Voxology

Could the way we've been taught to vote "pro-life" actually undermine the outcomes we most desire? Continuing the Exile Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by Holy Post co-host and author Skye Jethani for a challenging and eye-opening conversation around abortion, presidential politics, and Christian ethics. Together, they examine whether single-issue voting on abortion—particularly in presidential elections—actually aligns with a holistic pro-life ethic and Kingdom values. Skye brings research, historical context, and biblical wisdom to bear on the complex reality of abortion in the U.S., questioning whether appointing pro-life justices truly impacts abortion rates. Rather than advocating for a partisan stance, this episode encourages Christians to pursue informed, faithful, and compassionate engagement in how and why they vote. Key Takeaways: • Voting Beyond the Presidency – Why focusing solely on the presidential vote to overturn Roe v Wade may not be the most effective pro-life strategy. • The Myth of Supreme Court Impact – Skye shares surprising stats about the limited long-term influence of Supreme Court appointments on abortion law. • What Actually Reduces Abortion Rates – Local policies like expanded healthcare access, adoption support, and community-based outreach often yield greater, longer-term reductions in abortions than national litigation. • A Holistic Pro-Life Ethic – Exploring what it means to be "pro-life from womb to tomb," including concerns about poverty, immigration, war, and access to healthcare. • Three Types of Pro-Life Voters – Skye outlines the "solution-oriented," "symbolic," and "shielded" voter—and why these distinctions matter for meaningful political engagement. Guest Highlights: Skye Jethani – Co-host of the Holy Post Podcast and respected voice on faith, politics, and culture, brings clarity and nuance to polarized debates around abortion and voting. With a pastoral heart and sharp analysis, Skye helps listeners wrestle with how Christians might faithfully live out Kingdom values in the voting booth and beyond. Resources Mentioned: • Holy Post Video: "Yes, But Abortion" – Watch here • David French – The French Press – Link • LifeWay Research Report on Evangelical Voters – Link • Delaware & Texas Abortion Data – Comparative stats from both conservative and progressive policy approaches. • Sermon on the Mount – Reference for understanding Jesus' call to embodied justice and mercy. Join us as we challenge assumptions and pursue political engagement that reflects the radical compassion, justice, and love of Jesus. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to keep the conversation going. 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 rhythms of modern political culture are shaping Christians more deeply than we realize—and how faithful discipleship calls for a radical reimagining of our political engagement. In this special election-season conversation, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by author and theologian Kaitlyn Schiess to explore the core ideas from her provocative book, "The Liturgy of Politics." They dive into how media habits, partisan narratives, and cultural assumptions form us daily—and why spiritual formation must be political without becoming partisan. From the seductive promises of security and prosperity to the damaging marriage of Christian identity with political party platforms, this episode challenges listeners to reconsider what faithful kingdom engagement really looks like in our polarized society. Get ready for an unflinchingly honest reflection on how the church has been shaped by modern political liturgies—and how Christian communities can recover a holistic witness rooted in Jesus's own upside-down kingdom. Key Takeaways: • Political Formation vs. Partisan Politics – Why the problem isn't being "too political," but not being political enough in Christlike, redemptive ways. • The Liturgies We Live By – How the repetitive, embodied practices in media, entertainment, and political discourse shape our hearts and values—often more than Sunday worship or Scripture study. • Rethinking Allegiance – How Christians have come to prioritize individual freedom, safety, and national identity over gospel-shaped public life. • Hope Beyond the Ballot – Why true Christian political involvement must extend beyond voting to our everyday, embodied life together. • Counter-Formation through the Church – How communal practices like Eucharist, prayer, worship, and service re-train our imaginations toward neighborly love, justice, and humility. Guest Highlight: Kaitlyn Schiess – Author of "The Liturgy of Politics," theologian, and student of church history and political theology. Kaitlyn brings a powerful combination of academic insight and pastoral concern, offering a compelling vision for why the church must engage politics with more integrity, intentionality, and theological depth. Resources Mentioned: • The Liturgy of Politics by Kaitlyn Schiess – Link to book • Kaitlyn's Pre-election Prayers and Practices – caitlinschess.com • Luke Bretherton – Scholar referenced for defining politics as "the forming, norming, and sustaining of our common life" • Eucharist and Baptism as countercultural practices of resistance and community identity Don't miss this timely episode helping us discern and live out the complex, beautiful calling of being political disciples of Jesus—not pawns of empire. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone navigating political exhaustion. As always, we welcome your thoughts and questions. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com and join the ongoing conversation on Instagram and Facebook. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the podcast: Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and 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

What does it look like to engage politically in a way rooted in the cross and not coercion? In this special bonus episode from the archives, Mike Erre continues the "Faith & Politics" series by diving deep into the transformative implications of Paul's conversion—for both the early church and our modern political landscape. Drawing from Paul's radical encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, Mike explores how the Apostle's understanding of politics, salvation, nationalism, and power underwent a complete overhaul. Listeners are invited to reimagine civic engagement not through partisanship but through the cruciform vision of the Kingdom of God, where allegiance to Jesus as Lord reshapes all identities, systems, and priorities. Key Takeaways: • Paul's Political Awakening – How meeting the crucified and risen Jesus reoriented Paul's theology from zealotry to sacrificial love and non-coercive kingdom living. • Resurrection as Political Symbol – Seeing resurrection not as escapism but as God's holistic plan for the world: economic, social, and political renewal. • The Cross as a Political Statement – Understanding the Roman cross as the ultimate political symbol, and how Jesus's death subverts and reclaims power structures through loving victory. • The Birth of a New Humanity – How the church, drawn from every tribe and nation, is called to be a new polis—a holy, justice-oriented political community shaped by the Spirit and mission of Jesus. • Jesus Is Lord (Not Caesar) – Why the early Christian proclamation directly challenged the empire and what it means for modern believers navigating political identity. Resources Mentioned: • Ephesians 1 – Paul's sweeping vision of Jesus's cosmic lordship (Read Ephesians 1) • Michael Gorman – Insights on "cruciform" theology and non-coercive power • Books and themes of Jonah and Exodus 19 – For understanding election, vocation, and God's heart for the nations • Tim Gombis – Writings on empire and Pauline theology Join us as we wrestle with what it means to live as a politically faithful church in an era of division, nationalism, and misplaced allegiance. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone questioning how faith truly intersects with politics. 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 the transformative teachings of Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount, as concepts of righteousness shift from mere performance to heart-centered authenticity. Explore the political nature of the Kingdom and the church's vital role as a transformative community. Tackle the complexities of church leadership and the disconnect between youth and traditional models, highlighting the need for genuine connections. Plus, hear a personal journey of healing and the importance of trust in spiritual communities.

How can Christians engage in politics without becoming partisans? In this double-feature episode—an encore from two years ago—Mike Erre revisits the roots of faith, power, and politics with new context for our current cultural moment. Drawing from Tim Gombis, Michael Goheen, and N.T. Wright, Mike reframes Paul's theology as inherently political, uncovering how early church teachings speak directly into the chaos of today's polarized political climate. This is the first two parts of the Faith and Politics Series—republished to provide grounding and clarity during a fraught election season. Mike explores Paul's journey from Saul the Pharisee to Apostle of Jesus, highlighting a dramatic political reorientation—one from coercion and judgment to service, humility, and subversive citizenship in the Kingdom of God. Key Takeaways: • Understanding "Politics" Biblically – Redefining politics not as partisanship, but as the communal ordering of social life under the reign of Jesus. • Paul's Political Imagination – How Saul's pre-conversion zeal mirrored today's political idolatry, and how Jesus radically reshaped his political posture. • The Gospel as Political Announcement – Why preaching is inherently political and how churches should function as alternative communities ("polis") embodying justice, mercy, and humility. • Lessons for Today's Church – What modern Christians can learn from the tension between faith and nationalism, power and witness, and how we move forward with redemptive engagement. Resources Mentioned: • Michael Goheen – Writings on missional theology • N.T. Wright – Gospel and Empire themes • Tim Gombis – Scholarly work on Paul and political theology • Book of Acts – The transformation of Saul to Paul • Old Testament texts – Deuteronomy, Jeremiah, Isaiah (New Exodus themes) • Hebrew Bible themes – Shalom, exile, holiness, and priesthood Join the conversation as we unpack how Paul's political transformation can help us navigate our own divisive landscape with gospel-centered wisdom. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology on social media to stay informed and inspired. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue truth together. Feel free to email your thoughts to hello@voxpodcast.com and engage with us on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube if you're into that kinda thing: VOXOLOGY TV – https://www.youtube.com/@voxology Our Merch Store: ETSY – https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market Learn more about the podcast: https://voxologypodcast.com/ Subscribe on iTunes – https://apple.co/1Lla1Nj Or on Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr?si=KJoEXxxxTsqE-HiGL-PfIA Support the podcast on Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/voxology Listen to Voxology Radio on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/user/nj2l08pd1zt6zk3azs1plhmdy?si=3fb86269da0449ed Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford – https://www.timothyjohnstafford.com 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 to reshape your spiritual and relational life through the revolutionary ethic of enemy love, as taught by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. In this installment of the Sermon on the Mount Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford explore Jesus' transformative call to love our enemies—a command that challenges deeply embedded cultural and religious narratives, and redefines what it truly means to embody the character of God. Key Takeaways: • Beyond Sentimentality – Why biblical love isn't about feelings or liking others, but about willing and acting for the good of even those who oppose us. • Enemy Love as the Essence of God – Understanding how Jesus frames love for enemies not just as an ethic, but as the very nature of God's perfection and a requirement to reflect God's character. • Reframing Perfection – What Jesus really meant when he said "be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect"—and why it's about completeness in love, not moral flawlessness. • The Politics of the Kingdom – How Jesus' teaching uproots natural human impulses and worldly political categories by calling us into a community defined by sacrificial love. • Discipleship as George Costanza Discipleship – Flipping the world's instincts upside down and choosing to follow God's wisdom, no matter how counterintuitive it feels. • Practical Practices of Enemy Love – Daily rhythms like praying for those who oppose you as an intentional act of resisting resentment and retributive tendencies. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5:43-48 – The passage explored during the episode. • Leviticus 19 – The origin of "love your neighbor" and the surrounding context debated by First-Century rabbis. • Scandalous Witness by Lee Camp – Perspectives on how Christian witness intersects with public life and politics. • The Faith and Politics Series – A series Tim is re-releasing mid-week as bonus episodes during election season. Guest Highlight: Seth Erie – Makes another joyful, unfiltered appearance to end the episode with the Shema and some comic relief. Join the conversation as we unlearn cultural scripts and rediscover the radical love of Jesus that empowers us to break cycles of vengeance and alienation. Subscribe to stay connected with the series, leave a review to share the message, and follow us on social for updates and community fellowship. 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 → https://www.youtube.com/@voxology Our Merch Store! → https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market Learn more about the Voxology Podcast → https://voxologypodcast.com/ Subscribe on: • iTunes – https://apple.co/1Lla1Nj • Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr?si=KJoEXxxxTsqE-HiGL-PfIA Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon → https://www.patreon.com/voxology Listen to the Voxology Spotify Channel → https://open.spotify.com/user/nj2l08pd1zt6zk3azs1plhmdy?si=3fb86269da0449ed Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford → https://www.timothyjohnstafford.com/ 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 a deeper understanding of American history, systemic injustice, and evangelical complicity can help Christians live out the gospel in today's racially charged culture. Mike and Tim sit down with Phil Vischer—creator of VeggieTales, co-host of The Holy Post Podcast, and cultural commentator—to walk through the historical realities that shaped our current racial divide and the church's role in both perpetuating and healing those wounds. This episode is a powerful call for Christians—especially white evangelicals—to listen, reflect, and act with humility and courage. Key Takeaways: • The Legacy of Inequity – Phil unpacks the data behind racial disparities in household wealth, systemic exclusion from housing and economic opportunity, and how the church must reckon with its part in that history. • Evangelicalism and Segregation – A shocking look into how the religious right was politically mobilized not by abortion, but by the defense of segregated schools—and how the abortion issue was strategically adopted later. • Beyond Individualism – Why saying "I didn't own slaves" or "I'm not racist" misses the point of biblical justice and the Christian call to stand in solidarity with those oppressed, regardless of personal blame. • Why 'Systemic Racism' Isn't Just a Buzzword – Even without using the term, the episode illustrates how policy choices and national priorities have historically sidelined Black communities—and why that damage persists today. • Historical Honesty as Gospel Witness – Reliving American history with humility and honesty is not about hating your country—it's about understanding the roots of injustice so the church can become a healing force in the world. Guest Highlight: Phil Vischer – Co-host of The Holy Post and creator of VeggieTales. Transforming his platform into a catalyst for truth-telling and grace-filled justice, Phil offers clear, fact-driven insights about America's racial past and a biblical vision for the future. Resources Mentioned: • Phil Vischer's Race & American History Video – Watch on YouTube • "Sky Jethani's Abortion Thread" on Twitter – A breakdown of abortion's politicization and the limits of conservative policy • Holy Post Podcast – theholypost.com • Christianity Today archive exploring fundamentalism and neo-evangelicalism – [Link] Ready to dive deeper into kingdom-minded justice and uncomfortable truths? Subscribe to Voxology, leave a review if this episode resonated, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook to keep the conversation going. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we grow together. Reach out anytime with questions at hello@voxpodcast.com! We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more: Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support us at Patreon Follow the Voxology Spotify channel – Voxology Radio Instagram & Twitter: @voxologypodcast | @GoneTimothy | @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford 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 Jesus dismantles the ancient law of revenge and invites us into a countercultural way of living rooted in honor, humility, and creative nonviolence. In the seventh installment of the Exile Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford explore Jesus's teaching in Matthew 5:38–42, diving deep into the cultural context of "eye for an eye," unpacking how the Kingdom of God turns the law of reciprocity upside down. Using vivid biblical examples—from Samson and the endless cycles of vengeance in Judges to Roman occupation and public humiliation—Mike and Tim reveal how Jesus wasn't calling us to passivity, but to a bold, subversive love that exposes evil without perpetuating it. Whether it's turning the other cheek, giving your cloak, or going the extra mile, each of Jesus's examples ignites dignity, disrupts cycles of retaliation, and models how we can live out a new kind of justice in the here and now. Key Takeaways: • Resisting Evil Without Retaliation – How Jesus redefines resistance by refusing to escalate harm and instead calling us toward honorable nonviolence. • The Power of Subversive Acts – What turning the other cheek, handing over your cloak, and going the second mile meant in honor-shame culture—and how they unmask the oppressor's injustice. • Reciprocity Replaced by Grace – Why Jesus calls us to abandon "getting even" and embrace creative, loving responses to persecution and insult. • Personal Application – How these teachings reshape everyday interactions: from social media spats to marriage conflicts and road rage moments. • The Political Reality of the Kingdom – Why Jesus's teachings were far more than personal morality—they were a radical vision for a transformed society. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5:38–42 – Read on Bible Gateway • Judges 15 – The story of Samson's escalating revenge • Leviticus 24:19–20; Exodus 21:23–25; Deuteronomy 19:21 – Old Testament sources of "eye for an eye" • Dallas Willard's concept of Joyful Non-Compliance Join us as we continue this challenging but eye-opening journey through Jesus's Exile teachings. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast to be part of an evolving community seeking the radical, redemptive heart of Jesus. We want to hear from you! Send your questions, reflections, or pushback to hello@voxpodcast.com or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. We're also on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab some Vox Merch here: ETSY Shop Find all things Vox at the Voxology Website Subscribe on your favorite platform: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Support transformative conversations like this at Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like the community on Facebook: Voxology Podcast Tweet with Mike: 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

What does it look like to be a people of radical honesty in a culture built on manipulation, spin, and social performance? In this continuation of the Sermon on the Mount Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford unpack one of Jesus's seemingly simple yet deeply subversive teachings: letting your "yes" be yes and your "no" be no. Using Matthew 5:33–37 as a launch point, they explore how oath taking in the ancient world functioned as a tool for verbal manipulation and how Jesus cuts straight through that tradition to call his followers into truthfulness rooted in love and trust. The conversation digs beneath the surface of swearing oaths to examine how modern Christians still cloak self-interest in spiritual language, project inauthentic personas, and often use "God talk" to avoid honesty and vulnerability. Along the way, Mike shares revealing insights on spiritual maturity, personal therapy breakthroughs, and what it means to speak truth in love—even when it's uncomfortable. This episode is a challenge and a comfort for anyone seeking to live with integrity in polarized political environments, performative church culture, and the day-to-day moments where honesty feels risky. Key Takeaways: • The Kingdom Way of Speaking – Why Jesus doesn't prohibit oaths because they're formal, but because they represent a deeper issue of manipulation and spin. • Verbal Manipulation as Spin – How invoking God to justify personal decisions, political stances, or hidden agendas misuses His name and distorts the gospel. • A Call to Integrity – What it means to literally let your "yes" be yes and your "no" be no, and why healthy community depends on that truthfulness. • Naming the Religious Game – Exploring how spiritual leaders, churches, and even worship music often subtly encourage "Christian performativity" over honesty. • Resistance as Truth-telling – How truth, confession, and integrity function as a form of resistance in a culture of misinformation, hype, and partisanship. • Grace and Growth – A hopeful reminder that growing in truthfulness is a process and that the gospel makes space for confession and course correction. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5:33–37 – Jesus's teaching about oaths in the Sermon on the Mount • Matthew 23 – Jesus critiques Pharisaic oath traditions • Leviticus 19 and Exodus 20 – The Old Testament context of oath-taking and the misuse of God's name • The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard – dwillard.org • Tim Gombis – Episodes and perspective on Christian misuse of authority and God-talk • Ecclesiastes ("Let your words be few…") • The Book of Acts – "It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us…" as a model for discernment • Song Reference: "Let My Words Be Few" and Michael Jackson's "Man in the Mirror" quote cameo Join the conversation and reflect on what being truth-tellers really looks like in our moment. Want to help others discover what Jesus's kingdom really looks like? Subscribe, rate the podcast, and share this episode with someone wrestling with what it means to speak with integrity today. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com and to engage in 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 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

Explore how Jesus confronts divorce and remarriage in first-century Jewish culture by exposing the double standards that marginalized women and distorted God's vision of marriage. Continuing the Sermon on the Mount Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford break down Matthew 5 and Matthew 19, unpacking Jesus's radical reinterpretation of Deuteronomy 24 and its implications for relationships, gender roles, lust, adultery, and the grace of God's Kingdom. Rather than offering a rigid rulebook, Jesus reframes divorce not as a legal loophole but as a heart issue—warning men about consumer-based relationships, and liberating women held captive by oppressive systems. The episode also dives deep into purity culture, the damage of shame-based teachings, and the lifelong journey of reshaping our vision of marriage, sex, and human connection through the lens of Jesus' compassion and truth. Key Takeaways: • Jesus Redefines Adultery to Liberate and Confront – How His interpretations of Deuteronomy 24 and Genesis 1-2 elevate women and expose patriarchal hypocrisy. • Exposing the "Any and Every Reason" Divorce Culture – Tracing how first-century rabbis debated the legal basis for divorce and how Jesus upended their assumptions. • God's Ideal vs. Human Concession – Understanding how the Bible presents marriage not as personal fulfillment but as covenant and responsibility. • When Divorce Is Permissible – The tension between theology and pastoral care, and how Scripture permits divorce in cases of adultery, abuse, and abandonment. • Reforming Our Views on Purity, Sex, and Intimacy – A vulnerable conversation about how shame, legalism, and false reward systems impacted personal stories and how to teach new generations differently. Guest Highlights: • Seth Erie – Makes a joyful surprise appearance at the end of the episode, dropping hilarious and heartfelt commentary with dad Mike and a shoutout to Chick-fil-A, Tim Tims, and the entire Vox community. Resources Mentioned: • Matthew 5 & Matthew 19 • Deuteronomy 24 & Exodus 21 – Foundational references for divorce in the Torah • 1 Corinthians 7 – Paul's insight on divorce and abandonment • The Mishnah – Jewish oral tradition illuminating the debates between Rabbi Shammai and Rabbi Hillel • Teachings from Tim Mackie and David Instone-Brewer on biblical divorce and remarriage Don't miss this rich, challenging episode that will stretch your theology, deepen your empathy, and help reshape how we talk about relationships in the church. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social to join the ongoing conversation. As always, we encourage and welcome your thoughts as we journey together. Email questions to hello@voxpodcast.com and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. We're also on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Support the Voxology Podcast: Patreon Official Website: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Check out our Spotify music channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast 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