Voxology

Latest Episodes:

Limits of Biblical Hospitality: Navigating Division in the Church - w/ Dr. Timothy Gombis Dec 02, 2024

Show notes

Discover how the teachings of Jesus and Paul on hospitality can guide us in navigating political divisions within the church. Join Mike Erre and Tim Stafford as they engage in a thought-provoking conversation with New Testament scholar Dr. Timothy Gombis, exploring the limits of biblical hospitality and how to practice radical inclusion and love in times of division.

Key Takeaways: • Understanding Biblical Hospitality – Unpacking the biblical meaning of hospitality as love of the stranger, rooted in God's character and exemplified by Jesus. • The Limits of Hospitality – Examining whether there are limits to hospitality, and how Jesus and Paul's teachings address inclusion and exclusion within the faith community. • Navigating Political Division in the Church – Discussing practical ways to maintain unity and love in church communities amidst differing political views and tensions. • Cultivating Neighbor Love – Exploring how to develop practices and imaginations aligned with Jesus's teachings, focusing on neighbor love over division and enmity. • The Role of Imagination and Practices – Understanding how our imaginations and practices shape our responses to divisive times, and the importance of nurturing a Christ-centered perspective.

Guest Highlights: Dr. Timothy Gombis – A respected New Testament scholar specializing in Pauline studies. Author of "The Drama of Ephesians" and "Power in Weakness," Dr. Gombis shares profound insights on biblical hospitality, the teachings of Jesus and Paul on radical inclusion, and offers wisdom on how to navigate divisions within church communities today.

Resources Mentioned: • Faith Improvised Podcast – https://faithimprovised.blogspot.com/ • The Drama of Ephesians – https://www.amazon.com/Drama-Ephesians-Participating-Mystery-God/dp/0830838737 • Power in Weakness – https://www.amazon.com/Power-Weakness-Paul-Transformative-Christ/dp/0802873814 • Voxology Podcast Patreon Community – https://www.patreon.com/Voxology • The Healing Within by Chuck DeGroat – https://www.amazon.com/Wholeheartedness-Busyness-Cure-Finding-Life/dp/0802873830

Join us in fostering meaningful conversations. Subscribe to the Voxology Podcast, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay connected.

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.

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Learn more about the Voxology Podcast

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Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon

The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio

Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre

Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Embracing Weakness and Hospitality: Redefining Church Community (Exile Series) Nov 25, 2024

Show notes

Discover how embracing weakness, humility, and hospitality can transform your approach to church and community. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford challenge traditional church models, inviting you to explore alternative ways of gathering that reflect the true mission of Jesus. Dive into a thought-provoking discussion on power dynamics, the significance of the Lord's Supper, and Paul's vision of the new humanity in Ephesians.

Key Takeaways: • Redefining Church Community – Why moving beyond traditional models can lead to a more authentic and engaging faith experience. • The Power of Weakness and Humility – Understanding how acknowledging our vulnerabilities fosters genuine connections and spiritual growth. • Hospitality as a Core Practice – How practicing hospitality reflects Jesus's teachings and unites diverse believers as equals. • Navigating Power Dynamics – Exploring how authority should be exercised within the church to promote mutuality and siblingship. • Embodying the New Humanity – Embracing Paul's vision from Ephesians where differences enhance unity rather than create divisions.

Resources Mentioned: • The Bible Project – bibleproject.com – An engaging resource for deepening your understanding of the Bible through creative media.

Call to Action: Join the Voxology community by subscribing to the podcast, leaving a review, and following us on social media. Engage in the conversation as we seek to embody the true mission of Jesus together.

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, 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 Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre

Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Navigating Church and Politics: When Pastors Become Partisan Nov 18, 2024

Show notes

Mike and Tim dive into the challenges many believers face when churches become too political. Reading listener emails, they explore how to find a church that prioritizes faith over partisan politics. They discuss how to separate pastors' personal political views from their spiritual leadership and share practical advice on building Christ-centered communities that embody the teachings of Jesus amidst political divisions.

Key Takeaways: • Recognizing When Politics Overstep in Church – Understanding the signs that politics are overshadowing spiritual guidance in your church and its impact on your faith. • The Crucial Practice of Choosing a Faith Community – Mike emphasizes the importance of deliberately selecting a church community as a key aspect of spiritual formation. • Separating Pastors from Their Political Opinions – Insights on how to navigate relationships with church leaders whose political views may differ from yours. • Fostering Christ-Centered Communities – Tips on creating inclusive communities focused on love, humility, and the teachings of Jesus, especially during politically charged times.

Resources Mentioned: • John 18:36 – Bible Gateway – Jesus speaks about His kingdom not being of this world. • Matthew 20:25-28 – Bible Gateway – Teaching on servant leadership and humility.

Join the conversation! We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences on navigating politics within your faith community. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow the Voxology Podcast on social media to stay connected.

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, 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 Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre

Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Revisiting the Sermon on the Mount through: The Message Translation Nov 13, 2024

Show notes

Join Mike Erre and Tim Stafford as they immerse themselves in a powerful reading of the Sermon on the Mount from Eugene Peterson's The Message translation. Experience Jesus' profound teachings in Matthew 5-7 presented in fresh, contemporary language that brings new life to these timeless words. Mike and Tim reflect on how this revitalized perspective deepens their understanding of living under Christ's kingship and impacts their faith journey.

Key Takeaways: • A Fresh Encounter with Jesus' Teachings – Discover how The Message translation reimagines the Sermon on the Mount in modern, relatable language. • Embodying the Kingdom Ethic – Insights into living out the principles Jesus lays out, embodying what it means when Christ is truly King. • Emotional Resonance of Scripture – Mike and Tim share their heartfelt reactions to the reading and discuss the profound impact of Scripture on their lives.

Resources Mentioned: • The Message Bible Translation by Eugene Peterson – Bible Gateway - The Message Version • Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) – Read the Passage

Join the conversation by subscribing to Voxology, leaving a review, and following us on social media. Let's continue exploring the true mission of Jesus together.

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, 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 Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre

Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Confronting Political Idolatry: 1 Samuel, the 2024 Election, and the Sermon on the Mount Nov 11, 2024

Show notes

Explore how the church's desire for political saviors mirrors Israel's demand for a king in 1 Samuel, leading to political idolatry in today's context. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into the implications of the 2024 election results, analyzing the dangers of merging faith with politics. They emphasize the timeless wisdom of the Sermon on the Mount as a guide for Christians navigating political division and finding hope beyond earthly leaders.

Key Takeaways: • Political Idolatry in Modern Christianity – Understanding the risks when Christians place their hope in political leaders rather than Christ. • Lessons from 1 Samuel – Reflecting on Israel's desire for a king and how it relates to the church's temptation to seek political solutions. • Elijah's Encounter with God – Finding solace and guidance in times of despair through God's still, small voice. • Embracing the Sermon on the Mount – Recommitting to Jesus' teachings as the foundation for Christian life amidst political turmoil.

Resources Mentioned: • 1 Samuel 8 – Israel Demands a King – 1 Samuel 8 • 1 Kings 19 – Elijah's Encounter with God – 1 Kings 19 • The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7, The Message Translation) – Matthew 5-7 (MSG)

Join the conversation by subscribing to the Voxology Podcast, leaving a review, and following us on social media.

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, 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 Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre

Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Faith, Politics, and Gender: Unpacking Masculinity and the Church - w/ Pastor Suzie Lind Nov 04, 2024

Show notes

Mike, Tim, and special guest Pastor Suzie Lind engage in a candid conversation about the intricate relationship between faith, politics, and gender roles in today's society. They explore how political rhetoric shapes perceptions of masculinity, the impact on both men and women within the church, and the pitfalls of aligning faith too closely with political power. Drawing from historical contexts and personal experiences, they offer insightful perspectives on navigating the political landscape while faithfully embodying the teachings of Jesus.

Key Takeaways: • Challenging Political Narratives – Understanding how current rhetoric influences gender dynamics and the perception of masculinity in both society and the church. • Historical Lessons – Examining the consequences when the church seeks protection or power from political entities and how it affects spiritual integrity. • Kingdom over Politics – Emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the values of the Kingdom of God above political affiliations and power structures. • Living Faithfully in Tension – Providing practical wisdom on maintaining hope, loving others, and serving regardless of political climates or election outcomes.

Guest Highlights: Susie Lind – Executive Pastor at Journey Church in Brentwood, Tennessee, and a seminary student at Fuller Theological Seminary. Susie shares her thoughtful insights on gender roles, cultural influences on faith, and the importance of embodying Jesus' teachings during complex times.

Resources Mentioned: • Journey Church – journeytn.com • Fuller Theological Seminary – fuller.edu • The Holy Post Podcast – holypost.com • Book of Common Prayer

Join the conversation by subscribing to the Voxology Podcast, leaving a review, and following us on social media for more thought-provoking discussions on faith and culture.

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, 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 Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre

Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Genesis and the Politics of Fear: Exploring the Momentum of Sin Today LIVE-ish (To Be Human Series) Oct 28, 2024

Show notes

Mike and Tim are joined by members of the Voxology community in a live recording to delve into the intersections of ancient scripture and modern culture. They discuss Brian Zahnd's "The Christian Voter's Guide," Tim's eye-opening experience at a Moms for Liberty event, and how fear is wielded in politics today. Returning to Genesis 4, they explore the escalating nature of sin and its relevance in contemporary society.

Key Takeaways: • The Momentum of Sin in Genesis 4 – Understanding how sin escalates and permeates humanity, and its implications for us today. • Fear as a Political Tool – Analyzing how fear is utilized in modern politics and its effects on Christian engagement in societal issues. • Insights from Brian Zahnd's 'The Christian Voter's Guide' – Exploring guidelines for Christians navigating the political landscape. • Tim's Experience at a Moms for Liberty Event – A firsthand account of fear-based rhetoric and its impact on communities. • Embracing Love Over Fear – Reflecting on 1 John 4:18 and how perfect love casts out fear.

Guest Highlights: Seth Erre – Mike's son brings joy and reflection to the episode with a special musical performance dedicated to Tim's daughter, Mazzy.

Resources Mentioned: • Brian Zahnd's "The Christian Voter's Guide" • 1 John 4:18 – "There is no fear in love..." • Moms for Liberty Event: "Awake Before They're Taken" • "Midnight Mass" – A Netflix series exploring religious themes and societal issues.

Join the conversation and share your thoughts on how fear influences politics and faith today. Remember to subscribe, leave a review, and follow the Voxology Podcast on social media for more engaging discussions.

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, 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 Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre

Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Sin Crouching at the Door: Imaging God vs. the Serpent in Genesis (To Be Human Series) Oct 21, 2024

Show notes

Discover the profound implications of sin's first appearance in Genesis and how it shapes our understanding of imaging God versus imaging the serpent. Explore how sin, depicted as an external force lurking at the door, can alter our identity from children of God to reflections of the serpent through our choices. Delve into the communal nature of sin and salvation, emphasizing that our actions influence not just ourselves but the entire community.

Key Takeaways: • The First Mention of Sin in Genesis 4 – Unpacking the portrayal of sin as an external entity that desires to control us. • Imaging God vs. Imaging the Serpent – Understanding how our choices determine whom we reflect in the world. • The Communal Impact of Sin and Salvation – Recognizing that sin and redemption are collective experiences affecting the whole community. • Reframing Worship and Idolatry – Challenging traditional views to see worship as a way of life dedicated to imaging God in every aspect. • Restoration Through Christ – Examining how Jesus restores our ability to fully image God and live out our true humanity.

Resources Mentioned: • Tim Stafford's Music Project "Barewolf" – Explore Tim's Halloween-themed music on Spotify.

Join us in this enlightening discussion and be part of the journey to reimagine sin, worship, and what it truly means to image God. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology on social media for more thought-provoking conversations.

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, 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 Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre

Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

The Mark of Cain: Unpacking Sin, Violence, and Humanity in Genesis 4 (To Be Human Series) Oct 14, 2024

Show notes

Mike and Tim continue their "To Be Human" series with a deep dive into Genesis 4, exploring the profound story of Cain and Abel. They examine how the themes of sin, violence, and human autonomy first introduced in Genesis 3 are intensified in the next generation. Through a close reading of the text, they uncover the layers of meaning behind Cain's actions, the significance of the ground crying out, and the enduring relevance of these ancient narratives in understanding human behavior today.

Key Takeaways: • The Parallels Between Genesis 3 and 4 – How the choices of Adam and Eve are mirrored and magnified in the actions of their children. • Sin as a Crouching Beast – Exploring the depiction of sin in Genesis 4 and its implications for human inclination towards autonomy and violence. • The Ground Cries Out – Understanding the connection between human actions and creation, and how violence impacts the earth itself. • The Mark of Cain: Judgment and Mercy – Discussing the dual nature of God's response to Cain's actions and the introduction of signs as both judgment and protection. • Relevance to Modern Life – Reflecting on how these ancient themes inform our understanding of contemporary issues like fear, jealousy, and societal violence.

Guest Highlights: Tim Mackie – Insights from biblical scholar Tim Mackie enrich the conversation, offering deeper understanding of the Hebrew text and its themes.

Resources Mentioned: • Tim Mackie's Work on Genesis – BibleProject.com • Genesis 4 Text – Reference to the biblical passage for further reading

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, 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 Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre

Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Redefining Masculinity: Attacks, Adam's Curse in Genesis (To Be Human Series) Oct 07, 2024

Show notes

Discover how modern attacks on masculinity intersect with biblical teachings from Genesis as Mike and Tim delve into "The New Normal Part 3." They discuss Mike's personal experiences with backlash over his non-retaliatory stance rooted in the Sermon on the Mount, explore an insightful article on Gen Z men and the church, and unpack the theological implications of the curse on Adam. This episode offers fresh perspectives on masculinity, lament, and repentance for Christians today.

Key Takeaways: • Challenging Cultural Perceptions of Masculinity – Mike shares about receiving attacks on his masculinity, prompting a conversation on what true masculinity looks like through a biblical lens. • Gen Z Men and the Church – An exploration of Luke Simon's Gospel Coalition article discussing why Gen Z men are attracted to a cruciform masculinity offered by the church. • Understanding Adam's Curse – A deep dive into the consequences of the Fall for Adam in Genesis 3, including toil, mortality, and exile from the Garden, and how this shapes our understanding today. • Embracing Lament and Repentance – Reflections on moving away from escape and pretense, embracing lament and repentance as pathways to authentic Christian living.

Guest Highlights: Luke Simon's Insights – Discussion of Luke Simon's article on masculinity, Gen Z men, and the church's role in offering a positive vision of manhood.

Resources Mentioned: • "Why Gen Z Men Like Me Are Staying in Church" by Luke Simon – [Link to the article] • Genesis Chapter 3

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, 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 Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre

Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy