Voxology

How the church's prophetic call and ministry of reconciliation compel followers of Jesus to confront racism, embody peacemaking, and build the new humanity in response to Charlottesville and beyond. Mike Erre addresses the tragic events of Charlottesville and the deeper systemic, theological, and prophetic implications for the modern church. Responding to a listener’s heartfelt question, he explores how the Biblical gospel compels every follower of Jesus to reject racial superiority and embrace a ministry of reconciliation rooted in humility, confession, and peacemaking. Key Takeaways: • Racial Reconciliation at the Core of the Gospel – The Bible consistently affirms the equal worth of every human as bearers of God's image, making racial division not just a social concern but a central theological issue. • The New Humanity in Christ – Paul’s doctrine of a unified community beyond Jew and Gentile reveals that the church is meant to model a diverse, counter-cultural body where all are equal under Christ. • Peacemaking as a Kingdom Vocation – Followers of Jesus are not called to maintain superficial peace, but to actively engage in reconciliation — relationally, prophetically, and structurally — much like Jesus did with outcasts, enemies, and empire. • Humility and Confession in Prophetic Witness – Before denouncing injustice in society, the church must first embrace confession, lament, and acknowledgment of its own complicity in systemic racism and inequality. • Rejecting Over-Spiritualization – Racism is not just a matter of hearts needing Jesus; it’s a systemic evil that requires collective repentance, institutional change, and sustained relationships across racial and cultural lines. Resources Mentioned: • Podcast episode on “Peacekeeping vs. Peacemaking” – [Link to earlier episode] • Ephesians 2:11–22 – Paul’s teaching on the new humanity in Christ • Colossians 3 and Galatians 3 – Key passages dismantling hierarchy within the body of Christ Call to Action: Let’s be the church that not only speaks out against racial injustice but also lives the answer through humble confession, action-oriented peacemaking, and building cross-cultural relationships that reflect the coming kingdom of God. Subscribe, leave a review, and join us online 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

How confronting the cultural lies about body image, beauty, and identity can free us to live in the restored image of God. In episode three of the Sex, Love & God series, Mike Erre takes us deep into Song of Songs 1:1-8 to unpack the powerful truth behind the phrase "Do not stare at me," exposing our culture’s toxic standards of beauty and inviting listeners into a radically different story rooted in image-bearing, not performance. Through biblical reflection, historical context, and raw personal engagement, Mike invites us to rethink what it means to be human, to be loved, and to be seen—not as objectified bodies but as divine image-bearers in a world of Hellenistic distortions. Key Takeaways: • What Song of Songs Teaches About Insecurity – Exploring the ancient woman's plea, "Do not stare at me because I am dark," and how her vulnerability speaks directly to today's struggles with body image and cultural beauty norms. • The Legacy of Hellenism on Body Image – Tracing the history of “ideal beauty” from Alexander the Great to modern celebrity culture, and how ancient Greek ideals still shape our perception of worth. • The Broken and Reconstituted Image of God – How Genesis and New Testament passages point to the core truth that our value is rooted in being image-bearers, not our looks or sexual performance. • Healing from Shame and Objectification – Understanding how Jesus doesn’t just make us feel “pretty enough” but destroys the entire false system that promotes shame, comparison, and commodification of people. • Learning to Be Fully Known and Loved – Strong reflections on insecurity, sexuality, and porn addiction—not from judgment, but from personal experience, grace, and the hope of transformation. • Community as a Site of Resistance and Healing – A powerful moment from the live event where women are prayed over by men, inviting a revolutionary countercultural act of honor, accountability, and restorative love. Notable Quotes: • "Only the beautiful are loved. To not be beautiful is to be unloved. That’s the lie of Hellenism—and it’s wrecking us." • "We take our beautiful people and modify them. That’s how sick culture has become." • “Jesus doesn’t want to improve your self-esteem, he wants to destroy the thing that makes beauty a measuring stick of worth in the first place.” Resources Mentioned: • Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/voxpodcast • Watch Voxology on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV • Join the Vox Community Group on Facebook • Email questions or feedback: hello@voxpodcast.com Join the conversation, share this episode, and help spread a better, truer story about beauty, community, and restoration. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more: Voxology Podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify 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 desire, vulnerability, and sacrificial love shape authentic intimacy and emotionally safe relationships. Mike Erre continues the "Sex, Love & God" series by diving into Song of Songs 1–2 and Ephesians 5 to examine what it means to delight in the "shade" of another—how trust and character matter far more than superficial attraction. This deeply personal and honest reflection invites conversation around biblical sexuality, gender roles, healthy submission, and what makes love truly safe, satisfying, and Christlike. Key Takeaways: • "I Delight to Sit in His Shade" – A profound image from Song of Songs that shows how emotional and relational safety form the basis for attraction and intimacy. • Physically Attracted, Spiritually Anchored – How beauty, desire, and character intersect in a relationship that honors God's design. • Reframing Ephesians 5 – Why mutual submission, not domination, lies at the heart of biblical love and marriage. • Redefining Headship – What true love and leadership look like when modeled after Christ’s sacrificial headship of the church. • Sexuality and Character Formation – How marriage isn’t an escape from lust but a context for refining selflessness and faithfulness. • Dating Wisdom – Don’t settle for “he’s hot”—date long enough to learn someone’s character, or their real “name.” • Masturbation, Porn, & Intimacy Gaps in Marriage – Vulnerable listener Q&A dives into real-life questions about unmet needs, sexual shame, and holistic faithfulness. • Single but Not Alone – Encouragement from the Psalms and pastoral honesty for singles navigating sex, longing, and worth without shame. Resources Mentioned: • Song of Songs 1–2 – [Link to Song of Songs] • Ephesians 5 – [Link] • Psalm 17:8 – “Hide me in the shadow of your wings” • Psalm 68:5–6 – “God sets the lonely in families” • Genesis 38 – The story of Onan and “spilling seed” • EV Free Fullerton – Original hosting venue for the series • Vox Community Counseling & Story Resources – voxpodcast.com Join the Voxology community in challenging cultural norms and rediscovering God’s vision for sex, love, and relational formation. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social to continue this deeply personal and transformative series. 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 understanding our humanity as made in the image of God offers a better story of sexuality, identity, and spiritual integration than what culture or the church often provide. Kicking off the Sex, Love, and God series, Mike Erre revisits his powerful and vulnerable teaching on sexuality from 2013—complete with updated reflections and grace-filled context. This episode, "Made in the Image," explores the ways we have been misformed by both the culture’s over-sexualization and the church’s silence or shame around sex, and invites us into a more human, integrated, and hopeful vision rooted in Scripture and God’s design. Key Takeaways: • Fully Human, Not Merely Animal or Angel – Unpacking how humans are uniquely created to embody both body and spirit, and why that impacts how we should understand and live out our sexuality. • Reframing Broken Desire – Why the biblical view of sexuality offers a redemptive middle way between cultural license and religious repression. • Sexuality as Spiritually Significant – How physical desire and spiritual awareness are not at odds, but intertwined in our design as image-bearers. • From Shame to Honest Conversation – Encouragement to bring our stories, questions, and struggles into a grace-filled, nonjudgmental space modeled after Jesus’s compassion and truth. • Song of Songs as a Biblical Vision for Desire – Rediscovering the sacredness of attraction, love, and eroticism in the language of Scripture, especially through the voice and agency of women. Resources Mentioned: • Song of Songs 1:1–4 – Exploring desire and sexuality through the Israelites’ erotic poetry. • Genesis 1 & 2 – The foundational image of humanity as physical-spiritual beings made in God’s image. • Psalm 8 & Job 38 – Contrasting humanity with angels and animals to understand our unique role and dignity. • 1 Corinthians 6, Ephesians 4, and 1 Timothy 4 – New Testament insights on the body, sin, and false teachings about desire. • Vox Care Team – Onsite support and prayer team available after teachings to walk alongside anyone seeking help or healing. Join us as we start this much-needed conversation about sexuality, desire, singleness, marriage, identity, and freedom. Share this episode with someone navigating questions around faith and sexuality, and help us build a Jesus-centered community where nothing is off-limits and everything is wrapped in grace. Subscribe, leave a review, and join the ongoing conversation 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

Unfiltered, raw, and deeply personal—this mailbag Q&A episode invites you into a porch-side conversation with Mike Erre as he tackles questions from the Voxology community, ranging from the role of preaching versus teaching, to the profound struggles of depression within a life of faith, and the complexities of divorce and Christian belief. Broadcasting from a transitional moment in his family’s life (post-move from California to Ohio), Mike provides reflective insights rooted in scripture, honesty, and empathy. Key Takeaways: • Preaching vs. Teaching – Why authentic, companion-based communication often resonates more than traditional preaching models. • Faith and Depression – Exploring how depression is not contrary to faith, but often part of the journey of following Jesus in a hurting world. • Mental Health in the Church – How the Bible models honesty about emotional suffering and why the church should be a stigma-free place for mental health conversations. • Initial Thoughts on Divorce – Acknowledging the deep pain and complex theological questions surrounding divorce and the importance of approaching it with grace and communal support. • Community Over Celebrity – Why we need spiritual companions more than Christian celebrities and how that shapes the Voxology posture. Resources Mentioned: • Previous Voxology episode discussing suicide – [Link to Previous Episode] • Scripture References: Psalms (lament), Job, 1 Kings 19 (Elijah’s despair), and New Testament teachings on mutual care in suffering • Mental Health Resources: Counseling support and “The Third Option” resource for couples on the brink – [EV Free Fullerton's program – link if available] Mike also reflects on how moving across the country brought unexpected emotional and spiritual challenges, offering a vulnerable and timely reminder that Jesus meets us right where we are—even in an empty house with no furniture and a surprise visit from DirecTV during recording. We’ll dive deeper into the divorce question in a future “Embarrassed by the Bible” episode, so stay tuned. Join the journey of honest faith and join the Voxology community across platforms. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay in the loop. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue Jesus together. Email your questions to hello@voxpodcast.com or join 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 – https://voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Check out the Voxology Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford – 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 pursuit of Jesus—not just what He offers—leads to deeper spiritual transformation, intimacy, and joy. In this insightful mailbag episode, Mike Erre and Andy reflect on listener questions ranging from the hiddenness of God, the relational significance of the Genesis narrative, and how to plant church communities centered on Jesus. Plus, a deep dive into Paul's gospel and its relationship to Jesus’s proclamation of the kingdom. Key Takeaways: • The Reward of Jesus Is Jesus – Why seeking God as the goal—not a means to self-fulfillment—is essential to authentic spiritual growth. • Understanding God’s Hiddenness – How seasons of spiritual silence help us move from using God towards being with God. • Genesis as Foundational Theology – Exploring how the fall, hierarchy, and power dynamics in Genesis 1–3 reflect deep truths about human experience. • Kingdom over Consumerism – The danger of treating Christianity like a spiritual vending machine and how joy comes from the treasure of Jesus Himself. • Church Planting the Vox Way – Practical advice for building Jesus-centered church communities rooted in the Eucharist, table fellowship, and radical inclusivity. • What Is the Gospel? – Clarifying the "Paul vs. Jesus" question and why Jesus's announcement of the kingdom frames the rest of the New Testament. Resources Mentioned: • "Center Church" by Tim Keller – Explores gospel “grammars” and their cultural application • John 17:3 – Defining eternal life as knowing Jesus and the Father • Genesis 1–3 – Foundational narrative for understanding creation, fall, and power dynamics • The Vox Mailbag Series – Ongoing conversations shaped by listener questions Call to Action: Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on your favorite platform. Send in your questions to hello@voxpodcast.com for future mailbags, and join the community exploring a more Jesus-centered faith. 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: 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 "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

Mike Erre shares big personal and community-changing news as the Vox Podcast—and Mike’s family—pivot toward a new chapter in Columbus, Ohio. This heartfelt, spontaneous episode reflects on the spiritual, personal, and communal reasons behind Mike's cross-country move, the vision for expanding Vox into Ohio, and how Vox OC will continue despite this transition. With vulnerability and honesty, Mike and Andy explore what it means to grieve, grow, and faithfully follow where Jesus is leading next. Key Takeaways: • The Big Move – Mike Erre announces his family's relocation to Columbus, Ohio, sharing the emotional and spiritual weight behind the decision, including his mom’s health and his desire to live at a healthier pace. • The Future of Vox – Vox OC will continue to gather, worship, and embody its sacramental, inclusive mission without disruption. Mike will remain engaged via technology, resourcing, and leadership. • Vox OH Launch – A call to listeners and supporters in Ohio to help shape what Vox Ohio might become. If you’re in the area, reach out to contribute to the early formation of this new spiritual expression. • Vox Beyond Sundays – Stories of Vox growing organically across the country, as listeners begin meeting in their homes to embody Eucharistic community. Encouragement to those seeking to start something similar. • Grieving and Hope – Navigating the grief of change while holding onto the deep hope rooted in Jesus’s mission and the beauty of authentic community. Resources Mentioned: • Join the Vox OH List – voxpodcast.com (submit your email at the top of the page) • Follow Sherman and Teresa’s journey – awilderlife.com • Support the podcast – patreon.com/voxpodcast This is a pivotal moment in the life of Vox. Help us grow what’s next by connecting, sharing, and partnering with us. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social to be part of the unfolding story. As always, we invite your thoughts and prayers. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Visit the Merch Store: ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support the show on Patreon Follow us on Instagram at @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 should Christians respond to political loyalty, personal relationships, and shifting cultural norms—all while seeking to follow Jesus faithfully? In this candid and often hilarious live Q&A episode, Mike Erre tackles big listener questions about political allegiance, discerning God's will for big decisions, the biblical view of monogamy, and what the future might hold for the American church. With Andy chiming in remotely and Seth Eery making a surprise (and adorable) appearance, this episode is as insightful as it is heartwarming. Key Takeaways: • Power and Image-Bearing – What it truly means for humans to rule the earth as divine image-bearers, and why any authority used outside of God’s purposes isn’t worthy of our allegiance. • Should Christians Pledge Allegiance to Trump? – A thought-provoking explanation of why power should only be followed when it reflects God's shalom and justice. • Discerning God’s Will for Your Future – Why God may not always have a “right” choice for every decision and how to wisely discern what's best through doors that open and close. • Is Monogamy Normal or Just a Social Construct? – A biblical and neurological argument for the normative design of monogamy, plus personal reflections on desire, covenant, and fulfillment. • The Church in Hospice? – A powerful metaphor from a listener about whether the American church is dying or being reborn—and why many are rediscovering Jesus apart from megachurch culture. Guest Highlights: • Seth Eery – Mike’s son drops by to bring pure joy with PE updates, snack talk, and inspired jumping jacks. • Andy Bearss – Live from the digital backstage, Andy jokes with Mike about teaching Pilates, the power of Facebook Live, and sings (sort of) for his birthday. Resources Mentioned: • Vox Community Announcement – Vox Community Page • Book: “Hooked: The Brain Science on How Casual Sex Affects Human Development” – [Link] • Past Episode with Matt Carter – Reflections on reimagining church beyond institutional frameworks. Join the discussion and stay engaged with these essential conversations about following Jesus in today's world. Subscribe, leave a review, share your thoughts on social, and don't miss the next Voxology Live Q&A! As always, we encourage your feedback and questions. Write to us at hello@voxpodcast.com or drop a comment on Facebook or Instagram. Catch full episodes and more content on our YouTube channel: VOXOLOGY TV Shop Voxology Merch: ETSY Find out more at Voxology Podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford @GoneTimothy on Instagram & Twitter  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 viewing the Bible through the lens of Jesus transform our understanding of scripture, inspiration, and divine violence? In the third installment of the Voxology Scripture Series, Mike and Tim welcome Bible Project co-founder and Hebrew Bible scholar Tim Mackie for a deep dive into the literary brilliance of the Bible, the cultural context of the Old Testament, and why grounding our reading in the person of Jesus changes everything. Mackie reflects on his personal journey—from a disillusioned teen and skateboarder to becoming a Bible nerd and seminary professor—and explains why approaching the Bible through Jesus opened his eyes to its beauty, complexity, and unified message. This episode builds on previous conversations with guests Rob Bell and Greg Boyd, bringing yet another thoughtful perspective on how Christians can faithfully wrestle with tough questions, like divine violence, inspiration, and the evolving formation of scripture. Key Takeaways: • Jesus as the Interpretive Center – Why starting with Jesus reshapes how we understand the entire Bible and challenges the notion that God changes from the Old to New Testament. • Divine Violence in Context – How the cultural setting of ancient Israel and the concept of God “stooping” to work with human limitations help frame disturbing Old Testament narratives. • Inspiration Without Inerrancy – Differentiating between dictation-style inspiration and a collaborative, Spirit-filled literary process that includes flawed humans yet remains divinely guided. • The Bible as Quilt, Not Tablet – Why scripture is more like a multi-generational quilt than abstract doctrine, revealing God’s story through fragmented and beautiful human voices. • Faith as Wrestling – Embracing doubt and questions as part of a vibrant, lifelong engagement with God’s story and a deeper encounter with the person of Jesus. Guest Highlight: Tim Mackie – Co-founder of the Bible Project, seminary professor, and Bible translator. Tim unpacks how the Bible is a unified, literary work pointing to Jesus, and how understanding its original Jewish context transforms our view of scripture. His insights bridge historical scholarship and profound pastoral wisdom. Resources Mentioned: • The Bible Project – bibleproject.com • Greg Boyd's ‘Crucifixion of the Warrior God’ – [Link] • Rob Bell’s ‘What is the Bible?’ – [Link] • The Septuagint & Dead Sea Scrolls – Resources on scripture formation and translation [Link] • Tim Mackie on YouTube – BibleProject YouTube Channel Join us as we reconsider scripture’s shape, meaning, and authority in light of Jesus. Wrestling with the Bible doesn’t diminish our faith—it deepens it. Have questions or reflections? Don’t hesitate to reach out and share your journey as we navigate these sacred texts together. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on your favorite podcast platform and social media to stay connected! As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy  As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the rise of Christian podcasting is reshaping spiritual conversation, decentralizing church authority, and creating new spaces for voices questioning megachurch systems, leadership cultures, and what's next for the American church. Mike and Andy sit down with Matt Carter—musician, podcast pioneer, and co-founder of Bad Christian Media—for an unfiltered and energizing exploration into how podcasts like Bad Christian are redefining what it means to lead, disciple, deconstruct, and push the church forward. Matt details his journey from performing in a Christian punk band to becoming one of the most compelling progressive voices challenging Christian institutional norms. They unpack the creative power of podcasting as a medium that allows for nuance, truth-telling, and disruption, all of which are deeply needed in current church culture. From megachurch fatigue to decentralization, misinformation, and a longing for authentic spiritual community, this conversation is an honest and hopeful look at what might be coming—and what's crumbling. Key Takeaways: • The Power of Unfiltered Voices – How podcasting allows real-time, honest conversations that church stages and religious institutions often censor or avoid. • The Megachurch Expiration Date – Why gigantism in church culture echoes the dinosaur effect: large, unsustainable, and vulnerable to collapse. • Community over Celebrity – Why decentralizing church leadership may be necessary for long-term spiritual health and resistance to abuse. • Post-Mars Hill Landscape – What collapses like Mars Hill teach us about the dangers of charismatic leadership, institutional dependence, and commodified faith. • Creating Space Instead of Systems – Why Matt sees himself not as building an institution but clearing wilderness paths so others can build better faith communities. Guest Highlights: Matt Carter – Founding member of the band Emory and co-creator of the Bad Christian Podcast and media network. Known for combining sharp insight, satire, and openness, Matt unpacks the failures of church leadership models and advocates for more democratized, organic, and participant-led spiritual spaces. Resources Mentioned: • Bad Christian Podcast & Media Network – badchristian.com • Matt Carter on Twitter – @ZodCarter • Emory (the band) – emerymusic.com • Barna Group Church Attendance Data – barna.com Join the conversation by subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing this episode with fellow seekers and spiritual curators trying to imagine a healthier future for the church. Have thoughts or feedback? Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com and follow @voxologypodcast on Instagram and Facebook. We're on YouTube if you'd rather watch: VOXOLOGY TV Support the podcast on Patreon to keep these meaningful conversations going: patreon.com/voxology Shop merch that supports the Voxology community: ETSY Subscribe and follow Voxology on your favorite platforms: 🎧 iTunes 🎧 Spotify Music by Timothy John Stafford Follow Tim on Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy Let’s keep reimagining the church 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. 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