Voxology

Exploring how recognizing spiritual poverty amidst material wealth can awaken the church from complacency, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive deep into the contrasting messages to the churches of Smyrna and Laodicea in Revelation. They examine the dangers of lukewarm faith, affluence, and the lack of contrast between the church and the surrounding culture, urging us to self-examine and rediscover true dependency on Jesus. Key Takeaways: • Contrasting Smyrna and Laodicea – Understanding how one church was materially poor yet spiritually rich, and the other materially rich yet spiritually poor, and what this contrast teaches us today. • The Metaphor of Lukewarm Faith – Unpacking the meaning behind hot, cold, and lukewarm in the context of Laodicea's water supply, and how it reflects spiritual complacency. • Affluence Leading to Spiritual Blindness – Discussing how material wealth can create self-sufficiency that excludes Jesus from the church, paralleling modern challenges. • Money, Sex, and Power – Examining how these forces intertwine and affect the church's ability to offer a counter-narrative to prevailing cultural norms. • Awakening to Dependency on Jesus – Encouraging listeners to self-examine and repent where affluence and comfort have blinded us to our need for God. Guest Highlights: Seth Erre – Makes a special appearance, bringing his unique energy and contributing to the conversation. Resources Mentioned: • Revelation 2:8-11 – The Letter to the Church in Smyrna. • Revelation 3:14-22 – The Letter to the Church in Laodicea. • "The Market as God" by Harvey Cox – Insights on how the market functions as a religious system in modern 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 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 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

In this episode, the hosts discuss how America follows the model of 'Christian Nationalism', drawing parallels to Rome. They explore the concept of civic religion and American exceptionalism, highlighting the need for critical examination. They also delve into difficult conversations about America's history and the infiltration of self-preservation in Christianity. The chapter concludes with reflections on identity, repentance, and power.

Discover how the challenges faced by the churches in Pergamum and Thyatira reveal the pitfalls of cultural assimilation and idolatry, and learn how to identify and resist the modern-day idols of money, sex, and power. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive into Revelation's letters to these churches, exploring how their struggles illuminate the ongoing battle against societal pressures that compromise faithfulness. Key Takeaways: Unveiling Cultural Idolatry – Understanding how the letters to Pergamum and Thyatira expose the temptations of assimilating into surrounding culture and how that applies today. The Significance of Eating Food Sacrificed to Idols – Exploring the historical context of idolatry in Revelation and its implications for modern faith communities. Faithful Witness and Resistance – Learning how to embody faithful witness in the face of societal pressures and cultural narratives. Identifying Modern Idols – Preparing to examine the idols of money, sex, and power in contemporary society through the lens of Revelation. Resources Mentioned: Previous Episodes on the Revelation Series – voxologypodcast.com/revelation-series Tim Gombis on Powers and Principalities – [Link] Book of Revelation – [Link to Bible or resource] Join us as we journey together to discern and resist the idols that pervade our culture. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to stay connected and be part of 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. 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 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

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by biblical scholar Dr. Tim Gombis to explore how reimagining the powers and principalities in Ephesians transforms our understanding of spiritual warfare and the church's mission in the modern world. Delving into the complexities of the present evil age, they discuss how believers can actively resist systemic injustice, embrace communal salvation, and participate in new creation dynamics that defy the influence of the powers. Key Takeaways: Unveiling the Powers and Principalities – Understanding these forces as systemic structures influencing societies, reshaping our concept of spiritual warfare. The Church's Role in Spiritual Warfare – How embodying new creation practices within the community counters the influence of the powers and manifests God's triumph. Communal vs. Individual Salvation – The importance of shifting from individualistic approaches to a communal understanding of salvation and spirituality. Practical Implications for Believers – Encouraging tangible acts of justice, love, and unity to actively resist the present evil age. Guest Highlights: Dr. Tim Gombis – Host of the Faith Improvised podcast and expert on the Book of Ephesians. Dr. Gombis shares profound insights on the powers and principalities, spiritual warfare, and the practical implications for the modern church. Resources Mentioned: Faith Improvised Podcast – timgombis.com Dr. Tim Gombis' Ephesians Course – [Link to course enrollment] Dallas Willard's Teachings – dallaswillard.org Martin Luther's Hymns – [Link to hymns] The Book of Ephesians – Bible Gateway – Ephesians Join us as we journey together in rethinking spiritual warfare and embracing the transformative mission of the church. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to stay connected and be part of 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. 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 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

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford continue the Exile Series by delving into the letter to the church in Ephesus from Revelation. They explore how early Christians redefined victory, contrasting it with Roman imperial narratives, and discuss what it means for the modern church to resist assimilation into prevailing cultural norms. By examining themes of repentance, faithfulness, and the true meaning of overcoming, they challenge the American church's understanding of success and call believers to embody a cruciform life. Key Takeaways: Redefining Victory – Understanding how Revelation subverts Roman concepts of victory by emphasizing faithful resistance to empire rather than conquest. The Historical Context of Ephesus – Exploring Ephesus as a commercial and religious center, including the significance of the Temple of Artemis and its symbolic tree of life. Returning to First Love – Discussing Jesus's call for the church to repent and return to their initial deeds of love and faithfulness. Testing False Apostles – Reflecting on how the early church discerned true teachings and the importance of testing spirits and fruit in leadership today. Modern Implications for the Church – Analyzing how the American church may mirror cultural definitions of victory and the call to resist assimilation by embodying the humble way of Jesus. Resources Mentioned: Book of Revelation – Particularly Revelation 2:1-7, the letter to the church in Ephesus. David Aune's Commentary on Revelation The Concept of Nike (Victory) in Roman Culture Upcoming Episode – Powers and Principalities and understanding spiritual forces. Join the conversation as we re-examine what it means to be victorious in Christ and how to faithfully resist the narratives of empire in our own context. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow 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 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 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

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive into the recent debates surrounding women's roles in church leadership, examining the Southern Baptist Convention's decision on female pastors and critiquing arguments against women in ministry. They explore how these contemporary issues mirror the challenges faced by the early churches in Revelation, discussing themes of faithfulness, compromise, and the call to overcome societal pressures. Key Takeaways: • Re-evaluating Traditional Views on Women's Leadership – Analyzing the implications of restricting female pastors and the theological arguments for egalitarianism within the church. • The Temptation of Assimilation – Drawing parallels between the early churches in Revelation and today's congregations, highlighting the dangers of compromising core beliefs to align with cultural or institutional norms. • Insights from the Seven Churches – Unpacking the messages to the seven churches in Revelation, emphasizing themes of faithfulness, perseverance, and the challenges of staying true to one's convictions amidst external pressures. • Navigating Personal Convictions and Public Discourse – Reflecting on how to engage thoughtfully with controversial issues on social media and within the faith community without losing integrity or contributing to divisiveness. Resources Mentioned: • G3 Ministries Article – "Ordaining Female Pastors Harms the Mission" • Previous Episodes on the Revelation Series – [Link to past episodes] Join the conversation as Mike and Tim challenge traditional perspectives and encourage listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and the church's mission in embracing faithfulness over conformity. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow 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 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

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford engage with rapper and author KB to explore how embracing the "Dangerous Jesus" can reignite the church's mission by confronting issues of justice, race, and cultural complacency. They delve into KB's faith journey, his insights on the Christianity of Christ versus the Christianity of the land, and the transformative power of art in challenging and inspiring believers today. Key Takeaways: Embracing the Dangerous Jesus – Understanding how rediscovering the true nature of Jesus can transform personal faith and the church's response to societal issues. The Christianity of Christ vs. the Christianity of the Land – KB discusses Frederick Douglass's distinction and its relevance in today's American church, particularly regarding justice and race. Cultivating Hope Amid Challenges – Strategies for maintaining hope and faithfulness in the midst of political polarization and church shortcomings. The Role of Art and Music – Exploring how art can evangelize the imagination, engage hearts, and inspire action in a culture resistant to change. A Call to Justice and Neighborly Love – Examining the essential role of justice and love for the vulnerable as core markers of genuine Christianity. Guest Highlights: KB (Kevin Burgess) – Rapper, author, and host of the Southside Rabbi podcast. KB shares his personal journey of faith, the inspiration behind his book Dangerous Jesus, and how the church can return to the transformative power of the Gospel by confronting issues of justice and embracing the true mission of Jesus. Resources Mentioned: Dangerous Jesus by KB – Available on Amazon Southside Rabbi Podcast – southsiderabbi.com Frederick Douglass's Writings Zootopia (Film) C.S. Lewis's Quote on Imagination Join the conversation as we rediscover the transformative power of embracing the Dangerous Jesus. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to stay connected and be part of this vital dialogue.  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  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

In this episode of the Exile Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve deep into the Roman imperial cult to uncover how the official narrative of Rome influences the understanding of the Book of Revelation. They explore the parallels between ancient Rome's civic religion and modern-day cultural narratives, challenging listeners to discern where contemporary society may mirror the dynamics of empire. Key Takeaways: The Official Story of Rome – Understanding how Rome's mythic narrative of being the chosen empire of the gods shapes the context of Revelation. The Imperial Cult and Asia Minor – Examining how cities competed to honor the emperor, and how this impacted early Christian communities in the seven churches addressed in Revelation. Parallels to Modern Empire – Identifying similarities between the Roman imperial narrative and current cultural narratives, encouraging critical reflection on nationalism and faith. Discerning Babylon Today – Discussing the importance of recognizing and resisting the parts of culture that are counter to the teachings of Jesus. The Counter-Narrative of Revelation – Exploring how Revelation subverts the Roman story by presenting Jesus as the true King and His kingdom as the true eternal city. Resources Mentioned: "Unholy Allegiances" by David deSilva – [Link] "Reading Revelation Responsibly" by Michael Gorman – [Link] Scott McKnight's New Book – [Link] Previous Episodes on the Exile Series – [Link] Join the conversation as we journey through historical context to gain a deeper understanding of Revelation and its relevance today. Don't forget to 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 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  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

Discover how decoding the symbols and Old Testament references in Revelation Chapter 1 can transform your understanding of Jesus and the Book of Revelation. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive deep into the rich tapestry of apocalyptic literature, Roman imperial context, and biblical imagery to unveil the profound messages intended for the original audience and for us today. Key Takeaways: Understanding Revelation's Context – How the book instructs us to read it and the importance of recognizing its apocalyptic genre. Old Testament Imagery in Revelation – Exploring the numerous references to the Old Testament and how they unlock the meanings of the symbols. Jesus as Faithful Witness, Firstborn from the Dead, and Ruler of Kings – Analyzing the titles and descriptions of Jesus in Chapter 1 and their significance. Subverting Roman Imperial Claims – How Revelation counters the propaganda of the Roman Empire through its portrayal of Jesus and the church. The Role of the Church as a Counter-Cultural Community – Discussing the implications for believers today in embodying the messages of Revelation. Resources Mentioned: Daniel 7 – [Link] Zechariah 4 – [Link] Isaiah 11 and 49 – [Link] Join us as we journey through Revelation Chapter 1, unveiling its mysteries and how they apply to our lives today. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to continue 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. 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 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 how harmful messages from purity culture have impacted women in the church and how we can do better. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by authors Sheila Wray Gregoire and Rebecca Gregoire Lindenbach from Bare Marriage to discuss their latest book "She Deserves Better," which addresses toxic teachings on sex, self, and speaking up. They delve into empowering girls to resist detrimental teachings, the importance of consent education, and creating safe spaces in the church. Key Takeaways: • Confronting Purity Culture – Understanding the damaging effects of purity culture on women's sexual and spiritual well-being, and the need to reframe these teachings. • Teaching Consent and Agency – Highlighting the importance of educating girls about consent, personal agency, and bodily autonomy to protect them from harm. • Breaking Down Toxic Messages – Discussing how internalized misogyny and harmful doctrines limit women's ability to stand up for themselves. • Creating Safe Spaces – Exploring how men and church leaders can foster environments where women are heard, respected, and valued. • Reframing Sexuality and Identity – Moving from a focus on virginity to embracing a holistic understanding of chastity, dignity, and mutual respect in relationships. Guest Highlights: Sheila Wray Gregoire and Rebecca Gregoire Lindenbach – Authors of "She Deserves Better" and "The Great Sex Rescue." They share insights from their extensive research on how evangelical teachings have affected women's lives and offer practical advice for creating healthier conversations around sex, faith, and empowerment. Resources Mentioned: • Bare Marriage – baremarriage.com • She Deserves Better by Sheila Wray Gregoire and Rebecca Gregoire Lindenbach – Link • The Great Sex Rescue by Sheila Wray Gregoire – Link Join the conversation and share your thoughts as we seek to create healthier narratives within the church. Don't forget to 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 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  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