Vox Podcast With Mike Erre

To Be Human - Part Six: Power Over vs. Power With. Today, Mike and Tim discuss the concept of gatekeeping and the misuse of power in various contexts, including the church and society. They explore the idea of ruling and having dominion over creation, emphasizing the importance of modeling God's rulership, which is based on love, humility, and invitation. This opens us up to our main topic: power over vs. power with. Mike and Tim highlight the need to hold convictions in a way that promotes curiosity, conversation, and hospitality, rather than using them to exclude or shame others. Further, they discuss the concept of power and how it is used by God, the idea of power over versus power with, and how power with is invitational and cooperative, while power over is hierarchical and coercive. How does this play into the importance of environmental stewardship and how is it a way of bearing the image of God? As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hel

First off, we were hit on all sides in this episode. Construction, sick kid interruptions, audio problems... it was bumpy. However, we stuck the landing... How Should We be Political? Today, Mike and Tim welcome another Tim, Dr. Timothy Gombis, to explore the role of the church in politics and how to navigate political engagement as Christians. The church IS a political entity and the Christian way is political from beginning to end! However, the focus should be on practicing the politics of the cross, which involves service, love, and advocacy for the weak. It is important to resist being seduced into practicing the politics of this world and instead focus on the politics of the kingdom of God. We also highlight the need to balance mental health with being concerned about justice issues and the importance of taking action at the local level. Further, we discuss the dangers of getting caught up in national politics and the media's role in fueling anger and division, the idea of loyalty to Jesus and how

To Be Human - Part Five: It Is Good. Today, Mike and Tim discuss the concept of ruling and what it means to be human. They explore the idea that creation is good, not perfect, and that humans are placed in the world to direct and manage it. They emphasize the importance of enjoying and appreciating creation, as well as the potential for misuse of power and authority. The episode touches on topics such as the purpose of marriage, the value of physical embodiment, and the need to honor God's goodness in our actions. Further, they explore the themes of enjoyment, creativity, and restoration in the context of ruling and reigning over creation. It emphasizes the idea that God created a world filled with potential and invites humans to participate in the cultivation and enjoyment of that creation. The conversation also touches on the concept of freedom and how it relates to our understanding of what is good, highlighting the importance of finding joy in the simple pleasures of life and appreciating the beauty

To Be Human - Part Four: Woman & Man. Today we analyze Genesis 1 and the poetic refrain that emphasizes the unity and diversity of humanity as images of God. Let's talk about the themes of the Genesis story and its relationship to ancient Near Eastern creation stories, the image of God and the unity in difference between male and female, the implications for gender equality, the absence of hierarchy between male and female, the image of God and procreation, the image of God and gender identity, treating all humans as image bearers, the Church as a community of image bearers, ruling in community, and the thread of congruity throughout the Bible.... Heyo! First, we discuss an email on the topics of correcting conditions and disabilities, as well as the implications of the new creation for individuals with disabilities. They explore the concept of the image of God and its significance in human ethics. The conversation also delves into the tension between hope and suffering, and the importance of loving

To Be Human - Part Three: The Royal Dignity of Seth Erre. Today, we continue the conversation on what it means to be human, by exploring different views on the image of God, including the substantive, relational, and functional views. The conversation highlights the need for Christians to live out their faith in a way that reflects the kingdom of God and promotes inclusivity and love for all people, including the concept of human image and the different views on personhood. We delve into the implications of the functional view and presents the ontological view as a counterargument. What is the importance of treating all human beings as image bearers and the inherent value of every individual? What is the revolutionary nature of the image of God in Genesis and its impact on ancient societies? The conversation also addresses the treatment of children with special needs and the reevaluation of definitions and vantage points. Annnnd, we wrap it up with a reflection on the use of power and the threat of radical

To Be Human - Part Two: Statuesque. Today, we explore the concept of the image of God in humanity. The "image and likeness" of God were standard statue words used in the ancient Near East, referring to physical representations of deities or kings. How is it that being the image of God is not limited to specific capacities or religious aspects of life, but encompasses the totality of human existence? What is the importance of understanding that humans are meant to be living statues of Yahweh, representing God's presence in the world? What are the implications of the "image of God" for human relationships and the restoration of humanity's image through Jesus? First, we look at an email about the topics of faith, guidance, and discernment in relation to partying, sex, and drinking. What is the importance of a centered approach rather than a bounded approach to these topics? The goal of Christ-following is to become like Jesus and overcome behaviors that hinder our pursuit of Jesus-lik

New series alert! To Be Human... Today, we begin a new conversation around what it means to be human. In this episode, Mike and Tim dive into the meaning of the first sentence of Genesis and the significance of the words 'bereshit' and 'reshit.' What is the purpose of Genesis and the creation story?  Why is it important to understand the literary devices used in the text? Further, we explore the conflict between science and faith in interpreting Genesis. We emphasize that Genesis is not meant to answer scientific questions about ‘how' and ‘when' things happened, but rather the ‘what' and ‘why.’  The importance of curiosity and humility in biblical interpretation is highlighted, as well as the use of symbolism and metaphor in Genesis. We also discuss the flexibility of interpretation and the role of liturgy and tradition in faith. It concludes by emphasizing the role of Jesus and the gospel in understanding Genesis. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Fe

Chapstick for the Heart. Today, Mike and Tim are joined by the amazing Suzie P. Lind to discuss various topics related to personal growth, relationships, and parenting. They share personal experiences and insights, highlighting the importance of setting boundaries, being aware of one's limits, and learning from past mistakes. The conversation also delves into the challenges of repairing relationships with adult children and the need for self-reflection and growth as parents. How do we take a less bounded approach and impart wonder and love for Jesus, the power of repair and healing and encourage being available for repair and connection? What does it mean to trust Jesus with our children's faith? How doe we repair and connect with adult children? Or connect over outcome-based apology, naming wounds and seeking repair, teach with wonder and connection, invite kids into wonder and curiosity, dismantle the formulaic approach, teach with wonder and age-appropriate methods, teach scripture with life, not t

Today, we have Dr. Nijay Gupta back to talk about his new book, "Strange Religion: How the First Christians Were Weird, Dangerous, and Compelling." In this book, Dr. Gupta discusses and explores the social force of early Christians in the Roman Empire. He highlights the contrast between Roman religion and the beliefs and practices of the early Christians. The early Christians defied Roman hierarchy and power, rejected rituals of appeasement, and emphasized direct access to God. They also practiced gift-giving and generosity, expanding their acts of kindness beyond their own community. The early Christians challenged the notions of Romanness and monoculturalism, embracing diversity and inclusivity. What are the parallels between Christianity and Roman religion? How does Christianity resemble the Roman religion, including hierarchy and power, appeasement and divine judgment, and elitism and limited access? We talk about the influence of preachers, the role of the church, the professionalization of pa

Growing Kids God's Way? Is that a thing? WARNING, it gets a little spirited. Today, Mike and Tim discuss the theme of differentiating fruit and outcomes, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness over controlling outcomes. The conversation concludes with a question about parenting and the use of the "rod," from the book of Proverbs. Mike and Tim discuss their perspectives on parenting and discipline. They emphasize the importance of building a close relationship with their children and prioritizing connection over strict discipline, challenge the idea of labeling one way of parenting as 'biblical' and highlight the harmful effects of shame in parenting. What is the difference between outcome-focused parenting and fruit-focused parenting? How do we differentiate between fruit and outcomes in order to focus on faithfulness rather than controlling results? How do we create environments that allow for the growth of fruit, but recognize that fruit cannot be produced or controlled? 00:00 Intr

Revelation Part Thirty One: The End of the End. This is it. The final episode of our longest series ever. Today, we begin by addressing listener emails and discussing Tim Stafford's gallbladder. Mike and Tim then respond to pushback on topic of platforming younger people on social media and the potential risks and benefits. The conversation shifts to a listener's critique of the Holy Spirit episode and the our response. Then we conclude our long conversation on Revelation with one last look at New Creation and how the resurrection of Jesus serves as the launch of new creation. What is new creation and its implications for the church? What is the significance of Easter as a reminder of the victory and new life found in Jesus? Then one last listener email about the role of pastors and the importance of clarity in defining their responsibilities within the church. Is there a need for reimagining church structures and fostering a culture of lifelong learning among pastors? 00:00 - Listener Emails 06:00 -

For the Good of the Field. Two listener questions. Two in depth responses. Alter calls and platforming younger people before they're ready. Today, Mike and Tim discuss the concept of platforming people too early and the potential dangers it poses. They also explore the role of altar calls in evangelism and the early church's view of patience. The conversation highlights the importance of discernment and the need for a balanced approach to these topics. They also explore the concept of patience as a counter-cultural virtue and its application in the teachings of Jesus. The parable of the wheat and weeds is examined as an example of patient ferment, where the Kingdom of God exists alongside evil in the world. The importance of creating a culture of humanization and embodying the goodness of living under the lordship of Jesus is emphasized. The traditional practice of altar calls is questioned, and a broader understanding of evangelism is proposed. The chapter concludes with a call to be patient, resist

Gospel & Gombis: Part Five. Okokok. This is a long one. Brace yourselves. The Holy Spirit. Mike and Tim put Gombis on the spot with questions about the Spirit. What is it? What is it's role? What is Paul's understanding of Jesus as part of the triunity and his teaching on the Holy Spirit? They address misconceptions about Paul's teaching and how evangelicals often misread his views on the Spirit. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the Spirit's work in the church and individualized Spirit talk in Acts. Everyone discusses the interpretation of Ephesians 5:18 and the concept of being filled with the Spirit. They explore the idea that the church, as a community, plays a role in being filled with the Spirit and producing the fruits of the Spirit. They also discuss the understanding of spiritual gifts and how they should be viewed as gifts for the benefit of the church rather than personal abilities. Annnnnd, what about praying to the Holy Spirit and the role of spiritual disciplin

Today, Mike and Tim are joined by Author and Speaker Michael Wear, to discuss his new book, "The Spirit of Our Politics: Spiritual Formation and the Renovation of Public Life." Michael discusses the intersection of Christianity and politics, emphasizing the need to integrate political life into discipleship. He highlights the importance of understanding the role of faith in politics and the impact of Christianity on public life. Wear also addresses the disappearance of moral knowledge and the need for Christians to offer goodness to politics. He challenges the notion that voting is a God-given duty and encourages Christians to steward their influence in a way that is most loving towards their neighbors. Wear shares insights from his experience working in the White House and emphasizes the need to hold politicians and political systems accountable. In this conversation, Mike and Tim discuss the influence of politics on religious identity. They explore how partisan forces shape religious divides and

Revelation - Part Thirty: To Hell and Back. Thirty! Crazy. Today, Mike and Tim first respond to a few emails and discuss the harm and good intentions of religious movements, particularly focusing on purity culture, deconstruction etc. Was there good in those movements as well as bad? Will people just deconstruct the things talked about on this podcast in a few years? They emphasize the importance of curiosity and wonder in inviting others to explore beyond the confines of their beliefs. The conversation also touches on concerns about being labeled as universalists and the role of church in saving people. Overall, they encourage a posture of humility, hospitality, and embodying the better alternative. What is the power of labels, the focus of salvation, the concept of hell, and the church as a community? They challenge the traditional understanding of hell as a place of eternal torment and emphasize the importance of understanding the biblical context. They also discuss the role of the church in embodying fait

Revelation - Part Twenty Nine: All Things Made New. Today, Mike and Tim discuss the January blues and the concept of new creation and restoration. They explore the idea of the day of the Lord and the destruction and purification that will occur. They also delve into the building of the church and the testing of the work done by church leaders. How do the themes of renewal, purification, and the ultimate restoration of heaven and earth play out? What of the themes of the overlapping space of heaven and earth, the work of light, fire, and water, the day of the Lord, a new heaven and a new earth, the new Jerusalem, the new Eden, the reckoning and the call to holiness, the function of hell, the resurrection of Jesus, the new creation project, and the human element in the Bible? The concept of new creation and restoration is a recurring theme in the Bible. The day of the Lord involves both destruction and purification. Before the rejoining of heaven and earth, there is work to be done, symbolized by light

Happy New Year! Today, Mike and Tim discuss their holiday experiences and reflect on their therapy journeys. They then delve into the concept of 'New Creation,' starting with the creation of heaven and earth in Genesis. They explore the cosmic temple and the Garden of Eden, the rupture and separation of heaven and earth, and the manifestation of God's presence. They highlight the importance of understanding the biblical narrative and the implications it has for our lives. They explore the concept of heaven and earth in the Old Testament, highlighting instances of overlapping spaces. It discusses Jacob's dream and Moses and the burning bush as examples of heaven and earth intersecting. The tabernacle and temple are presented as spaces where heaven and earth overlap, with Jesus ultimately becoming the ultimate "heaven and earth space." The conversation also touches on Jesus' authority and the future restoration of all things. What is the church's role as the heaven and earth sp

Revelation - Part Twenty Seven: Smoke on the Water. Today, Mike and Tim discuss the concept of the lake of fire and its symbolism in the book of Revelation. Merry Christmas!!! What are the origins of this imagery in the Old Testament, particularly in the stories of Sodom and Gomorrah? Does the lake of fire represent destruction rather than eternal conscious torment? What is Hell??? Does the text really advocate for an eternity of torment and separation for "unbelievers?" - The lake of fire in Revelation represents destruction rather than eternal conscious torment. - The imagery of burning sulfur and smoke rising is borrowed from the Old Testament, particularly the stories of Sodom and Gomorrah. - Being left outside the city symbolizes exclusion from the New Jerusalem and the consequences of practicing vices associated with empire. - Understanding the symbolic nature of these images is crucial for interpreting the book of Revelation. Revelation challenges us to ask hard questions and reckon with our

Practicing the Way. Today, Mike and Tim are joined by old friend John Mark Comer, to discuss his new book and non profit, 'Practicing the Way.' Why “apprentice” instead of disciple? Are we are all being formed by someone or something? Is spiritual formation not so much a Christian thing or even a religious thing, but a human thing? How is community integral to spiritual formation? How is the practice of community far more than church attendance? How does suffering play into all of this? You can learn more about John Mark's work here: practicingtheway.org/ As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Always 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. 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 Instag

Don'y skip the banter! Some important news in the front section! Revelation - Part Twenty Six: The Lake of Fire. We're coming to the end of this ridiculously long series on the book of Revelation. Today, it's the two final battles, judgments and the Lake of fire... What do the final battles represent? Is this when God comes back swingin? Is it the bloody finale so many have dreamt of and still advocate for from the pulpit? Why two? When does this happen? What is the Lake of Fire? Is it Hell? Will people burn there forever? What OT references are needed to understand? Mike and Tim also spend some time discussing the next 'Nonference' this coming summer as well as a few listener emails. Tim's new single can be heard here or on any streaming services: SPOTIFY 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 th