Voxology

A powerful and somber conversation centered on lamenting violence and abuse at the hands of institutions that claim to represent Jesus. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by Suzie Lind—Pastor, church elder, seminary student, and trusted leader—for a raw and vulnerable reflection on national tragedy, spiritual trauma, and the church's desperate need for repentance, transformation, and justice. This episode explores the emotional aftermath of widely publicized events: the Texas elementary school shooting and the SBC (Southern Baptist Convention) sexual abuse report. With reflections rooted in lament, theology, and personal experience, the trio discuss what it means to be Jesus followers in a time of horrific violence and institutional corruption. Susie shares her own journey—as a child of the Iranian Revolution, a convert from Islam, and a woman navigating the realities of male-dominated church leadership. The episode ends with a moving rendition of prayers for the people. How do Jesus followers respond to injustice when it's perpetuated by their own house? How do we engage in healing advocacy and embody kingdom values in the midst of sorrow? This deeply honest conversation speaks to the grief, weariness, and hope of those longing for a new way forward. Key Takeaways: • Gun Violence and America's Accountability Crisis – Why "thoughts and prayers" fall short, and how Christians can hold both lament and action when engaging issues like school shootings. • The Church's Reckoning with Abuse – Exploring how the SBC sexual abuse crisis mirrors systemic failures in power, authority, and male hierarchy across American evangelicalism. • Reclaiming the Practice of Lament – Understanding lament as an active theological response that invites confession, repentance, and renewal. • Women, Power, and the Church – Susie Lind reflects on what it means to be a woman in church leadership, and how systemic change requires more than female presence—it demands shared authority. • Faith, Advocacy, and Parenting Through Pain – Real-talk on how Christians can talk to their kids about violence, love neighbors amid despair, and resist numbness or apathy. Guest Highlight: Suzie Lind – Church elder, Director of Staff, and Fuller Seminary student, Susie brings wisdom, vulnerability, and pastoral insight to this critical conversation on suffering, systemic injustice, and hope. Resources Mentioned: • SBC Sexual Abuse Report – [Link] • Chris Murphy Senate Speech on Gun Reform – [Link] • Ezekiel, Jeremiah, and Micah References – Related to systemic injustice in Scripture • The Brilliance – "Prayers of the People" – [Link] If you're a survivor of abuse or seeking support, we encourage you to reach out. You are worth healing, and we see you. For advocacy, counseling, or pastoral resources, visit our website or reach out via the contact info below. Join the conversation and help us reimagine what it means to follow Jesus in truth and love. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion. Feel free to email questions to hello@voxpodcast.com and connect on Facebook or Instagram. Watch full episodes: VOXOLOGY TV Merch Store: ETSY Learn more: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the show: Patreon Voxology Spotify Channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram @voxologypodcast Facebook: Voxology Podcast Page Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre 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

Discover how moving beyond the culture war mindset and embracing a cruciform identity can transform Christian engagement in a divided world. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by theologian Tim Gombis to discuss the dangers of enemy-making, redefining Christian identity through the lens of the cross, and how love of neighbor should shape our political actions and relationships. Key Takeaways: • The Pitfalls of the Culture War Mentality – Understanding how framing societal issues as "us vs. them" contradicts Jesus' teachings and damages Christian witness. • Embracing a Cruciform Identity – Reimagining what it means to be Christian by adopting a self-sacrificial posture modeled after Jesus' crucifixion. • Reorienting Political Participation – How Christians can engage in politics grounded in love of neighbor, especially considering marginalized communities. • Breaking Free from Enemy-Making – Strategies for overcoming the impulse to define ourselves by what we're against and instead fostering unity and understanding. • Practical Steps Towards Transformation – Ways the church can become a place of hospitality, healing, and inclusion for all people. Guest Highlights: Tim Gombis – A theologian and professor, Tim offers profound insights into the history behind the culture war mindset, the implications of adopting a cruciform identity, and practical advice for Christians navigating a polarized society. Resources Mentioned: • John Fea's Believe Me: The Evangelical Road to Donald Trump – Publisher's Website • Michael Gorman's Abortion and the Early Church – [Link] • Ephesians 6 – Paul's teaching on spiritual warfare and the armor of God. • The Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) – Mary's song highlighting God's concern for the marginalized. Join us in rethinking what it means to follow Jesus in today's world. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to continue the conversation. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Delving into the challenging intersection of abortion, grace, and theology, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford share heartfelt discussions on personal stories, the church's response, and how to navigate these complex issues with compassion and Christ-centered perspectives. Key Takeaways: Personal Stories and the Complexity of Abortion – A listener bravely shares her experience with abortion, prompting a nuanced conversation about compassionate, Christ-centered abortion policies and the church's approach to such sensitive issues. Reframing Grace and Theology – Exploring how understanding grace as transformative and reciprocal impacts our perspectives on faith, works, and addressing complex moral dilemmas like abortion. The Church's Role and Response – Reflecting on how the church can better support individuals facing difficult decisions, moving beyond black-and-white thinking to embody empathy and support. Engaging with Listener Questions – Addressing topics such as the potential future targets of the religious right, struggles with Bible reading due to shame and bad theology, and finding supportive community within seminary. Understanding Grace and Works – Introducing John Barclay's insights on grace, its different dimensions, and the implications for faith and works in the Christian life. Resources Mentioned: "Paul and the Gift" by John Barclay – [Link] "Paul and the Power of Grace" by John Barclay – [Link] "Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes" by E. Randolph Richards and Brandon J. O'Brien – [Link] Join the conversation as we navigate these complex topics together. 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

How should Christians respond when long-sought political victories come with emotional and spiritual turmoil? As part of the ongoing Exile Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford process the leaked Supreme Court opinion that would overturn Roe v. Wade, diving into the complex relationship between faith, justice, and power. Rather than celebrating or condemning in simplistic terms, the episode explores why this moment calls for grief, humility, and a reexamination of what it means to walk the way of Jesus in a culture obsessed with winning. Mike and Tim also dissect the theology of culture war Christianity and how it contradicts the upside-down kingdom Jesus proclaimed. They contrast coercive, legislated morality with the patient, radical hospitality of community that values every image-bearer – from unborn children to vulnerable mothers, immigrants, the poor, and beyond. The episode concludes with a reflective time of worship and a liturgical prayer of the people, inviting the listener into a posture of mercy and compassion. Key Takeaways: • Jesus vs. Culture War Christianity – Why the church's pursuit of power often undermines its witness and contradicts the gospel of self-sacrificial love. • Redefining "Pro-Life" – Expanding the term beyond abortion to include systemic justice for women, immigrants, the incarcerated, and the poor. • Partisan Faith and Its Pitfalls – How aligning with political platforms at all costs distorts discipleship and devalues compassion. • Who Really Wins in Culture Wars? – Grieving the relational, communal, and societal harm that's been done in the name of "victory." • Kingdom Living as Culture Resistance – Embracing the Sermon on the Mount and cruciform love as our countercultural strategy in an age of hostility. Guest Highlights: No guest this week – but Mike and Tim bring their deep theological insight, personal vulnerability, and pastoral wisdom to unpack this cultural moment with care. Resources Mentioned: • "The Cross Contradicts Our Culture War" – Article by Russell Moore • Jonathan Haidt on Social Media and Polarization – Read it here • Skye Jethani Abortion Reform Video – Holy Post YouTube Channel • YoungLives by Young Life – Ministry serving teenage mothers: younglife.org Join our community of curiosity and compassion. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow @voxologypodcast on Instagram and Facebook to stay connected. Invite others to listen as we seek the way of Jesus together – in love, humility, and justice. 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 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 redefining faith as enacted loyalty can revolutionize your understanding of Christianity and deepen your relationship with Jesus. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford unpack common misconceptions about faith, exploring how viewing faith as allegiance to Jesus as King leads to a more authentic and active spiritual life. Key Takeaways: Faith Beyond Mental Agreement – Challenging the idea that faith is merely believing certain truths without action. Enacted Loyalty to Jesus – Understanding faith as lived allegiance, demonstrated through actions and lifestyle. Debunking Misconceptions – Addressing misunderstandings of faith being the opposite of reason, a leap in the dark, or mere profession. The Marriage Analogy – Exploring how marriage serves as a powerful metaphor for faith as a covenantal and relational commitment. Embracing Doubt Within Faith – Discussing how doubt is a natural part of faith and does not undermine genuine allegiance. Resources Mentioned: "Salvation by Allegiance Alone" by Matthew Bates – [Link] "The King Jesus Gospel" by Scot McKnight – [Link] "How God Became King" by N.T. Wright – [Link] Teachings of Greg Boyd – [Link] Insights from Dallas Willard – [Link] Join the conversation and explore how this fresh perspective on faith can enrich your spiritual journey. 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

Explore how rethinking deconstruction and understanding the full narrative of the Gospel can empower you to share hope and faith effectively, especially in life's most challenging moments. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into what it truly means to deconstruct faith—not as a departure but as a deeper commitment to Jesus—and discuss how to compassionately articulate the good news to those in crisis. Key Takeaways: Reframing Deconstruction – Recognizing deconstruction as an opportunity to deepen faith and embrace a fuller understanding of the Bible's narrative. Articulating the Gospel in Difficult Times – Ways to communicate the good news in a meaningful, compassionate manner to friends facing suffering or end-of-life situations. Responding to Critiques with Grace – Approaching criticism and differing theological views with openness and respect, fostering healthy faith conversations. Rethinking Traditional Evangelism – Challenging methods that focus on guilt and judgment, and instead emphasizing God's love and the broader story of redemption. Resources Mentioned: John 3:16 – Exploring the depth beyond the familiar verse. Romans Road – Discussing traditional methods of sharing the Gospel. Join the conversation and engage with us as we navigate the complexities of faith, deconstruction, and sharing hope. 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

Dive into a lively discussion about faith, identity, and the complexities of the Christian community. Explore the intriguing relationship between time and the Kingdom of God, highlighting the 'already but not yet' concept. Reflect on the struggle of personal transformation and the paradox of suffering. Engage with cultural perspectives on time and the power of choice within community. Finally, unravel the intricate nature of salvation and the ongoing human journey between enslavement and liberation.

What does it mean to truly belong in a church community—and how do we get there when Sunday morning isn't an option? In this special midweek episode, guest Bethany Shea joins Mike and Tim to explore the essence of church beyond the traditional structure. They dive into rich conversations about spiritual loneliness, self-worth, deconstruction, marriage, inclusive theology, and how our past affects our faith journey. Bethany brings deep insight from her experience as a church planter, United Methodist pastor, adoptive mom, and author of Stepping Into Advent and Stepping Into Lent. With wisdom, vulnerability, and humor, the team addresses questions from listeners navigating complex spiritual and relational terrain—from finding church community outside of Sunday mornings to helping others wrestle with bounded theology, and living with the heavy weight of spiritual unworthiness. Key Takeaways: • Church Beyond Sunday – Why your weekly worship experience doesn't have to be limited to Sunday services and how to cultivate community in new ways. • Redefining Leadership & Gender Roles – Bethany shares her journey from 'just sharing' to fully stepping into her call as a teaching pastor. • Deconstruction in Marriage – How faith evolution within a couple can mirror larger spiritual transformation and require healing, collaboration, and counseling. • From Shame to Belovedness – How we confront internal narratives of unworthiness and the spiritual tools to begin healing through community, therapy, and remembering our baptism. • Igniting Curiosity in Conservative Spaces – Tips for gently encouraging open questions and deeper exploration among those steeped in bounded theology. • The Still Small Voice – Rethinking how God shows up when emotional experiences fall short or never come at all. Guest Highlights: Bethany Nass Cseh – Co-pastor at Catalyst Church in Humboldt County, California, and United Methodist Church. Bethany shares her insights on navigating leadership as a woman in ministry, parenting neurodivergent children, self-publishing spiritual reflections, and learning to embrace both personal and communal transformation. Resources Mentioned: • Catalyst Church Humboldt (YouTube Sermons) – Catalyst YouTube Channel • Bethany's Instagram – @bethany.nass.cseh • Stepping Into Advent and Stepping Into Lent by Bethany Shea • N.T. Wright Bible Studies – NT Wright Online • Justin McRoberts (Author/Mentor) – justinmcroberts.com • The Story of Elijah (1 Kings 19), Baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3), and the example of corporate identity in church • Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller • John Coe's teachings on emotional and spiritual formation – Institute for Spiritual Formation (Biola) Rediscover the beauty of belonging—even when it's messy. We invite you to embrace a faith community that doesn't require theological rigidity, but cultivates grace, presence, and honest conversation. Let's continue to explore healing, belonging, and love together. Have questions or reflections of your own? Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com or join the ongoing discussion on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Merch Store: ETSY Learn more and find past episodes at: voxologypodcast.com Support us on Patreon: voxology on Patreon Follow us: Instagram – @voxologypodcast Facebook – facebook.com/voxologypodcast Mike on Twitter – @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram and Twitter: @GoneTimothy Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with someone who might need some encouragement on their spiritual journey. 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

The conversation dives into the nature of divine wrath, exploring how it reflects self-consuming cycles of violence and oppression. The speakers tackle the complexities of salvation, emphasizing grace and the communal dimensions of sin. They also humorously critique popular culture, notably Captain Marvel, while examining how it aligns with theological insights. Additionally, the discussion encourages reflection on missionary practices and the importance of fostering genuine dialogues about faith and accountability.

Dive into the captivating interplay between faith and culture as the hosts explore how Genesis shapes our understanding of human purpose. They critically examine short-term mission trips, promoting deeper connections with local communities. The narrative of salvation unfolds, linking chaos and divine order, while discussing human wickedness and divine regret. A powerful metaphor emerges with Jesus as a ‘new creation space,’ urging stewardship and restoration. Engaging conversations emphasize community connections, making theology relevant in today’s world.