Voxology

How the ruthless elimination of hurry isn’t just about slowing down—it’s about rediscovering the way of Jesus in every aspect of your life, from spiritual formation to parenting. In this episode of the Exile Series, Mike Erre is joined by pastor, author, and longtime friend John Mark Comer to explore the profound connection between the pace of our lives and our capacity to love well. They dive deep into John Mark's journey from megachurch burnout to spiritual renewal and offer practical wisdom on how to embody love, joy, and peace through intentional living. Along the way, they talk about the limitations of hustle culture, the impact of spiritual formation on community and parenting, and the challenge of truly becoming “like Christ” amid cultural and religious noise. Key Takeaways: • The Cost of Hurry – How John Mark’s burnout in ministry revealed the soul-killing nature of hustle culture and led him to rebuild his life around rhythms of rest, reflection, and formation. • Spiritual Formation as the Path to Change – Why transformation isn’t about willpower or waiting for a spiritual “zap” moment, but about consistent engagement with Jesus through practices, community, and the intentional shaping of the soul. • Parenting Without Shame – How a relational theory of change can inform parenting, helping children process their emotions and choices with trust instead of fear, control, or punishment. • The Gospel as Apprenticeship to Jesus – Deconstructing Reformation-era definitions of grace and works to rediscover the biblical vision of discipleship grounded in abiding in Christ rather than merely believing about Him. • Enneagram and Soul Work – A critical conversation on the misuse of the Enneagram as a personality label versus its intended use as a tool for spiritual transformation. • The Church's Role in True Formation – The limits of preaching alone to shape souls, and the need for the church to guide people not just in what Jesus taught, but how to embody it in daily life. Guest Highlight: John Mark Comer – Pastor, author of multiple books including The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, and host of the podcast This Cultural Moment. Known for his work on spiritual formation in a secular age, John Mark opens up about his personal journey from church growth idolization to a life grounded in presence, soul-care, and love. Resources Mentioned: • The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer – Amazon • This Cultural Moment podcast – thisculturalmoment.com • Fight Hustle, End Hurry podcast (with Jefferson Bethke) – fighthehurry.com • Dallas Willard – Renovation of the Heart • EMDR Therapy – EMDRIA.org • Tim Mackie – The Bible Project’s work on biblical wisdom • Steven Porter & John Coe – Theology of spiritual formation at Biola University • Pete Scazzero – Emotionally Healthy Spirituality • Enneagram Institute’s Levels of Development – enneagraminstitute.com Want to explore transformation beyond hustle and hurry? Dive deeper with us as we rethink what it truly means to follow Jesus today. Subscribe to the podcast, leave us a review, and join the conversation on social media. As always, we invite your thoughts and questions at hello@voxpodcast.com, or engage with us on Facebook and Instagram. Join the journey on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Shop our merch: VOXOLOGY on Etsy Visit: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe via iTunes or Spotify Support us at Patreon Voxology Radio on Spotify: Voxology Radio Follow on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook: Voxology Podcast 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 does the modern church get the theology of judgment wrong—and what does the Bible actually say about it? Mike, Tim, and Bonnie unpack the fear-driven narratives many Christians inherit, contrasting them with a richer, more relational and kingdom-centered understanding of judgment, eternal life, and salvation. Using John 3 and Jesus’s dialogue with Nicodemus as a launchpad, the team explores how concepts like heaven, hell, and accountability have been weaponized in much of Christian teaching—often to the detriment of genuine spiritual formation. Drawing contrasts between judicial and relational frameworks of judgment, this episode wrestles with the crucial questions: What are we judged for? Who is judged most harshly—and why? And most importantly, how do we become the kind of people fit for the coming kingdom today? Key Takeaways: • Judgment Is Now and Not Yet – Heaven and hell are both future realities and present choices. How we align with the kingdom today matters. • Sin as Self-Inflicted Judgment – Much of the Bible teaches that sin contains its own consequences, forming us into people either fit for new creation or resisting it. • Love, Not Fear – God's judgment is not about checking doctrinal boxes but about participating in a relationship that transforms us to love Him and others. • Leaders Are Accountable – Religious leaders face unique and intense judgment for misrepresenting or weaponizing the gospel, especially through fear or exclusion. • Eternal Life Begins Now – Borrowing from Jesus’s teaching in John 3, salvation isn't a ticket to heaven but the daily experience of new creation breaking into our lives. Guest Highlights: No outside guest this week, but Bonnie leads a powerfully insightful conversation with Mike and Tim, bringing clarity, depth, and challenge to traditional views on salvation and discipline. Resources Mentioned: • N.T. Wright – “Surprised by Hope” • Greg Boyd – “Cross Vision” • Preston Sprinkle – “Four Views on Hell” • Joshua Ryan Butler – “The Skeletons in God’s Closet” • Michael Wittmer – “Heaven is a Place on Earth” • Alan Hirsch – Commentary on heresy as “making a small thing the main thing” Call to Action: If you've ever wrestled with questions about salvation, hell, or what judgment really means, this episode is a must-listen. Help others join the conversation—subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode. And email your thoughts or questions to hello@voxpodcast.com—we'd love to hear from you. Catch us visually on VOXOLOGY TV on YouTube, grab some merch at our Etsy store, and visit voxologypodcast.com for more ways to connect. Listen and follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and support us on Patreon. Follow the journey on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and on Facebook. 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 complementarian theology be both faithful to Scripture and deeply honoring toward women? Mike Erre sits down with Pastor Alan Frow from Southlands Church in Brea, California, for a respectful and thought-provoking conversation about women in ministry, complementarian leadership, and the infamous John MacArthur-Beth Moore controversy. Alan, a self-avowed complementarian, pushes back against harmful caricatures and offers a more nuanced model—one anchored in mutuality, Scripture, and genuine partnership between men and women. Together, Mike and Alan reflect on what it means to hold strong convictions without straying into rigidity, and how churches can recover a theology of gender that mirrors both the Trinity and the self-giving love of Jesus. They also tackle the nature of authority, the role of women in leadership, and what the modern church can learn from biblical models like Priscilla, Deborah, and Phoebe. This episode features rich theological back-and-forth as the hosts and their guest model respectful dialogue amidst theological disagreement—reminding us all that the way we hold our beliefs matters as much as the beliefs themselves. Key Takeaways: • Beyond Caricatures – Alan shares why he rejects John MacArthur’s tone and example, arguing for a more generous and respectful form of complementarianism that affirms the dignity and giftedness of women. • Team-Based Leadership – Exploring how Alan and his wife lead together in their church context, avoiding hierarchical stereotypes and embodying mutuality within complementarian convictions. • Office vs. Gifting – Breaking down the distinction between the roles of elder and teacher, and how non-elder men and women can teach under elder oversight. • Scripture, Creation, and Gender – A deep dive into Genesis, Ephesians 5, and the New Testament household codes to examine how theology emerges from biblical design and redeemed relationships. • Countering Misuse of Authority – Why both complementarian and egalitarian settings are susceptible to abuse, and how the church can cultivate healthier cultures through shared leadership and spiritual parenting. Guest Highlight: Alan Frow – Lead pastor at Southlands Church in Brea, California and author of Broken for Blessing: The Underrated Potential of the Medium-Sized Multiplying Church. Alan brings decades of pastoral experience, deep biblical insight, and an open-hearted humility to this conversation on theology, family, and church leadership. Resources Mentioned: • Southlands Church • Alan’s Blog • Broken for Blessing by Alan Frow – [Amazon Link] • Scriptures Referenced: Genesis 1–3, Ephesians 5, 1 Timothy 2, 1 Peter 3, Romans 12, Galatians 3 • Previous Voxology Episode on John MacArthur & Beth Moore Let’s keep the conversation going. Whether you’re complementarian, egalitarian, or still sorting it out—your voice matters. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to join our growing community of listeners striving to follow the way of Jesus over ideology. As always, we welcome your thoughts and questions at hello@voxpodcast.com and invite interaction on Instagram and Facebook. We're also on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Visit the Merch Store: ETSY More about the show: VoxologyPodcast.com Listen & Subscribe: iTunes | Spotify Support us on Patreon Explore curated playlists on Voxology Radio (Spotify) Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like our Facebook Page: Voxology Podcast 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

A heartfelt message for those who no longer feel at home in the American evangelical church, Mike Erre delivers an unfiltered and compassionate reading of his letter titled “An Open Letter to the Spiritually Homeless,” originally written for Q Commons in Costa Mesa. Speaking directly to spiritual exiles—those disillusioned yet still drawn to Jesus—Mike offers solidarity, honesty, and hope in the midst of uncertainty and reconstruction. This episode is a sacred pause for anyone wrestling with deconstruction but unwilling to abandon their faith entirely. It’s an invitation to embrace life in the in-between, to encounter a God not confined by temples or traditions, and to recognize your wandering as sacred space full of purpose. Key Takeaways: • Spiritual Homelessness Defined – More than church-switching or faith doubts, this homelessness is the ache of those disillusioned by what American evangelicalism has become but still captivated by the beauty of Jesus. • Naming the Grief and the Longing – Mike voices the sorrow, anger, and isolation felt by many who still long for community, depth, and integrity in their faith practices. • Prophetic Critique of Evangelical Systems – A direct call-out of failures in leadership, exclusionary practices, political allegiances, and the silencing of questions within the church. • A Homeless God for a Homeless People – Exploring Jacob’s encounter with God in an ordinary place (Genesis 28), this reflection reframes our wandering as a place of divine encounter and transformation. • Hope in Deconstruction – Jesus himself confronted and deconstructed broken religious systems. Mike reminds us that God is often at work dismantling what no longer serves, preparing us for something new. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis 28 – The story of Jacob’s unexpected encounter with God at Bethel. • Q Commons – Q Ideas This is an invitation to the spiritually displaced to know that they are not alone—and to reimagine faith on the road with a God who refuses to stay confined. Share this episode with someone who’s been hurt by the church or is wrestling with their place in it. Subscribe to the Voxology Podcast, leave us a review, and follow us on social to stay connected to this growing community of Jesus followers navigating the messiness together. — 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 Voxology Podcast https://voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes: https://apple.co/1Lla1Nj Or on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr?si=KJoEXxxxTsqE-HiGL-PfIA Support the Podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/voxology Listen to the 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: 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 can the church faithfully navigate cultural change without compromising the gospel? Mike Erre, Bonnie Lewis, and Tim Stafford tackle the fallout from John MacArthur’s public rebuke of Beth Moore, dissecting its implications for women in ministry, biblical interpretation, and the misuse of spiritual authority. Using sobering personal stories and sharp theological insights, the trio wrestle with the deeper issues behind why conversations about gender, race, and power provoke such intense responses within evangelical culture. From Paul's teachings on women to the role of cultural interpretation in faithful exegesis, this episode challenges long-held assumptions about who’s allowed to lead in the name of Jesus—and how that leadership should reflect Christ. Key Takeaways: • Beyond “Go Home” – Why the real issue behind the MacArthur-Beth Moore controversy isn’t just complementarianism, but how power is protected and wielded in the church. • When Culture Drives Gospel Reflection – Understanding Paul’s missionary accommodations, and why sometimes culture helps the church see Scripture more clearly. • Rethinking Gender & Power in Scripture – Exploring alternative readings of Pauline texts often used to prohibit women from teaching and leading. • The Damage of Dismissiveness – Bonnie shares a personal story of spiritual abuse, highlighting how mocking and silencing women in ministry has long-term effects on leadership and faith. • Micro-Communities Movement – Updates on growing listener-led Voxology gatherings, and opportunities for deeper engagement across the country. Resources Mentioned: • Email your micro-community location: hello@voxpodcast.com • Past and upcoming events: Q Commons, Heated event audio & video on YouTube • Galatians 3 & 1 Timothy 2 – Scriptural references unpacked in the discussion • Support Voxology: Patreon | Tithely Giving • Vox Merch Store: ETSY • VOXOLOGY TV on YouTube Help us amplify the voices Jesus invites to the table—subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay connected and engage the conversation. As always, reach out to us with questions or reflections at hello@voxpodcast.com. Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and “like” us on Facebook. Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford. Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy. Learn more at voxologypodcast.com.  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 biblical concept of identity, rooted in Paul's letters to the Ephesians and Colossians, can radically transform our daily lives and free us from the shame and lies of our inherited identity. In this exclusive Voxology solo episode, Tim Stafford introduces a powerful past sermon from Mike Erre that explores what it means to be "in Christ" and how our God-given identity is foundational to becoming who we were created to be. Despite being recorded several years ago, Mike’s reflection is more relevant than ever, challenging us to move from performance-based faith into a grace-driven reality of fullness. Key Takeaways: • Inherited Identity vs. In-Christ Identity – Unpacking the difference between the scripts the world writes for us and the indestructible identity we receive through Jesus. • Becoming Who You Already Are – How Paul’s order of indicative (what Christ has done) before imperative (what we should do) is essential to a healthy understanding of growth and obedience. • Identity in Ephesians and Colossians – Exploring profound truths from Paul’s letters about what it means to be sealed, adopted, raised, and filled in Christ. • The Role of Grace in Formation – Challenging the belief that grace simply cleans up our past, instead showing how grace leads and sustains our transformation. • Living From Fullness, Not Emptiness – How the false pursuit of "more" can be put to rest when we fully embrace the completeness we already have in Christ. Resources Mentioned: • Book of Ephesians – Ephesians 1–4 • Book of Colossians – Colossians 1–3 • "The Secret" – Referenced as an example of modern-day gnostic thinking • Good Friday Activity Cards – Reflection prompts for listing false identities and embracing Christ’s truth • Past Episodes with Tim Gombis – Exploring Kingdom dynamics vs. sin and death patterns Let this episode be a pause to realign your understanding of grace, formation, and true identity. Join us in preparing for Good Friday by reflecting on the lies you carry and the truth Christ declares over you. Subscribe to stay connected and be a part of the ongoing conversation about justice, grace, and the church’s mission. Leave a review if this message resonated with you, and don’t forget to follow Voxology 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

Creating a safe and welcoming space for those who feel spiritually disoriented, disillusioned, or homeless has always been at the heart of Voxology. On this special four-year anniversary episode, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and producer Bonnie reflect on the journey so far: what’s worked, what’s shifted, and what’s ahead for the Vox community. They share how the podcast was born from a desire to ask bold questions about faith, the church, culture, and Jesus without fear or shame. Now, with over 2 million listens, the team is more committed than ever to being a landing place for anyone feeling out of place in modern church expressions or wrestling with their beliefs. This episode outlines a bold vision for the future—through resourcing interpreters, forming micro communities, and developing new content streams specifically for those seeking to reconstruct their faith in light of Jesus. Key Takeaways: • Creating a Home for the Spiritually Homeless – Why so many believers feel dislocated from traditional church spaces and how Voxology offers community through spiritual disruption. • Deconstructing, Then Reconstructing – The necessity of deconstruction within a revealed faith and how to rebuild with Jesus at the center. • Vision for Future Growth – Voxology announces new initiatives: a podcast stream for interpreters, regional micro communities like the one forming in Columbus, Ohio, and expanded resources for people leading their own groups. • Investing in Interpreters – Defining the "interpreter" as someone bridging the foundational truths of Christian faith with the questions and culture of today. • From Content to Community – How the show is evolving from content delivery to nurturing meaningful spiritual relationships offline. Guest Highlights: No special guests this week—but plenty of beloved “family banter” from Mike, Tim, and Bonnie as they celebrate the podcast’s journey. Resources Mentioned: • Join or Start a Micro Community – Email hello@voxpodcast.com • Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/voxology • Make One-Time or Recurring Donations via Tithe.ly – https://voxologypodcast.com • Vox Podcast Facebook Page – Livestreams and Community: https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast • Resource Page (Books, Tools, Teaching) – https://voxologypodcast.com Want to help this movement grow? Join the conversation, share this episode, support Voxology financially, or even start something yourself! Subscribe, leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay connected. — As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email questions to hello@voxpodcast.com or 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 or Tithely 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

How sermon-centric church models are limiting spiritual formation—and what we should consider doing instead. In this episode, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and Bonnie Lewis serve up laughter, listener mail, and meaningful critique as they unpack everything from naming conventions to how churches center around teaching rather than transformation. Plus, Mike sits down with Skye Jethani (Holy Post podcast, With God Daily, author of "With") to tackle his recent article challenging the long-held assumption that preaching should be the church’s primary method of disciple formation. From mental health feedback to listener encouragements, free events, and a rich discussion about ecclesiology in the digital age, this conversation will challenge you to seriously reconsider what church is for and what participation actually looks like for Jesus followers today. Key Takeaways: • The Problem with Sermon-Centric Models – Why dedicating 50–80% of church resources on a single weekly teaching moment may no longer serve the mission of forming disciples. • Preaching vs. Teaching – Skye and Mike unpack the biblical and functional differences between proclamation (preaching) and instruction (teaching), and why conflating the two can be harmful. • Faith Formation in a Digital World – Given the immense access to podcasts, videos, and devotionals, is Sunday still the most effective day for learning? • What Gathering Could Look Like – Exploring more holistic and participative alternatives for congregational life: meals, small groups, application-centered learning, and communal responses. • Listener Feedback – Important discussions around mental health language, being vulnerable in Christian communities, and how the words we use shape our engagement with one another. Guest Highlights: Skye Jethani – Author, speaker, podcaster, and former pastor, Sky shares his critique of the sermon-centric church model and explores healthier and more sustainable ways the church can disciple people in today’s cultural and technological landscape. His Daily Devotional at WithGodDaily.com has become a vital spiritual practice for many. Resources Mentioned: • Heated Conversation: Why We Changed Our Mind (Women in Ministry Event) – [Eventbrite Link] • Q Commons Costa Mesa (Free Event) – [QCommons.com → Costa Mesa] • With God Daily Devotional App – withgoddaily.com • "With" by Sky Jethani – Amazon • Sky’s Article: “The Case Against Sermon-Centric Sundays” (Premier Christianity) – Premier Christianity Be part of the ongoing conversation around reimagining church for Jesus-centered community and formation. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow the Voxology Podcast on your favorite platforms. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue Jesus together. Email your thoughts to hello@voxpodcast.com and join the community on Facebook and Instagram. Watch us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab merch and support the mission: ETSY Store Learn more about the Voxology Podcast: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support Voxology on Patreon Check out the Voxology Spotify music channel: 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 the Apostle Paul’s cosmic vision of salvation reshapes everything we thought we knew. Mike, Bonnie, and Tim sit down with Pauline scholar Dr. Tim Gombis to talk about one massive question: why did Jesus have to die? What begins as a conversation about atonement turns into an hour-plus deep-dive into how Paul viewed salvation, sin, and the church—not as individual concerns, but as cosmic realities. Gombis pulls back the curtain on distorted gospel narratives common in modern Christianity and reframes salvation not as ledger-clearing, but as the liberation of all creation from enslaving cosmic powers. From understanding wrath as a pervasive force within the present evil age to rethinking what Paul meant by “forgiveness of sins,” this episode challenges individualistic soteriology and calls us to see gospel, sanctification, and mission as profoundly communal. Oh, and yes, Romans 3 and the “sinner’s prayer” don’t go unchallenged here either. Key Takeaways: • The Cosmic Purpose of Christ’s Death – Jesus didn’t die just to forgive your sins; his death shattered the present evil age and launched an entirely new creation. • The Problem with Individualistic Salvation – Paul wasn’t driven by questions of individual guilt and judgment but by the need to reconstitute a people for God’s mission. • Forgiveness as New Creation Space – “Forgiveness of sins” isn’t a personal transaction—it’s the name of the kingdom arena God carved out in the midst of a polluted world. • How Sin and Death Hijacked God’s Plan – Sin, death, and wrath are not personal moral failures—they're cosmic powers that enslaved all of creation, including the law and Israel. • Salvation as Liberation, Not Just Justification – Through Jesus, God rescued a people (not just persons) from the reign of sin and death and into Spirit-empowered, reconciled community. Guest Highlights: Dr. Tim Gombis – Pauline scholar, professor, and author, Tim challenges foundational assumptions about salvation, atonement, forgiveness, and mission with both academic depth and personal vulnerability. A recurring friend of the show, Gombis brings rich theological insight with a pastor’s heart. Resources Mentioned: • “Reading Romans Backwards” by Scot McKnight • “Militant Grace” by Philip Ziegler • “The Drama of Ephesians” by Tim Gombis • “The Triumph of Abraham’s God” by Bruce Longenecker • “Saint Paul, Our Mother” by Beverly Gaventa • Heated: A Conversation on Women in Leadership – Oct 18 in Costa Mesa (more info on Heated IG & Facebook) Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review to help more folks discover Voxology. And join us on Instagram and Facebook as we continue unpacking this one and rethinking salvation in both personal and communal terms. Email your thoughts and questions to hello@voxpodcast.com and, as always, let’s keep pursuing the true mission of Jesus together. Watch episodes on VOXOLOGY TV (YouTube) Merch Store ETSY Support us on Patreon Subscribe via Apple Podcasts or Spotify Follow: @voxologypodcast • Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre 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 should followers of Jesus approach mental health in a way that’s faithful, honest, and deeply human? In this vulnerable and theology-rich conversation, Mike Erre, Bonnie Lewis, and Tim Stafford unpack the complexities of mental illness through a biblical lens. Building a positive theology of mental health, they respond to a viral Christian post that stigmatized mental illness among pastors—particularly surrounding suicide and leadership in the church. Together, the hosts challenge damaging narratives and explore how the church can become a redemptive, healing community for those navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and spiritual struggle. Key Takeaways: • Theological Missteps on Mental Health – Addressing the harmful assumption that mental illness is incompatible with Christian leadership and exploring the flawed linkage between mental illness, apostasy, and doctrinal doubt. • A Biblical Theology of Mental Health – How scripture offers robust categories for mental illness through the lenses of the imago Dei, embodiment, communal identity, and the effects of the Fall. • Jesus and Mental Illness – What the Gospels reveal about God’s presence with the suffering and the misunderstood, and how Jesus modeled compassion and holistic healing. • Church Culture and Vulnerability – Why the church's overemphasis on strength, certainty, and positivity needs to be replaced by embracing lament, doubt, and emotional honesty. • Leadership and Struggle – Why brokenness doesn't disqualify leaders, but unacknowledged weakness might. The necessity of structure, accountability, and a broader definition of health in ministry. • Restoring Belonging – Critiquing the theology of “unbelonging” that drives suffering people into isolation rather than into community, and reclaiming the church’s mandate to embody reconciliation, restoration, and grace. Resource Highlights: • Book: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk – A key resource for understanding how trauma is experienced and stored in the body. • Book: Finding Quiet by J.P. Moreland – A theologically rooted personal story of overcoming anxiety and finding peace through integrated care. • Book: People of the Lie by M. Scott Peck – Explores evil's psychological and spiritual manifestations. • Biblical Texts Referenced – Psalms (especially 6, 13, 88), Job, Lamentations, the Gospels (Jesus and healing marginalized individuals), and Elijah’s story in 1 Kings 19. • Therapeutic Approaches – Discussion of therapy modalities, including EMDR (referenced but unnamed), the effectiveness of talk therapy, and the mindful use of medication with spiritual discernment. Engage with this vital conversation and join us in reshaping how the church thinks, talks about, and responds to mental health realities—with compassion, truth, and a commitment to wholeness. We’d love to hear your story or thoughts as we continue pursuing this essential dialogue. Email us anytime at hello@voxpodcast.com, and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're also on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Check out the VOXOLOGY Merch Store on ETSY Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Learn more about the show at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Follow @voxologypodcast on Instagram 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