Vox Podcast With Mike Erre

What does it mean to live in the shape of the cross? In this thought-provoking episode, the hosts unpack the concept of cruciformity and how it challenges us to reshape our lives, communities, and faith. They explore biblical interpretation, addressing the difference between what the Bible describes versus prescribes, and how this distinction informs our understanding of morality, the Kingdom of God, and the role of the church today. From the countercultural nature of Jesus' teachings to real-world applications of humility, service, and solidarity, the discussion dives deep into how the church can embody a community of justice and radical love. What does it look like to align with the cross in a world obsessed with status, power, and self-preservation? How does this relate to faith and politics, cultural transformation, and our personal lives? Join the conversation as the hosts reflect on Christian teachings, the historical context of the Roman Empire, and the practices of baptism, communion, and solidarity w

What is Cruciformity? In this engaging conversation, Mike and Tim welcome back long time friend and scholar Dr. Timothy Gombis to discuss a variety of topics ranging from personal anecdotes about driving and family life to deeper discussions on biblical interpretation and its relevance to social justice. Gombis shares insights from his teaching experiences and the importance of maintaining a balanced life while engaging in academic pursuits. The conversation also touches on the historical context of biblical interpretation and its implications for contemporary issues. Further, everyone discusses the importance of understanding historical context in scripture, the transformative nature of reading the Bible, and the concept of cruciformity. They explore how curiosity about biblical figures can lead to deeper insights and the challenges of navigating difficult conversations within the Christian community. The discussion emphasizes the need for self-giving love and social justice in faith practices. In this conve

The Anti-Greed Gospel. In this episode of the VOXOLOGY podcast, Mike Erre, Timothy John Stafford, and Dr. Malcolm Foley discuss the themes of greed, racism, and economic justice as explored in Foley's book, 'The Anti-Greed Gospel.' They delve into Foley's background, theological influences, and the historical context of race and economics in America. The conversation emphasizes the interconnectedness of racial and economic justice, critiques colorblindness, and highlights the church's role in fostering economic solidarity and justice. Further, Dr. Foley discusses the profound vision of deification in Christian salvation, emphasizing the deep relationship God calls us to. He critiques the church's preoccupation with material wealth and power, urging a reorientation towards God's true provisions. The discussion also delves into the urgency of material care and the challenges posed by systemic exclusions in DEI initiatives. Foley highlights the interplay of self-interest and racial dynamics, advocating for a mor

500. Thank you, thank you , thank you for walking this long road with us. In this episode of Voxology, Mike and Tim reflect on the journey of their podcast as they celebrate their 500th episode. They express gratitude to their community and discuss the challenges of navigating cultural issues and the complexities of faith in today's world. The conversation then delves into the existence of different interpretations of Christianity and the role of the church in addressing societal issues, emphasizing the need for clarity in understanding the teachings of Jesus amidst a landscape of competing narratives. They discuss the intersection of faith and politics, emphasizing the need for the church to engage in political discourse while remaining true to the teachings of Jesus. Further, Mike and Tim explore the importance of listening to marginalized voices, particularly black women, and the role of the church in advocating for justice and truth in a complex world. The discussion also delves into the concept of crucif

The Affections of Christ Jesus. In this episode of the Voxology podcast, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and guest Nijay Gupta delve into the complexities of love as presented in theology, particularly in the context of the Old and New Testaments. They explore the differences between Hebrew and American conceptions of love, the role of emotions, and the importance of empathy in relationships. The conversation also touches on the challenges of loving others, including enemies, and the necessity of cultivating genuine compassion. Throughout the discussion, the hosts emphasize that love is not merely an action or feeling but a multifaceted experience that encompasses attachment, devotion, and relational dynamics. Further, Nijay , Mike and Tim discuss the complexities of love, empathy, and relationships in the context of faith and social media. They explore the power of prayer, the impact of celebrity culture on genuine relationships, and the nature of God's love and jealousy. The discussion also delves into the concept

Bridging the Gap: Justice in the Church. This episode, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by Sarah Pechan Driver to discuss personal experiences and the profound journey of understanding justice from a biblical perspective. Sarah shares her journey from youth group (with a young Mike Erre as youth pastor) to a consultant for equity in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of justice as restoration of Shalom. The discussion explores the biblical foundations of justice, practical applications in everyday life, and the gaps in understanding justice within the church community. Further, the conversation looks at the effectiveness of USAID programs, the role of the church in health initiatives, and the importance of equity in business practices. They discuss practical steps for promoting equity, biblical perspectives on justice, and the transformative power of community practices. The conversation emphasizes the need for the church to engage in social justice and the restoration of Shalom as a core element

Understanding Grace as a Social Dynamic. In this episode of the Voxology podcast, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford discuss the implications of Christian nationalism, the importance of mental health in the face of societal issues, and the transformative power of grace within community dynamics. They explore how grace can reorder relationships and emphasize the need for a new humanity as described in Ephesians, while also addressing the challenges of navigating anger and outrage in today's world. Further, Mike and Tim explore the transformative power of grace within the context of the new humanity as described in the New Testament. They discuss how grace flattens social hierarchies, reverses corrupt evaluations of status, and fosters a sense of siblingship among believers. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community practices that restore Shalom, address racial dynamics, and promote generosity towards the marginalized. Ultimately, they highlight the need for the church to embody a radical reconfiguration

Social Justice as a Core Aspect of the Gospel. In this episode of the Voxology podcast, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford engage in a thought-provoking discussion about a new book on the concept of empathy, particularly in the context of the church and its role in social justice. They confront the idea of empathy as a sin, explore the church's responsibility in addressing justice issues, and emphasize the importance of community and discernment in navigating these complex topics. The conversation also delves into the early church's practices regarding social justice and the significance of communion as a reflection of social dynamics within the church. Further, Mike and Tim the significance of the Lord's Supper, emphasizing the importance of community and unity within the church. They explore the implications of social justice as a core aspect of the gospel, highlighting how divisions within the church can lead to judgment. The discussion transitions into the concept of shalom, emphasizing that true peace involves r

Justice is the Restoration of Shalom. Today, Mike and Tim discuss various themes surrounding community, hope, and the church's role in addressing cultural challenges. They emphasize the importance of healing from church hurt, the need for validation in times of crisis, and the significance of engaging with culture through a holistic understanding of salvation and justice. The conversation highlights the necessity of being an active presence in the community and the ongoing journey of faith amidst uncertainty. Further, Mike and Tim discuss the significance of the book of Ephesians in understanding salvation, the role of the church, and the concept of unity among diverse communities. They explore Paul's perspective on powers and authorities, emphasizing the cosmic and covenantal dimensions of salvation. The discussion highlights the importance of grace, the restoration of shalom, and the church's role as a monument to the powers, ultimately encouraging a posture of humility and community rather than superiority

The Repairing of Shalom. Today, hosts Mike Erre and Tim Stafford reflect on the intersection of faith and culture, particularly in relation to government actions that affect Christianity. The conversation shifts to the role of missions and evangelism, questioning traditional motivations and methods. Finally, they explore the concepts of sin and salvation, emphasizing the importance of community in embodying faith and justice. To go deeper, Mike and Tim discuss the profound implications of the New Testament teachings on the communal aspects of sin and salvation, emphasizing the role of the Spirit in new creation. They explore how Jesus redefined community through his teachings and actions, highlighting the importance of justice and unity within the body of Christ. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the true nature of the gospel and its implications for missions work, advocating for a community-oriented approach to faith. Also: Announcement!! This summer we will be having another non-conference (non

A Communal Salvation. It's a live episode with listeners joining in! In this episode, Mike and Tim (along with Voxology listeners!) explore the themes of mercy, empathy, and the church's role in addressing social issues such as immigration and justice. They discuss the dichotomy within Christianity regarding compassion and the political ideologies that influence church teachings. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, the corporate nature of sin and salvation, and the church's responsibility to welcome the marginalized and uphold justice. Further, Mike and Tim explore the themes of corporate sin and salvation, the role of community in redemption, and the importance of justice and righteousness in community life. They discuss how the church operates as a microcosm of society, emphasizing the communal aspect of missions and the need for the church to embody shalom. The conversation also delves into the understanding of sin in relation to the law and the significance of mutuality in community r

The Road More Traveled. In this episode of the Voxology podcast, hosts Mike Erre and Tim Stafford discuss the intersection of faith and politics in light of the recent Presidential turnover. The conversation hangs a moment on the sermon and then backlash given by Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde. Was it fair? How did what she said compare to the other "Christian" speakers during the inauguration? Further, they explore the emotional responses to political events, the dangers of political idolatry, and the role of the church in advocating for mercy and justice. The conversation emphasizes the importance of maintaining a nonviolent posture in the face of political turmoil and the challenge of navigating cultural transformation without compromising spiritual integrity. Mike and Tim discuss the role of the Bible in promoting human flourishing, the limitations of political processes in changing hearts, and the church's mission to be a community of justice and love. They explore the concept of faithful presence versus pol

Joyful Non-Compliance. In this episode of the Voxology Podcast, Mike and Tim discuss the significance of synagogue life during the Jewish exile and how it shaped the identity of the Jewish people. They explore the relationship between Jesus and the Herod family, particularly focusing on Herod the Great's dual legacy as a builder and a tyrant. The conversation delves into the prophetic background surrounding Jesus' birth, the political climate of Judea, and how these elements influenced Jesus' teachings and parables. The episode concludes with reflections on the implications of these historical contexts for understanding Jesus' message. What was the complex dynamics of power during the time of Jesus, particularly the Herodian dynasty and its rulers, including Archelaus, Antipas, and Philip? How did Jesus interact with these figures and how were his teachings a form of subversion against the oppressive systems of power? What is D Willy's concept of 'joyful non-compliance' as a response to authority? How does it

We Are Caesar. In this episode, Mike and Tim discuss various pressing issues, including the impact of severe weather events like snow in Nashville and wildfires in California. They delve into the role of prayer in the face of disaster, emphasizing the importance of action alongside prayer. The discussion transitions into the concept of exile and how it shapes political identity and the church's role in society. They explore the relationship between the supernatural and natural realms, highlighting the need for community involvement and connection during crises. Further, Mike and Tim explore the implications of the Kingdom of God on social justice, the role of the church in society, and the significance of baptism as a subversive act. They discuss how Christians should engage with culture and politics, emphasizing that the church's primary witness is through its community rather than through political power. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating political authority in a liberal democrac

Navigating Exile: A New Political Identity. This episode, Mike and Tim explore the themes of exile, political identity, and the role of the church in navigating contemporary politics. They discuss the importance of reconfiguring political allegiance away from partisan identities towards a community of believers, emphasizing the need for a hopeful perspective that transcends national boundaries. The conversation also addresses the complexities of engaging with government while maintaining a posture of critique and submission, ultimately advocating for a faith that is not tied to political ideologies. Further, they explore the complexities of living as Christians in a world dominated by empires and political systems. They discuss the tension between comfort and discernment, the significance of Paul's messages in the context of the early church, and the importance of contextualization in sharing the gospel. The conversation delves into the duality of submission and subversion, emphasizing that Christians are cal

Good Trouble. In this episode of the Voxology podcast, Mike and Tim reflect on their holiday experiences, discussing family challenges and the nature of Christmas. They transition into a deeper conversation about the concept of exile, exploring its implications for political identity and the church's role in society. They highlight Israel's historical context as a holy nation and the church's current identity as exiles in a foreign land, emphasizing the importance of living out their faith in a way that seeks the good of the community while maintaining their distinctiveness. Further, Mike and Tim explore the themes of living as exiles in a contemporary context, emphasizing the importance of doing good, maintaining a distinct identity, and navigating the complexities of power structures within the church. They discuss the political identity of the church, the significance of suffering for doing good, and the life cycle of churches from radical beginnings to bureaucratic institutions. The dialogue culminates in

Preparing the Way. Today, the VOXOLOGY team explores the themes of family traditions during Christmas, the concept of exile in relation to Israel's political identity, and the unique practices of kingship, militarism, and economics in ancient Israel. Mike and Tim reflect on their personal experiences while drawing parallels to biblical teachings and the implications for modern society, while also exploring the themes of economic injustice, the active nature of faith, the challenges of navigating modern systems, and the concept of political idolatry within the church. They discuss how ancient Israel's social structures and God's expectations for His people can inform contemporary Christian practices, emphasizing the need for discernment and active engagement in community and economic issues. 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

A Kingdom of Exiles. WARNING: This episode talks about sexual abuse, racial discrimination and other topics that may be triggering for some folks. While Mid and Tim try to be sensitive they are reacting in real time to these topics and questions. Please listen with caution. Today Mike Erre and Timothy Stafford explore community feedback and the definitions of harm and hospitality within societal contexts. They delve into the racial dynamics present in church experiences, emphasizing the importance of true hospitality that creates safe environments for the vulnerable. The conversation highlights the need for inclusivity, the significance of listening to diverse experiences, and the necessity of addressing real issues without the 'fluff' that often clouds discussions. Further, Mike and Tim discuss the importance of ethnic reconciliation within the church, emphasizing that it is central to Paul's vision. They explore the church's role as a social justice entity, the complexities of navigating feelings of exile a

Exiles on Main Street. Today Mike and Tim explore themes of exile and displacement within the context of faith and community. They discuss the implications of the kingdom of God, the challenges of political idolatry in church leadership, and the nature of God's kingship. The conversation delves into the historical role of Israel and the transition to the church, emphasizing the ongoing choice between life and death in the spiritual journey. What are the implications of the kingdom of God as a political and social order that transcends partisan politics? What is the law of love, the geopolitical reality of Jesus' message, and the importance of understanding the Old Testament as a historical lineage with significant implications for contemporary life? Together, Mike and Tim emphasize the public nature of the kingdom, the now and not yet aspect of its realization, and the need for repentance and discernment in the face of political idolatry. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel fr

Are There Limits to Hospitality? Today, Mike and Tim are joined by the one and only Dr. Timothy Gombis to discuss whether or not there are limits to biblical hospitality. Together, they explore how hospitality is rooted in God's character and how it should manifest in church communities. The discussion also delves into the political dynamics affecting church communities, the limits of hospitality, and the challenges of navigating political idolatry and competing claims of harm within the church. What are the complexities of community engagement, political activism, and the challenges faced by faith communities in a divided society? What is the importance of identity, belonging, and the role of pastors in navigating cultural tensions? 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 abo