Voxology

Explore how to understand and engage with the Bible beyond simplistic frameworks, recognizing its complexity, beauty, and purpose in guiding a faithful and Christ-centered life. Mike Erre and producer Andy dive deep in response to a listener's thoughtful questions on the authority of Scripture, infallibility, inerrancy, and how believers can faithfully interpret a diverse library of sacred texts shaped by God and written by real humans. Key Takeaways: • Inspiration Over Infallibility – Why Mike chooses the word “inspired” over “inerrant” or “infallible” when discussing the nature of Scripture, and how these terms have been used in theological “Bible wars.” • Messy but Trustworthy – Acknowledging the Bible’s inconsistencies, contradictions, and genres not as flaws, but as evidence of its authenticity and relevance to real life and faith struggles. • Reading the Bible Literarily, Not Literally – How understanding the variety of literary forms in Scripture—like poetry, prophecy, narrative, and apocalypse—changes how we interpret meaning and divine intent. • No Infallible Readers – Even if the Bible were perfect in the originals, all readers interpret it through cultural, emotional, and theological lenses, so humility and context are essential. • Improvising the Fifth Act – NT Wright’s metaphor of the Bible as an unfinished play helps frame how we live out Scripture today—rooted in the first four “acts” while faithfully discerning how to act in our time based on the story’s trajectory. Resources Mentioned: • Book: The Authority of Scripture by N.T. Wright • Scripture Examples: Exodus 1 (midwives lying to Pharaoh), John 8 (woman caught in adultery), Mark 16 (alternate endings) • Ancient Literature Genres: Apocalyptic writings (Daniel, Revelation), Wisdom literature (Proverbs, Job), Hebrew poetry (Psalms) Catch the sneak peek into upcoming episodes, including a moving discussion around World Down Syndrome Day with Mike, Andy, and their families, and a return to questions around gender and the role of women in Scripture. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode. If today’s conversation resonated with you, rate us and leave a review—it helps others find and engage with this journey of rediscovering the Jesus way. 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 church can reclaim its true mission by removing the cultural, political, and institutional distortions that obscure the beauty of Jesus. Mike Erre and Andy unpack the heart of Voxology’s purpose—to make Jesus beautiful again by reflecting his love, humility, and upside-down kingdom. Leveraging Scripture, personal stories, and candid critiques of modern Christianity, this episode aims to remind followers of Jesus what it truly means to represent him to the world. Key Takeaways: • Understanding the Core Mission – Why “making Jesus beautiful” doesn’t mean altering Jesus, but removing the human-made ugliness that keeps people from seeing him clearly. • Reclaiming a Counter-Cultural Faith – Exploring the contrast between the Jesus of the Gospels and the ways he's been misrepresented through political alliances, judgmentalism, and nationalism. • The Responsibility of the Church – How followers of Jesus are called not just to preach, but to embody love, humility, and grace with credibility and compassion. • The Power of Gospel-Centered Living – Why ordinary acts of kindness, hospitality, empathy, and forgiveness reflect the radical beauty of Jesus and invite others into the kingdom. • Deconstructing Christian Entitlement – A challenging discussion on how movements for religious freedom can actually make Jesus less visible when used to avoid serving others. Notable Quotes: • “Jesus is already beautiful. Our job isn’t to make him more so—but to get out of the way so that beauty shines through.” • “Loving people who love you is easy—loving your enemies is beautiful.” • “Our main challenge isn’t secularism or persecution—it’s centuries of ugliness done in Jesus’ name.” Guest Highlights: Features regular hosts Mike Erre and Andy, whose humor, honesty, and deep commitment to the mission of Jesus set the tone for this transformative episode. Resources Mentioned: • John 12 – Jesus’ teaching on being “lifted up” to draw all people to himself • 2 Corinthians 5 – Paul’s appeal to be ambassadors of reconciliation • Ephesians 5:1-2 – Imitating God by walking in love • 1 Corinthians 13 – Love defined as the metric of Christlikeness • Acts 17 – Paul's address to the Athenians and contextual gospel invitation • Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John – Encouraged study for rediscovering Jesus • Bart Tarman’s “Mentor” story – A call to fall in love with the real Jesus again • Jude 1:24–25 – Closing benediction celebrating God’s goodness Join us as we pursue a faith that reflects the true Jesus—not the distorted one built by cultural battles and political convenience. Let’s strip off the grime and shine his light with humility, empathy, and truth. If this conversation moved you, help others discover it—subscribe, leave us a review, and share a link with a friend. You can also engage by emailing us at hello@voxpodcast.com or connecting on social media. 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 @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

How the “center-set” model of Christianity offers a radical alternative to legalism, spiritual abuse, and rigid boundary-drawing—and what it means for those longing to experience authentic grace, community, and transformation. Kicking off their new Spiritual Abuse series, Mike and Tim dive deep into Paul Hebert’s set theory and how it reshapes our understanding of who belongs, what discipleship looks like, and how churches can prioritize Jesus as the true center. Key Takeaways: • Bounded vs. Centered Faith – How the traditional “bounded set” model prioritizes behavioral and doctrinal checklists, often at the expense of grace, honesty, and transformation. • Dangers of Boundary-Focused Churches – Why focusing on who's “in” and who's “out” fosters legalism, fear, and superficiality. • The Center-Set Alternative – Exploring a transformational perspective where the direction of a person’s heart toward Jesus, rather than meeting external qualifications, defines spiritual belonging. • Indicators vs. Boundaries – Why behaviors (like generosity, love, peace) should serve as indicators of heart orientation rather than rigid membership tests. • Church Discipline and Relational Accountability – Reflecting on Paul’s example in 1 Corinthians and discussing the delicate balance of transparency, restoration, and protecting community health. • A Call to Build Wells – How churches and communities can be rooted in grace, welcoming honesty and brokenness while always pointing toward the wellspring of Jesus. Resources Mentioned: • Paul Hebert’s “Set Theory” (Theological framework on Bounded, Fuzzy, and Centered sets) • Mark Baker – Author and scholar adapting Hebert’s theories for modern congregations • Dallas Willard – Teachings on the inward transformation of discipleship • Galatians & Matthew 19 – Scriptural cases for center-set thinking and critiques on boundary models This episode kicks off a larger conversation on the roots and mechanics of spiritual abuse—how legalism, control, and fear undermine the gospel of grace and the heart of Jesus. Join the journey as Mike and Tim dig deeper in upcoming episodes. Let’s keep the conversation going—join us on social media, share your story, or email us at hello@voxpodcast.com. And if this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Voxology to help others discover this community. We’re on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Merch Store: VOXOLOGY on Etsy Learn more or sign up for updates: voxologypodcast.com Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support this work via Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Facebook: Voxology Podcast Music by Timothy John Stafford – Insta/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 unmet hopes and everyday frustration might be the very fuel your faith needs. Mike Erre and Andy unpack the deep theological and existential implications of disappointment—why it shows up in work, marriage, relationships, and even your spiritual journey—and how scripture reveals God strategically using this gap to draw us closer, not push us away. This conversation dives into Genesis and explores the origin story of the human experience with frustration and unfulfilled longing, uncovering how the Christian life was never meant to be an infomercial promise of instant gratification, but a covenantal journey of transformation. Key Takeaways: • The Strategic Role of Disappointment – Why God frustrates our search for purpose in relationships, career, and identity to point us back to himself. • Jesus Isn't the Ab King – How sermons and church culture often pitch Jesus like a product, setting us up for hollow expectations. • Three Ways We Cope with Disappointment – Escaping and medicating, pretending and performing, or learning (counterculturally) to stay spiritually “thirsty” in the struggle. • Covenant Over Contract – Reframing faith as a trusting relationship rather than a transactional promise of blessing. • The Gap That Fuels Faith – Why the ache for something better remains—even for believers—and how that ache can become sacred space for growth, hope, and honesty with God. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis 1–3 – Exploration of creation, identity, fall, and the origin of frustration • Astonished by Mike Erre – [Link] • Fruit of the Spirit – Galatians 5:22–23 • Podcast Archive – Episode on "Soulmates" for complementary context Join us each week as we embrace real conversations around disappointment, hope, and rediscovering the true mission of Jesus. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay connected and be part of the Voxology community. 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

What if everything you believed about finding “the one” was never actually biblical—or even helpful? In this candid and often hilarious conversation, Mike Erre and co-host Andy explore the deeply ingrained myth of the soulmate, confronting cultural narratives around romance, marriage, and self-fulfillment in both the secular and Christian world. Drawing extensively from the Genesis account of creation and the fall, they unpack how our expectations of marriage often lead us astray and suggest a more grounded, Christ-centered vision for love and relationships rooted in self-sacrifice, partnership, and transformation. Using insights from Genesis 1-3 and thinkers like Stanley Hauerwas and Tim Keller, the episode dives into how Christians are called to resist Hollywood tropes and embrace the difficult but rewarding journey of covenant love, where two imperfect people learn to reflect God’s love for humanity. Whether you're dating, married, or spiritually curious, this episode challenges assumptions and invites deeper reflection on how we love and who we expect to change us. Key Takeaways: • The Biblical Portrait of Marriage – Genesis presents male-female relationships as “ezer kenegdo”—equal partners who are both alike and opposite, designed to co-rule creation. • Fallout from the Fall – How disobedience distorts divine design, turning mutuality into power struggle and fulfillment into frustration. • Soulmate is a Myth – There is no “one perfect person” who will complete you; true fulfillment comes not through compatibility but through sacrificial love and growth. • Marriage as Covenant, Not Contract – Christian marriage is less about individual happiness and more about embodying God’s covenantal love through service, vulnerability, and resilience. • When You Change, So Does Marriage – You will always marry the “wrong” person because both people in a marriage will change, evolve, and, ultimately, disappoint. The key is growing together through it. • Redefining Fulfillment – Letting go of self-centered expectations in marriage opens the door to deeper joy, healing, and transformation. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis 1–3 – The foundation for understanding male-female relationships and the impact of sin on marriage. • Stanley Hauerwas – Ethicist who wrote extensively on the myth of soulmate ideology and the self-fulfillment ethic in marriage. • Tim Keller – The Meaning of Marriage, for a gospel-centered view of commitment and relational growth. • Psalm 121 – The word “ezer” (helper) ascribed to God, offering profound implications for gender equality in partnership. • Ephesians 5 – Paul’s vision for mutual submission and Christ-centered love in marriage. Join us in rethinking relationships and returning to a more redemptive vision of marriage. Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and follow Voxology on social media to keep diving into tough questions and meaningful discussions. As always, we encourage and welcome your thoughts and feedback as we pursue these conversations together. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com or join the conversation on Instagram and Facebook. Watch full episodes on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab some new merch: ETSY Store Discover more at VoxologyPodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify Support the show at Patreon Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Follow Tim on all platforms: @GoneTimothy Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford  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 biblical justice, equality, and the true story of Genesis reframe the conversation around women in ministry in the church. Mike Erre and theology teacher Bonnie Lewis kick off a new multi-part conversation on the role of women in Christian leadership, diving deep into Bonnie’s personal journey, cultural preconceptions, and ultimately how scripture affirms her calling. This is not a culture war issue—it’s a gospel issue. Mike and Bonnie begin by naming the “three ghosts” that haunt the women in ministry debate: the Usurper, the Temptress, and the Child—destructive labels that still shape how many churches treat women who lead. They unpack the theological, pastoral, and gendered barriers still in place within conservative evangelicalism and share how their views shifted not because of culture, but because of the Bible itself. Key Takeaways: • Reading Genesis with Fresh Eyes – The Hebrew word “ezer” (helper) used to describe Eve is a term also applied to God, radically reframing assumptions about female subordination. • Jesus’ Countercultural Invitation – Mike and Bonnie explore New Testament stories like Mary and Martha to demonstrate how Jesus consistently welcomed women into discipleship and leadership. • Paul’s Contextual Commandments – Rather than timeless prohibitions, Paul’s words in 1 Timothy and 1 Corinthians are reexamined as culturally specific instructions for gospel clarity. • The Holy Spirit’s Work in Women – How affirming women’s full participation in ministry doesn’t dilute the gospel—it reflects its power to restore what’s been broken by patriarchy. • Restoring the Church’s Witness – Addressing how inconsistency in honoring women in church undermines justice the church claims to advocate for in the wider world. Guest Highlight: Bonnie Lewis – Founder of the "Find the Blue" podcast and Fuller Seminary graduate with a Master’s in Theology, Bonnie shares her journey of moving from silence to conviction. A gifted communicator and passionate theologian, she brings both grace and clarity to this vital topic. Resources Mentioned: • Find Bonnie’s Podcast: Find the Blue • Article: “Three Ghosts That Haunt the Church” – [Link] • Scripture Refs: Genesis 1–3, 1 Corinthians 14, 1 Timothy 2, Acts 2, Luke 10 (Mary & Martha) • Watch/Listen to the Sermon on Mary and Martha – Search “EV Free Fullerton Luke 10 Mary and Martha” Help us continue to explore difficult but necessary topics like this—subscribe to the Voxology Podcast, leave a review, and follow us on social media. Share this episode with someone asking tough questions about how churches represent Jesus today. As always, we’d love your feedback and questions as we continue this series. Reach out to hello@voxpodcast.com and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the podcast on Patreon Follow us: Instagram: @voxologypodcast Facebook: Voxology Podcast Twitter: Mike Erre 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

Mike Erre shares his tumultuous journey of leaving three churches in six years, reflecting on failure and resilience through the lens of the prophet Jeremiah. He calls for a shift from consumerism to a church that serves the broader community and embodies love. Emphasizing authenticity, he advocates for creating safe spaces for honest conversations about faith. Additionally, he highlights the vital role of older generations in nurturing and empowering the next generation within the church.

How do we show Christ in conversations that spiral out of control? Mark Salomon—frontman of Christian punk staples The Crucified and Stavesacre—joins Mike and Andy to reflect on a recent debate-turned-nightmare with an outspoken atheist podcaster. In this candid and vulnerable conversation, Mark opens up about what went wrong, what he wished he said, and what it means to represent Jesus when the stakes are high and you're completely caught off guard. This episode goes beyond debating theology; it’s a raw look at spiritual ambassadorship, moral reasoning without a framework, and how Christians can navigate hostile or disorienting conversations with both conviction and humility. Mike and Andy walk with Mark through the emotional and intellectual landmines of the original exchange, bringing clarity to big questions about God's morality, divine judgment, the authority of scripture, and the place of empathy in a post-Christian world. Key Takeaways: • Representing Jesus in High-Pressure Moments – How to stay grounded when caught off guard during spiritual conversations. • Debates vs. Dialogues – Why the goal shouldn't be "winning" the argument but embodying the love, patience, and humility of Jesus. • Objective Morality & Faith – Exploring the theological conviction that God's authority defines good and evil—even when that feels difficult or cold. • Revisiting the Problem of Evil – Mike breaks down how a world built on love must include freedom, using powerful examples like suffering and disability to illuminate God’s bigger picture. • When The Old Testament Gets Weaponized – Unpacking divine judgment, slavery, and God’s progressive revelation leading to Jesus as the full image of God’s character. Guest Highlights: Mark Salomon – Icon of the Christian hardcore scene and host of the podcast “Never Was.” Mark talks through the emotional fallout of a frustrating public conversation, shares his fears about misrepresenting Christ, and reflects with courage and honesty on what spiritual integrity looks like when things don’t go as planned. Resources Mentioned: • “Never Was” Podcast by Mark Salomon – Available here • “Pastor With No Answers” podcast – Pastor With No Answers • “MetalSucks” Podcast – Featuring guest “Godless” • Hebrews 1, Colossians 1 & 2, John 14 – Used to demonstrate Jesus as the fullest revelation of God • C.S. Lewis – Referenced throughout the discussion for insights on morality and divine authority • “The Problem of God” by Mark Clark – For exploring tough questions skeptics ask about Christianity Join us as we continue the conversation on how faith and humility intersect in hard places. Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay connected. As always, we welcome your thoughts and questions. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Visit our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more at the Voxology Podcast Website Subscribe via Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support the podcast on Patreon Listen to curated playlists on the Voxology Spotify Channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: twitter.com/mikeerre Original 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 choosing — or being chosen — to parent a child with Down syndrome became one of life’s greatest blessings for six parents. In this open, honest, and emotionally powerful conversation, Mike Erre and his wife Justina are joined by three incredible couples in the Voxology “home office” to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day with raw storytelling, reflection, and a resounding message: this diagnosis is not a tragedy — it’s an invitation to discover unimaginable joy, depth, and love. Heather and Josh, Mercedes and Andy, and Mike and Justina candidly share how having (or adopting) a child with Down syndrome initially sparked fear and grief, but ultimately transformed them into deeper, more compassionate, and joy-filled humans. The group explores how societal stereotypes and eugenic narratives deepen isolation, while radically inclusive communities, rooted in Jesus’ love and example, offer grace, connection, and true belonging. Key Takeaways: • The Beauty of “Yes” – Saying yes to parenting a child with Down syndrome opened doors to radical love, seismic personal growth, and deepened relationships. • Resisting the Culture of Perfection – Against a backdrop of societal fear and genetic “control,” these families offer a prophetic witness to the value and sacredness of every life. • Joy in the Hard – While raising children with special needs brings challenges, the community reflects on how “hard” doesn’t mean “bad,” and struggle often breeds true joy. • The Power of Presence – Children with Down syndrome live fully in the moment, modelling a kind of joy, purity, and love we desperately need in modern culture. • Honest Reflections – Fears around the future, care, and inclusion are real, but so too is the vibrant beauty of the community and resilience that flows from a life rebuilt around love. Guest Highlights: • Mercedes & Andy Lara – Parents of Sunflower Mae Lara, who was adopted with Down syndrome. Mercedes shares the story of radical openness birthed out of heartbreak and rooted in mission. • Heather & Josh Avis – Co-creators of “Macy Makes My Day,” recounting the unplanned-yet-divinely-ordained adoption of their daughter Macy, and how it led to a movement of advocacy, writing, and awareness. • Justina & Mike Erre – Parents of Seth, whose arrival redefined expectations, demolished fears, and brought deep compassion, connection, and healing to their family. Resources Mentioned: • Sunny Fun Days (YouTube Channel) – Sunny Fun Days • Macy Makes My Day (Instagram) – @macymakesmyday • Hooray For Sunny (Instagram) – @hooray4sunny • Heather Avis Website + Book “The Lucky Few” (Coming Soon) – heatheravis.com • March 21st – World Down Syndrome Day: Recognizing the beauty and significance of that extra 21st chromosome Join us in rejecting the lie that a Down syndrome diagnosis is a misfortune. Discover how children with that tiny extra chromosome reflect the image of God in ways that humble, challenge, and teach us all. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology on your favorite social media platform to be part of this transformative community. Let’s keep the conversation going: • Email us your thoughts or questions: hello@voxpodcast.com • Watch us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV • Rock some merch: Voxology Etsy Store • Explore more episodes: voxologypodcast.com • Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify • Support Vox on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Join the discussion on Facebook Follow 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

Exploring how a scared world needs a fearless church, Mike Erre takes a deep and unflinching look at the growing entanglement between American evangelicalism and political power in this episode of the Subversive Kingdom Series. Drawing from the controversial 2016 meeting between Donald Trump and prominent evangelical leaders, Mike questions what it means for Christians to align themselves with political figures out of fear rather than faith. Through sharp critique, biblical insight, and passionate reflection, Mike and Andy unravel how the church's call to represent Jesus contrasts radically with political partisanship and fear-based decision-making. Key Takeaways: • The Evangelical Infatuation with Political Power – How the church’s alliance with political candidates reflects a loss of trust in Jesus’s nonviolent, subversive way of transformation. • Fear as a Political Tool – A breakdown of how candidates prey on Christian fears—religious liberty, cultural decline, economy—and why fear should not drive our faith or our vote. • Reclaiming Kingdom Power – Distinguishing between brute force power and agape-based kingdom influence through wisdom, love, and example. • The Idol of Comfort and Security – Why Trump’s appeal reveals the deeper idolatries within American evangelicalism and how repentance is a necessary response. • Jesus Over Partisanship – Why fidelity to Jesus means rejecting the binary “lesser of two evils” mindset and refusing to be a voting bloc used for political gain. Guest Highlights: Andy – Co-host and thoughtful dialogue partner, helping process the implications of fear-based leadership and challenging the audience to consider what it really means to be a fearless church. Resources Mentioned: • Romans 13 – Discussion on the church's relationship with governmental authority • Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5) – Exploration of what true kingdom power looks like through Jesus’s teachings • The Beatitudes – Compared against the values embodied by modern political candidates • Subversive Kingdom by Mike Erre – [Link to Book/Website] • Charles de Foucauld (L'Arche Movement) – Reflections on authentic Christian community vs. issue-based identity Be part of the movement to reclaim a Jesus-centered, fearless faith rooted in sacrificial love, not political gain. Subscribe to Voxology, leave a review, and follow us on social media to continue engaging in these critical conversations. We’d love to hear from you—email questions to hello@voxpodcast.com and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. Watch us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Check out our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe: iTunes | Spotify Support the podcast: Patreon Explore our music: Timothy John Stafford Follow on IG & Twitter: @voxologypodcast | Mike: @mikeerre | @GoneTimothy Let’s continue walking in Jesus’s way of fearless love in a culture gripped by fear.  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