Voxology

How do church decline and societal disconnection go hand in hand? In this thought-provoking conversation, Mike Erre is joined by longtime friend (and former Ohio State quarterback) Steve Geller to talk football, faith, and the unraveling of American communal life. After reliving an unforgettable moment of gridiron glory and fumble-induced infamy, the duo digs into a sobering sociology-rooted critique of modern American church decline—based on recent writing from Scott McKnight's blog, "The Death of the Church." They explore why church attendance is declining, not just from spiritual apathy, but from broader cultural forces like suburban sprawl, screen saturation, and radical individualism. Mike and Steve unpack how churches have often mirrored these anti-community forces instead of countering them, and share candid stories about technology, parenting, and spiritual hunger in our hyper-fragmented age. Key Takeaways: • Why church decline may reflect the breakdown of American community—not just bad preaching or boring worship. • How suburban sprawl, screen addiction, and a "me first" culture work as anti-community forces eroding church life. • Ways the church reinforces individualism in sermons, programs, and discipleship—even while preaching togetherness. • The spiritual power of proximity and presence: reclaiming place, community events, and shared meals as holy acts. • How churches can offer better responses to technology's isolating effects by becoming pro-people rather than anti-tech. Guest Highlights: Steve Geller – Former Ohio State quarterback turned educational leader and thoughtful church critic. Steve brings heartfelt reflections on Christian formation, community loss, and why the church must take a hard look at what it models today. Resources Mentioned: • Scott McKnight's Blog: "The Death of the Church" – [Link] • Bowling Alone by Robert Putnam – [Link] • The Tech-Wise Family by Andy Crouch – [Link] Let's rethink what real church community means. Subscribe, share this episode, and join the conversation on your favorite socials. Support us on Patreon or check out our latest resources online. 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 a controversial GQ list, an outdated quote on spousal abuse, and Beth Moore's powerful letter converge to expose the cultural misunderstandings—and misuses—of the Bible both inside and outside the church. Mike Erre and guest Kevin #2 (of Crimson Cup Coffee fame) unpack three hot-button moments that captured headlines and Twitter feeds, offering insights into how Christians can respond with truth, humility, and action in a culture often skeptical of faith. Key Takeaways: • The Bible and Cultural Critique – Why GQ's dismissal of the Bible ironically reveals a widespread Christian failure to engage with Scripture beyond surface-level devotion. • Misusing Scripture in the Name of Authority – Addressing the toxic theology behind a pastor's advice to an abused woman to stay and submit, and the broader dangers of spiritualizing harm. • Beth Moore's Profound Witness – Reflecting on her open letter confronting sexism in the evangelical world, and what it means for church leadership, theology, and gender equality moving forward. • The Opportunity in Outrage – How righteous anger can be redirected toward internal reflection, cultural repentance, and the formation of a more Jesus-like church. • Reframing Privilege and Apology – Why true repentance goes deeper than saying "I'm sorry" for being male, straight, or white—and challenges us to become proactive agents of healing and equity. Resources Mentioned: • Beth Moore's "A Letter to My Brothers" – bethmoore.net • Dallas Willard Quote on Cultural Privilege – The Divine Conspiracy • RNS coverage of Paige Patterson's comments – religionnews.com • Kevin's coffee company – crimsoncup.com Join the conversation about faith, justice, and truth by subscribing to the Voxology Podcast. Leave a review to help others find us and connect with us on social media. As always, we encourage and welcome your thoughts as we dig deeper into these challenging issues. Email your questions to hello@voxpodcast.com and join the discussion on Facebook and Instagram. Watch us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab your Voxology merch at our Etsy store Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe via Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and Facebook: voxologypodcast 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 happens when faithful listeners bring their best questions to the table? You get a rich, multidimensional conversation exploring everything from advocacy for people with developmental disabilities to the theological case for women in ministry leadership. On this Vox Mailbag episode, Mike Erre reflects on listener feedback, critiques, and thoughtful questions with his trademark honesty and theological depth. He touches on listener experiences championing dignity and person-centered care for individuals with developmental disabilities, while also diving into serious ecclesiological considerations: Do the priestly limits placed on Levites in the Old Testament apply analogously to gender and church leadership? How should we view Paul's female co-laborers like Phoebe, Junia, and Priscilla? Could the "chosen lady" of 2 John be a female house church pastor? And why respond so often to teachings from Desiring God and The Gospel Coalition? This episode is an open, generous model of how Christians can push back, question sources of authority, and explore scripture more deeply—without disregarding those they might disagree with. Key Takeaways: • Honoring People with Developmental Disabilities – Listeners share powerful, real-life stories of advocating for and learning from individuals with disabilities—and Mike reflects personally as a father to a son with Down syndrome. • Responding with Grace to Disagreement – Engaging critiques of the show's comments about Desiring God and the Gospel Coalition, with thoughtful consideration of whether their voices already dominate Christian discourse. • Reframing the Priesthood Analogy – Why comparing male-only Levite priests to male church leaders falls short when women leaders like Phoebe and Junia appear clearly in the New Testament. • The "Elect Lady" of 2 John – Drawing from scholar Scot McKnight's work, a compelling exploration into whether a woman was pastoring a house church and why it matters for understanding women in ministry today. Resources Mentioned: • John Coe – Institute for Spiritual Formation at Biola University • Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross – Explorers of contemplative spirituality and the "dark night of the soul" • Scot McKnight on 2 John – Blog Post • Romans 16, 1 Corinthians, and 2 John – Biblical backing for women in leadership • Revelation Podcast Series – Exclusive for Patreon supporters Join the conversation and add your voice to this thoughtful and evolving community. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology on social media to stay connected and be part of the movement toward a more expansive and inclusive vision of the church. As always, we welcome your questions and thoughts—email us at hello@voxpodcast.com or engage with the community on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube at VOXOLOGY TV: https://www.youtube.com/@voxology Merch, anyone? Check out our Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market Learn more at https://voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/1Lla1Nj Or listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr?si=KJoEXxxxTsqE-HiGL-PfIA Support the podcast at https://www.patreon.com/voxology Find us on Instagram @voxologypodcast and like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music 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

Exploring the deep wounds of narcissism and the toxic environments that foster it, Mike takes us on a vulnerable and illuminating journey of self-reflection, healing, and spiritual formation in this raw follow-up to his recent conversations on narcissism in the church. Drawing from personal experiences, scriptural insights, and therapeutic practices, this episode equips listeners with practical tools for identifying narcissistic tendencies within themselves and their communities—while offering a hopeful pathway toward authentic Christian leadership and humble, grace-filled community. Key Takeaways: • Deconstructing Narcissistic Church Culture – Understanding how the "evangelical industrial complex" encourages celebrity pastors, platform building, and ego-based leadership models. • Red Flags in Church Leadership – Practical signs to look for when evaluating whether a church is operating under narcissistic influence and how to respond wisely. • Healing the False Self – Tracing the root of narcissism to childhood wounds and the formation of a false persona, and how confession, therapy, and spiritual disciplines help dismantle it. • Practices for Spiritual Humility – How to embrace being the "biggest sinner in the room," seek feedback, and refrain from chasing platform and applause. • Reparenting Through Christian Community – The vital role of embodied community and the church in healing damaged self-image and reshaping identity in Jesus. Resources Mentioned: • Skye Jethani on the Evangelical Industrial Complex – https://www.skyejethani.com • John Coe – Talbot Institute for Spiritual Formation • Dallas Willard's Teachings • Jars of Clay (as metaphor and Christian band) – https://jarsofclay.com • 2 Corinthians 4:7 – "Treasure in jars of clay" Join us in resisting toxic leadership models and rediscovering what it means to be the church Jesus intended. Subscribe, share the episode, leave a review, and help spread the movement toward humility and truth in Christian community. We'd love to hear your thoughts or stories on this topic. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com, and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Shop Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Follow the Voxology Spotify channel 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 culture of modern church leadership, platform-building, and celebrity status can unknowingly attract narcissists—and what that reveals about our definitions of church, spiritual maturity, and humility. Mike Erre continues last week's conversation on narcissism, deepening the discussion by exploring how certain church structures, American evangelical ideals, and personality-driven ministry models may unintentionally foster and enable narcissistic tendencies in both leaders and followers. Mike reflects vulnerably on his own journey with narcissism, engages listener feedback—including a psychologist's affirmation and thoughtful community questions—and examines the broader theological implications of humility, self-denial, and leadership through scriptural lenses like Philippians 2, 1 Corinthians, and 3 John. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Spiritual Narcissism – Why ministry roles can attract narcissists and how church platforms can be used to reinforce the false self. • Church as an Applause Machine – Exploring how celebrity culture, branding, and performance-driven ministry create unhealthy cycles of ego gratification. • Redefining Leadership in the Church – Challenging narrow, type-A, CEO-style leadership models and embracing a fuller picture of biblical servanthood. • Humility and Self-Denial Reframed – Unpacking the difference between denying the self and practicing self-denial as modeled by Jesus in Philippians 2. • The Role of Community and Discipline – How obscurity, silence, and spiritual practices can disrupt narcissistic patterns and lead to transformation. Resources Mentioned: • Dallas Willard – "The Divine Conspiracy," "Renovation of the Heart," "Hearing God" • John Coe – Talbot School of Theology's Institute for Spiritual Formation • 3 John – A biblical example of spiritual narcissism • Philippians 2, 1 Peter 5, James 4, Matthew 11 – Verses on humility and Christ-like leadership • Sky Jethani – YouTube video on celebrity pastors and the Evangelical Industrial Complex Join the conversation as we pull back the curtain on how power, platform, and personality intersect with faith—and what it takes to embody a healthier, Christ-centered vision of leadership. Subscribe, share, and leave us a review to support the Voxology community. Follow us for more content that helps reimagine Christian faith in today's world. 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 us 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: 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 pursuit of significance, platform-building, and personal image intertwines with the culture of American evangelicalism—and the deeply personal cost of hiding behind a false self. In this opening episode of a vulnerable new series, Mike Erre reflects on his own lifelong entanglement with narcissism: where it comes from, how it forms, how it thrives in church leadership, and the healing power of confession. Drawing from therapeutic frameworks, Greek mythology, and personal stories—including parenting, pastoral ministry, and depression—Mike begins a raw dissection of the inner dynamics that often shape evangelical leaders. He explores why narcissists are often rewarded with influence, how they form through wounded self-images, and how easy it is to confuse acclaim for calling. This isn't just commentary—it's confession. And it sets the stage for deeper exploration of why church structures seem to perpetuate narcissistic leadership and what it looks like to become free from false personas in pursuit of Jesus-shaped servanthood. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Narcissism and the False Persona – Narcissism often stems from early damage to self-worth, creating shame and a compulsive need to feel important, which is fed by constructing a false persona. • Narcissism and the Church – Evangelical culture often celebrates the very traits that mask narcissism, making it hard to detect and even harder to challenge in Christian leadership. • Telltale Signs – From an inordinate need for affirmation to reacting harshly to criticism, narcissists often exhibit specific behavioral markers that stand in contrast to humble service. • Where Confession Meets Healing – Mike shares how circumstances, therapy, and spiritual discipline have slowly dismantled his false self and exposed the grace and growth that follow. • The Impact on Relationships, Leadership, and Mission – Narcissistic patterns hinder intimacy, collaboration, and true kingdom leadership—posing important challenges for churches and believers. Resources Mentioned: • "Leading With a Limp" by Dan Allender • Charles Stone & Peter Steinke – Writings on narcissism in church leadership • Kenton Beshore – Former pastor and mentor at Mariners Church • Romans 12: Don't think of yourself more highly than you ought Subscribe, share, or leave a review to help others join this honest conversation. And don't miss Part 2, where we explore how American church systems invite and reward narcissistic leadership. 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 at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Check out the Voxology Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Instagram & Facebook: @voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford: 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 do we engage faithfully with long-held beliefs around gender, authority, and theology in the church? Mike Erre critiques a recent article and podcast by influential Christian leader John Piper that argues for inherent male leadership based on "God-given maleness." Drawing on scripture, historical context, and theological reflection, Mike challenges complementarian views and offers an egalitarian reading of Genesis, Paul's household codes, and the teachings of Jesus. This episode invites listeners to consider a more empowering and biblical vision of mutuality between men and women in leadership, marriage, and the church. Key Takeaways: • Complementarian vs. Egalitarian Theology – A breakdown of the differences between these two frameworks and why Mike now embraces egalitarianism. • Rethinking Genesis 1–3 – Why hierarchical readings of Adam and Eve are built more on theology than exegesis, and how mutuality better reflects God's original intent. • Jesus as the Model – How Jesus' treatment of women subverts patriarchal norms and reshapes leadership paradigms. • Paul's Letters in Cultural Context – A look at Colossians, Ephesians, and 1 Peter to understand commands about gender not as eternal hierarchies, but as missionary strategies and curse reversals. • The Dangers of Hierarchical Male Authority – Addressing studies that suggest a correlation between Calvinism, complementarian theology, and domestic abuse, and why it's time for the church to lead in a healthier direction. Notable Quote: "What culture needs is the church to lead the way in empowering women, because that is what Jesus did—against all cultural convention." Guest Highlight: Seth Eery – Makes a heartwarming appearance to lead the Pledge of Allegiance, reminding us of the hope found in the next generation. Resources Mentioned: • Scott McKnight's blog "The Jesus Creed" – https://www.christianitytoday.com/scot-mcknight • Psychology of Religion & Spirituality Study – "Religious Beliefs and Domestic Violence Myths" [DOI PDF Link] • Genesis 1–3, Ephesians 5, Colossians 3, 1 Peter 3 – Key scriptural passages discussed. Join the ongoing conversation on egalitarian theology, gender roles, and the call to justice in the Body of Christ. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to help extend the Voxology family and reimagine the church's mission in today's world. As always, we encourage and welcome your thoughts. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com, and connect on Facebook and Instagram. Check us out visually on VOXOLOGY TV Grab some merch at our ETSY Shop Explore more at the Voxology Podcast Website Listen and subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support us on Patreon Find unique playlists and music on Voxology Radio 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

Exploring how the Christian vision of the end shapes our response to today's most pressing socio-political issues, this episode of Voxology offers a deeply reflective take on cultural violence, the sanctity of life, and the church's role in embodying God's promised future. Mike Erre challenges listeners to confront gun culture, advocate for those often marginalized in society, and evaluate public theology through an eschatological lens. With World Down Syndrome Day and March for Our Lives as a cultural backdrop, Mike shares powerful stories and scathing observations that challenge partisan thinking and point listeners toward a peacemaking ethic grounded in the gospel. Key Takeaways: • Down Syndrome and the Value of Life – Reflecting on World Down Syndrome Day, Mike shares a moving quote by Charlotte Fien at the UN and articulates the Christian moral imperative to affirm the dignity of every life, especially the vulnerable. • Guns, Violence, and the Christian Ethic – A provocative look at how America's obsession with weapons collides with Jesus's call to peace, and why the church must model the eschatological hope of beating swords into plowshares. • The Eschatological Lens – Understanding why Christian ethics aren't about "what works" but about reflecting where the story of God is heading—the renewal of all things. • Racism, Power, and American Idols – How the church's witness is compromised when it aligns with national narratives of supremacy, rights, and dominance instead of kingdom principles of humility, equality, and love. • Critique of Complementarianism – A teaser for the next episode: Mike briefly introduces a strong critique of John Piper's view that male "headship" is the answer to a culture of abuse. Resources Mentioned: • Isaiah 2 – Prophetic vision of peace and justice • Revelation 7 – The image of one new people from every nation and tribe worshiping God • Charlotte Fien at the UN – Link to her speech • Patreon Content on Revelation – Support and listen on Patreon Join us as we question the cultural norms Christians too often accept without critique. Subscribe to Voxology, leave a review to support the journey, and follow us on social media to engage with this vibrant, faithful 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 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 the profound mystery of the Trinity and why it continues to define the Christian faith. In this Theology Geek Series kickoff episode, Mike Erre walks through the biblical foundations for understanding God as one essence in three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Highlighting key Old and New Testament passages, this deep dive clarifies why this view sets Christianity apart from other monotheistic faiths, how the Trinity is more than just doctrinal complexity, and why its implications shape not only our theology but also how we live in community. Key Takeaways: • The Biblical Basis for the Trinity – How the Hebrew word Elohim, the Shema's "echad," and New Testament texts begin painting a picture of divine plurality within unity. • One God, Three Persons – Understanding the scriptural classes that affirm both singularity and diversity in God's nature. • Jesus and the Trinity – Why Jesus' relationship to the Father and the Holy Spirit reveals the trinitarian mystery and reframes our Christology. • Why the Trinity Matters – From community and connection to sacrificial love, embodying the image of a communal God shapes every part of discipleship and church life. • Common Misunderstandings – Mike addresses modalism, the limits of language, and why this isn't just "one God wearing three hats." Notable Quote: "We are made in the image of a community. The one God exists in self-sacrificial, joyous, overflowing love—and we are made exactly for that same thing." Resources Mentioned: • Genesis 1, Deuteronomy 6 (The Shema), Matthew 28, John 1 • Acts 5 (Ananias and Sapphira), Philippians 2, Luke 5 • Voxology Patreon Revelation Series – Support and listen here • Want to trace every "One Another" command? This helpful resource Don't miss this theological deep dive that connects doctrine to the very heart of human connection and community. Subscribe to stay updated on the Theology Geek Series, leave a review if this episode challenged your thinking, and follow Voxology Podcast on social to join 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 https://www.youtube.com/@voxology Voxology Merch Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market Learn more about the Voxology Podcast: https://voxologypodcast.com/ Subscribe: Apple — https://apple.co/1Lla1Nj Spotify — https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr?si=KJoEXxxxTsqE-HiGL-PfIA Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/voxology Voxology Radio on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/user/nj2l08pd1zt6zk3azs1plhmdy?si=3fb86269da0449ed Follow Voxology 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

Challenging cultural norms around abortion and disability, Mike Erre shares a poignant, personal, and theological response to a Washington Post op-ed that argued for the right to abort children diagnosed with Down syndrome. Drawing from Scripture, bioethical insights, and his own experience as the father of a child with Down syndrome, Mike explores how society's functional view of human value opens the door to eugenics, exclusion, and societal decay. This episode reflects on what it means to be made in the image of God and how the Church must embody a radically inclusive ethic that protects and honors all human life—regardless of ability. Key Takeaways: • Theological Foundations of Personhood – Why human value must be rooted in being image-bearers of God, not in cognitive function or contribution to society. • The Dangers of Functionalism – Exploring how history's most destructive ideologies—eugenics, the Holocaust, infant exposure—mirror modern arguments for selective abortion. • A Church That Welcomes All – The call for spiritual communities that model true inclusion of individuals with developmental disabilities, not as a separate ministry but as core to the body. • The Cost of Consumeristic Faith – Reflecting on how the mindset of "this is not the child I want" threatens both societal and spiritual integrity. • Historical and Medical Echoes – Comparing today's dilemmas with ancient practices of infant exposure, modern genetic testing concerns, and bioethical debates. Resources Mentioned: • Washington Post Opinion Article: "I Would Have Aborted a Fetus with Down Syndrome. Women Need That Right." – [Link] • CBS Report on Iceland and Down Syndrome – [Link] • Down Syndrome Awareness Day (March 21) – [Link] • Bioethical Readings on Personhood and Functionalism – [Recommended sources] Bonus Q&A: Mike also answers thought-provoking listener questions, including: • If death and disease are consequences of the Fall, why is the immune system so intricately designed to fight disease? • Did Jesus offer animal sacrifices under the Mosaic Law—and if not, why didn't the Pharisees confront him for it? Join the conversation as we reflect on what it means to be a pro-life community beyond politics—rooted in love, justice, and a vision of human dignity shaped by Jesus. As always, we encourage and welcome your questions and feedback. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com, and continue the conversation with us 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 – voxologypodcast.com Subscribe to Voxology 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