Freedom, Holiness, and Transformation: Rethinking Love as the Goal (Mailbag Episode)

Nov 5, 2018

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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 hello@voxpodcast.com—your voice deeply shapes what we explore next.

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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