Voxology

In this episode of Voxology, the hosts discuss Emperor Domitian and his obsession with deification. They explore how John addresses this in Revelation. They also touch on the power of words and the impact of violent rhetoric. Additionally, they delve into the symbolism of the throne in heaven and the worship scene. The hosts express frustration with confusion and discuss the importance of therapy in the search for wholeness.

Pastor Suzie P. Lind discusses a center set approach to sexuality in this episode. They explore healthy desire, talking to kids about sex, and why wait until marriage. They also touch on topics like Gnosticism, purity culture, expressive individualism, and consent. The chapter descriptions include lighthearted banter, harmful statements towards women, challenges faced by men, the connection between rhetoric and violence, navigating shame and objectification, as well as admiration for Susie and promotion of their Patreon.

Explore how Scripture has been used and misused in American politics as Mike and Tim sit down with author Kaitlyn Schiess to discuss her new book, 'The Ballot and The Bible'. They delve into historical and contemporary implications of bringing faith into the public square, offering insights on navigating the intersection of religion and politics in a pluralistic society. Key Takeaways: The Role of Scripture in Politics – Understanding how the Bible has been historically used to both justify and challenge political systems in America. Misinterpretations and Misuses – Discussing examples of how Scripture has been misapplied in political discourse, contributing to division and oppression. Bringing Faith into the Public Sphere – Insights on responsibly sharing personal religious convictions in a diverse society without coercion. Importance of Contextual Biblical Reading – Emphasizing reading the Bible in community and considering historical and canonical contexts to prevent misuse. Engaging in Upcoming Political Seasons – Practical advice on how to prepare spiritually and mentally for political engagement, focusing on local issues and healthy dialogues. Guest Highlights: Kaitlyn Schiess – Author of 'The Ballot and The Bible' and 'The Liturgy of Politics', PhD student in political theology at Duke Divinity School, and contributor to the Holy Post podcast. Kaitlyn shares her expertise on faith and politics, encouraging thoughtful and respectful political engagement rooted in deep scriptural understanding. Resources Mentioned: 'The Ballot and The Bible' by Kaitlyn Schiess – Link 'The Liturgy of Politics' by Kaitlyn Schiess – Link Holy Post Podcast – Link Duke Divinity School – Link Join the conversation and explore how we can faithfully engage in politics without misusing Scripture. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow the Voxology Podcast on social media to stay connected and be part of the discussion. 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

Explore how moving beyond purity culture and expressive individualism can lead to a healthier, wisdom-based, centered-set approach to sexuality rooted in the image of God. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into how the church can reimagine sexual ethics by forming desire in the way of Jesus, discussing the pitfalls of over-spiritualized and under-spiritualized views of sex, and proposing a more holistic understanding of what it means to be human. Key Takeaways: Reexamining Purity Culture – Understanding the limitations and harm caused by over-spiritualized views of sex, and why fear-based approaches have failed. Critiquing Expressive Individualism – Analyzing how under-spiritualized views of sexuality reduce it to mere preference and personal freedom, neglecting communal and spiritual dimensions. Forming Desire in the Image of God – Exploring a centered-set approach that seeks to form desire through wisdom, embodying a holistic understanding of being human in God's world. Navigating Sexual Ethics Today – Discussing how the church can address sexuality in a way that is hospitable, welcoming, and reflective of Jesus's teachings. Resources Mentioned: "Sex God" by Rob Bell – [Link] "Faithful: A Theology of Sex" by Beth Felker Jones – [Link] John Tyson's Teachings on Forming Desire – [Link] Episodes with Sheila Wray Gregoire and Rebecca Lindenbach – [Link] Join us as we journey together in reimagining sexual ethics within the church. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to stay connected and be part of 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

Discover how the "Barbie" movie brilliantly exposes male fragility and the contours of patriarchy, prompting us to rethink control, mutuality, and the church's role in today's society. Mike Erre, Tim Gombis, and Tim Stafford dive deep into the film's themes, exploring how satire unveils societal norms around gender roles and the implications for faith communities. Key Takeaways: The Hidden Depths of 'Barbie' – How the film uses satire to reveal and challenge traditional gender roles, offering a fresh perspective on mutuality over hierarchy. Male Fragility and Control – Examining how the need for control stems from insecurity and how it affects relationships and societal structures. Reframing God's Sovereignty – Discussing the concept of God's sovereignty not as control but as empowering human agency and mutual flourishing. The Church's Response to Cultural Moments – Critiquing the ways faith communities often miss opportunities to engage meaningfully with cultural phenomena like the "Barbie" movie. Embracing Mutuality – Advocating for partnerships between men and women that reflect the intended relational dynamics rather than patriarchal systems. Guest Highlights: Tim Gombis – Offers insightful commentary on male fragility, patriarchy, and theological perspectives on God's sovereignty and control, encouraging listeners to embrace a more relational and compassionate approach. Resources Mentioned: "Age of Anger" by Pankaj Mishra – Link "How Fascism Works" by Jason Stanley – Link Hebrews 2 – Exploring themes of human agency and divine sovereignty. "Barbie" Movie – Encouraged viewing for its thought-provoking themes. Join us in this enlightening conversation as we challenge conventional notions of control and explore paths toward mutual flourishing. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media. 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

Exploring how recognizing spiritual poverty amidst material wealth can awaken the church from complacency, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive deep into the contrasting messages to the churches of Smyrna and Laodicea in Revelation. They examine the dangers of lukewarm faith, affluence, and the lack of contrast between the church and the surrounding culture, urging us to self-examine and rediscover true dependency on Jesus. Key Takeaways: • Contrasting Smyrna and Laodicea – Understanding how one church was materially poor yet spiritually rich, and the other materially rich yet spiritually poor, and what this contrast teaches us today. • The Metaphor of Lukewarm Faith – Unpacking the meaning behind hot, cold, and lukewarm in the context of Laodicea's water supply, and how it reflects spiritual complacency. • Affluence Leading to Spiritual Blindness – Discussing how material wealth can create self-sufficiency that excludes Jesus from the church, paralleling modern challenges. • Money, Sex, and Power – Examining how these forces intertwine and affect the church's ability to offer a counter-narrative to prevailing cultural norms. • Awakening to Dependency on Jesus – Encouraging listeners to self-examine and repent where affluence and comfort have blinded us to our need for God. Guest Highlights: Seth Erre – Makes a special appearance, bringing his unique energy and contributing to the conversation. Resources Mentioned: • Revelation 2:8-11 – The Letter to the Church in Smyrna. • Revelation 3:14-22 – The Letter to the Church in Laodicea. • "The Market as God" by Harvey Cox – Insights on how the market functions as a religious system in modern culture. 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

In this episode, the hosts discuss how America follows the model of 'Christian Nationalism', drawing parallels to Rome. They explore the concept of civic religion and American exceptionalism, highlighting the need for critical examination. They also delve into difficult conversations about America's history and the infiltration of self-preservation in Christianity. The chapter concludes with reflections on identity, repentance, and power.

Discover how the challenges faced by the churches in Pergamum and Thyatira reveal the pitfalls of cultural assimilation and idolatry, and learn how to identify and resist the modern-day idols of money, sex, and power. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive into Revelation's letters to these churches, exploring how their struggles illuminate the ongoing battle against societal pressures that compromise faithfulness. Key Takeaways: Unveiling Cultural Idolatry – Understanding how the letters to Pergamum and Thyatira expose the temptations of assimilating into surrounding culture and how that applies today. The Significance of Eating Food Sacrificed to Idols – Exploring the historical context of idolatry in Revelation and its implications for modern faith communities. Faithful Witness and Resistance – Learning how to embody faithful witness in the face of societal pressures and cultural narratives. Identifying Modern Idols – Preparing to examine the idols of money, sex, and power in contemporary society through the lens of Revelation. Resources Mentioned: Previous Episodes on the Revelation Series – voxologypodcast.com/revelation-series Tim Gombis on Powers and Principalities – [Link] Book of Revelation – [Link to Bible or resource] Join us as we journey together to discern and resist the idols that pervade our culture. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to stay connected and be part of 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

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by biblical scholar Dr. Tim Gombis to explore how reimagining the powers and principalities in Ephesians transforms our understanding of spiritual warfare and the church's mission in the modern world. Delving into the complexities of the present evil age, they discuss how believers can actively resist systemic injustice, embrace communal salvation, and participate in new creation dynamics that defy the influence of the powers. Key Takeaways: Unveiling the Powers and Principalities – Understanding these forces as systemic structures influencing societies, reshaping our concept of spiritual warfare. The Church's Role in Spiritual Warfare – How embodying new creation practices within the community counters the influence of the powers and manifests God's triumph. Communal vs. Individual Salvation – The importance of shifting from individualistic approaches to a communal understanding of salvation and spirituality. Practical Implications for Believers – Encouraging tangible acts of justice, love, and unity to actively resist the present evil age. Guest Highlights: Dr. Tim Gombis – Host of the Faith Improvised podcast and expert on the Book of Ephesians. Dr. Gombis shares profound insights on the powers and principalities, spiritual warfare, and the practical implications for the modern church. Resources Mentioned: Faith Improvised Podcast – timgombis.com Dr. Tim Gombis' Ephesians Course – [Link to course enrollment] Dallas Willard's Teachings – dallaswillard.org Martin Luther's Hymns – [Link to hymns] The Book of Ephesians – Bible Gateway – Ephesians Join us as we journey together in rethinking spiritual warfare and embracing the transformative mission of the church. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to stay connected and be part of 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

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford continue the Exile Series by delving into the letter to the church in Ephesus from Revelation. They explore how early Christians redefined victory, contrasting it with Roman imperial narratives, and discuss what it means for the modern church to resist assimilation into prevailing cultural norms. By examining themes of repentance, faithfulness, and the true meaning of overcoming, they challenge the American church's understanding of success and call believers to embody a cruciform life. Key Takeaways: Redefining Victory – Understanding how Revelation subverts Roman concepts of victory by emphasizing faithful resistance to empire rather than conquest. The Historical Context of Ephesus – Exploring Ephesus as a commercial and religious center, including the significance of the Temple of Artemis and its symbolic tree of life. Returning to First Love – Discussing Jesus's call for the church to repent and return to their initial deeds of love and faithfulness. Testing False Apostles – Reflecting on how the early church discerned true teachings and the importance of testing spirits and fruit in leadership today. Modern Implications for the Church – Analyzing how the American church may mirror cultural definitions of victory and the call to resist assimilation by embodying the humble way of Jesus. Resources Mentioned: Book of Revelation – Particularly Revelation 2:1-7, the letter to the church in Ephesus. David Aune's Commentary on Revelation The Concept of Nike (Victory) in Roman Culture Upcoming Episode – Powers and Principalities and understanding spiritual forces. Join the conversation as we re-examine what it means to be victorious in Christ and how to faithfully resist the narratives of empire in our own context. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on 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