Voxology

How the Voxology Podcast exists to legitimize spiritual deconstruction while centering the beauty and authority of Jesus—and why that journey compels us to address politics. In this kickoff to the new Politics series, Mike Erre (joined briefly by a surprise guest, Seth Erre!) reflects on the origin and mission of Voxology, explains why preaching is inherently political, and sets the stage for a rich dive into how the apostle Paul’s transformation offers a model for engaging politics without being partisan. Drawing on the work of scholars like N.T. Wright and Tim Gombis, Mike begins laying a theological case for why the gospel is intrinsically political—not in the corrupt, binary way we often see politics today, but in how we order society under the lordship of Jesus. Through a Biblical lens, politics becomes about the entire ordering of life together under a different kind of king, and the church becomes a countercultural “polis” reflecting God’s justice, compassion, and mercy. Key Takeaways: • Politics Beyond Partisanship – Understanding "political" in Biblical terms as the ordering of life under the reign of Christ, distinct from today’s toxic political climate. • The Church as an Alternative Polis – How local congregations are meant to be communities that showcase the kingdom’s values through everyday life and relationships. • How Paul Got Political – Introducing the transformation in Paul’s worldview that reimagined salvation, empire, and collective identity through Jesus. • Preaching as Political Act – Why preaching the gospel means proclaiming Jesus as Lord over everything—even the social, cultural, and political realms. Resources Mentioned: • Tim Gombis – Pauline theology and political implications of Paul’s writings • N.T. Wright – Theology on Jesus, Paul, and the political implications of the gospel • Michael Goheen – Reflections on Biblical narrative and worldviews • Book of Genesis – Paul’s foundational understanding of creation and covenant • Book of Exodus – God’s redemption and formation of Israel as a holy nation • Patreon Page – Support Voxology Join us as we challenge the idea that faith should stay out of politics and explore what it means to embody Jesus faithfully in a world shaped by power, fear, and division. 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

How Genesis 1 redefines the intersection of faith and science, challenging traditional assumptions, and offering a new framework for interpreting the Bible’s creation story. Mike Erre kicks off a Bible Geek episode exploring Old Testament scholar John Sailhamer’s groundbreaking take on Genesis 1:1–2—a perspective that profoundly impacts the way Christians engage with science, cosmology, and our understanding of the world’s origins. Whether you're a science-minded believer wrestling with evolution debates, or someone who’s always felt tension between scripture and science, this deep but accessible dive offers a liberating way forward. Key Takeaways: • Reconciling Genesis and Science – Genesis 1 may not be an ancient science textbook, but rather a theological narrative focused on God’s intent, design, and presence—not the mechanics of cosmology. • Two Creation Events – Sailhamer argues Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2 describe separate acts: the creation of the universe, and then the shaping of a specific land—possibly Eden—for human habitation. • The Meaning of “In the Beginning” (Rēʾšît) – This ambiguous Hebrew term refers not to a single moment, but an extended period preceding measurable time, redefining how we view creation’s timeline. • Eden as the Promised Land – A provocative idea: Eden wasn’t a mythic paradise, but an actual geographical location—potentially the same land later promised to Abraham. • Faith Beyond Literalism – A call to move beyond flat, literal readings toward faithful engagement with genre, purpose, and literary nuance. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis Unbound by John Sailhamer – A revolutionary take on Genesis 1 and Old Testament cosmology. • The Pentateuch as Narrative by John Sailhamer – A wider look at how to read the first five books of the Bible as cohesive story. • The Hebrew word “rēʾšît” – For more study, explore its use across Hebrew scriptures, especially in Job and kingship references. Have questions or feedback? We’d love to hear from you! Email our team at hello@voxpodcast.com to continue the conversation. We’re creating safe and thoughtful spaces for listeners just like you. Join the Voxology community across platforms: We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Visit: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow @voxologypodcast on Instagram and Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and invite a friend to geek out on the Bible with you.  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 a long-overdue conversation with Andy Lara, co-founder of Vox Podcast and community architect, reveals lessons in innovation, faith, and storytelling. In this heartfelt and wide-ranging episode, Mike honors Andy’s departure by reflecting on the profound impact he’s made in launching both the Vox Podcast and the Vox community. Along the way, they field listener questions that explore singleness in the Christian life, the theology of marriage, how creatives can partner with God’s image, and what it means to follow Jesus in non-violent ways. Plus, Andy spotlight’s his wife’s groundbreaking work with the Lucky Few Podcast and Dear Mom Conference—two community-building ventures serving families impacted by Down syndrome. Key Takeaways: • Can You Have a Good Marriage Without Jesus? – Exploring theological frameworks of marriage as covenant vs. cultural partnership, and why many marriages reflect God's image even without naming it. • The Value of Singleness – Reframing individual seasons of life as formative, not transitional, and what it means to thrive in faith without rushing into marriage. • Creativity and Faith – A listener shares a tip on creatives in the church, prompting a discussion on working in God's image and the importance of creativity outside traditional ministry roles. • The Temptation of Retaliation – Revisiting a past comment about violence and justice; Mike unpacks why Jesus’ example of nonviolence, embodied even in his execution, speaks volumes about the upside-down kingdom of God. • Celebrating Andy Bear – Mike reflects on the early days of Voxology and the creative brilliance and spiritual insight Andy brought to forming the podcast, the church community, and its countercultural ethos. • Podcasting and Culture – Andy offers a masterclass on how podcasting can be a DNA engine, sharing the inside story on growing The Lucky Few Podcast and Dear Mom Conference through storytelling and meaningful aesthetics. Guest Highlights: Andy Bear – Producer, strategist, and creative force behind Voxology and other notable projects including the Lucky Few Podcast and Dear Mom Conference. Andy shares reflections on his time building Vox, the changing podcasting landscape, and what role authenticity, aesthetics, and community play in shaping both church and media ventures today. Resources Mentioned: • The Lucky Few Podcast – theluckfewpodcast.com • Dear Mom Conference – dearmomconference.com • Andy Likes Words – Andy’s creative portfolio: andylikeswords.com • Books Referenced: • The Artisan Soul by Erwin McManus • Scandalous Witness by Lee Camp • Preston Sprinkle – Podcast and works on violence and theology Join Mike and the Voxology listeners in celebrating Andy’s legacy, and be inspired to pursue your creative calling, trust your current season, and rethink life’s big spiritual questions in community. Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social to keep up with future episodes and join the conversation. As always, we encourage discussion and would love your thoughts. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com or engage with Voxology Podcast on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about 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: 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 do church decline and societal disconnection go hand in hand? In this thought-provoking conversation, Mike Erre is joined by longtime friend (and former Ohio State quarterback) Steve Geller to talk football, faith, and the unraveling of American communal life. After reliving an unforgettable moment of gridiron glory and fumble-induced infamy, the duo digs into a sobering sociology-rooted critique of modern American church decline—based on recent writing from Scott McKnight’s blog, “The Death of the Church.” They explore why church attendance is declining, not just from spiritual apathy, but from broader cultural forces like suburban sprawl, screen saturation, and radical individualism. Mike and Steve unpack how churches have often mirrored these anti-community forces instead of countering them, and share candid stories about technology, parenting, and spiritual hunger in our hyper-fragmented age. Key Takeaways: • Why church decline may reflect the breakdown of American community—not just bad preaching or boring worship. • How suburban sprawl, screen addiction, and a “me first” culture work as anti-community forces eroding church life. • Ways the church reinforces individualism in sermons, programs, and discipleship—even while preaching togetherness. • The spiritual power of proximity and presence: reclaiming place, community events, and shared meals as holy acts. • How churches can offer better responses to technology’s isolating effects by becoming pro-people rather than anti-tech. Guest Highlights: Steve Geller – Former Ohio State quarterback turned educational leader and thoughtful church critic. Steve brings heartfelt reflections on Christian formation, community loss, and why the church must take a hard look at what it models today. Resources Mentioned: • Scott McKnight’s Blog: “The Death of the Church” – [Link] • Bowling Alone by Robert Putnam – [Link] • The Tech-Wise Family by Andy Crouch – [Link] Let’s rethink what real church community means. Subscribe, share this episode, and join the conversation on your favorite socials. Support us on Patreon or check out our latest resources online. 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

How a controversial GQ list, an outdated quote on spousal abuse, and Beth Moore’s powerful letter converge to expose the cultural misunderstandings—and misuses—of the Bible both inside and outside the church. Mike Erre and guest Kevin #2 (of Crimson Cup Coffee fame) unpack three hot-button moments that captured headlines and Twitter feeds, offering insights into how Christians can respond with truth, humility, and action in a culture often skeptical of faith. Key Takeaways: • The Bible and Cultural Critique – Why GQ’s dismissal of the Bible ironically reveals a widespread Christian failure to engage with Scripture beyond surface-level devotion. • Misusing Scripture in the Name of Authority – Addressing the toxic theology behind a pastor’s advice to an abused woman to stay and submit, and the broader dangers of spiritualizing harm. • Beth Moore’s Profound Witness – Reflecting on her open letter confronting sexism in the evangelical world, and what it means for church leadership, theology, and gender equality moving forward. • The Opportunity in Outrage – How righteous anger can be redirected toward internal reflection, cultural repentance, and the formation of a more Jesus-like church. • Reframing Privilege and Apology – Why true repentance goes deeper than saying “I’m sorry” for being male, straight, or white—and challenges us to become proactive agents of healing and equity. Resources Mentioned: • Beth Moore’s “A Letter to My Brothers” – bethmoore.net • Dallas Willard Quote on Cultural Privilege – The Divine Conspiracy • RNS coverage of Paige Patterson’s comments – religionnews.com • Kevin’s coffee company – crimsoncup.com Join the conversation about faith, justice, and truth by subscribing to the Voxology Podcast. Leave a review to help others find us and connect with us on social media. As always, we encourage and welcome your thoughts as we dig deeper into these challenging issues. Email your questions to hello@voxpodcast.com and join the discussion on Facebook and Instagram. Watch us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab your Voxology merch at our Etsy store Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe via Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and Facebook: voxologypodcast 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

What happens when faithful listeners bring their best questions to the table? You get a rich, multidimensional conversation exploring everything from advocacy for people with developmental disabilities to the theological case for women in ministry leadership. On this Vox Mailbag episode, Mike Erre reflects on listener feedback, critiques, and thoughtful questions with his trademark honesty and theological depth. He touches on listener experiences championing dignity and person-centered care for individuals with developmental disabilities, while also diving into serious ecclesiological considerations: Do the priestly limits placed on Levites in the Old Testament apply analogously to gender and church leadership? How should we view Paul's female co-laborers like Phoebe, Junia, and Priscilla? Could the “chosen lady” of 2 John be a female house church pastor? And why respond so often to teachings from Desiring God and The Gospel Coalition? This episode is an open, generous model of how Christians can push back, question sources of authority, and explore scripture more deeply—without disregarding those they might disagree with. Key Takeaways: • Honoring People with Developmental Disabilities – Listeners share powerful, real-life stories of advocating for and learning from individuals with disabilities—and Mike reflects personally as a father to a son with Down syndrome. • Responding with Grace to Disagreement – Engaging critiques of the show’s comments about Desiring God and the Gospel Coalition, with thoughtful consideration of whether their voices already dominate Christian discourse. • Reframing the Priesthood Analogy – Why comparing male-only Levite priests to male church leaders falls short when women leaders like Phoebe and Junia appear clearly in the New Testament. • The “Elect Lady” of 2 John – Drawing from scholar Scot McKnight’s work, a compelling exploration into whether a woman was pastoring a house church and why it matters for understanding women in ministry today. Resources Mentioned: • John Coe – Institute for Spiritual Formation at Biola University • Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross – Explorers of contemplative spirituality and the “dark night of the soul” • Scot McKnight on 2 John – Blog Post • Romans 16, 1 Corinthians, and 2 John – Biblical backing for women in leadership • Revelation Podcast Series – Exclusive for Patreon supporters Join the conversation and add your voice to this thoughtful and evolving community. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology on social media to stay connected and be part of the movement toward a more expansive and inclusive vision of the church. As always, we welcome your questions and thoughts—email us at hello@voxpodcast.com or engage with the community on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube at VOXOLOGY TV: https://www.youtube.com/@voxology Merch, anyone? Check out our Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market Learn more at https://voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/1Lla1Nj Or listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr?si=KJoEXxxxTsqE-HiGL-PfIA Support the podcast at https://www.patreon.com/voxology Find us on Instagram @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music 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

Exploring the deep wounds of narcissism and the toxic environments that foster it, Mike takes us on a vulnerable and illuminating journey of self-reflection, healing, and spiritual formation in this raw follow-up to his recent conversations on narcissism in the church. Drawing from personal experiences, scriptural insights, and therapeutic practices, this episode equips listeners with practical tools for identifying narcissistic tendencies within themselves and their communities—while offering a hopeful pathway toward authentic Christian leadership and humble, grace-filled community. Key Takeaways: • Deconstructing Narcissistic Church Culture – Understanding how the “evangelical industrial complex” encourages celebrity pastors, platform building, and ego-based leadership models. • Red Flags in Church Leadership – Practical signs to look for when evaluating whether a church is operating under narcissistic influence and how to respond wisely. • Healing the False Self – Tracing the root of narcissism to childhood wounds and the formation of a false persona, and how confession, therapy, and spiritual disciplines help dismantle it. • Practices for Spiritual Humility – How to embrace being the “biggest sinner in the room,” seek feedback, and refrain from chasing platform and applause. • Reparenting Through Christian Community – The vital role of embodied community and the church in healing damaged self-image and reshaping identity in Jesus. Resources Mentioned: • Skye Jethani on the Evangelical Industrial Complex – https://www.skyejethani.com • John Coe – Talbot Institute for Spiritual Formation • Dallas Willard’s Teachings • Jars of Clay (as metaphor and Christian band) – https://jarsofclay.com • 2 Corinthians 4:7 – “Treasure in jars of clay” Join us in resisting toxic leadership models and rediscovering what it means to be the church Jesus intended. Subscribe, share the episode, leave a review, and help spread the movement toward humility and truth in Christian community. We’d love to hear your thoughts or stories on this topic. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com, and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Shop Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Follow the Voxology Spotify channel 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 the culture of modern church leadership, platform-building, and celebrity status can unknowingly attract narcissists—and what that reveals about our definitions of church, spiritual maturity, and humility. Mike Erre continues last week's conversation on narcissism, deepening the discussion by exploring how certain church structures, American evangelical ideals, and personality-driven ministry models may unintentionally foster and enable narcissistic tendencies in both leaders and followers. Mike reflects vulnerably on his own journey with narcissism, engages listener feedback—including a psychologist’s affirmation and thoughtful community questions—and examines the broader theological implications of humility, self-denial, and leadership through scriptural lenses like Philippians 2, 1 Corinthians, and 3 John. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Spiritual Narcissism – Why ministry roles can attract narcissists and how church platforms can be used to reinforce the false self. • Church as an Applause Machine – Exploring how celebrity culture, branding, and performance-driven ministry create unhealthy cycles of ego gratification. • Redefining Leadership in the Church – Challenging narrow, type-A, CEO-style leadership models and embracing a fuller picture of biblical servanthood. • Humility and Self-Denial Reframed – Unpacking the difference between denying the self and practicing self-denial as modeled by Jesus in Philippians 2. • The Role of Community and Discipline – How obscurity, silence, and spiritual practices can disrupt narcissistic patterns and lead to transformation. Resources Mentioned: • Dallas Willard – “The Divine Conspiracy,” “Renovation of the Heart,” “Hearing God” • John Coe – Talbot School of Theology's Institute for Spiritual Formation • 3 John – A biblical example of spiritual narcissism • Philippians 2, 1 Peter 5, James 4, Matthew 11 – Verses on humility and Christ-like leadership • Sky Jethani – YouTube video on celebrity pastors and the Evangelical Industrial Complex Join the conversation as we pull back the curtain on how power, platform, and personality intersect with faith—and what it takes to embody a healthier, Christ-centered vision of leadership. Subscribe, share, and leave us a review to support the Voxology community. Follow us for more content that helps reimagine Christian faith in today’s world. 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 us 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 the pursuit of significance, platform-building, and personal image intertwines with the culture of American evangelicalism—and the deeply personal cost of hiding behind a false self. In this opening episode of a vulnerable new series, Mike Erre reflects on his own lifelong entanglement with narcissism: where it comes from, how it forms, how it thrives in church leadership, and the healing power of confession. Drawing from therapeutic frameworks, Greek mythology, and personal stories—including parenting, pastoral ministry, and depression—Mike begins a raw dissection of the inner dynamics that often shape evangelical leaders. He explores why narcissists are often rewarded with influence, how they form through wounded self-images, and how easy it is to confuse acclaim for calling. This isn’t just commentary—it’s confession. And it sets the stage for deeper exploration of why church structures seem to perpetuate narcissistic leadership and what it looks like to become free from false personas in pursuit of Jesus-shaped servanthood. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Narcissism and the False Persona – Narcissism often stems from early damage to self-worth, creating shame and a compulsive need to feel important, which is fed by constructing a false persona. • Narcissism and the Church – Evangelical culture often celebrates the very traits that mask narcissism, making it hard to detect and even harder to challenge in Christian leadership. • Telltale Signs – From an inordinate need for affirmation to reacting harshly to criticism, narcissists often exhibit specific behavioral markers that stand in contrast to humble service. • Where Confession Meets Healing – Mike shares how circumstances, therapy, and spiritual discipline have slowly dismantled his false self and exposed the grace and growth that follow. • The Impact on Relationships, Leadership, and Mission – Narcissistic patterns hinder intimacy, collaboration, and true kingdom leadership—posing important challenges for churches and believers. Resources Mentioned: • "Leading With a Limp" by Dan Allender • Charles Stone & Peter Steinke – Writings on narcissism in church leadership • Kenton Beshore – Former pastor and mentor at Mariners Church • Romans 12: Don’t think of yourself more highly than you ought Subscribe, share, or leave a review to help others join this honest conversation. And don’t miss Part 2, where we explore how American church systems invite and reward narcissistic leadership. 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 at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Check out the Voxology Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Instagram & Facebook: @voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford: 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 do we engage faithfully with long-held beliefs around gender, authority, and theology in the church? Mike Erre critiques a recent article and podcast by influential Christian leader John Piper that argues for inherent male leadership based on “God-given maleness.” Drawing on scripture, historical context, and theological reflection, Mike challenges complementarian views and offers an egalitarian reading of Genesis, Paul’s household codes, and the teachings of Jesus. This episode invites listeners to consider a more empowering and biblical vision of mutuality between men and women in leadership, marriage, and the church. Key Takeaways: • Complementarian vs. Egalitarian Theology – A breakdown of the differences between these two frameworks and why Mike now embraces egalitarianism. • Rethinking Genesis 1–3 – Why hierarchical readings of Adam and Eve are built more on theology than exegesis, and how mutuality better reflects God's original intent. • Jesus as the Model – How Jesus’ treatment of women subverts patriarchal norms and reshapes leadership paradigms. • Paul's Letters in Cultural Context – A look at Colossians, Ephesians, and 1 Peter to understand commands about gender not as eternal hierarchies, but as missionary strategies and curse reversals. • The Dangers of Hierarchical Male Authority – Addressing studies that suggest a correlation between Calvinism, complementarian theology, and domestic abuse, and why it's time for the church to lead in a healthier direction. Notable Quote: "What culture needs is the church to lead the way in empowering women, because that is what Jesus did—against all cultural convention." Guest Highlight: Seth Eery – Makes a heartwarming appearance to lead the Pledge of Allegiance, reminding us of the hope found in the next generation. Resources Mentioned: • Scott McKnight’s blog “The Jesus Creed” – https://www.christianitytoday.com/scot-mcknight • Psychology of Religion & Spirituality Study – “Religious Beliefs and Domestic Violence Myths” [DOI PDF Link] • Genesis 1–3, Ephesians 5, Colossians 3, 1 Peter 3 – Key scriptural passages discussed. Join the ongoing conversation on egalitarian theology, gender roles, and the call to justice in the Body of Christ. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to help extend the Voxology family and reimagine the church’s mission in today’s world. As always, we encourage and welcome your thoughts. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com, and connect on Facebook and Instagram. Check us out visually on VOXOLOGY TV Grab some merch at our ETSY Shop Explore more at the Voxology Podcast Website Listen and subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support us on Patreon Find unique playlists and music on Voxology Radio Follow us 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