

Voxology
Mike Erre and Tim Stafford
Voxology (Formerly the Vox Podcast with Mike Erre) is a collection of voices that question and discuss our culture's most relevant topics in relation to Christ and Christianity. We talk LGBTQ, American and church politics, Christian culture's catastrophic marginalization of the very people Jesus implores us to love and so much more. If you have serious questions about the church’s representation of Jesus, what he has done and the beauty of his work on earth today, join hosts Mike Erre and Tim Stafford and their guests to talk things out and find your way back to the true mission of Jesus.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 7, 2022 • 58min
Man Down! Paul's Radical Call for Mutual Submission in Ephesians 5
Unpacking how Ephesians 5 reverses the curses of Genesis 3, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford explore the implications of mutual submission over traditional gender hierarchies. Responding to listener feedback on biblical masculinity, they delve into Paul's radical subversion of ancient household codes and what this means for the modern church's understanding of gender roles. Key Takeaways: • Challenging Traditional Views of Biblical Masculinity – Addressing listener questions and concerns about how the church portrays masculinity and the harm of rigid gender roles. • Ephesians 5 and Mutual Submission – Analyzing Paul's instructions in Ephesians 5, highlighting how he promotes mutual submission and redefines relationships within the church community. • Reversing Genesis 3’s Power Struggle – Exploring how Paul's message in Ephesians 5 offers a reversal of the hierarchical relationships resulting from the Fall, advocating for equality and reciprocity. • Understanding Ancient Household Codes – Examining the cultural context of the pater familias and how Paul's teachings subvert societal norms of the time. Resources Mentioned: • Articles by Marg Mowczko – https://margmowczko.com/ • Bible Project Classroom on Genesis 1-3 – https://bibleproject.com/classroom/genesis-1-3/ • Ephesians 5:18-6:9 – Bible Gateway Call to Action: Join us as we delve into these complex topics and challenge traditional interpretations. 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

Oct 31, 2022 • 51min
How to Be a Christian Nationalist: Rethinking Scripture and Politics - w/ Kaitlyn Schiess
Explore how rethinking Christian Nationalism can transform the way we read scripture and engage politically. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive deep with theologian and author Kaitlyn Schiess, discussing the intersection of faith, politics, and the Bible, and how pastors and believers can navigate political issues faithfully without partisanship. Key Takeaways: Understanding Christian Nationalism – Examining the historical and modern perspectives on Christian Nationalism and its influence on American Christianity. Reading Scripture Politically – Insights on how to read scripture responsibly in political contexts without cherry-picking verses. The Role of the Holy Spirit – Discussing how reliance on the Holy Spirit guides us in discerning how to engage with political issues and scripture. Challenges for Pastors – Addressing the practical difficulties pastors face when engaging political topics within their congregations. Learning from Black Christian Traditions – Exploring how Black Christians historically engage scripture through narrative and community, offering valuable lessons for the broader church. Guest Highlights: Kaitlyn Schiess – Doctoral student at Duke Divinity School, co-host of the Holy Post Podcast, and author of The Liturgy of Politics. Caitlin shares her wisdom on navigating the relationship between scripture and politics, Christian Nationalism, and the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit. Resources Mentioned: The Liturgy of Politics by Caitlin Schess – [Link] Holy Post Podcast – https://www.holypost.com/ Getting Schooled – Caitlin's segment on the Holy Post Podcast. Spirituals and the Blues by James Cone – [Link] Maria Stewart's Writings – [Link] James Cone's Writings – [Link] Martin Luther King Jr.'s Writings – [Link] Join the conversation and explore how rethinking Christian Nationalism and engaging scripture can transform our approach to politics and faith. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow the 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

Oct 24, 2022 • 1h 25min
Man Up! Unmasking 'Alpha Male' Christianity: Embracing Biblical Masculinity Through Weakness and Community
Mike Erre and Tim Stafford challenge the rising trend of toxic "alpha male" Christianity, unpacking how the pursuit of power and dominance contradicts the biblical understanding of masculinity. Diving deep into Genesis, they explore how true biblical manhood embraces weakness, interdependence, and community, rejecting cultural idols of power and control. Through personal stories and scriptural analysis, they reveal how enshrining the curse of dominance from the Fall distorts the Gospel and harms both men and women. Key Takeaways: • Rejecting Toxic Masculinity Narratives – Understanding how modern "alpha male" movements conflict with biblical teachings on humility and dependence on God. • Biblical Masculinity Redefined – Exploring Genesis to uncover God's original design for men and women as equal image-bearers needing community and partnership. • Embracing Weakness and Dependency – Recognizing that acknowledging our limitations leads to deeper intimacy with God and others, and is central to living fully in His Kingdom. • The Danger of Enshrining the Curse – Identifying how perpetuating power struggles and dominance is a result of the Fall, not God's intent, and how this harms relationships and the church. Resources Mentioned: • "Wild at Heart" by John Eldredge – Available on Amazon • "Seriously Dangerous Religion" by Ian Provan – Available on Amazon Join the Conversation: Join us as we rethink what it means to be a man in today's world according to biblical principles. Share your thoughts and experiences by emailing us at hello@voxpodcast.com. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to stay connected and be part of the ongoing discussion. 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

Oct 17, 2022 • 1h 31min
The Power and Threat of Moral Policing: From Iran's Revolution to Western Christian Nationalism - w/ Pastor Suzie Lind and Dr. Timothy Gombis
How the morality police in Iran became a symbol of oppressive theocracy, and why Christians in the West must pay attention. In this special edition of Voxology, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and special guest Susie Lind (an elder, pastor, and Iranian-American) dive into the recent wave of women-led protests in Iran following the death of Mahsa Amini. The conversation explores the historical context of Iran’s revolution, the internal trauma of displacement, and the deeply personal ties Susie holds to the current uprising. They draw unsettling parallels between Iran’s morality police and Western theocratic impulses taking shape in America. The team is later joined by theology professor and podcaster Tim Gombis for a broader conversation on the seductive pull of ideological tribalism, the myth of Christian cultural dominion, and the revolutionary call to be good neighbors rather than spiritual conquerors. Key Takeaways: • Iran’s Current Uprising – How Mahsa Amini’s death sparked a generational resistance movement led by Iranian women, and why this moment feels different than past protests. • The Legacy of the Iranian Revolution – Susie Lind shares her personal story of fleeing Iran during the 1979 revolution, highlighting the deep historical wounds and the dangers of theocratic governance. • Moral Policing in the West – How contemporary Christian laws in the U.S. reflect elements of Iran's morality enforcement, including citizen-based reporting and forced moral conformity. • Christian Nationalism and Power – Tim Gombis tackles the origins of culture war theology, tracing it back to colonialism and capitalism’s grip on Christianity. • Redefining “Loving Your Neighbor” – Why telling others the “truth” isn’t biblical love unless grounded in self-sacrificial relationship and humility. Guest Highlights: Susie Lind – Iranian-American pastor and elder at Vox Church, shares from a profoundly personal lens what the Iranian protests mean for her family and heritage. Dr. Tim Gombis – Professor, host of the Faith Improvised podcast, and author of “Power in Weakness” and “The Drama of Ephesians,” offers incisive commentary on how ideologies twist the gospel and trap the church in culture wars. Resources Mentioned: • Faith Improvised Podcast – Subscribe here • “Power in Weakness” by Tim Gombis – Buy the book • Shirin Sadeghi and Global Iranian Voices – Recommended accounts for following on-the-ground reporting • History of the Iranian Revolution – Detailed Overview • Voxology Episodes on Revelation Series – Reframing biblical themes around power, exile, and ideology Join the conversation as we stand in solidarity with those seeking justice, freedom, and dignity. Share this episode, spread awareness, and consider what it means to resist coercive ideologies—wherever they appear. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media. As always, we encourage and welcome your questions and reflections. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com, and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Get Vox Merch: ETSY Store Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast: Patreon Follow us on Instagram @voxologypodcast and Facebook Voxology Podcast 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 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

Oct 10, 2022 • 1h 5min
A Captive Mind: How Christianity Offers More Than a Set of Ideas - w/ Chris Nye
How the gospel disrupts political ideologies and cultural polarization—Mike and Tim sit down with pastor and author Chris Nye to explore how our faith can break free from the mental strongholds of ideology, certainty, and tribalism. Centered around themes from Nye’s new book, “A Captive Mind,” the conversation navigates the emotional allure of simplistic labels, the danger of reducing Christianity to hot takes, and why the foolishness of the cross matters more than ever in today’s ideological landscape. Key Takeaways: • Christianity as an Event, Not an Idea – Why the death and resurrection of Jesus transcend philosophy and political platforms, and how this should shape how we engage the culture. • Hot Takes vs. Pastoral Wisdom – How the pressure for pastors to respond to every news cycle with polished opinions harms authentic shepherding and thoughtful discipleship. • The Emotional Appeal of Ideologies – Understanding why modern Christians gravitate toward prepackaged worldviews that feel good, and how this psychological impulse creates thought silos. • Virtue Signaling and Ministry – Exploring where the pressure to “respond” to events or controversies crosses into performative faith, and how the church can embody faithful presence instead. • Foolishness as a Feature, Not a Bug – Unpacking Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians about the cross being foolishness and what it means to embrace vulnerability, mystery, and being misunderstood as central to following Jesus. Guest Highlights: Chris Nye – Pastor, PhD student, and author of A Captive Mind, Chris brings practical pastoral experience and thoughtful theological engagement to the conversation. He unpacks the danger of reactionary ideologies within the church and offers a hopeful call to root ourselves in the transforming love of Christ, not just ideas about him. Resources Mentioned: • The Captive Mind by Chris Nye – Order the book • Chris Nye’s Website – chrisnye.co • Paul’s Letters to the Corinthians – 1 Corinthians 1–3 via Bible Gateway • “Hot Takes Don’t Belong in Church” – Christianity Today Article • Bonhoeffer’s Letters and Papers from Prison – A reflection on ideology and foolishness Join the Voxology crew as we dive deep into recovering the distinctiveness and wisdom of Christianity in a world addicted to soundbites and certainty. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to be part of the ongoing conversation. As always, we encourage and welcome your thoughts as we seek Jesus together. Email your questions to hello@voxpodcast.com and join the discussion on Facebook and Instagram. Watch episodes and bonus content on VOXOLOGY TV (YouTube) Grab some Voxology swag! Visit our Merch Store on Etsy Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support Voxology on Patreon Check out the Voxology Spotify Playlist – Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook 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 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

Oct 3, 2022 • 1h 11min
Reconstructing Faith Through Love: Embracing the Mind of Christ with Gravity Leadership - w/ Ben Sternke and Matt Tebbe
Embrace a transformative approach to faith by exploring how love can reconstruct your spiritual journey. Dive into a profound conversation as Mike Erre and Tim Stafford engage with Matt Tebbe and Ben Sternke of Gravity Leadership to discuss their new book, "Having the Mind of Christ." Discover practical ways to embody love in your community, navigate deconstruction, and cultivate a faith that truly reflects the teachings of Jesus. Key Takeaways: • Reconstructing Faith Through Love – Understanding how centering love can guide you through deconstruction into a more authentic faith. • Making Love Concrete in Community – Learning practical disciplines and practices to embody love within church leadership and communal life. • Embodying the Mind of Christ – Exploring what it means to have the mind of Christ and how it transforms our perspectives and actions. • Navigating Power Dynamics – Recognizing and addressing the misuse of power in spiritual communities and embracing humility and shared leadership. Guest Highlights: Matt Tebbe and Ben Sternke – Co-founders of Gravity Leadership and authors of "Having the Mind of Christ." Matt and Ben share their personal journeys from experiencing traumatic church leadership to cultivating communities rooted in love, mutuality, and the teachings of Jesus. Resources Mentioned: • Gravity Leadership – gravityleadership.com • Having the Mind of Christ (Book) – Purchase here • The Table Indy – thetableindy.org Join the conversation and explore how embracing love and the mind of Christ can transform your faith and community. 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

Sep 26, 2022 • 56min
Friend of Sinners: Jesus' Radical Hospitality and the Glutton and Drunkard Accusation (Insulted Series)
Discover how Jesus' approach of sharing meals with sinners challenges traditional notions of purity and separation, and what it means for us today. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into the significance of Jesus being called a "glutton and a drunkard," exploring how his radical hospitality invites us to rethink our own practices of inclusion, neighbor love, and the mission of the church. Key Takeaways: The Pharisees' Pursuit of Purity and Resurrection – Understanding how the Pharisees aimed to bring about God's kingdom through strict adherence to the Law and separation from sinners. Meals as Cultural Expressions of Social Status – How meals were a reflection of social boundaries, and why Jesus' willingness to eat with tax collectors and sinners was revolutionary. The Deep Meaning Behind "Glutton and Drunkard" – Exploring the accusation rooted in Deuteronomy and its implications on how Jesus was perceived by religious leaders. Jesus' Radical Invitation to Repentance through Kindness – How Jesus' inclusion and kindness led sinners to repentance, challenging contemporary practices of separation and moral superiority. Applying Jesus' Approach Today – Reflecting on what Jesus' example means for the modern church's engagement with marginalized communities and cultural debates. Guest Highlights: Inspiring Listener Story from Alberta, Canada – A listener shares how their church is embracing First Nations people, LGBTQ individuals, and those deconstructing, providing a real-world example of hope and inclusion. Resources Mentioned: Deuteronomy 21:18-21 – Link Luke 7:31-35 – Link Join us as we explore how to embody Jesus' example of radical hospitality today. 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

Sep 19, 2022 • 1h 4min
In Your Attempt to Both Sides Everything... Embodying Jesus in a Politically Divided World
Discover how to maintain a Christ-like posture amid political extremes by embracing a cruciform life. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford conclude their Culture War Series by exploring how to resist the temptation to engage in cultural battles through old creation dynamics and instead create beautiful alternatives that reflect Jesus' way. Key Takeaways: Staying Cruciform – Understanding the significance of living a life shaped by the cross and how it informs our response to political polarization. Resisting Political Idolatry – Discussing the dangers of fusing Christian identity with partisan politics and how to stay faithful to Jesus above all. Creating Beautiful Alternatives – How to channel frustration and anger into building communities that embody the love, hospitality, and reconciliation of Jesus. Embracing the Kingdom Imagination – Encouraging a shift from the divisive narratives of our culture to a Kingdom-centered perspective that transcends political boundaries. Resources Mentioned: "Scandalous Witness" by Lee Camp – Link Sermon on the Mount – Matthew 5-7 Link Voxology Podcast Episodes on Culture Wars – Link Join the conversation and share your experiences in navigating political divisions as a follower of Jesus. 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

Sep 12, 2022 • 1h 45min
Resisting Christian Nationalism: Embracing the Cruciform Life Amidst the Culture War - w/ Pastor Suzie Lind
Delving into how Jesus' response to political power challenges Christian nationalism and guides us in embracing a cruciform life amidst the culture war, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and guest pastor Susie Lind discuss the role of the church in today's polarized society. They explore what it means to stay on the cross, embody a cruciform life, and resist the temptations of power and political idolatry. Key Takeaways: Jesus' Response to Political Power – Insights from John 18 on how Jesus confronted authority and refrained from worldly power struggles. Embracing the Cruciform Life – Understanding the call to live a life of self-sacrificial love and how it applies to modern-day culture wars. Resisting Christian Nationalism – Examining the dangers of merging faith with national identity and political agendas. Faithfulness over Effectiveness – Discussing why living faithfully according to Jesus' teachings is more crucial than pursuing worldly effectiveness. Kingdom of God vs. Kingdoms of the World – Differentiating between the values of God's kingdom and the power dynamics of worldly systems. Guest Highlights: Susie Lind – Pastor, seminary student, and overseer at Journey Church, shares profound insights on how the church can navigate political tensions by embodying the cruciform life. She emphasizes the importance of balancing both the suffering and the power of the resurrection in our faith journey. Resources Mentioned: John 18 – Jesus Before Pilate Philippians 2:5-11 – The Christ Hymn Matthew 20:25-28 – Jesus Teaches About Serving Others The Holy Post Podcast – Episode with Bob Roberts on Christian Nationalism Rolling Stone Article – GOP Candidate and Christian Nationalism Join the conversation and share your thoughts on how we can faithfully navigate the culture war. Don't forget to subscribe, 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. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV – https://www.youtube.com/@voxology Our Merch Store! ETSY – 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 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

Sep 5, 2022 • 1h 23min
Faithfulness vs Effectiveness: Breaking Free from the Culture War Mindset
Unveiling how the culture war mentality undermines authentic Christian living, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive into listener feedback to explore the tension between being faithful and being effective in today's polarized society. They discuss the challenges of engaging the world without adopting a combative stance and how embracing new creation dynamics can transform our approach to cultural conflicts. Key Takeaways: Reimagining Christian Engagement – Understanding how the pursuit of effectiveness can lead us away from the cruciform way of Jesus. The Culture War Trap – Analyzing how viewing the world through a culture war lens harms the church’s witness and fosters division. Embracing New Creation Dynamics – Exploring practical ways to live out Jesus' teachings by adopting a posture of humility, generosity, and love. The Role of Discernment – Recognizing the need for ongoing discernment and community in navigating complex social issues. Resources Mentioned: American Evangelicalism: Embattled and Thriving by Christian Smith – [Link] Philippians 2 – [Link] Matthew 7 – [Link] Sermon on the Mount Series – [Link] Join the conversation and reflect on how we can faithfully engage with the world without succumbing to the culture war mentality. 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