Voxology

How the Beatitudes challenge political assumptions and offer a radical vision of Jesus’s kingdom built on humility, mercy, and justice. Kicking off their Sermon on the Mount Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford unpack Matthew 5:1–12 to reveal why the Beatitudes aren’t ethical commands to climb, but a radical redefinition of who is truly blessed in God’s kingdom. Key Takeaways: • Jesus’s Beatitudes are not personal moral checklists—they are declarations of divine blessing for the poor, meek, and forgotten because the kingdom is already present and available to them. • These blessings are steeped in Old Testament echoes, especially Isaiah and the Psalms, pointing to the restoration of Israel through an upside-down kingdom. • The Beatitudes reflect a communal vision of society that centers the marginalized while indicting systems of power that oppress. • Jesus redefines “blessing” to illuminate how proximity to power or wealth can often blind us to divine reality—and how pain and suffering can prepare hearts to receive the kingdom. • Christians are called not to "be meek" to get blessed, but to recognize the already-blessed nature of those who the world devalues. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5:1–12 – Link to passage • Isaiah 61 – Link • Psalms 24, 37, 107 – Key background to the images in the Beatitudes • Tim Mackie (BibleProject) on “stringing pearls” – BibleProject.com • Lee Camp’s “Scandalous Witness” – Book on Amazon • The Didache (early Christian church manual) – Link to translation • Shadow art examples – Google search: Shadow Art Sculptures Join us as we challenge traditional readings of Scripture and explore the revolutionary Jesus we often miss. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social to stay up-to-date and contribute to 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 – YouTube Channel Our Merch Store! – ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast – voxologypodcast.com 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: 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

How elevating Jesus’ countercultural vision in the Sermon on the Mount invites us to deconstruct politics as usual, reimagine our role as the people of God, and embody a different way of being in a divided world. Mike and Tim kick off a brand new journey through the Sermon on the Mount by laying crucial groundwork: asking how the teachings of Jesus are inherently political — not in the Republican vs. Democrat idea of politics, but in how we shape life together as communities of faith. With insight from Lee Camp’s Scandalous Witness and personal reflections on the dangers of partisanship, this episode explores why Jesus' way is "neither right, nor left, nor religious," and what that means for the church in America today. Key Takeaways: • Jesus Is Political — But Not Partisan: How the Sermon on the Mount redefines what it means to be “political” by offering a radical alternative to coercive power and political idolatry. • Deconstructing the American Church’s Political Entanglement: Understanding why neither conservatism nor progressivism reflects the full vision of the Kingdom of God. • Unlearning Cultural Christianity to Recover Jesus: Why starting with the words and way of Jesus — especially post-deconstruction — helps reorient faith toward the radical love, justice, and mercy of the Gospel. • The Church as a New Political Community: Embracing our identity as a people marked by reconciliation, hospitality, nonviolence, repentance, and self-sacrificial love. • Living “Proleptically” in a Not-Yet Kingdom: How the church is called to embody God’s future now — resisting both escapism and culture war postures that miss the heart of Christ. Resources Mentioned: • Scandalous Witness by Lee Camp – Amazon Link • Faith Improvised Podcast with Tim Gombis – Link • Tim Schell Podcast with Bonnie – [Link pending] • The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7) – Bible Gateway Join the conversation as we rediscover the Sermon on the Mount not as spiritual suggestions but as revolutionary marching orders for the people of Jesus. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology on social media to make sure you don’t miss any of the series. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue this journey together. Email us your thoughts or questions at hello@voxpodcast.com and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more at the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Find curated playlists and bonus tracks at our Voxology Spotify channel Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and 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

How do we know when an apology is real? What does it mean to be the Church when buildings are closed? What if the Garden of Eden wasn't the whole world? This listener Q&A episode is packed with raw honesty, timely spiritual insight, and deep theological reflection. As Mike and Tim reflect on Bonnie’s new season outside the podcast and share personal moments from their marriages, they tackle the chaos of 2020—from political division to church stagnation—and respond to powerful listener questions about repentance, institutional complicity, and how Genesis might be telling a different story than we were taught. This episode is rich with pastoral wisdom, cultural critique, and unvarnished vulnerability, offering much-needed space for disillusioned believers to wrestle with their faith, ask hard questions, and rediscover their longing for authenticity in Christian community. Key Takeaways: • Real Repentance and the Fruit of Change – Why true apology can’t be rushed or polished and how enduring fruit—not buzzwords—prove authenticity. • The Problem with Image Management – Exploring the dangerous temptation to build public personas by weaponizing vulnerability. • Church Reimagined in Crisis – How COVID-19 has exposed the American church’s obsession with Sunday services and the need for local, relational discipleship. • Rediscovering Eden and Rethinking Genesis – What if Adam and Eve weren’t the only humans? Exploring new theological frameworks rooted in John Walton and John Sailhammer’s take on Genesis. • Land, Covenant, and Redemption – Understanding the Bible’s story through the lens of land and people, where Eden is less a universal prototype and more the promised land of God’s chosen mission. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis Unbound by John Sailhammer – Amazon Link • The Lost World Series by John Walton – IVP Link • The Epic of Eden by Sandra Richter – Amazon Link • Faith Improvised Podcast by Tim Gombis – Link • Tim Schell Podcast with Bonnie – Link Call to Action: Join the conversation as we wrestle honestly with faith in a fractured world. Subscribe to Voxology, leave us a review, and follow along on social media to stay up to date with upcoming episodes and updates on where we’re headed next. As always, we encourage and welcome your questions and feedback. Feel free to email us at hello@voxpodcast.com or engage with us on Facebook and Instagram. Catch us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab some merch from our ETSY Shop Learn more: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support Voxology on Patreon Follow on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook Music by Timothy John Stafford | IG & 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

How faith, systemic injustice, and American Christianity collide: In this powerful and raw continuation of the Exile Series, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and special guests Bonnie Lewis and Dr. Tim Gombis reflect deeply on the ways capitalism, white supremacy, and an individualized gospel have distorted the church's call to justice, community, and spiritual wholeness. Sharing personal stories, announcing new podcast ventures, and diving deep into difficult truths, the team examines why racial reconciliation isn’t a social add-on to the gospel—it’s at its core. Key Takeaways: • A Gospel Distorted by Individualism – How American evangelicalism has traded the New Testament’s communal call for justice with a privatized salvation that separates personal faith from systemic injustice. • The Economic Roots of Racism – Exploring Coates’ claim that “racism is the child of economic injustice” and examining how capitalism structurally inhibits the church from pursuing racial reconciliation. • Reclaiming the Biblical Vision – From Ephesians 2 to 1 Corinthians 11 and James, how the early church tackled racism, classism, and power—and what the modern church must relearn. • A Call to Repentance and Reconstruction – Why hope for transformation lies in radical honesty, community confession, and long-term, relational commitments between diverse churches. • Learning to be the Church Again – From imagining Exodus through new lenses, to practicing economic generosity and long-haul solidarity, practical ideas for reorienting church life around the lived gospel of Jesus. Guest Highlights: Bonnie Lewis – Making her bittersweet final appearance as official co-host, Bonnie shares hilarious personal anecdotes and also announces her new podcast, Tim Schell, releasing the same day as this episode! Dr. Tim Gombis – Theologian, political theorist, and longtime Vox guest unveils his upcoming podcast, Faith Improvised, and offers deep insight into biblical justice, systemic racism, and the failures of white evangelicalism. Resources Mentioned: • Ephesians 2 – Exploring the new humanity formed by the cross • 1 Corinthians 11 & James – Textual examples of church injustice • “Faith Improvised” with Tim Gombis – Launching July 14 • Timshell Podcast with Bonnie Lewis – [Link coming soon] • “Between the World and Me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates – [Link] Be a part of a church that looks, loves, and lives more like Jesus. Subscribe to Faith Improvised and Tim Schell, share this episode with those wrestling with the church's complicity in injustice, and follow Voxology on social to engage more deeply. We’d love to hear from you—email questions or reflections to hello@voxpodcast.com. Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support us on Patreon Watch on VOXOLOGY TV Grab merch on ETSY Follow on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre 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

How can Christians move beyond performative allyship toward true racial reconciliation? Mike, Bonnie, and Tim are joined by Faith Brooks—director of programs at Be the Bridge—for a transformative conversation on the role of systemic racism in American culture and the Church, and how confession, repentance, and genuine community can lead us to healing. Faith shares openly about her experiences as a Black woman navigating predominantly white evangelical spaces, encountering microaggressions, and advocating for structural change. Together, they explore what it means to listen first, leverage influence, and follow the leadership of Black voices—specifically Black women—who have long been leading the movement for racial justice. Whether you're just beginning your anti-racism journey or looking for guidance on deepening your practice, this episode offers practical insights for personal transformation and communal healing rooted in the gospel. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Systemic Racism and White Privilege – How American institutions have historically—and currently—benefit white people while disadvantaging BIPOC communities. • Microaggressions and Everyday Harm – What subtle racial slights look like in real life and why language matters in building inclusive communities. • The Power of Representation in the Church – Why true diversity in churches means more than just plans and platforms—it's about empowering diverse leadership at every level. • Be the Bridge 101 – How this guide fosters community-led conversations on race and reconciliation across churches, friend groups, and workplaces. • Steps Toward Authentic Allyship – From inner work and humility to practicing repentance and relinquishing control, white Christians are invited into a posture of long-term learning and support. Guest Highlights: Faith Brooks – Director of Programs at Be the Bridge, justice advocate, and compelling voice for racial reconciliation and healing. Faith brings her passion for equity and her lived experience to guide listeners into meaningful action rooted in relational connection. Resources Mentioned: • Be the Bridge – bethebridge.com • Faith Brooks' Website – faithbrooks.com • Be the Bridge Guide – Available via the shop on bethebridge.com • Be the Bridge on Social Media – @beabridgebuilder and @faithbritt on Instagram and Twitter Let’s be people who pursue justice with humility and courage. Subscribe, leave us a review, and follow Voxology Podcast for more essential conversations that challenge, inspire, and equip you to follow Jesus in countercultural ways. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and engage with 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 Apple Podcasts 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: @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

How reimagining biblical translation can open the door to healing, spiritual restoration, and a deeper understanding of God’s inclusive nature. As co-host Bonnie Lewis steps away from Voxology to launch the new Timshal Podcast, she shares her journey of authoring the groundbreaking idiomatic Bible translation "Timshal," releasing a new series diving into biblical stories with theological, literary, and psychological depth. In this episode, Mike, Tim, and Bonnie celebrate a season of growth while sharing reflections on how creative reinterpretation of sacred texts—especially through the lens of the marginalized and the divine feminine—restores power, voice, and belonging to those long omitted from the evangelical tradition. Key Takeaways: • A New Way to Engage Scripture – How “Timshal” blends historical context, psychological insight, and narrative storytelling to revitalize familiar Bible stories and elevate voices often left out. • The Power of Calling It a Translation – Why naming the project a “translation” affirms the text is for everyone, reclaiming access to Scripture for those excluded by religious gatekeeping. • God Beyond Gender – Exploring how feminine metaphors for God found in Ezekiel 37 and other texts restore balance to the deeply masculine-dominated theological narrative. • The Birth of the Timshal Podcast – Behind-the-scenes insights into Bonnie’s new show featuring conversations around each chapter of the book, exploring translation choices, creativity, and emotional impact. • Radical Wellness and Embodiment – How Bonnie’s work with Radical Wellness interweaves emotional healing and spiritual reconstruction, especially for women exploring the divine feminine. Guest Highlights: Bonnie Lewis – Author of “Timshal: An Idiomatic Bible Translation,” spiritual coach, and departing Voxology co-host. Bonnie opens up about tackling criticism, staying true to the Spirit of Scripture, and empowering others to rediscover faith through a lens of empathy and inclusion. Resources Mentioned: • Buy the “Timshal” Book – timshaltranslation.com • Follow Bonnie on Instagram – @bonniegaillewis • Radical Wellness Collective – radicalwellness.co • Timshal Podcast (Launching July 6) – Follow on iTunes and Spotify soon! Join us in honoring the prophetic voice of Bonnie Lewis and supporting her next chapter in reshaping how we encounter the sacred story. Subscribe to the Timshal Podcast and make sure to preorder your copy of the book today! And don’t forget to stay connected with us here—we’ll be back next week with more conversations about Exile, justice, and the mission of Jesus. As always, we’d love to hear from you. Email your thoughts to hello@voxpodcast.com and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. Find us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Shop our merch: Voxology on Etsy Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and Facebook: Voxology Podcast 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

How the pandemic exposes our certainty, drives us deeper into faith, and invites us to rediscover God's mercy, justice, and holiness with biblical theologian Walter Brueggemann. In this rich and heartfelt episode, Mike, Tim, and Bonnie welcome Dr. Brueggemann—one of the most prolific theological voices of our time—for an unforgettable conversation on God, suffering, community, and courageous imagination. At 87, Brueggemann challenges us to reconsider what we think we know about the Bible, divine judgment, white supremacy, and the role of lament and protest in spiritual life—all while sharing poetic insights that spark introspection and hope. Key Takeaways: • Virus as a Summons to Faith – Drawing on the biblical concept of pestilence to explore the pandemic as a deep spiritual call to repentance, humility, and renewed purpose. • God’s Holiness Beyond Formulas – Understanding divine action through three biblical frameworks: retributive justice, divine intent for liberation, and the mysterious, unsearchable holiness of God. • Reading the Bible for Transformation, Not Certainty – Why we must resist transactional readings of Scripture that serve empire and instead engage in playful, imaginative interpretation steeped in community. • Protest as Hope – How biblical lament differs from resignation and how authentic groaning becomes the birthplace of new creation. • Racial Justice and Theological Responsibility – Brueggemann’s call to dismantle white supremacy in policy, culture, and biblical interpretation, and to embody gratitude for God’s mercy through redistribution and justice. • Recovering the Language of Prayer – How to pray truthfully in crisis, with “no-holds-barred” honesty, expressing both suffering and hope as acts of faith. Guest Highlights: Dr. Walter Brueggemann – One of the world’s most respected Old Testament scholars and the author of over 100 books, including the featured work of this episode, Virus as a Summons to Faith. Brueggemann brings a rare blend of poetic insight, deep scholarship, and prophetic imagination to the most urgent questions of our time. Resources Mentioned: • Virus as a Summons to Faith by Walter Brueggemann – Amazon • Dr. Brueggemann's Website – walterbrueggemann.com • Romans 5 – “Suffering produces endurance, endurance produces character, and character produces hope.” • Elijah and Elisha narratives in 1 & 2 Kings – Examples of subversive oral theology • Psalmic Lament – Models of protest-filled praise in the Hebrew Scriptures Join the conversation and reflect on how the unknowable holiness of God invites us not into fear, but into community, mercy, and faithful resistance. 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! → https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market Learn more about the podcast: https://voxologypodcast.com/ Subscribe on iTunes → https://apple.co/1Lla1Nj Subscribe on Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr?si=KJoEXxxxTsqE-HiGL-PfIA Support the podcast on Patreon → https://www.patreon.com/voxology Voxology Spotify Channel → https://open.spotify.com/user/nj2l08pd1zt6zk3azs1plhmdy?si=3fb86269da0449ed Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford → https://www.timothyjohnstafford.com 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

How the church’s complicity in white supremacy distorts the gospel—and how to confront it with humility and courage. Mike, Tim, and Bonnie sit down with pastor, author, and diversity trainer Brit Barron for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about race, justice, theology, and the responsibility of the church in a time of social upheaval. Drawing on her personal experiences as a queer woman of color, former megachurch pastor, and co-pastor of the inclusive community New Abbey in Pasadena, Britt offers prophetic insight, careful nuance, and radical hope for a better way forward in both faith and society. Key Takeaways: • Understanding the Church’s Role in Racism – Why white supremacy, power structures, and theological interpretations go hand-in-hand—and how churches must reform from within to dismantle those ties. • Diversity vs. Charity – Exploring how “charity” approaches to racial justice reinforce power dynamics, and why real change requires internalizing the work. • Personalizing the Journey – Why white complicity in racism is about more than action steps—it’s about doing your own work, confronting personal fears, and being willing to change. • Navigating Hard Conversations – Insights on interracial marriage, family dynamics, and staying grounded in painful seasons of world-shaking injustice. • Creating a Truly Inclusive Church – How deauthorizing leadership, centering marginalized voices, and practicing real-time political engagement leads to authentic gospel embodiment. Guest Highlights: Brit Barron – Pastor, speaker, author of the upcoming book Worth It, and co-leader of New Abbey Church in Pasadena. Britt shares her wisdom on race, church, LGBTQ+ identity, and social justice with clarity, humor, and hope. Resources Mentioned: • Brit's website and anti-racism guide – brittbarron.com • New Abbey Church – newabbey.org • Britt on Instagram – @brittbarron • Book: Worth It by Britt Barron – Coming July 21 Come be part of the movement toward a more just, honest, and loving church. Subscribe to the Voxology Podcast, leave a review, and follow us on social 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

Standing in collective lament and solidarity, this episode features a moment of silence and protest as part of the podcast blackout movement—recognizing the loss of Black lives due to police brutality. Tim Stafford speaks on behalf of the Voxology community to affirm their commitment to listening, learning, and mourning with those who grieve. By naming the victims, this episode becomes a space of remembrance and protest against systemic injustice. Key Themes: • Honoring the lives lost to racial injustice through a spoken memorial. • A public and spiritual practice of lament aligned with the biblical call to mourn with those who mourn. • Centering the importance of listening, empathy, and standing in solidarity with marginalized communities. • Highlighting the church's prophetic role in naming sin and injustice in society. Reflection Focus: Rather than commentary or discussion, this episode acts as a sacred pause—a responsive act of solidarity through silence and the power of naming. Call to Action: Take time to reflect, lament, and educate yourself on racial justice. Seek ways to stand alongside communities affected by systemic violence. Subscribe, share, and follow the Voxology Podcast to continue engaging in conversations about justice, faith, and the true mission of Jesus. As always, we welcome your thoughts and stories as we pursue this journey together. Email your reflections to hello@voxpodcast.com and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Visit our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre 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

How reframing the gospel as the enthronement of King Jesus—not just personal forgiveness—transforms our understanding of salvation, faith, and the mission of the church. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by theologian and author Dr. Matthew Bates to uncover how early Christian proclamations of the gospel centered on Jesus' kingship, not just his atonement. This episode dives deep into controversial theological waters, challenging common evangelical interpretations of faith, grace, salvation, and works—with the goal of recentering our gospel language around the lordship and kingship of Jesus Christ. Key Takeaways: • The Full Christ Event as Gospel – Why the gospel must include Jesus' incarnation, life, death, resurrection, ascension, and enthronement—not just his death for sin. • Faith as Allegiance – How the New Testament concept of “faith” (pistis) includes embodied loyalty and allegiance, not just belief in promises. • Reframing Grace and Works – How our traditional individualistic view of “grace” may limit the biblical message, and why responding to grace isn’t legalism. • Salvation as Communal and Cosmic – Understanding salvation as deliverance into the new creation and Spirit-filled community, not just an individual ticket to heaven. • Ephesians 2 Reexamined – Breaking apart four key gospel words—grace, saved, faith, and works—and revealing how they support allegiance-based discipleship. Guest Highlights: Dr. Matthew Bates – Theology professor at Quincy University and author of Salvation by Allegiance Alone and Gospel Allegiance. Bates offers a fresh scholarly framework for rediscovering the gospel as King Jesus proclaimed it—centered on the claim that Jesus is enthroned as King and worthy of our total allegiance. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew Bates – matthewwbates.com • Books: Salvation by Allegiance Alone & Gospel Allegiance by Matthew Bates • Book: Paul and the Gift by John M.G. Barclay • Podcast: OnScript Podcast • Ephesians 2:8–10 • Romans 2:16, 3:21–26 • Mark 1:14–15 (Jesus' proclamation of the kingdom) • Luke’s Gospel – Narrative of salvation through discipleship Join us as we unpack a more complete and compelling view of the gospel that doesn’t end at the cross, but enthrones Jesus as King, Savior, and Lord. Subscribe, leave a review, and share the journey with us 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 engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. 📺 Watch on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV 🛍 Merch Store on Etsy: VOXOLOGY Shop 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: ➤ Apple Podcasts ➤ Spotify 💡 Support the show on Patreon: Patreon.com/voxology 🎵 Music by Timothy John Stafford – timothyjohnstafford.com Twitter & Instagram: @GoneTimothy 📻 Listen to curated playlists on our Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Follow the convo: Instagram: @voxologypodcast Facebook: Voxology Podcast Twitter: Mike Erre  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