Voxology

Dive into a lively discussion about faith, identity, and the complexities of the Christian community. Explore the intriguing relationship between time and the Kingdom of God, highlighting the 'already but not yet' concept. Reflect on the struggle of personal transformation and the paradox of suffering. Engage with cultural perspectives on time and the power of choice within community. Finally, unravel the intricate nature of salvation and the ongoing human journey between enslavement and liberation.

What does it mean to truly belong in a church community—and how do we get there when Sunday morning isn't an option? In this special midweek episode, guest Bethany Shea joins Mike and Tim to explore the essence of church beyond the traditional structure. They dive into rich conversations about spiritual loneliness, self-worth, deconstruction, marriage, inclusive theology, and how our past affects our faith journey. Bethany brings deep insight from her experience as a church planter, United Methodist pastor, adoptive mom, and author of Stepping Into Advent and Stepping Into Lent. With wisdom, vulnerability, and humor, the team addresses questions from listeners navigating complex spiritual and relational terrain—from finding church community outside of Sunday mornings to helping others wrestle with bounded theology, and living with the heavy weight of spiritual unworthiness. Key Takeaways: • Church Beyond Sunday – Why your weekly worship experience doesn’t have to be limited to Sunday services and how to cultivate community in new ways. • Redefining Leadership & Gender Roles – Bethany shares her journey from ‘just sharing’ to fully stepping into her call as a teaching pastor. • Deconstruction in Marriage – How faith evolution within a couple can mirror larger spiritual transformation and require healing, collaboration, and counseling. • From Shame to Belovedness – How we confront internal narratives of unworthiness and the spiritual tools to begin healing through community, therapy, and remembering our baptism. • Igniting Curiosity in Conservative Spaces – Tips for gently encouraging open questions and deeper exploration among those steeped in bounded theology. • The Still Small Voice – Rethinking how God shows up when emotional experiences fall short or never come at all. Guest Highlights: Bethany Nass Cseh – Co-pastor at Catalyst Church in Humboldt County, California, and United Methodist Church. Bethany shares her insights on navigating leadership as a woman in ministry, parenting neurodivergent children, self-publishing spiritual reflections, and learning to embrace both personal and communal transformation. Resources Mentioned: • Catalyst Church Humboldt (YouTube Sermons) – Catalyst YouTube Channel • Bethany’s Instagram – @bethany.nass.cseh • Stepping Into Advent and Stepping Into Lent by Bethany Shea • N.T. Wright Bible Studies – NT Wright Online • Justin McRoberts (Author/Mentor) – justinmcroberts.com • The Story of Elijah (1 Kings 19), Baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3), and the example of corporate identity in church • Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller • John Coe’s teachings on emotional and spiritual formation – Institute for Spiritual Formation (Biola) Rediscover the beauty of belonging—even when it's messy. We invite you to embrace a faith community that doesn't require theological rigidity, but cultivates grace, presence, and honest conversation. Let’s continue to explore healing, belonging, and love together. Have questions or reflections of your own? Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com or join the ongoing discussion on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Merch Store: ETSY Learn more and find past episodes at: voxologypodcast.com Support us on Patreon: voxology on Patreon Follow us: Instagram – @voxologypodcast Facebook – facebook.com/voxologypodcast Mike on Twitter – @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram and Twitter: @GoneTimothy Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with someone who might need some encouragement on their spiritual journey.  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

The conversation dives into the nature of divine wrath, exploring how it reflects self-consuming cycles of violence and oppression. The speakers tackle the complexities of salvation, emphasizing grace and the communal dimensions of sin. They also humorously critique popular culture, notably Captain Marvel, while examining how it aligns with theological insights. Additionally, the discussion encourages reflection on missionary practices and the importance of fostering genuine dialogues about faith and accountability.

Dive into the captivating interplay between faith and culture as the hosts explore how Genesis shapes our understanding of human purpose. They critically examine short-term mission trips, promoting deeper connections with local communities. The narrative of salvation unfolds, linking chaos and divine order, while discussing human wickedness and divine regret. A powerful metaphor emerges with Jesus as a ‘new creation space,’ urging stewardship and restoration. Engaging conversations emphasize community connections, making theology relevant in today’s world.

Dive into a playful discussion that blends humor with deep theological insights, examining what it means to be 'saved.' Expect lively takes on the complexities of missions and the balance of faith within community dynamics. Explore intriguing curiosities like the bizarre history of phrases and the implications of morality amid conflict. The conversation navigates redemption and vocation, urging listeners to rethink traditional narratives around salvation while embracing their role as image-bearers of God.

How do we live out a centered-set model of church when real people, power structures, and theological questions get messy? In this midweek bonus episode of the Unity Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford welcome theologian and author Mark Baker, whose book Centered Set Church has been the foundation of recent Voxology conversations. Together they unpack a wave of thoughtful listener questions that push the centered-set model beyond theory and into lived reality. From gender-based leadership exclusion to navigating “soccer players” who claim Jesus but distort his ethic, Mark dives deep into the tensions between theory and practice. He emphasizes that the centered-set model isn’t a quick fix—it’s a posture, a community effort, and a call to define our center as the Jesus of the Gospels, rather than culturally constructed versions. If you’ve loved the Unity Series and wrestled with the practical implications of centered-set thinking on church membership, theological boundaries, power dynamics, and finding belonging in spiritual community, this conversation will both challenge and encourage you. Key Takeaways: •  Defining the Center Together – Why a shared understanding of Jesus as the center is essential in a centered-set model. •  Boundaries vs. Boundedness – How orthodoxy, membership, and even creeds can be practiced in a centered (versus exclusionary) way. •  Loving Intervention – Why curious, compassionate engagement—not judgment—is the hallmark of centered pastoral leadership. •  Church and Cultural Power – How practices like male-only leadership and racial homogeneity can reveal bounded dynamics, even in churches claiming to be centered. •  Navigating Displacement – Encouragement for those who feel disconnected from church culture in their geographic context and are discerning how to find or help shape spiritual community. •  Letting Legacy Go – Why perhaps the most faithful move is passing along a centered mindset, rather than preserving institutional structures. Guest Highlights: Mark Baker – Professor of theology and author of Centered Set Church, Mark brings decades of scholarship, cross-cultural ministry, and practical insight into what it takes to nurture communities shaped by Jesus rather than rigid doctrine or loose inclusivity. His work calls for continuous re-centering on the person and way of Jesus. Resources Mentioned: • Centered Set Church by Mark Baker – centeredsetchurch.com • Five-Video Discussion Guide for Churches and Small Groups – centeredsetchurch.com • The Lost Letters of Pergamum by Bruce Longenecker – https://amzn.to/3Rf7nK6 • Galatians 5 (on love fulfilling the law) – Bible Gateway link • Matthew 25 (The Sheep and the Goats) – Bible Gateway link Join us in this deeper exploration of what it takes to embody the way of Jesus in your context. Share this episode, start a conversation in your community, and help foster churches that define belonging not by conformity, but by Christ at the center. As always, we welcome your questions and dialogue as we pursue a more faithful expression of church. Write to us at hello@voxpodcast.com and join the Voxology community on Facebook and Instagram. Check out VOXOLOGY TV on YouTube – @voxology Explore the Merch Store – Etsy Visit the website – voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the podcast on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like the Facebook page: facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford – timothyjohnstafford.com | @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

Dive into a lively discussion on salvation and humanity's divine image! The speakers explore grace, faith, and how these concepts shape our daily lives. They tackle the moral complexities of faith amid crises, emphasizing genuine compassion. Discover the role of humans as royal figures, and the communal aspect of embodying God's image. As they connect theology to the environment, you'll gain insight into living meaningfully and flourishing in God’s creation. Plus, enjoy some lighthearted banter about NCAA March Madness!

Dive into a refreshing reexamination of salvation through the lens of the Kingdom of God. Explore how Jesus' teachings redefine faith, moving beyond individualism to embrace a communal vision. Discover the significance of God's kingship, affecting daily life and relationships. Engage with personal stories that highlight the complexities of faith and doubt. Delve into the emotional depth of belief and how the Kingdom reshapes our understanding of governance, emphasizing humility and community over dominance.

Exploring how the church has harmed LGBTQ Christians and how repentance can lead to healing and restoration, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford talk with Bridget Eileen Rivera about her book "Heavy Burdens: Seven Ways LGBTQ Christians Experience Harm in the Church." They delve into the double standards and injustices faced by LGBTQ individuals in Christian communities, discussing the importance of open dialogue, humility, and genuine listening in fostering true reconciliation. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Double Standards – How LGBTQ Christians face unique burdens not placed on heterosexual believers within the church. • The Origins of Sexual Orientation Concepts – Bridget explains the historical development of how sexuality became linked to identity and the impact of Freudian psychology on Christian perspectives. • Repentance and Restoration – Discussing what genuine repentance looks like in non-affirming churches to heal the harm done to LGBTQ individuals. • The Role of Conversation and Listening – Emphasizing the importance of open dialogue, humility, and stepping back to reassess how the church engages with LGBTQ topics. Guest Highlight: Bridget Eileen Rivera – Author, speaker, and advocate for LGBTQ Christians. Bridget shares her journey as a Christian committed to traditional sexual ethics while passionately advocating for the dignity, inclusion, and better understanding of LGBTQ individuals in the church. Resources Mentioned: • "Heavy Burdens: Seven Ways LGBTQ Christians Experience Harm in the Church" by Bridget Eileen Rivera – Link • Bridget's Blog – Meditations of a Traveling Nun – Link • Bridget on Twitter – @TravelingNun Join the conversation as we explore how to walk in repentance and restore relationships within the church 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

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive deep into how followers of Jesus can navigate the complexities of war, violence, and shame in our modern world. Reflecting on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, they discuss the challenges of peacemaking, the importance of enemy love, and how Jesus's approach to shame can transform our responses to conflict. Continuing their Centered Set Series, they unpack the difference between disintegrative and reintegrative shaming, and explore how a centered church can operate from a place of security rather than fear. Key Takeaways: • Peacemaking in a Violent World – Understanding the role of Christians in responding to war and violence with enemy love and nonviolence. • Jesus's Approach to Shame – Exploring how Jesus joins the marginalized in their shame to restore and reconcile, rather than exclude. • Disintegrative vs. Reintegrative Shaming – Differentiating between shaming that stigmatizes and excludes versus shaming that seeks to heal and restore relationships. • Centered Set Dynamics – Discussing how centered churches, focused on Jesus, can foster security, inclusivity, and transformative community dynamics. • The Bible's Role in Community – Examining how different approaches to scripture (bounded, centered, fuzzy) impact church culture and practices. Guest Highlights: Seth Erre – Mike's son joins the conversation, bringing joy and a special blessing at the end of the episode. Resources Mentioned: • Habakkuk 1 – Habakkuk 1 • Luke 19:41-44 – Jesus's lament over Jerusalem. Luke 19:41-44 • Will Willimon's Reflections on 9/11 – America's greatest Christological defeat • Shane Claiborne's Statement on Peacemaking – What Does It Mean to Be a Peacemaker? • Dallas Willard's Teachings – Concepts from The Divine Conspiracy and more. Call to Action: Join us as we explore what it means to be peacemakers in a world of conflict. 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