Voxology

Dive into a playful discussion that blends humor with deep theological insights, examining what it means to be 'saved.' Expect lively takes on the complexities of missions and the balance of faith within community dynamics. Explore intriguing curiosities like the bizarre history of phrases and the implications of morality amid conflict. The conversation navigates redemption and vocation, urging listeners to rethink traditional narratives around salvation while embracing their role as image-bearers of God.

How do we live out a centered-set model of church when real people, power structures, and theological questions get messy? In this midweek bonus episode of the Unity Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford welcome theologian and author Mark Baker, whose book Centered Set Church has been the foundation of recent Voxology conversations. Together they unpack a wave of thoughtful listener questions that push the centered-set model beyond theory and into lived reality. From gender-based leadership exclusion to navigating "soccer players" who claim Jesus but distort his ethic, Mark dives deep into the tensions between theory and practice. He emphasizes that the centered-set model isn't a quick fix—it's a posture, a community effort, and a call to define our center as the Jesus of the Gospels, rather than culturally constructed versions. If you've loved the Unity Series and wrestled with the practical implications of centered-set thinking on church membership, theological boundaries, power dynamics, and finding belonging in spiritual community, this conversation will both challenge and encourage you. Key Takeaways: • Defining the Center Together – Why a shared understanding of Jesus as the center is essential in a centered-set model. • Boundaries vs. Boundedness – How orthodoxy, membership, and even creeds can be practiced in a centered (versus exclusionary) way. • Loving Intervention – Why curious, compassionate engagement—not judgment—is the hallmark of centered pastoral leadership. • Church and Cultural Power – How practices like male-only leadership and racial homogeneity can reveal bounded dynamics, even in churches claiming to be centered. • Navigating Displacement – Encouragement for those who feel disconnected from church culture in their geographic context and are discerning how to find or help shape spiritual community. • Letting Legacy Go – Why perhaps the most faithful move is passing along a centered mindset, rather than preserving institutional structures. Guest Highlights: Mark Baker – Professor of theology and author of Centered Set Church, Mark brings decades of scholarship, cross-cultural ministry, and practical insight into what it takes to nurture communities shaped by Jesus rather than rigid doctrine or loose inclusivity. His work calls for continuous re-centering on the person and way of Jesus. Resources Mentioned: • Centered Set Church by Mark Baker – centeredsetchurch.com • Five-Video Discussion Guide for Churches and Small Groups – centeredsetchurch.com • The Lost Letters of Pergamum by Bruce Longenecker – https://amzn.to/3Rf7nK6 • Galatians 5 (on love fulfilling the law) – Bible Gateway link • Matthew 25 (The Sheep and the Goats) – Bible Gateway link Join us in this deeper exploration of what it takes to embody the way of Jesus in your context. Share this episode, start a conversation in your community, and help foster churches that define belonging not by conformity, but by Christ at the center. As always, we welcome your questions and dialogue as we pursue a more faithful expression of church. Write to us at hello@voxpodcast.com and join the Voxology community on Facebook and Instagram. Check out VOXOLOGY TV on YouTube – @voxology Explore the Merch Store – Etsy Visit the website – voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the podcast on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like the Facebook page: facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford – timothyjohnstafford.com | @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 on salvation and humanity's divine image! The speakers explore grace, faith, and how these concepts shape our daily lives. They tackle the moral complexities of faith amid crises, emphasizing genuine compassion. Discover the role of humans as royal figures, and the communal aspect of embodying God's image. As they connect theology to the environment, you'll gain insight into living meaningfully and flourishing in God’s creation. Plus, enjoy some lighthearted banter about NCAA March Madness!

Dive into a refreshing reexamination of salvation through the lens of the Kingdom of God. Explore how Jesus' teachings redefine faith, moving beyond individualism to embrace a communal vision. Discover the significance of God's kingship, affecting daily life and relationships. Engage with personal stories that highlight the complexities of faith and doubt. Delve into the emotional depth of belief and how the Kingdom reshapes our understanding of governance, emphasizing humility and community over dominance.

Exploring how the church has harmed LGBTQ Christians and how repentance can lead to healing and restoration, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford talk with Bridget Eileen Rivera about her book "Heavy Burdens: Seven Ways LGBTQ Christians Experience Harm in the Church." They delve into the double standards and injustices faced by LGBTQ individuals in Christian communities, discussing the importance of open dialogue, humility, and genuine listening in fostering true reconciliation. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Double Standards – How LGBTQ Christians face unique burdens not placed on heterosexual believers within the church. • The Origins of Sexual Orientation Concepts – Bridget explains the historical development of how sexuality became linked to identity and the impact of Freudian psychology on Christian perspectives. • Repentance and Restoration – Discussing what genuine repentance looks like in non-affirming churches to heal the harm done to LGBTQ individuals. • The Role of Conversation and Listening – Emphasizing the importance of open dialogue, humility, and stepping back to reassess how the church engages with LGBTQ topics. Guest Highlight: Bridget Eileen Rivera – Author, speaker, and advocate for LGBTQ Christians. Bridget shares her journey as a Christian committed to traditional sexual ethics while passionately advocating for the dignity, inclusion, and better understanding of LGBTQ individuals in the church. Resources Mentioned: • "Heavy Burdens: Seven Ways LGBTQ Christians Experience Harm in the Church" by Bridget Eileen Rivera – Link • Bridget's Blog – Meditations of a Traveling Nun – Link • Bridget on Twitter – @TravelingNun Join the conversation as we explore how to walk in repentance and restore relationships within the church community. 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

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive deep into how followers of Jesus can navigate the complexities of war, violence, and shame in our modern world. Reflecting on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, they discuss the challenges of peacemaking, the importance of enemy love, and how Jesus's approach to shame can transform our responses to conflict. Continuing their Centered Set Series, they unpack the difference between disintegrative and reintegrative shaming, and explore how a centered church can operate from a place of security rather than fear. Key Takeaways: • Peacemaking in a Violent World – Understanding the role of Christians in responding to war and violence with enemy love and nonviolence. • Jesus's Approach to Shame – Exploring how Jesus joins the marginalized in their shame to restore and reconcile, rather than exclude. • Disintegrative vs. Reintegrative Shaming – Differentiating between shaming that stigmatizes and excludes versus shaming that seeks to heal and restore relationships. • Centered Set Dynamics – Discussing how centered churches, focused on Jesus, can foster security, inclusivity, and transformative community dynamics. • The Bible's Role in Community – Examining how different approaches to scripture (bounded, centered, fuzzy) impact church culture and practices. Guest Highlights: Seth Erre – Mike's son joins the conversation, bringing joy and a special blessing at the end of the episode. Resources Mentioned: • Habakkuk 1 – Habakkuk 1 • Luke 19:41-44 – Jesus's lament over Jerusalem. Luke 19:41-44 • Will Willimon's Reflections on 9/11 – America's greatest Christological defeat • Shane Claiborne's Statement on Peacemaking – What Does It Mean to Be a Peacemaker? • Dallas Willard's Teachings – Concepts from The Divine Conspiracy and more. Call to Action: Join us as we explore what it means to be peacemakers in a world of conflict. Don't forget to 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

Discover how personal stories of deconstruction, mental health struggles, and church leadership challenges shape our understanding of a centered faith community. Mike and Tim delve into listener emails, discussing the impact of bounded versus centered church models, and how embracing a centered approach fosters unity, love, and spiritual growth. Key Takeaways: Bounded vs. Centered Church Models – Understanding how shifting from a boundary-focused faith to a centered approach can transform personal and communal relationships within the church. Navigating Deconstruction – Exploring personal journeys of faith deconstruction, and how questioning traditional doctrines can lead to a deeper, more authentic relationship with Jesus. Mental Health and the Church – Discussing the church's role in supporting members struggling with mental illness, and the importance of compassion over judgment. Science and Faith Integration – Addressing the perceived conflict between science and faith, and how embracing both can enrich one's spiritual journey. Community and Conflict – Strategies for maintaining unity and love within a diverse church community, even amidst disagreements on theology, politics, and social issues. Guest Highlights: Seth Erre – Mike's son, Seth, makes a special appearance, bringing warmth and personal insights to the conversation. Resources Mentioned: Church Clarity – churchclarity.org – An organization working to minimize confusion and ambiguity around church policies. BioLogos – biologos.org – Exploring the harmony between science and biblical faith. Douglas Harink's Book "Resurrecting Justice" – Discussing justice in the context of the cross and resurrection. Fleming Rutledge – Author known for exploring themes of justice and atonement. Join us as we dive deep into these impactful stories and topics, seeking to foster a community centered on Jesus. Don't forget to 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

Explore how Jesus’s Jewish identity helps to shape his teachings and the understanding of the Kingdom of God. Discover the concept of the Great Reversal, where humility takes precedence over power. Discuss how embracing the Kingdom leads to conflict with existing systems, both earthly and spiritual. Learn about living a cross-shaped life that emphasizes self-sacrifice and service. Finally, consider the importance of judgment and accountability within the community, steering clear of cultural power plays.

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford continue their exploration of church models by diving deeper into what it means to practice discipline in centered communities. They discuss the transformative concept of love as a rugged commitment—a commitment to be with others, be for others, and help others move toward growth. Drawing from listener emails and personal experiences, they contrast bounded, fuzzy, and centered church approaches, emphasizing the importance of relational discernment over judgment, wisdom over rules, and the messy yet rewarding journey of living in authentic community. Key Takeaways: Love as a Rugged Commitment – Understanding love as a steadfast commitment to, with, and for others before guiding them toward transformation. From Judgment to Discernment – Differentiating between condemning judgment (bad krino) and relational discernment (good krino) in church discipline. Wisdom Over Rules – Emphasizing the importance of guiding others through wisdom rather than imposing strict rules, both in church contexts and parenting. The Power of Relational Dynamics – Exploring how genuine relationships founded on commitment and advocacy enable meaningful influence and growth within communities. Reframing the Gospel and Evangelism – Discussing the implications of starting with the right foundation of the gospel focused on the Kingdom rather than a bounded set of beliefs. Resources Mentioned: A Fellowship of Differents by Scott McKnight – Link Faith Improvised podcast by Tim Gombis – Link Previous episodes on Bounded, Fuzzy, and Centered Churches – Link Join the conversation as Mike and Tim unpack the complexities of practicing love and discipline in centered communities. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to stay connected and be part of the 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

How the church can move from condemning boundaries to redemptive restoration through relational discernment, radical invitation, and the long-haul work of love. Mike, Tim, and surprise guest Seth Erre dive deep into what real church discipline looks like in a centered-set community—and how bounded and fuzzy churches often get it wrong. Part 5 of the Centered Set Series unpacks core differences between boundary-focused, fuzzy, and centered approaches—and how only the last can truly embody the grace of Jesus. Key Takeaways: • Bounded Church Discipline vs. Centered Restoration – Why enforcing moral or doctrinal rules often leads to shame, exclusion, and hiding rather than transformation. • The Importance of Relational Discernment – Why you can't truly address spiritual formation without long-term, intentional relationship. • Fuzzy Set Pitfalls – How churches without clear direction avoid conflict yet lack the courage to uphold the call of Jesus in meaningful ways. • Jesus-Focused Invitation Over Religious Control – Approaching accountability as an invitational journey toward transformation rather than a list of checkboxes. • Learning from Painful Stories – Heartfelt listener deconstruction stories reveal the harm inflicted by rigid boundaries and the healing power of centered relationships. Bonus: Tim shares an Eddie Vedder quote about maturing activism and how it parallels the journey of deconstruction, growth, and center-set discipleship. Resources Mentioned: • Centered-Set Church by Mark Baker – [Link] • "Repenting of Religion" by Greg Boyd – [Link] • Romans 3:23 and Ephesians 2 (teased as upcoming conversation topics) • Episode Series: Centered Set Series • Book Mentioned: "Joy as an Act of Resistance" by Idles (referenced in passing) Join us as we practice discipling with grace, truth, patience, and Christ-centered community. Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review on Apple or Spotify, and engage with Voxology across social media. We'd love your questions and feedback too! Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com and let's keep walking this journey together. 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 Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast 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