Voxology

How choosing risk and obedience over comfort sparked a life of radical love, hardship, and staggering hope. In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Mike and Andy talk with bestselling author and missionary Katie Davis Majors on the life-shaping journey from suburban Tennessee teen to adoptive mother of thirteen girls and founder of a thriving ministry in Uganda. Katie shares the backstory behind her books Kisses from Katie and Daring to Hope, offering profound insights on finding God not only in the miracles but also in the mess. From saying yes to a three-week trip that turned into a lifelong calling to navigating deep personal loss, spiritual doubt, and the burdens of unexpected fame, Katie opens up about the vulnerability, beauty, and brokenness of wholehearted discipleship. This conversation is a much-needed dose of good news, grace, and gritty faith. Key Takeaways: • Going All In on Obedience – How a single "yes" launched Katie's journey from teen missionary to Ugandan mother and ministry leader. • When Hope Looks Like Heartache – Navigating seasons of grief, quiet faith, and unanswered prayer with authenticity and trust. • Reframing Orphan Care – Unpacking the misconceptions about orphanages and how poverty, not parentlessness, is often the root issue. • Faith Under Fame – Wrestling with the tension between being placed on a pedestal and living a messy, real, vulnerable faith journey. • Building A Better Education Model in Uganda – Why Amazima opened a high school that combines discipleship, critical thinking, and opportunity for generational change. Guest Highlights: Katie Davis Majors – New York Times bestselling author of Kisses from Katie and Daring to Hope, founder of Amazima Ministries, and adoptive mom to 13 Ugandan girls. Katie shares how God transformed ordinary obedience into a global movement centered on justice, family, and radical dependence on Christ. Resources Mentioned: • Katie Davis Majors' Website and Ministry – amazima.org • Daring to Hope – [Link to Book] • Kisses from Katie – [Link to Book] Ready to be encouraged and challenged by Katie's story? Subscribe, leave a review, and follow the Voxology Podcast on your favorite social platforms. 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

A sacred night of confession, repentance, and healing, this eleventh installment of the Exile Series journeys into the deep waters of sexual brokenness and redemptive grace. Mike and Justina Erre vulnerably share their personal stories of addiction, trauma, and healing, inviting the Vox community into an experience of intimacy, honesty, and restoration. Anchored in the Psalms of David—Psalm 32 and Psalm 51—this gathering becomes more than a message; it's a pathway to embrace God's blessing, especially in the areas we're most ashamed of. With the symbol of the "hoopa"—a canopy representing God's presence, love, and blessing—the community is invited to offer their wounds, mistakes, and desires for transformation. Whether struggling with addiction, past abuse, relationship wounds, or the heaviness of shame, listeners are called to the truth: the Gospel is for you. Key Takeaways: • Confession Brings Freedom – The power of secrecy gives sin its grip. Naming your sin is the first step in experiencing liberation and grace. • Repentance is a Redirection – True repentance means turning away from darkness and walking down a radically new path. • Stories of Grace – Mike shares his healing journey from sexual sin, and Justina courageously recounts her experience with rape, shame, and finding Christ's mercy. • The Hoopa as a Symbol of Renewal – Participants step into a symbolic expression of God's love, regardless of relationship status, brokenness, or past. • Healing Takes Time and Community – While some healing comes instantly, most is shaped through consistent confession, boundaries, and safe relationships. • The Gospel Is For the Broken – No one is too far gone; God's grace meets us even in our worst moments and deepest secrets. Guest Highlight: Justina Erre – Wife of Mike Erre, Justina vulnerably shares her story of childhood trauma, sexual violence, and years of self-blame that ultimately led to a surrender to Jesus and the experience of spiritual and emotional healing. Her words offer validation and hope to countless women and men carrying unseen wounds. Resources Mentioned: • Psalm 32 and Psalm 51 – Prayers of confession and restoration by King David • Healing Hearts Ministry – Support groups for women experiencing sexual betrayal and abuse • Vox Prayer and Care Teams – Pastoral and lay presence available throughout the night • James 5:16 – "Confess your sins to one another and pray... that you may be healed." Join the journey towards freedom and wholeness rooted in Christ's unwavering love. Subscribe, leave a review, and connect with us online to spread this message of healing. 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 can the Church remain faithful to Jesus in a world shaped by political division, abuse scandals, and the erosion of moral authority? Mike Erre and Andy Lara tackle the explosive Roy Moore controversy as a lens to explore evangelical hypocrisy, the dangers of political idolatry, and the psychological toll of the siege mentality consuming much of American religious life. As allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced against Roy Moore—with many evangelicals doubling down in support—Mike and Andy wrestle with the implications for Christian witness, integrity, and the identity of evangelicalism itself. Drawing from David Brooks' powerful description of the "siege mentality," they question the Church's complicity in excusing immoral leaders for the sake of preserving cultural and political power. This episode offers a sobering reflection on how fear-based theology and political nationalism distort the Gospel and derail the Church from its call to be peacemakers, truth-tellers, and ambassadors of grace. From scriptural insights to personal anecdotes, the conversation underscores the urgent need for self-examination, consistency, and prophetic witness. Key Takeaways: • The Siege Mentality and Evangelical Support – Understanding how fear of cultural loss warps moral reasoning and drives blind support for compromised leaders. • The Collapse of Evangelical Identity – Why evangelical now signals political allegiance more than spiritual conviction, and how abandoning the label may be necessary. • Witness in a Wounded World – How hypocrisy in the Church's public stance on morality undermines our credibility and witness to a watching world. • Reclaiming the Role of Ambassadors – Paul's metaphor of believers as ambassadors of reconciliation reminds us that our primary identity is the Kingdom of God, not the kingdoms of this world. • Jesus Over Politics – Why doing Jesus' work Jesus' way is non-negotiable for followers of Christ, even amid pressure to "win" at any cost. Resources Mentioned: • David Brooks – "The Siege Mentality Problem" (New York Times) • Jeremiah 29 – Instructions to the exiles on blessing the city • Philip Yancey – Reflections on the politicization of evangelicals • Relevant reporting on Roy Moore's allegations and evangelical polling Let's reclaim the integrity of Jesus' name in the public square. Subscribe now, leave a review, and join the Voxology community on Instagram and Facebook to keep the conversation growing. 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 do we reconcile a loving God with the pain of birth defects, child loss, and perceived divine silence? This honest and moving Q&A episode tackles some of the most deeply personal and theologically challenging listener questions about suffering, scripture, and how God's will interacts with real-world tragedy. Mike and Andy explore whether Psalm 139 and Jeremiah 1 teach that God literally forms every child in the womb, and what that means for children born with trisomy 18 or Down syndrome. Offering empathy, biblical insight, and honest wrestling, they aim to create space for faith that allows for heartfelt mourning and hope beyond trauma. They also respond to questions about the accessibility of Scripture for those without formal education, examine the role of biblical scholarship versus everyday spiritual understanding, and talk through how to sit beside fellow believers—whether LGBTQ+ or ideologically different—with humility, grace, and hospitality. From divine sovereignty to stigmatization in the church, this episode doesn't hold back. Key Takeaways: • God Did Not Cause It – Unpacking a non-Calvinist theology of suffering that affirms God's goodness in a broken world without attributing tragedy to God's active will. • Poetry, Not Prescription – Psalm 139 and Jeremiah 1 offer deeply personal metaphors about God's knowledge of us, not literal step-by-step accounts of fetal development or divine intention of abnormalities. • Grieving Without Platitudes – A compassionate challenge to Christian clichés and a call to be honest with God, especially amid heartbreaking loss. • Scripture Is for Everyone – Encouragement that the Bible's message of grace is accessible to all, while recognizing the added richness that deeper study and scholarship can provide. • Sitting Beside Difference – Wrestling with how to love people we disagree with, whether they are white supremacists or LGBTQ+ Christians, and how the church's historic inconsistencies have contributed to present stigmas. Resources Mentioned: • Previous Voxology episodes on suffering, evil, and God's will – VoxologyPodcast.com • Peter Enns – Works on interpreting difficult scripture and biblical complexity • "Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes" by E. Randolph Richards and Brandon J. O'Brien • The story of the man born blind – John 9 • Matthew 20 – Parable of the Day Laborers Help us create space for raw, compassionate, Christ-rooted dialogue by joining the Voxology community. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay connected and continue the conversation. We love hearing from you. Send your questions to hello@voxpodcast.com and engage with us on Facebook and Instagram. Watch on VOXOLOGY TV via YouTube Shop Voxology merch on Etsy Support the podcast on Patreon Subscribe via Apple Podcasts or Spotify 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

How ChurchClarity.org is sparking a deeper conversation about transparency, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and the theological complexities facing modern American churches. Mike Erre and Andy dissect the origins and intentions of the platform while offering thoughtful critiques around its methodology, impact, and assumptions. Addressing the polarizing affirming/non-affirming binary, this episode navigates the messy tension between the demand for clarity and the pursuit of faithful community centered on Jesus. With guest insights from progressive Christians and celibate gay believers, Mike and Andy reflect on the costs, contradictions, and consequences of forced doctrinal stances in the digital age. Key Takeaways: • The Mission of ChurchClarity.org – Exploring the site's goal to rate churches based on their LGBTQ+ policies and how clearly they're stated online. • Critiques from Across the Spectrum – Why progressive allies, gay celibate Christians, and even pastors question Church Clarity's labeling system. • The Cost of Binary Categorization – How terms like "affirming" and "non-affirming," along with color-coded scores, oversimplify complex theological and pastoral realities. • Center-Set Community vs. Boundary Marking – Why Vox refuses to take an official "stance" on LGBTQ inclusion and instead invites people from all perspectives to the same table. • Can True Safety Be Assured? – Wrestling with the illusion of safety in online classifications versus the lived experiences of hospitality and harm in real church communities. Resources Mentioned: • ChurchClarity.org – https://www.churchclarity.org • RNS Article by Barbara Wheeler – Progressive critique of Church Clarity's effectiveness • Nashville Statement – https://cbmw.org/nashville-statement/ • Preston Sprinkle – https://twitter.com/PrestonSprinkle • 1 Corinthians 9:19–23 – Paul's posture of becoming all things to all people for the sake of the gospel Join the conversation as we explore how the church can move beyond rigid categories to embody the radical hospitality of Jesus. Subscribe to Voxology, leave a review, and follow us on social media for more discussions that hold space for tension, faith, and transformation. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion. Email your thoughts to hello@voxpodcast.com, or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. Watch us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab some gear from our Merch Store Explore the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the show on Patreon Follow us socially: Instagram: @voxologypodcast Facebook: Voxology Podcast 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

How can Christians effectively reengage today's divided public square with truth and love, especially when labeled as "fanatics" or shut out of mainstream conversation? Communication expert and Biola professor Tim Muehlhoff joins Mike and Andy to explore practical tools and postures for reclaiming the church's voice through compassion, credibility, and cognitive complexity. Drawing from his latest book, Winsome Persuasion, Tim shares how Christians can act as a "counterpublic"—a minority voice that influences culture—not by rage or retreat, but through relationship, neighborly love, and civil dialogue. Key Takeaways: • What Is a Counterpublic? – Understanding the church's cultural shift from majority to minority voice and how this posture reshapes engagement. • Cognitive Complexity in Practice – Learning to see people and events through a multi-layered lens that goes beyond simplistic labels and judgments. • Winsome Communication Tactics – How Christians can avoid the "argument culture," instead cultivating conversations marked by empathy and humility. • Prophetic vs. Persuasive Voices – When to speak plainly with truth and when to engage others gently through understanding and relational equity. • Loose Connections and Civic Partnerships – Why churches should collaborate with unlikely allies on shared social concerns and community initiatives. Guest Highlights: Tim Muehlhoff – Author, tenured professor at Biola University, and passionate communicator about faith, culture, and compassion. Tim's insights from Winsome Persuasion and his own life experiences (tenure jokes, martial arts metaphors, and Detroit Tigers games included) bring both depth and laughter to vital conversations. Resources Mentioned: • Winsome Persuasion by Tim Muehlhoff and Rick Langer – IVP Book Link • The Art of Relationships Podcast – Biola CMR Podcast • Talking to People Who Hate Me – Podcast about humanizing hostile disagreement. • Book: The Benedict Option by Rod Dreher • Francis Schaeffer's Writings – Reflection on America's cultural shifts • Other Books: "I Beg to Differ" by Tim Muehlhoff Let's reimagine how we speak into a noisy world with clarity, grace, and compassion. Subscribe to the Voxology Podcast, leave a review, and follow along on socials to join our mission of rediscovering Jesus's voice for today's culture. 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 Book of Song of Solomon redefines intimacy, communication, and self-worth in the noise of a synthetic, sex-saturated culture. In this honest and wide-ranging conversation, Tim and Noreen Muehlhoff draw from 17 years of teaching at Family Life Marriage Conferences to unpack how biblical wisdom radically challenges cultural narratives around sex, self-esteem, and relationships. Through a deep dive into Song of Solomon chapters 5 and 7, they explore how words shape not just our relationships with others, but our very identities—and how that truth can restore intimacy and security in marriage. Key Takeaways: • The Spoken Word as Sacred Power – In an age of endless tweets, texts, and reels, the biblical perspective insists that every word has eternal significance. "Reckless words," Proverbs warns, "can break bones." • Unrealistic Cultural Expectations – From romance movies to diet culture, today's media constantly distorts our understanding of beauty, value, and love—leaving many, especially women, wrestling with shame and inadequacy. • A Common Sexual Illiteracy – Most adults weren't given healthy narratives or tools for talking about sex. As Tim humorously admits, "Everything I learned about sex came from the high school football team and pornography." • Song of Solomon's Countercultural Beauty – Both the male and female voices in Song of Solomon affirm each other's beauty, not through comparison, but through cherishing language, dignity, and shared companionship—offering a radically liberating vision of sexuality. • Self-Esteem and the Michelangelo Effect – You shape your partner. "You get the spouse you deserve—because you create them." Speaking consistent, personal, life-giving truth to your spouse can literally sculpt their self-image over time. Guest Highlights: Tim and Noreen Muehlhoff – Marriage educators with Family Life and Bible professors at Biola University. Their dynamic, honest teaching unpacks cultural scripts, biblical truth, and the vulnerability of authentic communication in marriage. Resources Mentioned: • FamilyLife Marriage Conferences – familylife.com • Song of Solomon Chapters 5 and 7 – Bible Gateway • "Love Life" by Ed Wheat – Amazon Link • "Sheet Music" by Dr. Kevin Leman – Amazon Link • Dove Campaign for Real Beauty / Evolution Video – YouTube • Simply Romantic Nights – familylife.com Resource • John Gottman's work on marriage and communication – gottman.com • Dennis Rainey's parenting resources – familylife.com • "Hooked" by Joe S. McIlhaney Jr. and Freda McKissic Bush – Amazon Link Join the conversation and let's rethink how we talk about love, sex, and identity in a way shaped by grace, wisdom, and the beauty of God's design. If this episode resonated with you, subscribe to the Voxology Podcast, leave us a review, and follow along on social media. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @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 does God relate to the hard things in life—tragedy, suffering, anxiety, and injustice? In a raw, unscripted live Q&A from Ohio before heading off to speak at a Campus Crusade retreat, Mike Erre opens up the floor to deep and personal listener questions. Exploring Psalm 55 and themes of divine goodness, human suffering, and theological wrestling, this episode dives into the tension between being told to "cast your cares on the Lord" and still experiencing life's darkest seasons. Mike reflects on his own struggles with anxiety, updates listeners on the Vox community's transition to Ohio, and speaks pointedly about Christian complicity in the political climate—particularly in response to questions about the Trump administration's moral failures. He passionately challenges deterministic views of God's sovereignty and affirms the scriptural witness of a God radically opposed to evil, deeply involved in human healing, and consistently working for redemption even amidst incomprehensible pain. Key Takeaways: • Understanding "Shaken" in Psalm 55 – Why we may feel unstable even when God promises stability, and how the verse offers assurance in terms of ultimate identity and rescue, not emotional certainty. • Does God Cause Suffering? – A biblical case for the presence of other wills (human and demonic) in the world, and why Jesus never attributes tragedy or harm to God's direct orchestration. • Jesus vs. Political Powers – How Jesus' subversive confrontation with religious and political elites informs how we should engage injustice today without allying with or retreating from politics entirely. • The Church's Role in Divided Times – How the church must lead with hospitality, prophetic critique, and self-examination rather than petty division, especially in a polarized cultural and political landscape. • Life After Ministry Move – Updates on family, Mike's mom, the Vox community in SoCal and Ohio, and navigating anxiety after a radical transition. Resources Mentioned: • Psalm 55:22 – "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you." • Romans 8:28 – A text often used (and misused) when talking about God's purposes through suffering • Parable of the Wheat and Tares (Matthew 13) – On the reality of a spiritual enemy intertwined within the world • Past Vox Episodes on Suffering, Evil, and Politics – Check the Archive • Live Q&A Moments – Join future sessions on YouTube or social media Be part of building a real, honest, and compassionate Christian community. Subscribe, share, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. And don't forget to 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: Voxology Radio Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford – Website | 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 first-century Jewish debate reshapes our understanding of Jesus' teachings on divorce, remarriage, and covenant love. Mike and Andy dive deep into one of the most misunderstood and misused verses in the Bible as part of their ongoing "Embarrassed By the Bible" Series. Taking on Jesus' statement that anyone who divorces and remarries commits adultery, they explore the cultural, theological, and pastoral layers beneath a question that is both deeply personal and widely debated: "Is divorce a sin?" Drawing heavily on the scholarship of David Instone-Brewer, Mike walks through the historical divorce conversations among the Pharisees, unpacking the nuances of Jesus' teaching in Matthew 19, and how it contrasts with modern readings. This episode offers a compassionate and nuanced look at what biblical grounds for divorce actually are—and how a covenantal theology of marriage goes far beyond contractual rules and consumer expectations. Key Takeaways: • Grounds for Divorce in the Ancient World – Infertility, neglect, abuse, and sexual immorality were understood differently in Jesus' day, and modern debates often flatten that complexity. • Jesus in Context – Understanding Jesus' famous teaching through the lens of two competing Pharisaical schools, Hillel and Shammai, offers insight into his rejection of the then-popular "any cause" divorce. • Covenant vs. Contract – How reframing marriage as a covenant rather than a contract reshapes pastoral care for broken relationships. • God's Own Divorce – The powerful metaphor of Israel's unfaithfulness and God's response in Jeremiah 3 shines light on both the holiness of marriage and God's heartbreak in its breakdown. • Beyond Legalism – Why asking "Is this a sin?" may not be the most faithful or helpful question in navigating relational pain. Resources Mentioned: • David Instone-Brewer – Divorce and Remarriage in the Church [https://www.amazon.com/Divorce-Remarriage-Church-Biblical-Solutions/dp/0830833747] • Matthew 19 – Jesus' fullest teaching on divorce • Jeremiah 3, Ezekiel 16, Deuteronomy 24 – Key Old Testament passages informing divorce theology • Vox Episode "The Myth of the Soulmate" – A companion reflection on covenant and consumerism • VOXResources – Reach out to hello@voxpodcast.com for a list of pastoral or counseling referrals Join the conversation and explore what faithfulness looks like when relationships unravel. Subscribe to the Voxology Podcast, leave a review, and follow us on social to stay in the loop! As always, we encourage and deeply value your questions and reflections. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com or connect through Facebook and Instagram. Check out VOXOLOGY TV on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@voxology Grab some gear at our Merch Store on Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY Visit our website: https://voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/1Lla1Nj or Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr Support the podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/voxology Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: 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

How the biblical framework for sexuality challenges cultural norms, overcomes shame, and invites every person—regardless of past or orientation—into healed, holy intimacy. In part 3 of the Song of Songs Series, Mike dives deep into the theology of sex, identity, and one-flesh unity through the poetic lens of Song of Songs chapter 4 and powerful insights from Genesis, Corinthians, and modern neuroscience. You'll hear an unflinching yet grace-filled conversation around sex, the LGBTQ+ community, church hypocrisy, and what the Bible actually teaches about the soul-deep power of sexuality. With honesty, humor, and compassion, Mike and the Vox community explore how the church can become a place of healing—not shame—when it comes to our most vulnerable expressions of love and longing. Key Takeaways: • Jesus-Centered Sexual Ethics – Understanding Scripture's vision for sex as "one flesh" union rooted in covenant, not shame or control. • Four Lenses on LGBTQ+ Issues – How to hold grace and truth simultaneously as a disciple, a reconciler, a pastor, and a citizen. • The Romance and Redemption of Godly Sex – Song of Songs reveals sex as romantic, gentle, joyful, and soul-affirming—fully endorsed by God within covenant. • Science Confirms Spiritual Truths – How modern neurochemistry reveals the soul-deep bonding power of sex, echoing the Bible's call to wisdom. • No Place for Hierarchies of Sin – Calling out the American church's inconsistency in applying biblical ethics, especially around greed, injustice, and divorce. • Grace for the Journey – Whether struggling with porn, past brokenness, or relational failure, Jesus offers healing, hope, and redemption. Notable Quote: "Sex isn't just physical—it's soulish. And when it's pulled out of covenant, it has the power to 'bond and rip' to the point of harming our ability to connect. But no one is beyond restoration in the hands of Jesus." Resources Mentioned: • Genesis 1–2 & 5 – The creation of male and female in God's image • Song of Songs 4 – The romantic pursuit and celebration of love • 1 Corinthians 6 & 7 – Paul's teaching on one-flesh union and sexuality • "Hooked" by Joe S. McIlhaney & Freda McKissic Bush – Scientific look at sex and bonding • Joel 2:25 – God's promise to restore what the locusts have devoured • Dallas Willard's Teachings – On joyful resistance and spiritual formation Be sure to join us next week with Tim and Noreen Muehlhoff for a deeper look into relationships and healthy communication. Then, bring your questions the following Sunday for a full Q&A night, and don't miss our special Healing Service wrapping this series on sexuality and Song of Songs. As always, we would love dialogue as we pursue truth together. Reach out with thoughts or questions to hello@voxpodcast.com and join the real-time conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Shop our Merch: Etsy Store Learn more about us at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the podcast on Patreon Tune in to our curated music on Voxology Radio – Spotify Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy Don't forget to subscribe, review, and share the Voxology Podcast to continue reimagining what it means to passionately follow Jesus 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 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