each human intrinsic value and dignity despite capacity, circumstance, or development. • Not Fitting Political Binaries – Mike explains why he doesn't align perfectly with any political category, emphasizing Jesus's call to love, serve, and honor all image-bearers regardless of their stage of life. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis 1 – The biblical account of humanity made in the image of God • David Gushee on Ethics and Imago Dei • James (New Testament) – On the power of words and honoring the image of God • Greg Boyd – On Jesus, nonviolence, and kingdom-oriented ethics Call to Action: Join the Voxology community in pursuing a Jesus-centered ethic of life and love, one that transcends political labels and puts people first. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media—and stay tuned for Part 2 of this incredibly nuanced series. 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

What if the secret to real freedom isn't self-indulgence but self-control? In the kickoff episode of our new Discipline Series, Mike Erre sits down with author and editor Drew Dyck to unpack the biblical and neurological foundations of self-discipline—and how it's far more about surrender than striving. They dive deep into Drew's book, "Your Future Self Will Thank You," and explore how self-control seen through the lens of scripture is the path to true flourishing, not restriction. This is not just a discussion about breaking bad habits—this is a reimagining of how spiritual maturity, neuroscience, and Christian identity intersect. Whether you're trying to kick a scroll addiction, start reading your Bible regularly, or simply understand why "letting go and letting God" isn't the whole picture, this conversation brings meaningful insights and practical next steps. Key Takeaways: • Self-Control as Surrender – Biblical self-control isn't just about willpower, it's about putting God and others ahead of self. • Willpower Is Limited, Habits Are Powerful – Why willpower depletes fast—and how developing keystone habits like prayer, exercise, or Bible reading builds spiritual and practical resilience. • The Gospel & Growth – Self-discipline isn't about earning salvation but is essential for sanctification, the Spirit-empowered journey of becoming more like Jesus. • Habits That Stick – Learn how "cues," "routines," and "rewards" work together to create and replace habits that sustain long-term change. • Sin, Grace, and Striving – Why real spiritual transformation engages both God's grace and human effort, and how effort doesn't oppose grace—it invites it. Guest Highlights: Drew Dyck – Editor at Moody and author of "Your Future Self Will Thank You: Secrets to Self-Control from the Bible and Brain Science." Drew shares insights from his book, gets real about his own spiritual disciplines (or lack thereof), and offers gentle but convicting wisdom for Christians struggling to form healthy habits in a distracted world. Resources Mentioned: • "Your Future Self Will Thank You" by Drew Dyck – [Link] • "The Tech-Wise Family" by Andy Crouch – [Link] • "12 Ways Your Phone Is Changing You" by Tony Reinke – [Link] • Galatians 5:22–23 – The Fruit of the Spirit passage • Dallas Willard quote: "Grace is not opposed to effort, it's opposed to earning." Take a next step in your own journey toward spiritual discipline and Christlikeness by engaging with these resources and practices. If you found this conversation helpful, share it with a friend or tag us on Instagram to continue the discussion! Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to support the Voxology community. As always, we encourage and invite discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email questions to [email protected], and engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube too: VOXOLOGY TV 🎥 www.youtube.com/@voxology Our Merch Store: 🛒 VOXOLOGY on Etsy Learn more at the Voxology Website Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support us on Patreon Check out 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

How reimagining Scripture through a new translation and untangling toxic masculinity can help Christians rediscover Jesus and better live out the mission of the gospel today. Author and theologian Bonnie Lewis joins Mike to share the heart behind her groundbreaking Bible translation project "Tim Shell." They dig into the challenges she's faced as a woman translating Scripture, how Tim Shell offers new pathways for healing spiritual trauma, and why understanding both the cultural and spiritual context of Scripture matters deeply. The episode also turns to a powerful, honest conversation around toxic masculinity—including how men can course-correct toxic behavior, what biblical masculinity looks like through the life of Jesus, and how the church can be part of the solution rather than the problem. Key Takeaways: • How Bonnie Lewis's personal grief and deconstruction journey led to the "Tim Shell" Bible translation project • Why accessibility and spiritual authenticity matter more than literalism in Scripture engagement • The backlash and support Bonnie has received for being a female translator and how privilege, gender, and theological gatekeeping impact who "gets" to interpret the Bible • Breaking down the nuance of translation: word-for-word, thought-for-thought, and spiritually faithful reinterpretation • What toxic masculinity really looks like—and how it's reinforced both culturally and in the church • Why Jesus offers the best model of manhood that includes strength, emotional vulnerability, justice, and dignity for all • How the Gillette ad and conservative backlash spark deeper questions about masculinity, identity, and cultural power • The role of empathy and listening in dismantling harmful gender stereotypes Guest Highlight: Bonnie Lewis – Writer, theologian, and Bible translator behind the "Tim Shell" project, a translation that weaves cultural and spiritual commentary into 20 key Bible stories. Bonnie shares her journey of reconstructing faith after personal tragedy, and why reclaiming deep, faithful engagement with Scripture is more vital than ever. Resources Mentioned: • The Tim Shell Bible Project – bit.ly/timshellproject • Genesis 22 – First passage translated in the Tim Shell Bible • Mumford & Sons – "Timshel" (Song that inspired the translation title) • Jordan Peterson, Joe Rogan – Cultural figures often linked with modern masculinity • The Bible Project – bibleproject.com • 1 Corinthians 6:9 – Misinterpretation discussed regarding "effeminate" in masculinity debates Join us in challenging assumptions, amplifying new theological voices, and rediscovering the beauty of Scripture and Jesus's model of masculinity. Subscribe to Voxology, leave a review, and join the conversation on social media—we'd love to hear how these ideas resonate with you. As always, we encourage and invite deeper discussion as we pursue these topics together. Email your thoughts or questions to [email protected]. We're on YouTube too: VOXOLOGY TV Shop our merch: Etsy Store Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/voxology Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music in this episode 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

What do we do when God doesn't answer our most desperate prayers? In this deeply vulnerable and honest Q&A episode, Mike Erre responds to a gut-wrenching listener question about the nature of prayer, suffering, and whether God actually intervenes the way we hope he does. This episode journeys into the pain of unanswered prayer, the theological confusion surrounding it, and how to remain faithful and hope-filled in the midst of heartbreak. Drawing from personal experience as a parent of a child with Down syndrome, Mike dives into the mystery of why suffering exists and challenges common Christian clichés that often do more harm than good. Listeners will find comfort, theological nuance, and practical wisdom as Mike affirms God's goodness in a broken world and explores how prayer is less about outcomes and more about relationship and trust. Key Takeaways: • Why "God wants us to suffer" is a harmful and theologically unsound explanation for unanswered prayer. • Viewing birth defects and tragedy as consequences of a fallen world, not God's plan or punishment. • How God sometimes brings beauty from brokenness—but not because he caused the brokenness. • The limitations of circular logic and religious platitudes, and why lament is a deeply faithful response. • The true heart of prayer as communion with God, rather than a transaction to get what we want. • Affirming God's goodness amid mystery and grief: "I don't know" is sometimes the most faithful answer. Resources Mentioned: • Episode 165 – "Suffering, Doubt, and the Mystery of Prayer" – [Listen Here] • Is God to Blame? by Greg Boyd – [Link] • Romans 8: Creation groaning and the hope of redemption – [Link] Call to Action: Struggling with prayer or suffering? You're not alone in your questions, doubts, or grief. Join us in this ongoing conversation about what faithfulness looks like in the absence of simple answers. Subscribe, rate, and leave a review to help us reach more folks navigating spiritual deconstruction and rediscovery. As always, we would love discussion and connection as we walk this road together. Email your reflections and questions to [email protected] and engage with us on Facebook and Instagram. We're now on YouTube at VOXOLOGY TV – Watch Here Merch Store available on Etsy Visit us at VoxologyPodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes | Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Voxology Spotify channel: Voxology Radio 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

Unpacking one of the most debated theological doctrines in church history, Mike Erre flies solo on this episode to dive deep into the Bible's use of "election" and "predestination" language. Drawing from theologians like N.T. Wright, Tim Gombis, and Scott McKnight, he outlines five key observations that debunk the idea of God arbitrarily choosing individuals for heaven or hell. Instead, Mike reframes election as a communal, missional, and deeply affectionate act from God—a calling to serve rather than a stamp of superiority. Listeners looking to make sense of scriptural predestination and how it intersects with mission, grace, and the nature of God's people will discover a thoughtful, accessible, and pastoral perspective that avoids divisiveness while remaining grounded in biblical scholarship. Key Takeaways: • God's Election Language Reflects Love, Not Exclusion – Election in the Bible is used to describe God's deep affection for His people, not to condemn others. • Predestination Is Missional, Not Privileged – God's calling always points outward: His people are blessed to be a blessing, elected for service and not personal privilege. • Scripture Speaks to Communities, Not Individual Fates – Most election language refers to Israel and the church as corporate bodies, not individuals. • Romans 9 and Hardening Explained – Paul's metaphors of vessels and hardening don't teach double predestination but reflect God's ongoing mission to reach the nations. • Election Is Counterintuitive – God routinely chooses the unlikely to fulfill His purposes, turning human expectations upside down. Notable Quotes: • "Election talk is God's love language." – Tim Gombis, quoted by Mike Erre • "You are blessed to be a blessing." – Reframing Genesis 12's call to Abraham • "It's not the elect and non-elect. It's the elect and those to whom the elect are sent." Resources Mentioned: • Ephesians 1 – Read Here • Romans 9–11 – Read Here • N.T. Wright – Theologian and scholar on Scripture and early Christianity • Tim Gombis – Author of The Drama of Ephesians & host of the Faith Improvised podcast • Scott McKnight – Author of "Reading Romans Backwards" Join us in rethinking what it means to be chosen by God as we resist reductive theology and embrace the full picture of Scripture's invitation to participate in God's global mission. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast 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: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast 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

Start the year with a fresh challenge to rethink why following Jesus necessitates being rooted in community and not just spiritual consumption. In this Q&A-style episode, Mike Erre and Kevin (number two!) dive into some weighty questions from listeners — questions about sexuality and gender, Christians in the military, being "just a guy in the seat," church leadership, and how to discern theological conviction from opinion. Along the way, they explore the role of church in modern Christian life, what constitutes true unity, and how to lovingly wrestle with differing beliefs inside the body of Christ. This episode is rich with pastoral wisdom, theological nuance, and some classic Mike and Kevin banter (plus, Mike's seasonal affective light lamp makes an appearance). Whether you're a church leader, churchgoer, or questioning your place in the church altogether, you'll find encouragement and challenge in equal measure. Key Takeaways: • You Can't Follow Jesus Alone – Practicing the way of Jesus requires deep community because discipleship is lived out with others, not in isolation. • Unity vs. Uniformity – We explore how to maintain Christian unity amid differing theological beliefs, leaning on a grid of convictions, beliefs, and opinions to navigate hot topics. • Church Participation as Formation – "Just sitting in a seat" is a misnomer—Mike and Kevin reframe church as a participatory body where everyone has a role. • Faith Outside the Building – Emphasizing the importance of everyday vocations and living out the values of the kingdom in workplaces, families, and neighborhoods. • Hard Questions with Compassion – Honest responses on female sexuality, Christians in law enforcement, and LGBTQ+ participation in the church—all through a lens of humility, care, and biblical reflection. Resources Mentioned: • Fight by Preston Sprinkle – A Christian case for nonviolence • Past Voxology episodes on Spiritual Maturity Stages, Why Church Matters, and Nonviolence • Ideas for future guest perspectives, including women discussing female sexuality • Voxology Micro-Communities (grassroots gatherings formed around the podcast) Join the conversation and rethink where you sit, what you consume, and how you live. We're more than an audience—we're the church. Subscribe, drop a review, and follow Voxology on social media to stay connected and help spread this message of grace-filled community. As always, we welcome your questions and reflections. Email us at [email protected] and engage with fellow listeners on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! VOXOLOGY on Etsy Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Check out the Voxology 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 the metaphor of exile helps the American church rediscover its identity, purpose, and practices for a polarized and post-Christian culture. Mike Erre is joined by Rick McKinley—pastor, author, and co-creator of Advent Conspiracy—to explore themes from Rick's book, Faith for This Moment: Navigating a Polarized World as the People of God. Together, they discuss how exile offers a hopeful biblical framework for living faithfully as Christians in a divided and shifting cultural landscape. Key Takeaways: • A Modern Exile Paradigm – Understanding exile as a metaphor for the American church's loss of place, influence, and clarity in a polarized culture. • Three Responses to Exile – The options of "baptizing" culture, "burning it down," or embracing a posture of "bless and resist" as seen through Daniel, Jeremiah, and Jesus. • The Power of Discernment – Recognizing the need to go beyond behavior modification and embrace discernment informed by scripture, story, and the Spirit. • Five Prophetic Practices – Hospitality, generosity, vocation, celebration/Sabbath, and obedience to Word and Spirit as counter-cultural rhythms that shape Christian identity and integrity. • Reclaiming the Christian Story – Why knowing and living out the biblical narrative offers resilience and imagination in uncertain times. Guest Highlights: Rick McKinley – Founding pastor of Imago Dei in Portland, Oregon, and co-author of the Advent Conspiracy movement. Rick shares insights from his latest book and his church's tangible expressions of "blessing and resisting," including courageous generosity and the faith community's engagement in citywide foster care reform. Resources Mentioned: • Faith for This Moment by Rick McKinley – Amazon • The Bible Project – bibleproject.com • Advent Conspiracy – adventconspiracy.org • Embrace Oregon – everychildoregon.org Pick up Faith for This Moment and explore how living faithfully through the lens of exile could transform your witness in today's polarized world. If the episode challenged or encouraged you, consider subscribing, sharing it with a friend, or leaving us a review on your favorite podcast platform. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue truth together. Email us your questions or comments at [email protected], and continue the conversation with us 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: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Podcast 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 do we understand failure, morality, and the pain of community disillusionment through the lens of Jesus? In this solo episode, Mike Erre explores deep listener questions around the emotional, theological, and cultural complexities of following Jesus in a broken world. Reflecting on how Jesus may have experienced failure, why even atheists hold moral frameworks, and discerning when it's okay to leave a church, Mike offers vulnerable insight, biblical wisdom, and compassionate challenge for anyone rethinking their faith journey. Key Takeaways: • Experiencing Failure with Jesus – Unpacking whether Jesus can truly relate to the kind of disappointment and vocational heartbreak many of us live through. • God and Rejection – The idea that while God doesn't "fail" in power, He does experience rejection, which reframes our understanding of divine empathy and relational pain. • The Origin of Morality – How moral frameworks are not exclusively religious, but grounded in the Imago Dei—our shared image-bearing nature as humans. • Genesis, Patriarchy, and the Fall – Interpreting the judgment in Genesis 3, not as prescriptive patriarchy, but as God's merciful disruption of our attempts to find life apart from Him. • When to Leave a Church – Weighing mission drift, doctrinal integrity, and healthy leadership as grounds for transition while challenging consumeristic expectations around church "shopping." Guest Highlights: None this week – It's just Mike, flying solo and digging deep into pastoral thought, biblical insight, and honest reflection on faith, failure, and community. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis 1–3 – Read with attention to the structure of creation, fall, and judgment • Tim Mackie on moral foundations in Western thought – The Bible Project Podcast • First Thessalonians 5:19 – "Do not quench the Spirit" • Paul's command to the church – Ephesians 4:30; Romans 8 • Voxology Past Series: "Exile Series" – For deeper dives into the church's cultural moment If you're navigating deconstruction, disappointment with the church, or big theological questions, this episode is for you. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on Instagram or Facebook to keep these conversations 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: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon 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 do Jesus followers make sense of today's political and social divisions while remaining faithful to the Kingdom of God? In this Q&A-driven episode, Mike Erre and Kevin dive into a series of powerful listener questions exploring topics like immigration, political allegiance, the modern church, the Me Too movement, and how to present the gospel in a postmodern context. With honesty and humility, they tackle whether it's possible to follow both Jesus and support political figures like Donald Trump, how Christians should respond to the heartbreaking images and policies at the southern U.S. border, and what it really means to be "in church" amid deconstruction and reconstruction. They also dig into the limits of media narratives, how shame and community relate to faith, and offer a broader, more narrative-driven way to understand and share the gospel. Key Takeaways: • Navigating Political Allegiances as a Christian – Why pledging full allegiance to any political figure or party can distort Christian witness and compromise the church's prophetic voice. • Justice at the Border – Wrestling with immigration policy, family separation, and the ethics of tear gassing women and children, while acknowledging the complexity and conflicting narratives. • Redefining the Church – Deconstructing the idea that weekly Sunday church attendance is the ultimate marker of faith, and embracing diverse, communal expressions of following Jesus. • Rethinking the Gospel – Moving beyond a guilt-based salvation model to a larger narrative of kingdom restoration, image-bearing, and renewal of the world through Christ. • Me Too and Justice in the Church – Acknowledging the deep challenges of seeking justice for sexual assault survivors and the limitations of applying ancient legal standards in modern contexts. Resources Mentioned: • Romans 6 – The theological basis for understanding sin and death • Deuteronomy & Biblical Law – Context for the 2–3 witness requirement • "The Patient Ferment of the Early Church" by Alan Kreider – [Link] • Voxology Podcast Email – [email protected] • Voxology Website – voxologypodcast.com • Support on Patreon – Patreon.com/voxology Join the conversation as we unpack what it means to faithfully follow Jesus in a politically polarized world. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media for more thoughtful, provocative discussions on the intersection of faith, culture, and justice. — Watch on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: Voxology on Etsy Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast & Facebook: Voxology Podcast 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 does the church's approach to sexuality affect our understanding of purity, desire, and spiritual wholeness? Mike Erre and Kevin explore one of the most frequently asked — and often ignored — questions in Christian life: Is masturbation sinful, especially when done without lust? What seems like a clear-cut topic opens into a deeply nuanced reflection on the nature of desire, discipleship, purity culture, and the transformation Jesus actually invites us into. This episode isn't just about behavior—it's about spiritual formation, grace, and reclaiming sex and desire as part of God's good design. Mike candidly unpacks his own journey, parenthood conversations, and what it means to live with intention rather than restriction. From college students and singles to parents and married couples, this conversation is a compassionate, honest, and theologically grounded exploration that invites all of us to ask better questions. Key Takeaways: • The Purpose of Desire – Why sexual desire is meant to be honored, not feared or shamed, and how it points to something bigger than behavior management. • Rethinking Purity Culture – Moving beyond line-drawing legalism to a vision of purity rooted in wholeness, love, and mutual human dignity. • Lust, Masturbation, and the Heart – What Jesus actually meant in Matthew when he talked about lust—and why it's not about behavior alone. • Parenting & Discipling with Honesty – How to raise kids with a healthy, grace-filled view of sexuality rather than shame-based restriction. • How Accountability Can Go Wrong – Rethinking "Did you mess up?" accountability structures and shifting toward conversations on freedom, transformation, and identity in Christ. Resources Mentioned: • Dallas Willard – Teachings on spiritual formation and desire • Richard Foster – Celebration of Discipline (book) • Scripture Referenced: Matthew 5:27–30, Romans 12:2, 1 Corinthians 6:18 • Past Voxology episodes on purity culture, side B Christians, and sexuality Join the conversation on what it really means to be a redeemed, whole human being in a hyper-sexualized and shame-filled culture. Think we're wrong? Want to push the conversation further? Email us at [email protected] and let's talk. Subscribe to the show, leave us a rating, and follow Voxology Podcast wherever you get your content—and don't miss bonus content on social media and YouTube. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! Voxology on Etsy Learn more at VoxologyPodcast.com Subscribe via Apple Podcasts | Spotify Support the podcast on Patreon Voxology Music on Spotify: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook: Voxology Podcast 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

How can we embrace faith when certainty feels impossible? Pastor and author Austin Fisher joins Mike Erre for a vulnerable, wisdom-packed conversation about navigating doubt, deconstruction, and rediscovering the beauty of Jesus. Drawing from his book "Faith in the Shadows: Finding Christ in the Midst of Doubt," Austin shares his personal journey of nearly walking away from faith, how the church often mishandles doubt, and why cultivating allegiance to Jesus matters more than achieving airtight certainty. This episode challenges intellectualized faith, critiques superficial apologetics, and redefines what it means to doubt faithfully—making space for honest questions, messy wrestling, and recommitment to the transformative way of Jesus. Key Takeaways: • Doubt as Faithful Engagement – Doubt isn't the enemy of faith but an inevitable human response to mystery. How we doubt matters more than whether we do. • Reframing Faith as Allegiance – Faith isn't about intellectual certainty; it's about relational allegiance that leads to love and discipleship, even through struggle. • Scripture Beyond Inerrancy – Why inflexible views on biblical inerrancy often lead to unnecessary faith crises—and how to trust the Bible without treating it like a flawless instruction manual. • Deconstruction Isn't Destruction – Honest exploration of the Christian subculture's flaws can actually draw us closer to Jesus if we don't confuse institutional failures with Christ himself. • Desire and Belief – People don't just think their way into or out of faith; they often desire their way there. Beauty and goodness can be more persuasive than arguments. Guest Highlight: Austin Fisher – Lead pastor and author of "Faith in the Shadows," Austin vulnerably shares how he struggled through near-deconversion while pastoring. He offers a deeply pastoral and theological lens for wrestling with big questions on God, doubt, church hurt, and the role of Scripture in a post-certainty world. Resources Mentioned: • Faith in the Shadows by Austin Fisher – [Link] • James K.A. Smith – Philosophical insights on desire and decision making • The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt – [Link] • Salvation by Allegiance Alone by Matthew Bates – [Link] • The Crucifixion by Fleming Rutledge – [Link] • Unbelievable Podcast by Justin Brierley – [Link] Join the Voxology community as we continue to examine what it means to follow Jesus in an age of questions, contradictions, and complexity. Subscribe to the podcast, leave us a review, and let's keep talking. 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 choice to live celibately as a gay Christian can reflect the radical love of Jesus and reframe the church's understanding of desire, identity, and human flourishing. Oxford PhD candidate and author David Bennett joins Mike Erre for an unflinchingly honest and theologically rich conversation on sexuality, worship, and the need for a deeper anthropology rooted in the kingdom of God. David shares his journey from an atheist, ardent critic of Christianity to a transformed follower of Jesus who made the costly decision to live celibately—not out of repression, but as an act of worship. Together, he and Mike explore how the idolization of romantic love has malformed both church and culture, and how Christians can reimagine friendship, community, and single life as central to God's good design. Key Takeaways: • Reframing Celibacy – Celibacy isn't about repression but about choosing a greater love over a lesser one, embodying the cross-shaped life Jesus calls us into. • Desire and Eschatology – How the Bible's vision of human desire, eschatology, and resurrection influence a Christian sexual ethic rooted in transformation, not legalism. • Idolizing Marriage – Exploring how both evangelical churches and LGBTQ+ culture have idolized romantic love—and how this shapes our view of fulfillment and identity. • Recovering the Fear of the Lord – Why the biblical concept of "fear of God" is key to experiencing a joyful, empowered life of obedience. • The Power of Story and the Holy Spirit – How David's testimony led others, including skeptical atheists, to reconsider Jesus—not through argument, but through honesty, humility, and joy. • A New Moral Imagination – The path forward for the church includes developing a robust theology of singleness, friendship, and communal life beyond romantic pairings. Guest Highlights: David Bennett – Author of A War of Loves and DPhil candidate in Christian Ethics at Oxford University. David shares his lived experience navigating same-sex attraction, identity, and a call to celibacy with theological clarity and pastoral compassion. His story challenges both traditional and progressive assumptions, offering a Christ-centered vision of intimacy, friendship, and holiness that transcends culture wars. Resources Mentioned: • A War of Loves by David Bennett – Link • N.T. Wright – Contributions to David's academic work and endorsement of the book • Isaiah 11 – The spirit of the fear of the Lord • Scripture on Desire & Transformation – Romans 1, Genesis 1-3, Revelation imagery • @davidacbennett on Twitter and Social Media Join the conversation—let's reshape our understanding of discipleship, sexuality, and community with the gospel at the center. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow the Voxology Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue the mission of Jesus. Email us at [email protected] and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube too: VOXOLOGY TV Check out our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support Voxology on Patreon Explore curated playlists on the Voxology Spotify Channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast • Facebook: Voxology Podcast 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 does a Christian faithfully live in the tension between grace-filled freedom and the call to holiness? This mailbag-focused episode tackles one of the most enduring and controversial debates within the Christian faith—can you pursue freedom and holiness at the same time, and what is the actual goal? Mike Erre and Kevin #2 (aka "K2") open the listener inbox to respond to thoughtful email questions from the Voxology community, including reflections on abusive church structures, how to be discerning in a deconstructed faith, and the challenge of living as people of mercy and justice in a public world fueled by outrage. This episode centers around one listener's deeply honest question: "How do we balance holiness and freedom?" Mike explores how both ends of the theological spectrum often miss the point, framing the Christian life around rules or license instead of the transformative power of Christ-like love. You'll also hear practical insights on: Raising children in a hypersexualized culture Finding common ground with those we disagree with, including an affirming surprise discussion about theologian John Piper The public vs. private tension in believing victims and upholding justice, especially in light of high-profile cases like Kavanaugh and Ford Key Takeaways: • A Christ-centered life isn't about choosing between freedom or holiness—it's about being formed into the likeness of Jesus. • Holiness is not merely moral purity; it's a fruit of transformation, not behavior management. • Freedom in Jesus is not license—it's liberation for love, a love shaped like the cross. • When parenting or pastoring, authenticity and consistency matter far more than presenting a "perfect" Christianity. • It's possible (and vital) to acknowledge the value in those with whom we theologically disagree, including figures like John Piper. • Justice and mercy aren't mutually exclusive values; both must be considered in public moral discourse. Resources Mentioned: • "Desiring God" website – desiringgod.org • Galatians 5:1 – "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free" • 1 Thessalonians 5 – "Test everything, hold on to the good" • John Piper's "Ask Pastor John" podcast – [Link] Join us weekly as we continue creating space for uncertain yet hopeful conversations about Jesus, culture, and the church's role today. If Voxology has helped reframe your faith or challenged your assumptions in life-giving ways, help us spread the word! Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology on your favorite podcast platform. Send your thoughts, stories, or questions to [email protected]—your voice deeply shapes what we explore next. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Explore our Merch Store: 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 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 Old Testament offers more than just laws, wars, and weird stories—Tim Mackie joins Mike Erre to unpack how the Bible's first testament reveals a sophisticated narrative of divine patience, justice, and rescue, and how it all points directly to Jesus. Whether you're deconstructing your faith, questioning biblical violence, or struggling to reconcile the God of the Old Testament with the teachings of Christ, this conversation is a deep dive into understanding the Hebrew Scriptures on their own terms. Mike and Tim explore the concept of divine accommodation—how God works within broken systems and with broken people—as a lens for reading difficult texts like the flood, the conquest of Canaan, and ancient warrior kings. They tackle some of the toughest questions from modern readers: Is the Bible compatible with science and history? Is the Old Testament even relevant under the new covenant? And why the way we read the Bible matters more than ever. Key Takeaways: • Divine Accommodation as a Lens – Understanding how God chooses to work within sub-optimal human frameworks, like monarchies and violence, to bring about redemption. • Reading the Bible on Its Own Terms – Why assuming a modern, Western lens of historical accuracy misses what biblical authors were really doing—especially in narrative texts like the flood. • Old Testament as a New Covenant Document – How the Hebrew Bible itself anticipates the failure of the Mosaic covenant and prophesies the needs for spiritual renewal and a transformed heart. • Jesus and the Hebrew Scriptures – Why we can't fully understand the mission and message of Jesus apart from the Old Testament storyline he lived and fulfilled. • Practical Advice for Deconstructing with Integrity – How letting go of certain assumptions and diving into biblical context can deepen both faith and intellectual honesty. Guest Highlights: Tim Mackie – Co-founder of The Bible Project and former seminary professor, Tim brings a powerful combination of theological depth and pastoral heart. This episode showcases his gift for making ancient texts accessible and his clear-eyed view of how modern readers should engage with the Bible. Resources Mentioned: • The Bible Project – bibleproject.com • Tim's "My Strange Bible" Podcast – Archive of sermons and teachings by Tim Mackie • Genesis 1-9 – Discussion on the flood narrative and literary intent • Numbers 11, Deuteronomy 30, Ezekiel 36 – God's desire for inner transformation through the Spirit • 1 Corinthians 15 – The resurrection as the historical anchor of Christian faith • Gilgamesh and Ancient Flood Stories – Comparison literature and mythic context If you've ever wrestled with the tone, content, or teachings of the Old Testament, this one's for you. Join Mike and Tim as they model curiosity, reverence, and humility for these ancient texts. Don't forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and follow @voxologypodcast on Instagram and Facebook for ongoing conversation and weekly episodes. As always, we encourage your questions and reflections. Email us at [email protected] to join the dialogue. Check out our YouTube channel: VOXOLOGY TV Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/voxology Our Merch Store: VOXOLOGY on Etsy Learn more and listen online: https://voxologypodcast.com Subscribe and listen on iTunes or Spotify Follow Mike on Twitter: www.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

What happens when someone experiences both the unmovable conviction of their faith and the deep challenge of being queer in the American church? This powerful and vulnerable conversation opens up a path rarely discussed with grace and clarity. Mike Erre welcomes Tyler Chernesky, a pastor from Kansas City and a gay follower of Jesus who has chosen celibacy, to share his story of adoption, calling, identity, and the tension between loneliness and joy. Listeners will hear a deeply human and hopeful reflection on what modern discipleship can look like when it's grounded in both solid biblical conviction and a radically inclusive love. Tyler talks about being raised in a Bible-believing community, discovering he was gay during adolescence, and wrestling with the sense that his life didn't fit the mold of Christian ideals he saw around him. Yet through honest friendships, intentional community, and surrendered faith, Tyler has embraced a life of joyful, self-denying discipleship that calls the church to rethink not only LGBTQ+ inclusion, but the broader treatment of single people, friendship, and what we define as "the good life." Key Takeaways: • Adopted, Loved, and Called – Tyler shares his journey from being adopted into a loving Christian family to discovering a calling to pastor. • Growing Up Gay in the Church – Navigating silence, shame, and Christian messaging about sexuality as a teenager wrestling with identity. • The Myth of Marriage as Fulfillment – Why the idol of marriage in church culture can marginalize both LGBTQ+ people and single Christians more broadly. • Following Jesus as a Celibate Gay Man – How Tyler lives into his conviction around a traditional sexual ethic while still embracing joy, intimacy, and purpose. • The Church's Missing Voice – Why single pastors are necessary, how churches overlook single people, and what it looks like to create inclusive spiritual communities. • Joy as Apologetic – Tyler shares how joy, not anger or bitterness, is his strongest witness to the goodness of the gospel. Guest Highlight: Tyler Chernesky – Pastor, artist, and thought-leader based in Kansas City. Tyler's story challenges assumptions and extends hope to anyone struggling to hold faith and identity in tension. His mixture of sharp humor, deep pastoral care, and rigorous faith practice makes this a must-hear episode for anyone navigating spiritual complexity. Resources Mentioned: • Velvet Rage by Alan Downs – A psychological exploration of shame and identity for gay men. • Eric Klinenberg's research on the rise of people living alone. • 1 Corinthians 7 – Paul's writings on singleness and celibacy. • Timothy John Stafford's Music – timothyjohnstafford.com • Tyler on Twitter: @tylerchernesky Join us in reimagining what the church can be for single people, LGBTQ+ believers, and all those walking difficult paths of discipleship. Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and keep the conversation going on social media. As always, we encourage and cherish discussion in this space. Email your questions or experiences to [email protected], and engage with us on Instagram and Facebook. Watch more on VOXOLOGY TV Merch, anyone? ETSY Learn more at the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support us via 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 church can move from silence to safety by acknowledging its complicity in marginalizing abuse survivors and unpacking what repentance truly looks like—for individuals and communities. Kicking off a new Justice Series, Mike Erre and co-host Kevin No. 2 respond to a heartfelt letter from listener "Betty," offering an open, vulnerable discussion on sexual assault, politicization, and the Me Too movement through a gospel-centered lens. Mike shares reflections from past church leadership and his personal journey of repentance while affirming that healthy, just communities must create space for survivors to be believed, heard, and supported—without minimizing truth, due process, or grace. With cultural dialogue often divided and polarizing, this conversation challenges the binary of "believe all women" vs. "protect men," and instead proposes a Jesus-patterned third way marked by truth, love, and safety for all. Key Takeaways: • Building a Church That Believes Survivors – Why an overcorrection is far more redemptive than maintaining a harmful status quo, and how churches must be the safest place to talk about anything—including abuse. • Redefining What Repentance Looks Like – Mike discusses repentance not as guilt, but as embodied change in leadership structures, conversations around sexuality, and empowering women through shared authority. • Politics and Polarization in the Church – Dissecting the harmful merge between evangelicalism and partisan allegiance, and how centering our identity in God's kingdom disrupts political idolatry. • False Dichotomies and the Need for Nuance – Exploring how followers of Jesus must reject simplistic narratives—like "believing all accusations uncritically" or "always trusting authority"—in favor of humble, truth-seeking discernment. • A Broader Gospel and Deeper Invitation – Mike also responds to a separate listener question about why he no longer does traditional altar calls. He highlights the need for a fuller picture of the gospel rooted not in conversion formulas, but in lifelong discipleship. Resources Mentioned: • Mike's Previous Episode with Nicole discussing trauma and survivorship • Book of Deuteronomy – Addressing accusations and justice systems • Nicole's Ongoing Advocacy and Work Around Abuse Recovery • Biblical Views on the Role of Elders and Leadership Ethics Listeners are invited into a posture of humility and reflection—on the state of the church, its responsibilities, and the kind of redemptive presence Jesus calls his followers to embody. Stay engaged with future installments in the Justice Series, and share the episode with someone who may be wrestling through similar questions. Join the dialogue! Email us your thoughts at [email protected] or connect on Instagram and Facebook. Watch full episodes on VOXOLOGY TV. Grab your favorite Vox gear at our Etsy Merch Store. Subscribe to the Voxology Podcast on iTunes or Spotify. Support the podcast on Patreon. Follow on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Join us on Facebook: Voxology Podcast Follow Mike on X/Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford – @GoneTimothy Let's keep asking the big questions—and walking in the better way of Jesus. Subscribe, leave a review, and be part of this journey toward healing and truth. 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 courageously telling your story can interrupt cycles of silence, shame, and secrecy—especially in the church. Mike welcomes author and activist Nicole Braddock Bromley for a powerful and vulnerable conversation about surviving childhood sexual abuse, sharing her story publicly at age 15, and how that one act unlocked voices of countless others suffering in silence. Nicole shares the painful truth about why abuse often remains hidden in churches and affluent communities and offers a compelling challenge to the church to step into transparency, healing, and active prevention. From her journey of healing to advocacy through her organizations OneVOICE and OneVOICE4Freedom, Nicole unpacks how the Church's image-obsessed culture often suppresses conversations that could set people free—especially women and children. The episode also explores current events like the Kavanaugh hearings and the MeToo/ChurchToo movements, laying bare how politicizing survivors' stories causes further trauma. This episode is both heartbreaking and hopeful, a necessary listen for anyone seeking to become an ally to victims of abuse and a faithful representative of Jesus. Key Takeaways: • Understanding the Long-Term Effects of Abuse – Nicole opens up about how years of hiding her secret affected her identity and mental health and how breaking her silence became the first step toward healing. • The Power of Vulnerability – How sharing her story at age 15 sparked others to come forward and say "Me too," showing the radical impact of one person's courage. • Abuse and the Church – Why church culture can make abuse harder to detect and disclose, and how image-protection often trumps victim protection. • Navigating the MeToo and Kavanaugh Era – Nicole discusses the emotional toll of public disbelief, victim-blaming, and how these dynamics retraumatize survivors. • Raising Kids for Justice and Empathy – Insightful and urgent conversations about how to raise boys and girls in a sexually exploited culture, moving beyond "consent" toward honor, accountability, and mutual respect. Guest Highlight: Nicole Braddock Bromley – An author, speaker, and survivor-advocate, Nicole is the founder of OneVOICE, empowering abuse survivors to find healing and purpose, and OneVOICE4Freedom, combating child sex trafficking through education and prevention in the U.S. and abroad. Her books include Hush, Breathe, and Soar. Resources Mentioned: • Nicole's ministry and nonprofit – iamonevoice.org • OneVOICE on Instagram – @iamonevoice • Sexual Abuse and Recovery Statistics – RAINN.org • "Hush: Moving from Silence to Healing After Childhood Sexual Abuse" – Nicole Braddock Bromley • "Soar: A Next Step in Healing from Sexual Abuse" – Nicole Braddock Bromley Help us shine light in dark places by joining this ongoing conversation. Subscribe to Voxology Podcast, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay engaged. 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

What if prayer isn't just about getting answers? Mike and Kevin take on one of the most raw, painful, and universal questions in the life of faith: why pray when it doesn't seem to change anything? In this vulnerable episode, they dive deep into an honest question from a listener experiencing unimaginable grief and crisis of faith following the sudden death of his mother and a devastating cancer diagnosis for his father. Drawing from scripture, theology, personal experience, and the teachings of Dallas Willard, the conversation explores the nature of prayer, suffering, and trust in a God whose ways are often mysterious—but never distant. Key Takeaways: • Prayer as Participation, Not Transaction – Understanding prayer as part of our vocation to co-rule and create with God, not just a way to get our requests answered. • Training for Reigning – How spiritual disciplines including prayer shape us for God's future kingdom and teach us to be trustworthy with power. • Does Prayer Really Change Things? – Wrestling with what the Bible means when it says things like "you have not because you ask not," and what that implies about God's interaction with our prayers. • The Mystery of Unanswered Prayer – Confronting the painful, disorienting reality when the faithful suffer or prayers seem ignored—and why simplistic answers (e.g. lack of faith or "God's plan") fall flat. • Lament as Faith – How wrestling with God and staying in relationship—even in doubt—is itself a form of deep trust. Resources Mentioned: • James 5:16 – "The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." • Dallas Willard – Writings on spiritual disciplines and the kingdom of God • Revelation 21–22 – A vision of the restored vocation of humanity in God's future kingdom • The Book of Job – A profound reflection on undeserved suffering and unsatisfying answers • Daniel 10 – A mysterious glimpse into spiritual warfare and delayed answers to prayer • Previous Voxology Episodes on Suffering, Hell, and God's Will – VoxologyPodcast.com Join the conversation, wrestle with the hard questions, and rediscover the purpose of prayer not as a means to an end—but as a pathway to deep relationship, trust, and spiritual formation. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone navigating prayer, doubt, or grief. We always welcome questions or reflections: email [email protected] Engage with us on Facebook and Instagram. Watch full episodes on VOXOLOGY TV Grab sweet merch at VOXOLOGY's Etsy Store Subscribe to the Voxology Podcast on iTunes or Spotify Support us on Patreon Check out curated content playlists on the Voxology Spotify channel Follow @voxologypodcast on Instagram Like us on Facebook Follow Mike on X (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 we engage others in our faith journey when we've experienced the freedom of spiritual reconstruction but live in a culture deeply shaped by conservative, evangelical tradition? In this episode—part one of a new Vox Mailbag Series—Mike Erre and Kevin (#2) tackle questions about deconstruction, talking faith in politically charged spaces (like Branson, Missouri), and discerning truth in a world of theological contradictions. Filled with laughter, spicy sandwiches, and insightful reflection, this episode helps listeners explore what it means to engage conversations about faith transformation with kindness, humility, and relational depth. Whether you're deconstructing, reconstructing, or just reconciling old beliefs with new questions, this conversation offers practical and spiritual tools for navigating the journey. Key Takeaways: • Sharing Your Faith Journey Without Preaching – Learn how to invite others into conversation without threatening their beliefs or pushing an agenda. • What Deconstruction & Reconstruction Really Mean – Understanding when it's about pursuing truth vs. simply rejecting past traditions. • Posture Over Pressure – Why humility and story-sharing are more effective than pushing others to change. • Political Christianity and Idolatry – Exploring why conflating faith with political ideology creates distortion in the church's mission. • Testing Everything, Holding the Good – A thoughtful framework for learning from Christian authors and leaders with whom you may disagree. Guest Highlights: Kevin (#2) – Coffee connoisseur, resident funny man, and conversational wingman to Mike Erre. Kevin helps ground this episode in practicality by pushing for the "so what?" and aligning theory with real-world action. Resources Mentioned: • "The Myth of a Christian Nation" by Greg Boyd – A key text for rethinking the relationship between Christianity and political power. • "Winsome Persuasion" by Tim Muehlhoff – A guide for navigating tough conversations with grace and clarity. Link • "I Beg to Differ" by Tim Muehlhoff – Equips believers to engage in healthy and constructive dialogue. Link • "The Prodigal God" by Tim Keller – A powerful reframing of the gospel rooted in Luke 15. Link • "Everyday Theology" (feat. John Walton & N.T. Wright) – For resources related to biblical criticism and cultural context. Call to Action: Join us in building a faith that welcomes questions, values authentic dialogue, and pursues the heart of Jesus beyond cultural assumptions. Subscribe wherever you're listening, leave a review, and follow Voxology on social media to stay connected and part of the conversation. As always, we welcome your questions and stories—email us at [email protected] and connect on Facebook and Instagram. Watch the conversations and subscribe to VOXOLOGY TV on YouTube Check out our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support the show on Patreon Stream curated music & moments on Voxology Radio (Spotify) Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and Facebook: Voxology Podcast Follow Mike on Twitter: @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 can LGBTQ+ Christians faithfully navigate their identity while holding to a traditional Christian sexual ethic? Mike Erre sits down with Nate Collins, author of "All But Invisible" and founder of the Revoice Conference, for a raw, personal, and deeply theological conversation on gender, sexuality, and costly obedience. This is the first in an ongoing Revoice Series, spotlighting voices that are challenging the polarized narratives in the church by creating space for sexual and gender minorities within the framework of historic Christian faith. Key Takeaways: • Defining Revoice's Mission – Supporting and empowering LGBTQ+/SSA (same-sex attracted) Christians committed to traditional views on marriage and sexuality. • Rethinking Identity and Orientation – Exploring the concepts of secondary gender identity and how orientation can be more than just sexual attraction. • Critiquing the Nashville Statement – Why denial of marginalized voices and language policing have left deep wounds in the LGBTQ+ Christian community. • Life as a Gay Man in Conservative Evangelical Spaces – Nate shares his journey through seminary, marriage, and living openly while remaining committed to the traditional sexual ethic. • Joy in Celibacy and Community – How the first Revoice Conference offered a glimpse of joyful resilience, belonging, and spiritual family. Guest Highlights: Nate Collins – Founder of Revoice and author of "All But Invisible," Nate holds a PhD in New Testament from Southern Seminary and shares his story of being a non-straight Christian living in alignment with historic Christian teachings. His experience brings incredible depth, compassion, and clarity to one of the most pressing conversations in modern Christianity. Resources Mentioned: • Revoice Conference – revoice.us • All But Invisible by Nate Collins – allbutinvisible.com • Spiritual Friendship Blog – spiritualfriendship.org • People to Be Loved by Preston Sprinkle – [Link] • Washed and Waiting by Wesley Hill – [Link] • God and the Gay Christian by Matthew Vines – [Link] Join the ongoing conversation and help create space for real people wrestling faithfully with their identity. Subscribe, leave a review, or follow us on social media so you don't miss the next episode in our Revoice Series. 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 – Watch Here Our Merch Store! – ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast – voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Listen to VOXOLOGY Radio on Spotify – 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 does the American evangelical church reconcile justice, culture, and faith in a post-Christian age? Mike Erre is joined by author, pastor, and podcast host Skye Jethani (The Holy Post) for a provocative discussion about the recently issued "Statement on Social Justice and the Gospel" from prominent conservative evangelical leaders—and why its assumptions about sin, culture, and mission may be fundamentally flawed. Together, Mike and Skye unpack the tensions between personal salvation and social transformation, the fragmentation of modern evangelicalism, and the theological implications of rejecting systemic sin and collective repentance. Through humor, history, and a deep love for scripture, they contrast a kingdom vision of justice and shalom with the boundary-drawing tendency of political and cultural Christianity. Key Takeaways: • Understanding a Broken Evangelicalism – Why modern evangelicalism feels fractured and why many feel "spiritually homeless" in today's tribal climate. • The Problem with Statements – How culture war-era declarations like the Nashville Statement and the "Gospel and Social Justice" statement reflect a dying vision of Christianity. • Justice is Not a Distraction – A biblical case for how social justice is not an add-on, but an integral part of gospel witness and the Kingdom of God. • Jesus' Kingdom Vision – How personal righteousness and community transformation must go together for followers of Christ. • Culture and Power – Why framing some cultures as morally "better" reveals deep-rooted assumptions about privilege, whiteness, and American exceptionalism. • The Cross is Both Vertical and Horizontal – A rejection of the false split between private faith and public justice, and the need for holistic discipleship. Guest Highlights: Skye Jethani – Former executive editor at Christianity Today, co-host of The Holy Post podcast, and author of multiple books including "What If Jesus Was Serious?" and creator of the daily devotional With God Daily. Skye brings deep theological insight with a winsome, challenging voice that critiques American Christian culture from within. Resources Mentioned: • The Statement on Social Justice and the Gospel – statementonsocialjustice.com • The Holy Post Podcast with Skye Jethani – holypost.com • Lausanne Covenant (1974) – lausanne.org/content/covenant/lausanne-covenant • Tim Keller's Book – "Generous Justice" – [Link] • Voxology Non-ference Details – [Link] Redefining faith means challenging power structures, wrestling with uncomfortable truths, and seeking the heart of Jesus beyond political categories. Join the conversation, subscribe to the Voxology Podcast, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay engaged. 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 – 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 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 happens when the pastoral spotlight becomes too heavy to bear—and no one sees the weight until it's too late? Mike Erre and longtime friend Andy Lara reflect deeply on the tragic suicide of Inland Hills Church pastor Andrew Stoecklein, a young leader whose public transparency about his mental health struggles still couldn't prevent a heartbreaking end. This raw discussion examines broader issues of how we as individuals, communities, and the Church respond to mental illness—and what goes awry when simplistic solutions meet complex pain. Unpacking the pressures of pastoral leadership, the toxic success culture of the modern American church, and the harmful theological prescriptions often offered in response to depression, Mike and Andy challenge listeners to reimagine spiritual community as a space of solidarity—not isolation. Key Takeaways: • The Hidden Costs of "Success" – Why growing attendance, staff, and budgets often don't correspond to spiritual or emotional health for pastors. • Performance Culture in the Church – How the celebrity pastor model exacerbates spiritual isolation, performance anxiety, and suppresses vulnerability. • The Limits of Spiritual Clichés – Why phrases like "fix your eyes on Jesus" or "rest in God's sovereignty" may do harm when offered as one-size-fits-all solutions to mental illness. • Embodied Faith, Not Spiritual Gnosticism – Reframing mental health through holistic, embodied support—embracing therapy, medication, community presence, and practical care. • A Call to Pursue, Not Push Away – Why the church must learn to lean in with compassion, presence, and support when someone is spiraling—not retreat under the guise of sabbatical or spiritual advice. Notable Quotes: • "It's not that they want to die—they want relief. And everything else they've tried hasn't worked." • "The opposite of depression recovery isn't willpower—it's connection." • "When someone's honest about struggle, the worst thing we can do is hand them a prescription with seven spiritual buzzwords and back away." Resources Mentioned: • Andrew Stoecklein's final sermon and Kayla Stoecklein's public letter (search "Inland Hills Church blog") • Anchor podcasting app – anchor.fm • John Mark Comer & Mark Sayers – This Cultural Moment podcast • The Gospel Coalition's article on supporting loved ones with depression – [Search TGC depression article] Join us in reimagining how the Church can be a place of healing, not pressure. Want to continue the conversation and support this kind of work? Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media. 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

What if tithing isn't actually a New Testament teaching? In this honest and deeply practical solo episode, Mike tackles an insightful listener question about the theology behind tithing, prosperity gospel implications, and whether churches should be offering "90-day tithe challenges" with promised blessings (and optional refunds). Unpacking Scriptures like Malachi 3, Matthew 23, and key passages from 1 & 2 Corinthians and Acts, Mike invites us to reframe our understanding of generosity, stewardship, and the church's mission in the world. Mike explores how the early church didn't prescribe a 10% tithe, but instead fostered radical, heart-led generosity focused on caring for the poor and supporting gospel work. He contrasts this with modern church practices that often confuse or pressure members into rigid financial expectations, sometimes under theological pretenses that mimic prosperity gospel teachings. Get ready for a robust biblical breakdown and a challenging reorientation of how we view money, blessing, and the church's financial asks. Key Takeaways: • Tithing Isn't Commanded in the New Testament – The early church encouraged giving "as each one is able" rather than enforcing a 10% standard. • Generosity Is a Spiritual Discipline – Mike emphasizes cultivating cheerful, voluntary giving as a form of resistance to materialism and worship of money. • Support for Church Workers Is Biblical – While generosity to sustain gospel workers is affirmed, Scripture does not equate church giving with a prosperity formula. • Blessing ≠ Wealth – God's blessings aren't defined by financial prosperity; obedience often brings spiritual growth, not necessarily material gain. • Giving Should Focus on Justice – The New Testament prioritizes supporting the poor, not funding large-scale church infrastructure or flashy programs. Resources Mentioned: • 2 Corinthians 8–9 – Paul's teaching on generosity and heart-led giving • Acts 4:32–35 – Early church practices of communal support and radical sharing • Matthew 23:23 – Jesus rebuking the Pharisees for missing justice while tithing mint and cumin… what did he mean? Join the conversation about how the church can practice more transparent, meaningful generosity rooted in New Testament principles. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology on your favorite platform to keep deconstructing and reconstructing faith with us. 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 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr?si=KJoEXxxxTsqE-HiGL-PfIA Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/voxology 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

Challenging the modern church growth mindset, Mike Erre and guest Kevin revisit the assumptions baked into much of American Christian culture—namely the obsession with polished Sunday services, celebrity pastors, and numerical success. In a week where high-profile abuse scandals shook major institutions like the Catholic Church, Willow Creek, and John MacArthur's ministry, the conversation turns to a deeper issue: How do we define "church success," and what does the witness of Jesus call us to instead? This raw and prophetic episode asks whether our obsession with "excellence" in worship bands, livestreams, and church branding might actually distract from the mission of Jesus—especially in a time when abuse, injustice, and marginalization are being revealed inside the very systems we've built to "do church well." Key Takeaways: • Unmasking Toxic Success Metrics – Producing high-quality services isn't inherently bad, but treating them as the gold standard of church success reveals an idolization of production and performance. • When Big Church Models Fail – Exploring how the prioritization of large platforms, celebrity pastors, and top-tier talent creates systems vulnerable to abuse of power. • Jesus' Scorecard – Paul's letters remind us that God chooses the weak, the lowly, the overlooked—not the spotlight-ready. The church loses its distinctiveness when it mimics the world's obsession with strength and success. • The Power of Lament and Repentance – In light of abuse scandals, the church's role isn't to distract with polished services but to lead in public repentance, healing, and transparency. • Hope for Small Churches and Planters – For pastors leading small or struggling communities, this episode offers an alternative vision: practice-based, missional communities that emphasize discipleship, vulnerability, and real-life transformation—not just production value. Resources Mentioned: • 1 Corinthians 1:26–31 – Paul's challenge to the world's systems and the affirmation of God's preference for the foolish things over the wise. • The Forgotten Ways by Alan Hirsch – [Link] • C3 Church Columbus – A missional model for tracking community health through disciple-making, not Sunday attendance. • Dave Lomas and John Mark Comer – Pastors focused on practice-based, embodied Christianity over entertainment-driven churches. • Rock Harbor Church (CA) – One example of a church that shifted from attractional to missional focus. Join us as we rethink success, celebrate weakness, and call the church to a more honest, humble witness of Jesus. Subscribe to stay part of these paradigm-shifting conversations, leave a review, and follow us on social media to continue the dialogue. As always, we encourage and welcome your thoughts. Email us at [email protected] or engage with us on Facebook and Instagram. Catch us on YouTube here: VOXOLOGY TV. Grab some Vox merch: ETSY SHOP Explore more at the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the podcast on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and find 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

A deep dive into how Scripture confronts racism and ethnic supremacy, revealing that loving all people—regardless of race or background—is a fundamental expression of following Jesus. Mike Erre reflects on a provocative Atlantic article about why young atheists are abandoning Christianity and responds to a Twitter challenge: "Prove to me the Bible says I must value Black lives." His answer? A sweeping biblical case for racial equality rooted in the image of God, God's covenant with Abraham, and the reconciling work of Jesus. Key Takeaways: • The Church's Role in Creating Atheists – Research shows many young people leave Christianity due to vague messaging, shallow answers to deep questions, and lack of space to wrestle with doubt. • Why Superficial Faith Falls Short – Offering pat answers to complex subjects like sexuality, science, and suffering drives people—especially teens—away from the church. • Created in God's Image – A foundational biblical truth: all humans are made in God's likeness and are deserving of dignity, honor, and value—no exceptions. • The Gospel Is Reconciliation – True salvation reconciles us to God and also to each other, dismantling racial and ethnic divisions to form a diverse, unified new humanity in Christ. • Virtue Signaling vs. Embodied Love – Social media activism is easy; building cross-cultural friendships, listening to marginalized voices, and loving across ideological divides is where real change happens. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis 1 and 9 – The image of God in all people as the basis for human dignity • Ephesians 2 & Galatians 3 – Paul's teachings on racial reconciliation and one new humanity • Revelation 5 – A picture of the worshiping multitudes from every tribe and nation • James 3 & 1 John 4 – The contradiction of worshiping God while hating your brother or sister Join the movement toward embodied love and gospel-fueled reconciliation. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology to engage in deep conversations that don't shy away from the hard questions. As always, we encourage discussion as we pursue Jesus together. Email your thoughts or questions to [email protected], and connect with Voxology on Facebook and Instagram. Watch on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab merch from our Etsy Store More info at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford – @GoneTimothy on Instagram & Twitter 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

Examining the dangers of celebrity leadership culture in the American church, Mike Erre gets candid about the recent public downfalls of figures like Bill Hybels and Urban Meyer—both of whom have been celebrated as leadership experts. Unpacking how the church's obsession with platform, power, and production may be feeding these moral failures, Mike reflects on how the New Testament offers a radically different vision for leadership: one that emphasizes plurality, humility, and shared responsibility. The episode transitions into a passionate theological dialogue as Mike challenges the "TULIP" doctrines of Reformed theology, particularly the ideas of total depravity, unconditional election, and limited atonement. He reaffirms that salvation is universally available and critiques what he sees as an unbiblical notion of a God who arbitrarily chooses some people for salvation and not others. Alongside that, Mike addresses listener questions ranging from biblical discipline in Matthew 18 to the evolution of the podcast itself, reaffirming Voxology's commitment to diversity in leadership and theological integrity. Key Takeaways: • Reevaluating Church Leadership Models – Why the CEO-style leadership culture has harmed both church leaders and congregations, and what a biblical alternative might look like. • The Cost of Celebrity Pastoring – How platform and exposure can feed temptations toward money, sex, and power, especially in high-powered church or coaching roles. • A Critique of Reformed Theology – Breaking down the TULIP acrostic and offering a biblical counterpoint to doctrines like unconditional election and limited atonement. • Meaningful Church Discipline – Exploring the real context of Matthew 18:20 and debunking the misuse of "where two or three are gathered" in pop Christian culture. • The Future of Voxology – Updates on plans to revamp the podcast with new voices, including diverse perspectives and enhanced production. Notable Quotes: • "God's power is only made perfect when ours comes to an end." • "You can be a faithful follower of Jesus and not be a Calvinist." • "Leadership failures often speak more to cultural systems than just personal sin." Resources Mentioned: • Romans 9–11 (Context for election and predestination) • Matthew 18:15–20 (Misunderstood passage on church discipline) • Common Grace doctrine in Reformed theology • Dallas Willard – Teachings on truth and character • TULIP Acrostic (Reformed theological summary) Join the conversation and help Voxology reimagine leadership, theology, and community. Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and follow us on social media to be part of the 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

How do we rebuild our faith after it feels like everything we believed has fallen apart? That's the core question behind this rich and vulnerable conversation between Mike Erre and long-time Vox supporter Kevin #1, live from Lake Tahoe. In response to passionate listener feedback regarding Christian political alignment and the perceived imbalance of criticism toward the Right, this episode unpacks how personal faith can become tangled with political identity—and what must be deconstructed and reconstructed in response. Mike also responds thoughtfully to critiques about how frequently the podcast calls out evangelicals who support Trump, highlighting that Voxology has always sought to challenge the fusion of Christianity and partisan politics wherever it occurs. Then, the conversation pivots toward a truly resonant topic: faith reconstruction. Is it possible to rebuild without just creating a new formula? What practices reorient us without turning into legalisms? How do we move through doubt into something deeper and truer? Drawing from real-life stories of political tension, deconstruction, and even marriage counseling metaphors, this episode offers space for those feeling spiritually untethered to imagine a rigorous but hopeful journey toward a more relational, less formulaic Christianity. Key Takeaways: • Deconstruction vs. Reconstruction – It's not just about tearing down beliefs but carefully rebuilding something more relational, authentic, and deeply rooted in Jesus, not political platforms or simplified theology. • Faith and Politics – Christians on both sides of the aisle often conflate political allegiance with spiritual fidelity. Mike seeks a third way—where identity in Christ transcends and critiques both Left and Right. • Listener Feedback Matters – Mike reads and directly responds to emails and Facebook post critiques, modeling gracious engagement that values dissent and collaborative dialogue. • Avoiding New Orthodoxy – In reconstructing faith, there's a temptation to replace one rigid system with another. How do we remain open to mystery and growth instead of creating a new dogma? • Healthy Markers of Reconstruction – Living in tension, embracing mystery, creating a larger table of inclusion, and resisting the urge for spiritual certainty are signs of healthier, deeper faith. Resources Mentioned: • Stages of Faith Development – Referenced past Vox episode (#87) on disorientation and spiritual maturation. • Romans 8:28 – Highlighted as an example of scripture often used to gloss over deep tension, rather than sit within it. • Vox Podcast "Non-ference" Gathering – Stay tuned for future conversations around spiritual homelessness and faith community connection. Join the VOX community in continuing this crucial conversation—send your feedback or share your reconstruction story at [email protected]. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode if it resonated with your 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

Exploring the critical intersection of politics, worship, and the role of the church, Mike Erre reunites with longtime friend and Vox co-founder Andy Lara for a powerful episode in the ongoing Faith & Politics series. With heart, humor, and serious theological reflection, they examine how Christianity in America has been co-opted by partisan allegiance—sacrificing the holistic, worship-driven vision of community that scripture outlines. What begins as a joyful update featuring special guest Seth Eery—sharing family vacation antics and Mighty Ducks anthems—turns into a candid conversation about the dangers of political idolatry and the temptation to separate church identity from civic engagement. Mike and Andy critique the views of influential figures like Pastor Robert Jeffress, discussing how defending policies at the expense of character reflects a broken understanding of kingdom citizenship. Together, they challenge believers to imagine what it actually means to be the church in a politically diseased culture. Key Takeaways: • How false divisions between "spiritual" and "political" allow Christians to justify immoral policies for the sake of preferred outcomes • The biblical vision of worship as encompassing justice, economics, and social order—not just Sunday rituals • What Paul, Jesus, and early Israel teach us about communal identity and political engagement as acts of worship • Why Christian identity should take priority over national, political, or ideological allegiances • The real meaning of loving our enemies in the public square—whether that's Donald Trump, Barack Obama, or Judas at the table Notable Moments: ⭐ Special guest appearance by Seth Eery, whose joy, wit, and spontaneous mic drops ("Five!") provide levity and love throughout the conversation. ⭐ Andy Lara shares hilarious stories from the world of worship guitar pedals and underground Facebook groups—proving there's room for theology even in the comment section. ⭐ A bold response to listener Josh's tough but honest question about whether Christians worship the same Jesus across ideological lines. Resources Mentioned: • "Your Favorite Band Sucks" podcast – Satirical takes on pop music legends • Facebook Group: Pedalboards of Doom • Voxology Faith & Politics Series – Previous episodes in this ongoing series • Philippians 3:20 – "Our citizenship is in heaven..." • John 13 – Jesus washes the disciples' feet, including Judas Join us on the journey of reshaping Christian political witness—not just by protesting what's wrong, but by embodying an alternative community shaped by Jesus. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social to be 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 – https://www.youtube.com/@voxology Check out our Merch Store on Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market Learn more about Voxology and upcoming series at https://voxologypodcast.com/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify: Apple – 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 our curated playlists on Voxology Spotify Channel: https://open.spotify.com/user/nj2l08pd1zt6zk3azs1plhmdy?si=3fb86269da0449ed Follow us on Instagram @voxologypodcast and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: https://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 early church's radical social practices revealed an alternative political imagination rooted in the lordship of Jesus—and how those practices challenge today's believers to embody a cross-shaped way of engaging with power, community, and culture. Mike Erre continues the Exile Series by diving deep into Paul's subversive, kingdom-centered vision of church and politics. Drawing from Paul's life before and after encountering Jesus, and through reflections on apocalyptic literature like Revelation, Mike outlines how the church was and still is called to be a deeply political community—not in alignment with worldly partisanship, but through radical embodiment of the reign of Jesus. Key Takeaways: • Jesus Is Lord as a Political Claim – Declaring the kingship of Jesus was a direct confrontation of Rome's imperial power, and today it reorients our loyalties away from partisan identities. • Worship as Subversion – Early Christian worship mimicked and mocked the imperial praise of Caesar, inviting us to consider how our gathering together proclaims a new order. • The Lord's Supper as Resistance – Communion didn't just remember Jesus—it embodied a countercultural, egalitarian community that broke down class, race, and power structures. • Caring for the Poor as Political Witness – The early church outpaced Rome's welfare system, serving the marginalized not merely as charity, but as participation in God's justice. • Cruciform Politics – Paul called for a cross-shaped politics marked by humility, mutual service, and sacrificial love—values that stand in stark contrast to today's political climate. • Political Discipleship – Modern churches must resist being discipled by social media or cable news and instead anchor their vision in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Resources Mentioned: • The Book of Revelation – Key texts from apocalyptic literature reshaping how we see empire and God's rule • 1 Corinthians 11 – Paul's critique of how communion was being misused to reinforce class divides • Philippians 2 – The "Christ hymn" revealing the radical humility of Jesus as our model of political engagement • Acts 2 & 4 – Descriptions of the early church's economic justice as a core outgrowth of resurrection life • Michael Gorman – Theologian whose term "cruciform" helps center our imagination around cross-shaped living Join us as we push past the toxic politics of our age to rediscover the church's call to be an alternative political community that reflects the love, justice, and humility of our crucified king. Subscribe, leave a review, and connect with us on social to continue the conversation about the church's transformative public witness. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we journey together. Email your questions to [email protected] or engage with us on Facebook and Instagram. We're also on YouTube! Check out VOXOLOGY TV Shop the Voxology Merch Store on ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the podcast on Patreon Check out our music curation on Spotify: 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 (@GoneTimothy on socials) 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 apostle Paul's encounter with the risen Jesus radically reshaped his political vision, identity, and understanding of salvation—and what that means for the church today. This third installment of the Exile Series dives into how Paul's pre- and post-conversion worldview about kingdom, nation, power, and mission underwent a massive transformation, ultimately redefining faith as political allegiance to a crucified and risen king. Mike unpacks the deeply political nature of Paul's conversion, reframing salvation not as a personal escape to heaven but as entrance into a cross-shaped community—"the new creation polis of Jesus." The episode explores the robust implications of Jesus' resurrection and lordship on how Christians engage politics, identity, and vocation in the world. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Salvation as Political Allegiance – Why Paul shifted from viewing Jesus as a failed insurrectionist to proclaiming him as Lord over all creation, a move that reframes salvation within a deeply political lens. • The Cross as the Shape of God's Politics – How Jesus' crucifixion reoriented Paul's understanding of authority, declaring that God's kingdom advances not by power but by self-giving love. • The Kingdom Is Now – Paul realized that resurrection wasn't only an end-times event, but had begun in Jesus and now spreads through a new community of Spirit-filled disciples. • From Jewish Nationalism to Global Invitation – How Paul's prejudices were undone as he saw that non-Jews didn't need to become Jewish but were co-heirs through Jesus, prompting a redefinition of God's people. • Church as the New Political Community – The ekklesia as a holy, elected body called to embody the radically inclusive and cruciform vocation originally entrusted to Israel. Resources Mentioned: • Ephesians 1 – Paul's vision of cosmic Lordship • Exodus 19 – The church's vocation as a royal priesthood and holy nation • Michael Gorman – On cruciformity and Pauline politics • Tim Gombis – Pauline insights and gospel-centered political imagination For those wrestling with the collision of politics and faith, this episode offers a powerful reorientation toward a kingdom rooted in the cross—not in nationalism or tribalism. Be part of the conversation as we challenge distorted ideas of power and identity and rediscover the church's true calling in the politically charged landscape of today. We'd love to hear your thoughts! Email us your feedback or questions at [email protected] and engage with us on Facebook and Instagram. Catch more content and community on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Shop our merch: ETSY Learn more at VoxologyPodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the podcast via 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 the practice of Sabbath offers spiritual resistance, emotional healing, and economic justice in a world ruled by hustle, exhaustion, and constant noise. Mike Erre is joined by theologian, pastor, and author A.J. Swoboda for a deep and deeply personal conversation about faith, burnout, restless modernity, spiritual deconstruction, and Swoboda's transformative journey through doubt and reconstruction. Drawing from his latest book, "Subversive Sabbath," A.J. unpacks the liberating power behind God's invitation to rest—not just as self-care, but as a spiritual act of radical resistance and renewal. Key Takeaways: • Deconstruction with a Return Path – A.J. shares his personal story of theological deconstruction, why he nearly lost his faith, and what helped him reconstruct a deeper, more rooted relationship with Jesus. • Sabbath as Resistance – Reframing Sabbath not as a legalistic obligation or one-day vacation, but as sacred resistance to burnout culture, constant productivity, and digital overwhelm. • Practicing Rest in a Nonstop World – Practical ways to honor Sabbath rhythms even with kids, busy schedules, and unpredictable demands—informed by Jewish tradition, Scripture, and pastoral wisdom. • Rest and Economic Justice – Why privilege can't be an excuse for non-participation in Sabbath, and how the practice serves as an act of justice for the marginalized and overworked. • Sabbath and the Inner Life – Creating regular space for lament, grief, recovery, and honest prayer—how silence is not complicity, but a form of spiritual courage. • Processing Trauma in a Time-Starved Culture – Why our society has lost the capacity to process suffering, and how the Sabbath (like the boat ride home from war) becomes a vessel for emotional and spiritual integration. Guest Highlight: A.J. Swoboda – Pastor of Theophilus Church in Portland, OR, author of several influential books including The Dusty Ones, The Glorious Dark, and Subversive Sabbath. He leads a Doctor of Ministry program on the Holy Spirit at Fuller Seminary and teaches at Portland Seminary and Life Pacific University. A.J. unpacks the theological, emotional, and cultural dimensions of Sabbath as a recovery practice for the modern soul. Resources Mentioned: • "Subversive Sabbath" by A.J. Swoboda – Buy the book • "The Dusty Ones" by A.J. Swoboda – Link • "The Glorious Dark" by A.J. Swoboda – Link • "Redeeming How We Talk" – Link • "The Last Word" by N.T. Wright – Theology of Scripture that helped sustain faith in crisis • C.S. Lewis on the Psalms – Reflections on divine silence and trust • Eugene Peterson's Sabbath Practices – Psalms, hikes, and quiet renewal Join the movement toward restivity—not just activism without reflection. Let's reclaim Sabbath as spiritual defiance and holy healing. Subscribe to Voxology, 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 future of the church lies in relational community, decentralized discipleship, and a bold yet humble witness. In this timely and thought-provoking conversation, Mike Erre welcomes back friend and author Skye Jethani to explore what the rapidly evolving digital landscape means for the structure, mission, and theology of the modern church. From rethinking the traditional Sunday service model to navigating deeply divisive political and cultural debates—including a deep dive into the Supreme Court's ruling on the Colorado baker's religious liberty case—Mike and Skye unpack how to follow Jesus faithfully without buying into fear or outrage. They also examine the growing podcast space as a refuge for thoughtful Christian engagement, the tension between deconstructing and reconstructing faith, and the crucial role of conscience, community, and context in addressing LGBTQ+ issues in Christian spaces. Key Takeaways: • The Evolving Church Model – Why the traditional "Sunday morning lecture" format is rooted in outdated demand/supply dynamics around biblical literacy, and how churches must adapt to focus more on relational discipleship. • Podcasting as Theological Disruption – How podcasts are becoming vital spaces for uncensored, nuanced, and hopeful Christianity, especially for younger generations. • Faithful Presence Over Political Power – A discussion of why outrage and fear dominate Christian media and how resisting that model is a more Christ-centered witness. • Religious Liberty vs. Mission – Skye breaks down the Supreme Court ruling in the famous Colorado baker case and explores why protecting religious liberty can be an act of love for all neighbors, not just Christians. • Wise Engagement with LGBTQ+ Questions – A guide for navigating complex questions around same-sex weddings, conscience, and pastoral care, using both biblical insight and missional compassion. • The Future of Church Communities – Why microchurches, house churches, and decentralized spiritual formation rooted in relationship may be the next faithful expression of the body of Christ in a post-Christian culture. Guest Highlights: Skye Jethani – Author, devotional creator, and co-host of the Holy Post Podcast. Skye brings thoughtful critique and hopeful vision as he reflects on his years in ministry, writing, and podcasting. With decades of experience, he offers pastoral wisdom on how to navigate changing cultural tides without compromising the radical beauty of Jesus. Resources Mentioned: • Skye Jethani's Daily Devotional – withgoddaily.com • The Holy Post Podcast – holypost.com • BibleProject – bibleproject.com • The Trellis and the Vine – [book link] • Skye's Website – skyjethani.com Join the conversation with us as we seek a Jesus-looking approach to digital media, church structure, and cultural issues. Subscribe, leave a review, and find us on social media to go deeper. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue these questions. Feel free to email us at [email protected] and engage with the community on Facebook and Instagram. Check out our YouTube channel: VOXOLOGY TV Grab some Voxology merch: Etsy Store Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Stream curated episodes and music on Voxology Radio on Spotify Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: twitter.com/mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford — @GoneTimothy on Instagram & Twitter. 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 misinterpreting Romans 13 distorts Christian witness and enables injustice. In a special midweek commentary episode, Mike Erre breaks down Attorney General Jeff Sessions' and Sarah Huckabee Sanders' use of Romans 13 to justify controversial immigration policies—specifically, the separation of families at the border. Mike dives deep into scripture, unpacking why proof-texting Romans 13 is both theologically inaccurate and spiritually dangerous. This episode is part of our ongoing Paul and Politics series. Key Takeaways: • Quoting Scripture Out of Context — Mike critiques how Romans 13 has been misused historically to justify slavery, apartheid, and now immigration policies. • Biblical Foundation for Immigrant Care — The Bible overwhelmingly supports the care of the foreigner, stranger, and refugee, from Leviticus to the teachings of Jesus. • The Context of Romans 13 — Mike explains how Romans 12 and 13 are a single thought, revealing Paul's deeper message about vengeance, government, and Christian witness. • Civil Disobedience in Scripture — From Daniel and Rahab to the disciples in Acts, the Bible includes many examples of resisting unjust laws for the sake of God's justice. • Christian Responsibility in a Polarized Culture — Why Christians should resist policies and ideologies that conflict with Jesus' call to love strangers and pursue justice. Resources Mentioned: • Preston Sprinkle – Website • "Welcoming the Stranger" by Matthew Soerens – Amazon • "The Myth of a Christian Nation" by Gregory Boyd – Amazon • Ben Witherington's commentary on Romans • N.T. Wright on Romans • Tim Gombis – "Faith Improvised" podcast Join the Voxology community as we untangle faith from politics and seek a more faithful witness to Jesus. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and connect with us on your favorite platform. 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

Before Saul became the Apostle Paul, he was a Pharisee passionately devoted to reshaping Israel into a holy and politically restored nation. In the second installment of our Faith & Politics trilogy, Mike Erre continues unpacking the rich political imagination of Saul prior to his dramatic encounter with Jesus. By examining how salvation, politics, and national identity were deeply intertwined in Saul's worldview, we gain insight not only into first-century Judaism but into today's Christian nationalism and the church's entanglement with political power. Mike walks us through the grand biblical narrative from Israel's vocation as a light to the nations, through the trauma of exile, to the zealous response of the Pharisees—including Saul's coercive efforts to purify the nation. As he draws striking parallels between the political fervor of the Pharisees and the evangelical pursuit of a "return to national greatness," listeners are invited to examine how political hopes shape our understanding of salvation, justice, and community. Key Takeaways: • Understanding the Political Vision of First-Century Pharisees – Exploring how Saul's hope for salvation was deeply rooted in national liberation, justice, and the restoration of Israel's power and purity. • Exile, Exodus, and Redemption – How the archetypes of exile and Exodus informed Israel's longing for divine intervention, and how political freedom was seen as a core part of salvation. • Paul's Zeal for National Purity – Unpacking the Pharisee strategy of enforcing holiness and fidelity to the law to prompt divine rescue—and how that zeal turned violent. • Parallels to Modern Christian Nationalism – Exploring how the evangelical desire to "take America back for God" mimics Pharisaic ideologies of cultural purity and coercive means. • Foundations for a Changed Political Imagination – Setting the stage for the next episode's exploration of how Paul's encounter with Jesus radically reorients his vision for God's kingdom and political engagement. Resources Mentioned: • Book of Isaiah – Second section and its Exodus themes • Jeremiah 29 – The call to seek the peace of the city during exile • Book of Deuteronomy – "Cursed is anyone who hangs on a tree" • Tim Gombis – Theological commentary on Paul's political transformation Join us next time as we explore how meeting the risen Jesus reshaped Saul's imagination—and what that means for how we live politically faithful lives today. As always, we welcome your questions and reflections at [email protected]—and encourage you to subscribe, leave us a review, and follow along on Instagram and Facebook to stay part of the ongoing conversation. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support us on Patreon Check out our Spotify station: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast 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 Voxology Podcast exists to legitimize spiritual deconstruction while centering the beauty and authority of Jesus—and why that journey compels us to address politics. In this kickoff to the new Politics series, Mike Erre (joined briefly by a surprise guest, Seth Erre!) reflects on the origin and mission of Voxology, explains why preaching is inherently political, and sets the stage for a rich dive into how the apostle Paul's transformation offers a model for engaging politics without being partisan. Drawing on the work of scholars like N.T. Wright and Tim Gombis, Mike begins laying a theological case for why the gospel is intrinsically political—not in the corrupt, binary way we often see politics today, but in how we order society under the lordship of Jesus. Through a Biblical lens, politics becomes about the entire ordering of life together under a different kind of king, and the church becomes a countercultural "polis" reflecting God's justice, compassion, and mercy. Key Takeaways: • Politics Beyond Partisanship – Understanding "political" in Biblical terms as the ordering of life under the reign of Christ, distinct from today's toxic political climate. • The Church as an Alternative Polis – How local congregations are meant to be communities that showcase the kingdom's values through everyday life and relationships. • How Paul Got Political – Introducing the transformation in Paul's worldview that reimagined salvation, empire, and collective identity through Jesus. • Preaching as Political Act – Why preaching the gospel means proclaiming Jesus as Lord over everything—even the social, cultural, and political realms. Resources Mentioned: • Tim Gombis – Pauline theology and political implications of Paul's writings • N.T. Wright – Theology on Jesus, Paul, and the political implications of the gospel • Michael Goheen – Reflections on Biblical narrative and worldviews • Book of Genesis – Paul's foundational understanding of creation and covenant • Book of Exodus – God's redemption and formation of Israel as a holy nation • Patreon Page – Support Voxology Join us as we challenge the idea that faith should stay out of politics and explore what it means to embody Jesus faithfully in a world shaped by power, fear, and division. 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 Genesis 1 redefines the intersection of faith and science, challenging traditional assumptions, and offering a new framework for interpreting the Bible's creation story. Mike Erre kicks off a Bible Geek episode exploring Old Testament scholar John Sailhamer's groundbreaking take on Genesis 1:1–2—a perspective that profoundly impacts the way Christians engage with science, cosmology, and our understanding of the world's origins. Whether you're a science-minded believer wrestling with evolution debates, or someone who's always felt tension between scripture and science, this deep but accessible dive offers a liberating way forward. Key Takeaways: • Reconciling Genesis and Science – Genesis 1 may not be an ancient science textbook, but rather a theological narrative focused on God's intent, design, and presence—not the mechanics of cosmology. • Two Creation Events – Sailhamer argues Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2 describe separate acts: the creation of the universe, and then the shaping of a specific land—possibly Eden—for human habitation. • The Meaning of "In the Beginning" (Rēʾšît) – This ambiguous Hebrew term refers not to a single moment, but an extended period preceding measurable time, redefining how we view creation's timeline. • Eden as the Promised Land – A provocative idea: Eden wasn't a mythic paradise, but an actual geographical location—potentially the same land later promised to Abraham. • Faith Beyond Literalism – A call to move beyond flat, literal readings toward faithful engagement with genre, purpose, and literary nuance. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis Unbound by John Sailhamer – A revolutionary take on Genesis 1 and Old Testament cosmology. • The Pentateuch as Narrative by John Sailhamer – A wider look at how to read the first five books of the Bible as cohesive story. • The Hebrew word "rēʾšît" – For more study, explore its use across Hebrew scriptures, especially in Job and kingship references. Have questions or feedback? We'd love to hear from you! Email our team at [email protected] to continue the conversation. We're creating safe and thoughtful spaces for listeners just like you. Join the Voxology community across platforms: We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Visit: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow @voxologypodcast on Instagram and Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and invite a friend to geek out on the Bible with you. 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 long-overdue conversation with Andy Lara, co-founder of Vox Podcast and community architect, reveals lessons in innovation, faith, and storytelling. In this heartfelt and wide-ranging episode, Mike honors Andy's departure by reflecting on the profound impact he's made in launching both the Vox Podcast and the Vox community. Along the way, they field listener questions that explore singleness in the Christian life, the theology of marriage, how creatives can partner with God's image, and what it means to follow Jesus in non-violent ways. Plus, Andy spotlight's his wife's groundbreaking work with the Lucky Few Podcast and Dear Mom Conference—two community-building ventures serving families impacted by Down syndrome. Key Takeaways: • Can You Have a Good Marriage Without Jesus? – Exploring theological frameworks of marriage as covenant vs. cultural partnership, and why many marriages reflect God's image even without naming it. • The Value of Singleness – Reframing individual seasons of life as formative, not transitional, and what it means to thrive in faith without rushing into marriage. • Creativity and Faith – A listener shares a tip on creatives in the church, prompting a discussion on working in God's image and the importance of creativity outside traditional ministry roles. • The Temptation of Retaliation – Revisiting a past comment about violence and justice; Mike unpacks why Jesus' example of nonviolence, embodied even in his execution, speaks volumes about the upside-down kingdom of God. • Celebrating Andy Bear – Mike reflects on the early days of Voxology and the creative brilliance and spiritual insight Andy brought to forming the podcast, the church community, and its countercultural ethos. • Podcasting and Culture – Andy offers a masterclass on how podcasting can be a DNA engine, sharing the inside story on growing The Lucky Few Podcast and Dear Mom Conference through storytelling and meaningful aesthetics. Guest Highlights: Andy Bear – Producer, strategist, and creative force behind Voxology and other notable projects including the Lucky Few Podcast and Dear Mom Conference. Andy shares reflections on his time building Vox, the changing podcasting landscape, and what role authenticity, aesthetics, and community play in shaping both church and media ventures today. Resources Mentioned: • The Lucky Few Podcast – theluckfewpodcast.com • Dear Mom Conference – dearmomconference.com • Andy Likes Words – Andy's creative portfolio: andylikeswords.com • Books Referenced: • The Artisan Soul by Erwin McManus • Scandalous Witness by Lee Camp • Preston Sprinkle – Podcast and works on violence and theology Join Mike and the Voxology listeners in celebrating Andy's legacy, and be inspired to pursue your creative calling, trust your current season, and rethink life's big spiritual questions in community. Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social to keep up with future episodes and join the conversation. As always, we encourage discussion and would love your thoughts. Email us at [email protected] or engage with Voxology Podcast on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about 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

How do church decline and societal disconnection go hand in hand? In this thought-provoking conversation, Mike Erre is joined by longtime friend (and former Ohio State quarterback) Steve Geller to talk football, faith, and the unraveling of American communal life. After reliving an unforgettable moment of gridiron glory and fumble-induced infamy, the duo digs into a sobering sociology-rooted critique of modern American church decline—based on recent writing from Scott McKnight's blog, "The Death of the Church." They explore why church attendance is declining, not just from spiritual apathy, but from broader cultural forces like suburban sprawl, screen saturation, and radical individualism. Mike and Steve unpack how churches have often mirrored these anti-community forces instead of countering them, and share candid stories about technology, parenting, and spiritual hunger in our hyper-fragmented age. Key Takeaways: • Why church decline may reflect the breakdown of American community—not just bad preaching or boring worship. • How suburban sprawl, screen addiction, and a "me first" culture work as anti-community forces eroding church life. • Ways the church reinforces individualism in sermons, programs, and discipleship—even while preaching togetherness. • The spiritual power of proximity and presence: reclaiming place, community events, and shared meals as holy acts. • How churches can offer better responses to technology's isolating effects by becoming pro-people rather than anti-tech. Guest Highlights: Steve Geller – Former Ohio State quarterback turned educational leader and thoughtful church critic. Steve brings heartfelt reflections on Christian formation, community loss, and why the church must take a hard look at what it models today. Resources Mentioned: • Scott McKnight's Blog: "The Death of the Church" – [Link] • Bowling Alone by Robert Putnam – [Link] • The Tech-Wise Family by Andy Crouch – [Link] Let's rethink what real church community means. Subscribe, share this episode, and join the conversation on your favorite socials. Support us on Patreon or check out our latest resources online. 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 a controversial GQ list, an outdated quote on spousal abuse, and Beth Moore's powerful letter converge to expose the cultural misunderstandings—and misuses—of the Bible both inside and outside the church. Mike Erre and guest Kevin #2 (of Crimson Cup Coffee fame) unpack three hot-button moments that captured headlines and Twitter feeds, offering insights into how Christians can respond with truth, humility, and action in a culture often skeptical of faith. Key Takeaways: • The Bible and Cultural Critique – Why GQ's dismissal of the Bible ironically reveals a widespread Christian failure to engage with Scripture beyond surface-level devotion. • Misusing Scripture in the Name of Authority – Addressing the toxic theology behind a pastor's advice to an abused woman to stay and submit, and the broader dangers of spiritualizing harm. • Beth Moore's Profound Witness – Reflecting on her open letter confronting sexism in the evangelical world, and what it means for church leadership, theology, and gender equality moving forward. • The Opportunity in Outrage – How righteous anger can be redirected toward internal reflection, cultural repentance, and the formation of a more Jesus-like church. • Reframing Privilege and Apology – Why true repentance goes deeper than saying "I'm sorry" for being male, straight, or white—and challenges us to become proactive agents of healing and equity. Resources Mentioned: • Beth Moore's "A Letter to My Brothers" – bethmoore.net • Dallas Willard Quote on Cultural Privilege – The Divine Conspiracy • RNS coverage of Paige Patterson's comments – religionnews.com • Kevin's coffee company – crimsoncup.com Join the conversation about faith, justice, and truth by subscribing to the Voxology Podcast. Leave a review to help others find us and connect with us on social media. As always, we encourage and welcome your thoughts as we dig deeper into these challenging issues. Email your questions to [email protected] and join the discussion on Facebook and Instagram. Watch us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab your Voxology merch at our Etsy store Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe via Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and Facebook: voxologypodcast 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 happens when faithful listeners bring their best questions to the table? You get a rich, multidimensional conversation exploring everything from advocacy for people with developmental disabilities to the theological case for women in ministry leadership. On this Vox Mailbag episode, Mike Erre reflects on listener feedback, critiques, and thoughtful questions with his trademark honesty and theological depth. He touches on listener experiences championing dignity and person-centered care for individuals with developmental disabilities, while also diving into serious ecclesiological considerations: Do the priestly limits placed on Levites in the Old Testament apply analogously to gender and church leadership? How should we view Paul's female co-laborers like Phoebe, Junia, and Priscilla? Could the "chosen lady" of 2 John be a female house church pastor? And why respond so often to teachings from Desiring God and The Gospel Coalition? This episode is an open, generous model of how Christians can push back, question sources of authority, and explore scripture more deeply—without disregarding those they might disagree with. Key Takeaways: • Honoring People with Developmental Disabilities – Listeners share powerful, real-life stories of advocating for and learning from individuals with disabilities—and Mike reflects personally as a father to a son with Down syndrome. • Responding with Grace to Disagreement – Engaging critiques of the show's comments about Desiring God and the Gospel Coalition, with thoughtful consideration of whether their voices already dominate Christian discourse. • Reframing the Priesthood Analogy – Why comparing male-only Levite priests to male church leaders falls short when women leaders like Phoebe and Junia appear clearly in the New Testament. • The "Elect Lady" of 2 John – Drawing from scholar Scot McKnight's work, a compelling exploration into whether a woman was pastoring a house church and why it matters for understanding women in ministry today. Resources Mentioned: • John Coe – Institute for Spiritual Formation at Biola University • Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross – Explorers of contemplative spirituality and the "dark night of the soul" • Scot McKnight on 2 John – Blog Post • Romans 16, 1 Corinthians, and 2 John – Biblical backing for women in leadership • Revelation Podcast Series – Exclusive for Patreon supporters Join the conversation and add your voice to this thoughtful and evolving community. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology on social media to stay connected and be part of the movement toward a more expansive and inclusive vision of the church. As always, we welcome your questions and thoughts—email us at [email protected] or engage with the community on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube at VOXOLOGY TV: https://www.youtube.com/@voxology Merch, anyone? Check out our Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market Learn more at https://voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/1Lla1Nj Or listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr?si=KJoEXxxxTsqE-HiGL-PfIA Support the podcast at https://www.patreon.com/voxology Find us on Instagram @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music 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

Exploring the deep wounds of narcissism and the toxic environments that foster it, Mike takes us on a vulnerable and illuminating journey of self-reflection, healing, and spiritual formation in this raw follow-up to his recent conversations on narcissism in the church. Drawing from personal experiences, scriptural insights, and therapeutic practices, this episode equips listeners with practical tools for identifying narcissistic tendencies within themselves and their communities—while offering a hopeful pathway toward authentic Christian leadership and humble, grace-filled community. Key Takeaways: • Deconstructing Narcissistic Church Culture – Understanding how the "evangelical industrial complex" encourages celebrity pastors, platform building, and ego-based leadership models. • Red Flags in Church Leadership – Practical signs to look for when evaluating whether a church is operating under narcissistic influence and how to respond wisely. • Healing the False Self – Tracing the root of narcissism to childhood wounds and the formation of a false persona, and how confession, therapy, and spiritual disciplines help dismantle it. • Practices for Spiritual Humility – How to embrace being the "biggest sinner in the room," seek feedback, and refrain from chasing platform and applause. • Reparenting Through Christian Community – The vital role of embodied community and the church in healing damaged self-image and reshaping identity in Jesus. Resources Mentioned: • Skye Jethani on the Evangelical Industrial Complex – https://www.skyejethani.com • John Coe – Talbot Institute for Spiritual Formation • Dallas Willard's Teachings • Jars of Clay (as metaphor and Christian band) – https://jarsofclay.com • 2 Corinthians 4:7 – "Treasure in jars of clay" Join us in resisting toxic leadership models and rediscovering what it means to be the church Jesus intended. Subscribe, share the episode, leave a review, and help spread the movement toward humility and truth in Christian community. We'd love to hear your thoughts or stories on this topic. Email us at [email protected], and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Shop Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Follow the Voxology Spotify channel 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 culture of modern church leadership, platform-building, and celebrity status can unknowingly attract narcissists—and what that reveals about our definitions of church, spiritual maturity, and humility. Mike Erre continues last week's conversation on narcissism, deepening the discussion by exploring how certain church structures, American evangelical ideals, and personality-driven ministry models may unintentionally foster and enable narcissistic tendencies in both leaders and followers. Mike reflects vulnerably on his own journey with narcissism, engages listener feedback—including a psychologist's affirmation and thoughtful community questions—and examines the broader theological implications of humility, self-denial, and leadership through scriptural lenses like Philippians 2, 1 Corinthians, and 3 John. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Spiritual Narcissism – Why ministry roles can attract narcissists and how church platforms can be used to reinforce the false self. • Church as an Applause Machine – Exploring how celebrity culture, branding, and performance-driven ministry create unhealthy cycles of ego gratification. • Redefining Leadership in the Church – Challenging narrow, type-A, CEO-style leadership models and embracing a fuller picture of biblical servanthood. • Humility and Self-Denial Reframed – Unpacking the difference between denying the self and practicing self-denial as modeled by Jesus in Philippians 2. • The Role of Community and Discipline – How obscurity, silence, and spiritual practices can disrupt narcissistic patterns and lead to transformation. Resources Mentioned: • Dallas Willard – "The Divine Conspiracy," "Renovation of the Heart," "Hearing God" • John Coe – Talbot School of Theology's Institute for Spiritual Formation • 3 John – A biblical example of spiritual narcissism • Philippians 2, 1 Peter 5, James 4, Matthew 11 – Verses on humility and Christ-like leadership • Sky Jethani – YouTube video on celebrity pastors and the Evangelical Industrial Complex Join the conversation as we pull back the curtain on how power, platform, and personality intersect with faith—and what it takes to embody a healthier, Christ-centered vision of leadership. Subscribe, share, and leave us a review to support the Voxology community. Follow us for more content that helps reimagine Christian faith in today's world. 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 us 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 the pursuit of significance, platform-building, and personal image intertwines with the culture of American evangelicalism—and the deeply personal cost of hiding behind a false self. In this opening episode of a vulnerable new series, Mike Erre reflects on his own lifelong entanglement with narcissism: where it comes from, how it forms, how it thrives in church leadership, and the healing power of confession. Drawing from therapeutic frameworks, Greek mythology, and personal stories—including parenting, pastoral ministry, and depression—Mike begins a raw dissection of the inner dynamics that often shape evangelical leaders. He explores why narcissists are often rewarded with influence, how they form through wounded self-images, and how easy it is to confuse acclaim for calling. This isn't just commentary—it's confession. And it sets the stage for deeper exploration of why church structures seem to perpetuate narcissistic leadership and what it looks like to become free from false personas in pursuit of Jesus-shaped servanthood. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Narcissism and the False Persona – Narcissism often stems from early damage to self-worth, creating shame and a compulsive need to feel important, which is fed by constructing a false persona. • Narcissism and the Church – Evangelical culture often celebrates the very traits that mask narcissism, making it hard to detect and even harder to challenge in Christian leadership. • Telltale Signs – From an inordinate need for affirmation to reacting harshly to criticism, narcissists often exhibit specific behavioral markers that stand in contrast to humble service. • Where Confession Meets Healing – Mike shares how circumstances, therapy, and spiritual discipline have slowly dismantled his false self and exposed the grace and growth that follow. • The Impact on Relationships, Leadership, and Mission – Narcissistic patterns hinder intimacy, collaboration, and true kingdom leadership—posing important challenges for churches and believers. Resources Mentioned: • "Leading With a Limp" by Dan Allender • Charles Stone & Peter Steinke – Writings on narcissism in church leadership • Kenton Beshore – Former pastor and mentor at Mariners Church • Romans 12: Don't think of yourself more highly than you ought Subscribe, share, or leave a review to help others join this honest conversation. And don't miss Part 2, where we explore how American church systems invite and reward narcissistic leadership. 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 at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Check out the Voxology Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Instagram & Facebook: @voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford: 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