Voxology

In a time of cultural divides and political tension, what is the church's role in bringing healing and truth to a fractured society? This episode dives into the complex intersection of faith, politics, and justice, exploring how Christianity can navigate today's challenges with humility, love, and a commitment to Jesus' teachings. The hosts reflect on the prophetic responsibility of naming reality, addressing idolatrous uses of faith in politics, and embracing cruciformity—a call to sacrificial living that resists cultural compromises. Drawing insights from Pastor Ara’s compelling story and his courageous leadership amidst injustice, the discussion delves into the urgent need for the church to stand against systems of oppression while maintaining a posture of love and nonviolent resistance. From the misuse of scripture in political narratives to the dangers of intertwining faith with partisan ideologies, this conversation challenges Christians to reclaim the radical, inclusive power of the gospel. Join this thought-provoking dialogue as the hosts grapple with the church's responsibility to embody justice, resist cultural corruption, and remain a kingdom-focused community. We encourage you to share your thoughts and engage in this essential discussion on faith, theology, and navigating cultural issues. Together, we can pursue a deeper understanding of what it means to follow Jesus in these divided times. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:15 - Separating from Ara 02:06 - Naming Reality 05:55 - Blasphemy Round-Up 16:14 - Introduction to Noncompliance 18:57 - What Does Noncompliance Look Like 23:18 - Emotional Exercise Techniques 24:50 - Brudes Explained 25:40 - Support the Podcast 26:10 - Connect with Us 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! https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market 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

Pastor Ara Tarosian joins Mike and Tim to share his incredible journey from persecution in Iran to building a vibrant church community in Los Angeles. He went viral a few weeks ago for a visdeo he posted of members of his congregation being abducted by ICE (See our instagram this week for the video). From surviving the Iranian Revolution to smuggling Bibles and leading a massive underground church, Pastor Ara’s story is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. In this thought-provoking discussion, he recounts the challenges faced by Iranian Christians, the cultural and political hurdles of immigration, and how faith can endure under immense pressure.  This episode explores themes of cruciformity, faith and politics, the role of the church in society, and navigating cultural challenges in a deeply divided world. Pastor Ara’s experiences shed light on the global realities of persecution, the resilience of faith in Jesus, and the call for the church to embody justice, mercy, and compassion in the face of injustice. Join the conversation as we examine how the teachings of Jesus intersect with real-world struggles and what it means to stand in solidarity with persecuted communities.  Key Topics: Pastor Ara's background and journey to the U.S. The realities of seeking asylum and the legal hurdles involved The role of faith and community in navigating these challenges A call for compassion and reform in immigration policies Guest: Pastor Ara Tarosian, Cornerstone West LA Call to Action: Listen, reflect, and share this episode to raise awareness about the human stories behind immigration and asylum. Hashtags: #Immigration #Asylum #Faith #HumanRights CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Seth Introduces the Episode 01:29 - Ara’s Early Life in Iran 12:38 - Ara’s Arrest in Turkey 21:34 - Becoming a Pastor 23:50 - Starting Cornerstone West LA 32:44 - The Story of the ICE Raid at the Church 46:20 - Emotional Toll of the ICE Raid 49:13 - Impact on Ara's Wife and Mother 50:39 - Effects on Ara's Second Family 51:34 - Community Impact of the ICE Raid 53:49 - How People Can Help 59:40 - Community Action and Support 1:04:08 - Closing Thoughts 1:06:08 - Support the Podcast 1:06:53 - Outro 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 us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

What does punk rock have to do with the heart of the Gospel? In this episode, the Voxology team, joined by the Dr. Timothy Gombis, dives deep into the unexpected intersections of radical community, inclusivity, and the teachings of Jesus. From punk rock's raw authenticity to the profound ministry of disability-focused communities that Mike recently experienced at the "Hope Heals" camp. The conversation explores how cruciformity—the self-giving love of Jesus—emerges in unlikely places. Along the way, they unpack the role of the church in society, faith and politics, and navigating cultural challenges with humility and curiosity. By reflecting on the ways marginalized voices reveal the Gospel's power, the team challenges traditional notions of faith and invites listeners to reimagine how justice, community, and theology come alive in everyday life. Whether discussing mutual ministry, the prophetic edge of punk culture, or stories of transformative love, this episode is a powerful reminder that the Gospel is both disruptive and healing. We encourage and would love for you to join this conversation. Share your thoughts on how faith intersects with culture and community on Facebook and Instagram, or email us your questions as we pursue deeper understanding together. Let’s journey forward in learning, dialogue, and the radical love of Jesus. Hope Heals CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Introducing Dr. Timothy Gombis 01:57 - Tim Stafford's Punk Band 05:58 - Catching Up with Dr. Timothy Gombis 11:39 - What's New in Theology 16:00 - Hope Heals Camp Overview 25:30 - White Evangelicalism Culture 27:43 - Mutuality in Ministry 30:16 - Lessons from Prisons and Bars 31:37 - Theology of Disability Insights 32:40 - Near Life Experience Reflections 35:00 - Understanding Second Naivete 41:32 - Tim Gombis Discussion 47:55 - Recounting God’s Actions 51:30 - Insights on Theology 54:14 - Evangelicalism as a Marketing Strategy 58:45 - Exploring Evangelical Theology 01:01:09 - Historical Figures in Theology 01:02:50 - Preview of Next Episode 01:04:10 - Support the Podcast 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 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

Is Romans 13 being misused to justify political or social agendas? In this intellectually rich yet accessible discussion, the hosts tackle the challenges of interpreting Romans 13 in the context of faith, politics, and justice. Exploring the tension between government authority and the church's mission to love one's neighbor above all, they delve into nuanced themes like "cruciformity," cultural challenges, and the role of the church in society. Through a thoughtful lens, the episode contrasts Paul's teachings on governance with Jesus' profound declaration to "give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s." What does this mean for Christians navigating today's cultural issues? From historical insights to modern implications, this conversation offers clarity on how faith intersects with civic life while challenging misuse of scripture to justify injustice. Join the dialogue as the hosts emphasize humility, curiosity, and critical thinking in a pursuit to follow Jesus' teachings. How should the church respond to injustice? What does it mean to embody love and justice in a world of political tension? We encourage discussion and welcome your thoughts—engage with us on Facebook, Instagram, or send in your questions as we continue this journey together. Let’s explore what it means to live out faith authentically in today’s world.  World Relief Conversation: VIEW CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 04:32 - The Now and Not Yet 07:16 - Understanding Romans 13 11:02 - ICE Deporting Christians 18:53 - Wrapping up Romans 13 22:49 - The Emperor is Not God 26:35 - Exile and Its Implications 28:30 - Tax Revolt Discussion 30:58 - Misapplication of Romans 13 32:15 - What We Owe the Government 35:13 - Context of Luke 20 38:36 - The Trap Set for Jesus 43:09 - Jesus’s Response Explained 47:50 - The Best Way to Scare a Tory 54:54 - Matt Soerens Emails Mike  57:27 - Email from Matt 1:00:50 - Shema and Its Significance 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 us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Explore the concept of "joyful non-compliance" as it relates to faith and societal issues. The dialogue delves into the intersection of theology and American policy, particularly regarding immigration and the implications of governance. Through reflections on Romans 13, the hosts encourage deeper engagement with scripture while addressing injustices. They also unpack the nuances of joy versus superficial happiness and the importance of peacemaking. This engaging conversation challenges listeners to consider how to embody faith in action amid cultural turmoil.

Explore the intersection of immigration, justice, and faith in today’s world. Discover how scripture encourages compassion and welcoming the stranger. Hear personal stories that illuminate the challenges faced by asylum seekers. The discussion critiques aggressive enforcement policies and urges a thoughtful church response to marginalized communities. Engage with pressing questions on how Christians can advocate for justice graciously. This conversation calls for humility and action in creating a more just and compassionate society.

Explore the complexities of biblical interpretation, where cultural and historical contexts play key roles. The hosts dive into how personal experiences shape our understanding of scripture. They tackle the challenges of navigating timeless truths amidst modern perspectives. Using parables like the prodigal son, they emphasize curiosity and critical thinking in engaging with scripture. The conversation also touches on authority in teaching and the importance of constructive dialogue in faith contexts. Join in on this deep yet humorous exploration of what it means to read the Bible today.

Is the label 'biblical' a boon or a barrier in our faith journey? The hosts tackle the impact of rigid interpretations on theology, community, and justice. They emphasize the importance of reading Scripture together and encourage humility and critical thinking. From the liberating to the harmful use of the Bible, they discuss embodying a cruciform life. The conversation balances individual versus communal practices, urging a deeper engagement with faith while maintaining a sense of humor and a commitment to inclusivity.

Explore the term 'biblical' and its complex layers beyond morality. The conversation examines how it's often misinterpreted and used as a branding tool in faith and culture. Listeners will learn about the challenges of biblical interpretation and the importance of context. The hosts emphasize the need for humility and community in understanding scripture, navigating differing perspectives with grace. Ultimately, the discussion encourages a thoughtful approach to faith, inviting curiosity and critical dialogue.

Dive into a thought-provoking conversation about discernment in faith and the essence of Christian identity. The hosts highlight the importance of engaging with issues like immigration and homelessness, advocating for empathy and understanding. They challenge listeners to critique ideologies rather than individuals, promoting community involvement. Emotional overload and the church's political role are also explored, emphasizing a Christ-like approach to societal challenges. This insightful dialogue encourages meaningful conversations that foster connection and inclusivity.