Voxology

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How to Heal from Narcissistic Leadership and Rebuild True Christian Community Apr 24, 2018

Show notes

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 hello@voxpodcast.com, and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.

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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 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

When Church Culture Fuels Narcissism: Redefining Leadership and Spiritual Formation Apr 17, 2018

Show notes

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 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 us on Patreon

The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio

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 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

Unmasking the Narcissistic Self: Confession, Church Culture, and the False Persona (Narcissism Series, Part 1) Apr 10, 2018

Show notes

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 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 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 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

Rethinking Gender Roles in the Church: Responding to John Piper's Complementarian Theology Apr 04, 2018

Show notes

How do we engage faithfully with long-held beliefs around gender, authority, and theology in the church? Mike Erre critiques a recent article and podcast by influential Christian leader John Piper that argues for inherent male leadership based on "God-given maleness." Drawing on scripture, historical context, and theological reflection, Mike challenges complementarian views and offers an egalitarian reading of Genesis, Paul's household codes, and the teachings of Jesus. This episode invites listeners to consider a more empowering and biblical vision of mutuality between men and women in leadership, marriage, and the church.

Key Takeaways: • Complementarian vs. Egalitarian Theology – A breakdown of the differences between these two frameworks and why Mike now embraces egalitarianism. • Rethinking Genesis 1–3 – Why hierarchical readings of Adam and Eve are built more on theology than exegesis, and how mutuality better reflects God's original intent. • Jesus as the Model – How Jesus' treatment of women subverts patriarchal norms and reshapes leadership paradigms. • Paul's Letters in Cultural Context – A look at Colossians, Ephesians, and 1 Peter to understand commands about gender not as eternal hierarchies, but as missionary strategies and curse reversals. • The Dangers of Hierarchical Male Authority – Addressing studies that suggest a correlation between Calvinism, complementarian theology, and domestic abuse, and why it's time for the church to lead in a healthier direction.

Notable Quote: "What culture needs is the church to lead the way in empowering women, because that is what Jesus did—against all cultural convention."

Guest Highlight: Seth Eery – Makes a heartwarming appearance to lead the Pledge of Allegiance, reminding us of the hope found in the next generation.

Resources Mentioned: • Scott McKnight's blog "The Jesus Creed" – https://www.christianitytoday.com/scot-mcknight • Psychology of Religion & Spirituality Study – "Religious Beliefs and Domestic Violence Myths" [DOI PDF Link] • Genesis 1–3, Ephesians 5, Colossians 3, 1 Peter 3 – Key scriptural passages discussed.

Join the ongoing conversation on egalitarian theology, gender roles, and the call to justice in the Body of Christ. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to help extend the Voxology family and reimagine the church's mission in today's world.

As always, we encourage and welcome your thoughts. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com, and connect on Facebook and Instagram.

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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.

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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 Eschatology of Peace: Rethinking Guns, Down Syndrome, and Christian Witness Mar 27, 2018

Show notes

Exploring how the Christian vision of the end shapes our response to today's most pressing socio-political issues, this episode of Voxology offers a deeply reflective take on cultural violence, the sanctity of life, and the church's role in embodying God's promised future. Mike Erre challenges listeners to confront gun culture, advocate for those often marginalized in society, and evaluate public theology through an eschatological lens.

With World Down Syndrome Day and March for Our Lives as a cultural backdrop, Mike shares powerful stories and scathing observations that challenge partisan thinking and point listeners toward a peacemaking ethic grounded in the gospel.

Key Takeaways: • Down Syndrome and the Value of Life – Reflecting on World Down Syndrome Day, Mike shares a moving quote by Charlotte Fien at the UN and articulates the Christian moral imperative to affirm the dignity of every life, especially the vulnerable. • Guns, Violence, and the Christian Ethic – A provocative look at how America's obsession with weapons collides with Jesus's call to peace, and why the church must model the eschatological hope of beating swords into plowshares. • The Eschatological Lens – Understanding why Christian ethics aren't about "what works" but about reflecting where the story of God is heading—the renewal of all things. • Racism, Power, and American Idols – How the church's witness is compromised when it aligns with national narratives of supremacy, rights, and dominance instead of kingdom principles of humility, equality, and love. • Critique of Complementarianism – A teaser for the next episode: Mike briefly introduces a strong critique of John Piper's view that male "headship" is the answer to a culture of abuse.

Resources Mentioned: • Isaiah 2 – Prophetic vision of peace and justice • Revelation 7 – The image of one new people from every nation and tribe worshiping God • Charlotte Fien at the UN – Link to her speech • Patreon Content on Revelation – Support and listen on Patreon

Join us as we question the cultural norms Christians too often accept without critique. Subscribe to Voxology, leave a review to support the journey, and follow us on social media to engage with this vibrant, faithful community.

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

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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

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

Understanding the Trinity: Community, Oneness, and the Nature of God (Theology Geek Series #1) Mar 19, 2018

Show notes

Explore the profound mystery of the Trinity and why it continues to define the Christian faith. In this Theology Geek Series kickoff episode, Mike Erre walks through the biblical foundations for understanding God as one essence in three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Highlighting key Old and New Testament passages, this deep dive clarifies why this view sets Christianity apart from other monotheistic faiths, how the Trinity is more than just doctrinal complexity, and why its implications shape not only our theology but also how we live in community.

Key Takeaways: • The Biblical Basis for the Trinity – How the Hebrew word Elohim, the Shema's "echad," and New Testament texts begin painting a picture of divine plurality within unity. • One God, Three Persons – Understanding the scriptural classes that affirm both singularity and diversity in God's nature. • Jesus and the Trinity – Why Jesus' relationship to the Father and the Holy Spirit reveals the trinitarian mystery and reframes our Christology. • Why the Trinity Matters – From community and connection to sacrificial love, embodying the image of a communal God shapes every part of discipleship and church life. • Common Misunderstandings – Mike addresses modalism, the limits of language, and why this isn't just "one God wearing three hats."

Notable Quote: "We are made in the image of a community. The one God exists in self-sacrificial, joyous, overflowing love—and we are made exactly for that same thing."

Resources Mentioned: • Genesis 1, Deuteronomy 6 (The Shema), Matthew 28, John 1 • Acts 5 (Ananias and Sapphira), Philippians 2, Luke 5 • Voxology Patreon Revelation Series – Support and listen here • Want to trace every "One Another" command? This helpful resource

Don't miss this theological deep dive that connects doctrine to the very heart of human connection and community. Subscribe to stay updated on the Theology Geek Series, leave a review if this episode challenged your thinking, and follow Voxology Podcast on social to join the conversation.

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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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 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.

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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

Eradicating Difference: Down Syndrome, Personhood, and the Church's Prophetic Response Mar 12, 2018

Show notes

Challenging cultural norms around abortion and disability, Mike Erre shares a poignant, personal, and theological response to a Washington Post op-ed that argued for the right to abort children diagnosed with Down syndrome. Drawing from Scripture, bioethical insights, and his own experience as the father of a child with Down syndrome, Mike explores how society's functional view of human value opens the door to eugenics, exclusion, and societal decay. This episode reflects on what it means to be made in the image of God and how the Church must embody a radically inclusive ethic that protects and honors all human life—regardless of ability.

Key Takeaways: • Theological Foundations of Personhood – Why human value must be rooted in being image-bearers of God, not in cognitive function or contribution to society. • The Dangers of Functionalism – Exploring how history's most destructive ideologies—eugenics, the Holocaust, infant exposure—mirror modern arguments for selective abortion. • A Church That Welcomes All – The call for spiritual communities that model true inclusion of individuals with developmental disabilities, not as a separate ministry but as core to the body. • The Cost of Consumeristic Faith – Reflecting on how the mindset of "this is not the child I want" threatens both societal and spiritual integrity. • Historical and Medical Echoes – Comparing today's dilemmas with ancient practices of infant exposure, modern genetic testing concerns, and bioethical debates.

Resources Mentioned: • Washington Post Opinion Article: "I Would Have Aborted a Fetus with Down Syndrome. Women Need That Right." – [Link] • CBS Report on Iceland and Down Syndrome – [Link] • Down Syndrome Awareness Day (March 21) – [Link] • Bioethical Readings on Personhood and Functionalism – [Recommended sources]

Bonus Q&A: Mike also answers thought-provoking listener questions, including: • If death and disease are consequences of the Fall, why is the immune system so intricately designed to fight disease? • Did Jesus offer animal sacrifices under the Mosaic Law—and if not, why didn't the Pharisees confront him for it?

Join the conversation as we reflect on what it means to be a pro-life community beyond politics—rooted in love, justice, and a vision of human dignity shaped by Jesus.

As always, we encourage and welcome your questions and feedback. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com, and continue the conversation with us on Facebook and Instagram.

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Learn more about the Voxology Podcast – voxologypodcast.com

Subscribe to Voxology on iTunes or Spotify

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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 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

Trusting the Text: Six Dimensions for Reading Scripture with Depth and Integrity Mar 06, 2018

Show notes

Want to experience the Bible beyond moralistic soundbites or entertainment-driven teaching? Mike Erre walks Bible enthusiasts through six powerful dimensions that bring Scripture to life—not by jazzing it up, but by honoring the depth, history, and purpose within the text itself. This Bible-nerd-friendly episode is for anyone asking: How do we study Scripture in a way that trusts the text—and what does that even mean?

Through a blend of theological insight, teaching experience, and authenticity, Mike breaks down how to approach Scripture with fresh eyes by examining six layered dimensions that uncover the richness of God's Word. Whether you're a pastor, teacher, student, or curious follower of Jesus, this episode offers a practical framework that will transform how you engage the Bible—from Leviticus to Revelation.

Key Takeaways: • The Power of Trusting the Text – Why the most faithful teaching isn't about clever outlines or gripping stories, but about letting the Scripture itself do the heavy lifting. • Six Dimensions of Scripture – A breakdown of essential lenses through which to study any passage:

Historical – Understanding what it meant for the original audience.
Literary – Respecting the genre and form of the passage.
Narrative – Seeing how each text fits into the larger biblical story.
Subversive – Uncovering how Scripture challenged its original culture and still challenges ours.
Gospel – Finding the good news in every page, rooted in grace before moralism.
Experiential – Living into the text so that its truth becomes embodied, not just understood. • Bible Misunderstandings Exposed – Why "David and Goliath" isn't about your personal giants, and how Western interpretations often skip critical historical context. • Preaching Pitfalls – Navigating the temptation to rely on personality, stories, or moralistic application at the expense of trusting Scripture's voice. • Creating Gospel-Centered Teaching – How to build messages that don't just tell people what to do but remind them who they already are in Christ.

Resources Mentioned: • How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth by Gordon Fee & Douglas Stuart • How to Read the Bible Book by Book by Gordon Fee & Douglas Stuart • Ephesians – Paul's model of gospel-before-command • Revelation – Apocalyptic genre explored in depth on Patreon-exclusive Revelation Podcast • Voxology Patreon Page – patreon.com/voxology

Join a community that longs to rediscover the life in the text—not remake it in cultural clichés. Subscribe to the Voxology Podcast, leave us a review, and follow us to keep growing and wrestling together.

As always, we love your questions and reflections. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com or join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.

Watch on VOXOLOGY TV Grab merch on our ETSY STORE Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

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 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

Guns, God, and Misused Scripture: A Biblical Response to American Exceptionalism Feb 26, 2018

Show notes

Dissecting the language of faith wrapped around gun rights, Mike Erre uses this episode to thoughtfully examine a statement made by NRA Vice President Wayne LaPierre that the Second Amendment is a "God-given right" for Americans. Drawing heavily on Luke 22 and Isaiah 53, Mike walks through why that claim not only misuses scripture but also reflects a dangerous fusion of nationalism and theology.

This Mailbag episode also includes deeply engaging questions on divorce in the Bible, Christian creatives navigating "secular" spaces, and a shoutout to Voxology's new Revelation series on Patreon. Plus, Mike explains Andy's absence and his own transition away from Vox OC leadership while reaffirming the podcast's commitment to fostering nuanced, honest conversations.

Key Takeaways: • Misusing Scripture to Justify Gun Rights – Mike critically unpacks how Luke 22 is often taken out of context to support the idea that Jesus endorsed self-defense, and argues that America's "God-given" gun rights aren't biblically defensible. • How Jesus Approached Nonviolence – A powerful biblical overview of Jesus' radical method of creative resistance and his rejection of retaliation, especially when confronted with injustice. • Calling Out Christian Nationalism – A critique of conflating American exceptionalism with biblical authority, highlighting how this undermines both theology and public witness. • Divorce in the Old vs. New Testaments – Exploring Deuteronomy and Matthew 19, Mike reflects on the evolution of divorce laws and what they mean for the Church's call to justice and grace today. • Creativity as Cultural Renewal – A stirring response to a listener's question about what it means to be a Jesus-follower in creative industries like advertising and design, featuring recommended resources on cultural renewal and beauty.

Guest Highlights: • Listener Ray – A former college ministry member and creative professional whose question opens the door for a future conversation on the theology of creativity.

Resources Mentioned: • Preston Sprinkle – Fight: A Christian Case for Non-Violence • Luke 22:35–38 – The passage frequently cited in self-defense debates • Isaiah 53 – Prophetic framework foundational to understanding Jesus' mission • Matthew 5–7 – Jesus' teaching on loving enemies and turning the other cheek • Deuteronomy 24 & Matthew 19 – Key passages in the divorce conversation • Andy Crouch – Culture Making • N.T. Wright – Simply Christian (chapter on beauty)

Join the conversation and help reclaim a faith rooted in mercy, justice, and biblical integrity. Subscribe, write a review, and connect with us on Instagram and Facebook to keep the dialogue going.

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 at the VOXOLOGY Podcast Website

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 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

Did God Abandon Jesus? Reframing the Crucifixion and Psalm 22 During Lent Feb 19, 2018

Show notes

A deep dive into the haunting question: "Did God forsake Jesus on the cross?" Mike Erre explores this crucial theological tension through the lens of Lent, Psalm 22, and the Jewish context of Jesus' final words. Starting with a personal and vulnerable moment with his teenage son, the episode transitions into a powerful reflection on America's gun violence epidemic and the church's role in embodying Christ's message of peace—before moving to a bold reconsideration of how we read Jesus' cry from the cross.

This episode invites listeners to confront the normalization of school shootings, wrestle with the Church's complicity and silence, and reflect on the crucifixion as more than just suffering, but as a proclamation of faith, resistance, and hope. Drawing on the Jewish practice of remez (a method of quoting scripture), Mike challenges common interpretations of Jesus' abandonment, suggesting instead a deeper, prophetic connection between the cross and the voice of the Psalms.

Key Takeaways: • The Cross as Liturgy – Reexamining Jesus' cry of "my God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" not as abandonment, but as intentional reference to Psalm 22 and its themes of suffering, vindication, and worship. • Jesus' Jewishness Illuminated – Understanding how Jewish practices like remez can shift our view of his final words and enhance biblical interpretation. • The Church and Gun Violence – A call for Christians to reject inaction and political gridlock, and pursue tangible action informed by Jesus' peacemaking ethic. • Lent as a Season of Lament and Action – Encouragement to reflect on not only personal sin, but structural evil, and to seek both repentance and justice. • Crucifixion as Coronation – Considering Jesus' execution not as defeat, but as the ironic inauguration of his kingship and the upside-down kingdom of God.

Guest Highlights: • Nate Erre – Mike's 14-year-old son joins early in the episode to provide a witty and authentic teen perspective on sports, YouTube, and adolescent life in Ohio, adding moments of levity before the episode's theological depth.

Resources Mentioned: • Psalm 22 – Read Here • Matthew 27:27–54 – Crucifixion account aligned with the psalmic themes • Greg Boyd – Theological perspective on atonement and divine abandonment • Patreon exclusive content – Support and Join Here

Join the conversation and reflect with us this Lent. Subscribe, share your thoughts via email at hello@voxpodcast.com, and follow us on social to stay connected with a community chasing the true mission of Jesus.

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Twitter & Instagram: @GoneTimothy

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