Voxology

Explore how understanding context, genre, and cultural background can transform our reading of difficult Bible passages, particularly Old Testament violence. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by pastor and author Joshua Ryan Butler, who sheds light on approaching challenging scriptures without compromising the goodness of God. Together, they discuss the importance of wrestling with these texts, recognizing our own biases, and reading the Bible in community to gain deeper insight into God's character. Key Takeaways: Viewing the Bible as a Library – Understanding the Bible as a collection of books written over thousands of years and cultures, and how that influences interpretation. Context is Crucial – The importance of historical, cultural, and literary context when reading difficult passages, especially those involving Old Testament violence. Ancient War Rhetoric and Hyperbole – How recognizing ancient Near Eastern literary devices can reshape our perception of violent scriptures. God's Unchanging Goodness – Affirming God's wholly good nature while acknowledging that misunderstandings may stem from our own perspectives. Reading the Bible in Community – The value of engaging with the global and historic church to gain a fuller understanding of scripture. Guest Highlights: Joshua Ryan Butler – Pastor at Redemption Church in Arizona and author of The Skeletons in God's Closet and The Pursuing God. Josh shares his journey of grappling with difficult biblical texts and provides insights on approaching them thoughtfully and faithfully. Resources Mentioned: The Skeletons in God's Closet by Joshua Ryan Butler – Available Here The Pursuing God by Joshua Ryan Butler – Available Here Join the conversation as we delve into the complexities of scripture and seek to understand how to faithfully interpret challenging passages. 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

How the Bible's diversity of genres, cultural contexts, and ancient languages shape our spiritual understanding—and how to rediscover scripture as a life-giving, imaginative world. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford kick off a brand new series on the Bible with special guest Dr. Tim Gombis, diving deep into how the Bible can move from confusing and discouraging to enlightening and liberating. This episode is the beginning of a multi-part exploration aiming to help listeners reapproach the Bible with fresh eyes and renewed confidence. Key Takeaways: • Breaking Free from "The Bible Says It, That Settles It" – Why simplistic readings fall short and how to embrace a more meaningful engagement with scripture. • Understanding the Bible as a Library, Not a Manual – Dr. Gombis outlines the major literary genres of the Bible and why each must be approached differently. • Replacing Certainty with Curiosity – How making the Bible "strange" again opens the door to deeper faith, richer theology, and a more beautiful gospel. • Reading the Bible Patiently – Why cultivating imagination through repeated exposure to individual books (especially the Gospels) is more transformative than seeking daily life application. • Torah as a Gift, Not a Burden – Rethinking Old Testament law from punitive legalism to joyful instruction on life in a liberated community. • Wrestling with Difficult Passages – Genocide, patriarchy, and troubling texts point us toward an interpretive humility and trust in the God revealed in Jesus. Guest Highlights: Dr. Tim Gombis – Biblical scholar, teacher, and host of the "Faith Improvised" podcast. Gombis brings both academic clarity and pastoral wisdom to topics like biblical interpretation, genre sensitivity, and reading scripture in its original historical context. Resources Mentioned: • "The Lost Letters of Pergamum" by Bruce Longenecker • "The Making of Biblical Womanhood" by Beth Allison Barr • Faith Improvised Podcast – Listen here • Recommended Bible Translations: NIV (New International Version) and NASB (New American Standard Bible) • Timothy Gombis's Romans series on his podcast • CEB (Common English Bible) translation • "How Can the Bible Be Authoritative?" – Essay by N.T. Wright (recommended reference) Start immersing yourself in the biblical world, not just its words. Give your imagination time to be reshaped by the stories, poetry, and prophetic voices that build up the Kingdom vision Jesus embodies. Want to build a practice around this? Gombis suggests reading one Gospel repeatedly over several weeks for formational impact. Join the journey as we begin rediscovering the Bible as a wild, strange, but ultimately beautiful narrative revealing the love and justice of God. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us for the next stages in this 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: @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 to identify and address spiritual abuse within church communities as Mike Erre and Tim Stafford engage with researcher Dan Koch. Delving into Dan's extensive study on the seven underlying factors that contribute to spiritual abuse, they discuss practical steps toward creating healthier, more nurturing religious environments. This insightful conversation sheds light on the importance of compassionate leadership, the impact of harmful practices, and offers hope and healing to those affected. Key Takeaways: Authoritarian Leadership – Understanding how control and hierarchy can foster spiritual abuse in church settings. Manipulative Fear Tactics – Exploring the use of fear, violence, and punishment to influence congregations, including end-times scare tactics. Discrimination in the Church – Discussing how gender, racial, and sexual orientation discrimination can create abusive environments. Discouraging Medical and Mental Health Care – Highlighting the dangers of dissuading individuals from seeking medical treatment or mental health support. Protecting Abusers Over Victims – Examining how some church leadership may prioritize abusers, leading to further harm for the abused. Internal Distress and Harmful God Images – Recognizing the profound personal impact of spiritual abuse on individuals' faith and well-being. Pathways to Healing and Healthy Communities – Offering practical advice for leaders and congregants to foster respectful and nurturing church environments. Guest Highlights: Dan Koch – Researcher in counseling psychology focusing on spiritual abuse and religious trauma. Dan shares findings from his large-scale study identifying seven factors that contribute to spiritual abuse and provides insights on how churches can cultivate healthier communities. He discusses actionable steps for leaders, including key reflective questions to promote a culture of respect and healing. Resources Mentioned: You Have Permission Podcast – Dan Koch's podcast exploring progressive Christianity and social sciences. Dr. Lisa Oakley's Research on Spiritual Abuse – Studies on creating resilient spiritual communities. EMDR Therapy – Information on Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy for trauma recovery. The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill Podcast – An exploration of the impacts of abusive church leadership. Join the conversation and share your experiences in fostering healthy church communities. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to stay connected and be part of the journey toward healing and growth. 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 delve into the experience of feeling exiled within one's own church community. Drawing from biblical narratives of exile, they explore how to foster dynamic countercultural communities that embody Jesus's teachings while remaining committed to the well-being of the broader church. They discuss practical steps for navigating discontent without falling into pride or division, emphasizing the importance of loving the church even amidst frustration. Key Takeaways: Understanding Biblical Exile – Exploring the concept of exile from the Old Testament to the New Testament and how it applies to modern feelings of spiritual homelessness. Fostering Dynamic Counterculture – Discussing how to create communities that are distinctively Jesus-focused, wrestling with accommodation and distinction, inclusion and exclusion. Seeking the Good of the Church – Examining ways to remain committed to the larger church, loving and serving it even when feeling disillusioned. Avoiding Pride and Self-Righteousness – Warning against the dangers of deconstruction leading to division rather than renewal. Finding Hope on the Margins – Recognizing that authentic encounters with Jesus often occur outside institutional centers of power. Resources Mentioned: First Peter – Discussions on living as exiles and foreigners. Jeremiah 29 – Instructions to the exiles in Babylon. Book of Daniel – Examples of faithful living in exile. PCA Overture 23 – Recent developments in the Presbyterian Church in America. Bridget Eileen Rivera – Insights on inclusion within the church. David Bennett's "A War of Loves" – Perspectives on faith and sexuality. Join us as we explore what it means to live faithfully as exiles within the church. 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

Jeremy, a church leader navigating LGBTQ+ issues, seeks guidance on coming out and finding his place within a conservative faith community. The hosts discuss the emotional struggles of faith and identity, emphasizing compassion and open dialogue. They critique the church's narrow focus on sexual ethics, highlighting double standards in biblical interpretation. The conversation also advocates for inclusivity and genuine community support, urging a re-evaluation of traditional views to foster acceptance and meaningful dialogue.

How can mistranslations, manipulated theology, and cultural biases distort how we see Jesus, worship, and community? This episode of the Exile Series is a timely journey into the tangled landscape of modern Christianity, questioning the language we use, the powers that shape our spirituality, and what it truly means to be "in Christ." Through a raw, winding conversation, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford reflect on the communal nature of scripture, the emotional weight of worship, and the cosmic battle Paul describes between divine wisdom and worldly power. From 1980s pop nostalgia to the deep complexities of biblical translation, this episode challenges sentimental theology and digs into questions from listeners about trusting scripture, spiritual authority, and how emotion and manipulation can intertwine in Christian culture. With references ranging from Duran Duran to Paul's letter to the Ephesians, Mike and Tim unravel what it means to follow Jesus in a world overrun by deception and distraction. Key Takeaways: • The Power and Peril of Bible Translation – How agenda-driven or outdated translations can distort key theological ideas, especially concerning gender and authority. • Worship Beyond Sentimentalism – Differentiating emotion from manipulation, and embracing honest, embodied worship rooted in justice and truth. • Paul's Cosmic Worldview – Understanding "powers and principalities" as societal, ideological, and spiritual forces rather than simply personal demons. • New Creation Dynamics – How everyday choices rooted in Christlike wisdom become acts of worship and resistance against cultural corruption. • Reading the Bible with Curiosity – Why interpretation requires community, humility, history, and a willingness to hold questions without fearing doubt. Resources Mentioned: • "Faith Improvised" Podcast by Tim Gombis • "The Patient Ferment of the Early Church" by Alan Kreider • "Power and Weakness" by Tim Gombis • Jen Hatmaker Enneagram Series • Ephesians 1–3; John 15; Genesis; Psalms Join the conversation and share how you're wrestling with worship, truth, and righteous resistance in our age of misinformation. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on Instagram and Facebook to stay in the loop. 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 voices of lament, deconstruction, and justice led to a renewed vision of the church and the launch of Voxology. In this monumental 300th (and now Voxology's first!) episode, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford pause to reflect on six years of podcasting and the journey that brought about the transformation from The Vox Podcast to Voxology. This episode is a heartfelt collection of gratitude, vision-casting, and a look ahead. Joined by special guests Bonnie Lewis, Shane Claiborne, and Tim Gombis, the conversation dives deep into themes of church trauma, nationalistic Christianity, systemic brokenness, and the audacious hope we still cling to for the future of the church. Key Takeaways: • From Vox to Voxology – The story behind the name change and what the new name represents for the podcast's future mission and identity. • Lament & Trauma in Church Spaces – Bonnie Lewis shares her transition to being "post-church," detailing how EMDR therapy and her experiences with patriarchal systems realigned her vision for faith and freedom. • Nationalism and American Christianity – Shane Claiborne exposes the toxic mix of nationalism and faith, calling for a radical return to Jesus, not just as savior but as guide for political and social engagement today. • Jesus at the Center – Why the path forward for a fractured church begins with reclaiming the radical teachings and life of Jesus. • The Long Road of Repentance – Tim Gombis brings historical context to how American Christianity has long supported systems of oppression, and what hopefulness looks like when we attend to the grief and redemption together. • Voices from the Vox Community – Powerful call-ins from listeners reveal a passionate global community searching for healing, deconstruction, justice, and belonging in the body of Christ. Guest Highlights: • Bonnie Lewis – Theologian and cohost of past Vox episodes, Bonnie reveals her personal journey through trauma, EMDR therapy, and researching the intersections of literature and gendered biblical interpretation. • Shane Claiborne – Author, activist, and visionary, Shane challenges the commodification of Christianity and invites listeners to embody a faith that subverts systems of exploitation and power. • Tim Gombis – Biblical scholar and returning guest, Tim frames the four-century legacy of Christian complicity in empire and offers a theology robust enough for both lament and hope. Resources Mentioned: • Red Letter Christians – redletterchristians.org • Womanist Midrash by Wilda C. Gafney – [Link] • The Evangelicals by Frances FitzGerald – [Link] • What Happened to You? by Bruce Perry & Oprah Winfrey – [Link] • Voxology Community Resources and Merch – https://voxologypodcast.com Join the journey as we celebrate big milestones, confront painful truths, and commit to deeper reflection and resurrection. Welcome to Voxology. Continue the conversation with us—email your thoughts and questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and join us on Facebook and Instagram. Watch full episodes and interviews on VOXOLOGY TV Check out our Merch Store on ETSY Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Listen and Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: iTunes Or on Spotify: Spotify Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy Here's to the next 300. Let's walk this road together. #VoxologyStartsNow #ChurchLamentAndHope #JesusAtTheCenter #DeconstructionAndFaith #FaithAfterEvangelicalism 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

A behind-the-scenes bonus episode full of joy, jokes, and Jesus as Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and the beloved Seth Erre drop in to tease the much-anticipated rebrand of the Vox Podcast. With Episode 300 on the horizon, this midweek moment is both a celebration of the past and a hilarious reflection on potential (and rejected) new names for the show. Packed with wild brainstorming, dad-joke-worthy Christian slogans, and Seth's unforgettable antics, this episode sets the tone for the next chapter of Voxology. Key Takeaways: • Creative Process Unplugged – How Mike, Tim, and friends explored hilarious and heartfelt rebranding ideas, from "Get Right or Get Left" to "God Grades on the Cross, Not the Curve." • Looking Back and Moving Forward – Reflections on the journey to 300 episodes and what makes this community so unique. • Countdown Hype – Episode 300 drops Monday with a new name and vision, inviting listeners to be part of the ongoing transformation. Guest Highlights: • Seth Erre – Fan favorite and comedic catalyst, bringing playful energy and adding heart to the bonus episode. Resources Mentioned: • Journey Church – journeytn.com • Merch Ideas Teased – Let us know if you'd rock a "Forbidden Fruit Creates Many Jams" tee. Join us for the fun and don't miss the reveal of Voxology's new season and name in Episode 300 — tell a friend, set a reminder, and come be part of the future. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us 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

How the biblical idea of the Divine Council reshapes our understanding of spiritual warfare, justice, and humanity's role in God's world. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford continue the Elohim Series by exploring the spiritual realm of the Old Testament—the "sons of God," the supernatural rulers of the nations, and how their corruption contributes to the brokenness of the world we inhabit. This episode challenges conventional Christian views of spiritual warfare and dives deep into why justice, lament, and truth are essential responses to systemic evil. Key Takeaways: • Understanding the Divine Council – How the "sons of God," or Elohim, were created to rule the nations and why their corruption matters in the biblical worldview. • The Link Between Justice and Worship – Why biblical justice isn't optional, but a core expression of loyalty to Yahweh, and how this ties directly to idolatry and sacred resistance. • Rethinking Spiritual Warfare – It's not a battle against individuals, but against systems, ideologies, and cultural norms corrupted by fallen spiritual beings. • Scripture's Epic Cosmic Vision – From Psalm 82 to Daniel 10 and Deuteronomy 32, discover how geographically connected spiritual powers play into biblical history and theology. • The Gospel Is Unthreatened – A passionate call to reject fear-based "threat to the gospel" rhetoric and instead lead with confession, lament, and repentance as countercultural acts of new creation. Resources Mentioned: • Psalm 82 – blueletterbible.org • Deuteronomy 32 – biblegateway.com • Michael Heiser – Scholar who popularized Divine Council theology (The Unseen Realm) • Greg Boyd – On spiritual warfare and systemic injustice • Tim Gombis – Faith Improvised podcast • Daniel 10 – The prince of Persia and spiritual conflict between nations Call to Action: Let this episode sharpen your spiritual imagination. What would it look like to consciously live in resistance to corrupt spiritual systems? Share your thoughts or questions by emailing us at hello@voxpodcast.com and join our growing community on social media. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow the podcast to stay updated. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Merch Store: ETSY Learn more: Voxology Podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support the podcast on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook 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

Unlocking new layers of biblical meaning, Mike and Tim dive into one of the Bible's most mysterious and perplexing passages—Genesis 6—and the weird, wild world of the Nephilim, fallen Elohim, and cosmic rebellion. In this episode of the Genesis Series, they unpack how humanity's fall mirrors the spiritual realm's own betrayal, why "heaven" needs redemption too, and how it all connects to the gospel's cosmic scale. They also respond to some truly thought-provoking listener emails and celebrate Voxology's upcoming 300th episode with big announcements and an invitation to add your voice to the journey. Key Takeaways: • Understanding the Sons of God and Nephilim – A deep dive into the meaning of Genesis 6 and the implications of divine beings breaking heavenly boundaries. • Cosmic Rebellion & Restoration – Why God's redemption plan includes not just earth, but also the heavens, and how Eden's echoes appear again in David vs. Goliath and even Jesus's ministry. • Personal vs. Communal Salvation – Responding to a listener's brilliant email about individual salvation and the church's communal calling. • The Church as a Messy but Sacred Community – Why finding a healthy, humble, and justice-oriented church is more important than searching for theological perfection. • The Fault Lines of Modern Church Models – A candid conversation about ecclesiology, power, love, and whether the institution of church still serves the original mission of Jesus. Guest Highlights: This episode includes thoughtful listener comments from Jeremy and others, inspiring a rich discussion about the nature of faith, frustration, and formation within today's church context. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis 6 – The Sons of God and Nephilim passage. • Jude & 2 Peter – New Testament references to the rebellious Elohim. • Tim Mackie & The Bible Project – Background on ancient cosmology and Hebrew literary patterns. • Patreon Sign-Up – Patreon.com/voxology • Voxline for Episode 300 submissions – Call (530) 492-0382 or email tim@voxpodcast.com Call to Action: We want your voice in our upcoming 300th episode! Submit your one-word or short reflection on hope or lament about the church. Plus, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology on social media to stay connected with a community reimagining faith in Jesus together. 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 show on Patreon Check out the Voxology Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram @voxologypodcast and on Facebook 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