Voxology

Unfiltered, raw, and deeply personal—this mailbag Q&A episode invites you into a porch-side conversation with Mike Erre as he tackles questions from the Voxology community, ranging from the role of preaching versus teaching, to the profound struggles of depression within a life of faith, and the complexities of divorce and Christian belief. Broadcasting from a transitional moment in his family's life (post-move from California to Ohio), Mike provides reflective insights rooted in scripture, honesty, and empathy. Key Takeaways: • Preaching vs. Teaching – Why authentic, companion-based communication often resonates more than traditional preaching models. • Faith and Depression – Exploring how depression is not contrary to faith, but often part of the journey of following Jesus in a hurting world. • Mental Health in the Church – How the Bible models honesty about emotional suffering and why the church should be a stigma-free place for mental health conversations. • Initial Thoughts on Divorce – Acknowledging the deep pain and complex theological questions surrounding divorce and the importance of approaching it with grace and communal support. • Community Over Celebrity – Why we need spiritual companions more than Christian celebrities and how that shapes the Voxology posture. Resources Mentioned: • Previous Voxology episode discussing suicide – [Link to Previous Episode] • Scripture References: Psalms (lament), Job, 1 Kings 19 (Elijah's despair), and New Testament teachings on mutual care in suffering • Mental Health Resources: Counseling support and "The Third Option" resource for couples on the brink – [EV Free Fullerton's program – link if available] Mike also reflects on how moving across the country brought unexpected emotional and spiritual challenges, offering a vulnerable and timely reminder that Jesus meets us right where we are—even in an empty house with no furniture and a surprise visit from DirecTV during recording. We'll dive deeper into the divorce question in a future "Embarrassed by the Bible" episode, so stay tuned. Join the journey of honest faith and join the Voxology community across platforms. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay in the loop. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue Jesus together. Email your questions to hello@voxpodcast.com or join 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 – https://voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Check out the Voxology Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford – 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 pursuit of Jesus—not just what He offers—leads to deeper spiritual transformation, intimacy, and joy. In this insightful mailbag episode, Mike Erre and Andy reflect on listener questions ranging from the hiddenness of God, the relational significance of the Genesis narrative, and how to plant church communities centered on Jesus. Plus, a deep dive into Paul's gospel and its relationship to Jesus's proclamation of the kingdom. Key Takeaways: • The Reward of Jesus Is Jesus – Why seeking God as the goal—not a means to self-fulfillment—is essential to authentic spiritual growth. • Understanding God's Hiddenness – How seasons of spiritual silence help us move from using God towards being with God. • Genesis as Foundational Theology – Exploring how the fall, hierarchy, and power dynamics in Genesis 1–3 reflect deep truths about human experience. • Kingdom over Consumerism – The danger of treating Christianity like a spiritual vending machine and how joy comes from the treasure of Jesus Himself. • Church Planting the Vox Way – Practical advice for building Jesus-centered church communities rooted in the Eucharist, table fellowship, and radical inclusivity. • What Is the Gospel? – Clarifying the "Paul vs. Jesus" question and why Jesus's announcement of the kingdom frames the rest of the New Testament. Resources Mentioned: • "Center Church" by Tim Keller – Explores gospel "grammars" and their cultural application • John 17:3 – Defining eternal life as knowing Jesus and the Father • Genesis 1–3 – Foundational narrative for understanding creation, fall, and power dynamics • The Vox Mailbag Series – Ongoing conversations shaped by listener questions Call to Action: Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on your favorite platform. Send in your questions to hello@voxpodcast.com for future mailbags, and join the community exploring a more Jesus-centered faith. 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: voxologypodcast.com 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 "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

Mike Erre shares big personal and community-changing news as the Vox Podcast—and Mike's family—pivot toward a new chapter in Columbus, Ohio. This heartfelt, spontaneous episode reflects on the spiritual, personal, and communal reasons behind Mike's cross-country move, the vision for expanding Vox into Ohio, and how Vox OC will continue despite this transition. With vulnerability and honesty, Mike and Andy explore what it means to grieve, grow, and faithfully follow where Jesus is leading next. Key Takeaways: • The Big Move – Mike Erre announces his family's relocation to Columbus, Ohio, sharing the emotional and spiritual weight behind the decision, including his mom's health and his desire to live at a healthier pace. • The Future of Vox – Vox OC will continue to gather, worship, and embody its sacramental, inclusive mission without disruption. Mike will remain engaged via technology, resourcing, and leadership. • Vox OH Launch – A call to listeners and supporters in Ohio to help shape what Vox Ohio might become. If you're in the area, reach out to contribute to the early formation of this new spiritual expression. • Vox Beyond Sundays – Stories of Vox growing organically across the country, as listeners begin meeting in their homes to embody Eucharistic community. Encouragement to those seeking to start something similar. • Grieving and Hope – Navigating the grief of change while holding onto the deep hope rooted in Jesus's mission and the beauty of authentic community. Resources Mentioned: • Join the Vox OH List – voxpodcast.com (submit your email at the top of the page) • Follow Sherman and Teresa's journey – awilderlife.com • Support the podcast – patreon.com/voxpodcast This is a pivotal moment in the life of Vox. Help us grow what's next by connecting, sharing, and partnering with us. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social to be part of the unfolding story. As always, we invite your thoughts and prayers. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Visit the Merch Store: ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support the show on Patreon Follow us on Instagram at @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 should Christians respond to political loyalty, personal relationships, and shifting cultural norms—all while seeking to follow Jesus faithfully? In this candid and often hilarious live Q&A episode, Mike Erre tackles big listener questions about political allegiance, discerning God's will for big decisions, the biblical view of monogamy, and what the future might hold for the American church. With Andy chiming in remotely and Seth Eery making a surprise (and adorable) appearance, this episode is as insightful as it is heartwarming. Key Takeaways: • Power and Image-Bearing – What it truly means for humans to rule the earth as divine image-bearers, and why any authority used outside of God's purposes isn't worthy of our allegiance. • Should Christians Pledge Allegiance to Trump? – A thought-provoking explanation of why power should only be followed when it reflects God's shalom and justice. • Discerning God's Will for Your Future – Why God may not always have a "right" choice for every decision and how to wisely discern what's best through doors that open and close. • Is Monogamy Normal or Just a Social Construct? – A biblical and neurological argument for the normative design of monogamy, plus personal reflections on desire, covenant, and fulfillment. • The Church in Hospice? – A powerful metaphor from a listener about whether the American church is dying or being reborn—and why many are rediscovering Jesus apart from megachurch culture. Guest Highlights: • Seth Eery – Mike's son drops by to bring pure joy with PE updates, snack talk, and inspired jumping jacks. • Andy Bearss – Live from the digital backstage, Andy jokes with Mike about teaching Pilates, the power of Facebook Live, and sings (sort of) for his birthday. Resources Mentioned: • Vox Community Announcement – Vox Community Page • Book: "Hooked: The Brain Science on How Casual Sex Affects Human Development" – [Link] • Past Episode with Matt Carter – Reflections on reimagining church beyond institutional frameworks. Join the discussion and stay engaged with these essential conversations about following Jesus in today's world. Subscribe, leave a review, share your thoughts on social, and don't miss the next Voxology Live Q&A! As always, we encourage your feedback and questions. Write to us at hello@voxpodcast.com or drop a comment on Facebook or Instagram. Catch full episodes and more content on our YouTube channel: VOXOLOGY TV Shop Voxology Merch: ETSY Find out more at Voxology Podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford @GoneTimothy on Instagram & Twitter 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 viewing the Bible through the lens of Jesus transform our understanding of scripture, inspiration, and divine violence? In the third installment of the Voxology Scripture Series, Mike and Tim welcome Bible Project co-founder and Hebrew Bible scholar Tim Mackie for a deep dive into the literary brilliance of the Bible, the cultural context of the Old Testament, and why grounding our reading in the person of Jesus changes everything. Mackie reflects on his personal journey—from a disillusioned teen and skateboarder to becoming a Bible nerd and seminary professor—and explains why approaching the Bible through Jesus opened his eyes to its beauty, complexity, and unified message. This episode builds on previous conversations with guests Rob Bell and Greg Boyd, bringing yet another thoughtful perspective on how Christians can faithfully wrestle with tough questions, like divine violence, inspiration, and the evolving formation of scripture. Key Takeaways: • Jesus as the Interpretive Center – Why starting with Jesus reshapes how we understand the entire Bible and challenges the notion that God changes from the Old to New Testament. • Divine Violence in Context – How the cultural setting of ancient Israel and the concept of God "stooping" to work with human limitations help frame disturbing Old Testament narratives. • Inspiration Without Inerrancy – Differentiating between dictation-style inspiration and a collaborative, Spirit-filled literary process that includes flawed humans yet remains divinely guided. • The Bible as Quilt, Not Tablet – Why scripture is more like a multi-generational quilt than abstract doctrine, revealing God's story through fragmented and beautiful human voices. • Faith as Wrestling – Embracing doubt and questions as part of a vibrant, lifelong engagement with God's story and a deeper encounter with the person of Jesus. Guest Highlight: Tim Mackie – Co-founder of the Bible Project, seminary professor, and Bible translator. Tim unpacks how the Bible is a unified, literary work pointing to Jesus, and how understanding its original Jewish context transforms our view of scripture. His insights bridge historical scholarship and profound pastoral wisdom. Resources Mentioned: • The Bible Project – bibleproject.com • Greg Boyd's 'Crucifixion of the Warrior God' – [Link] • Rob Bell's 'What is the Bible?' – [Link] • The Septuagint & Dead Sea Scrolls – Resources on scripture formation and translation [Link] • Tim Mackie on YouTube – BibleProject YouTube Channel Join us as we reconsider scripture's shape, meaning, and authority in light of Jesus. Wrestling with the Bible doesn't diminish our faith—it deepens it. Have questions or reflections? Don't hesitate to reach out and share your journey as we navigate these sacred texts together. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on your favorite podcast platform and social media to stay connected! As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the rise of Christian podcasting is reshaping spiritual conversation, decentralizing church authority, and creating new spaces for voices questioning megachurch systems, leadership cultures, and what's next for the American church. Mike and Andy sit down with Matt Carter—musician, podcast pioneer, and co-founder of Bad Christian Media—for an unfiltered and energizing exploration into how podcasts like Bad Christian are redefining what it means to lead, disciple, deconstruct, and push the church forward. Matt details his journey from performing in a Christian punk band to becoming one of the most compelling progressive voices challenging Christian institutional norms. They unpack the creative power of podcasting as a medium that allows for nuance, truth-telling, and disruption, all of which are deeply needed in current church culture. From megachurch fatigue to decentralization, misinformation, and a longing for authentic spiritual community, this conversation is an honest and hopeful look at what might be coming—and what's crumbling. Key Takeaways: • The Power of Unfiltered Voices – How podcasting allows real-time, honest conversations that church stages and religious institutions often censor or avoid. • The Megachurch Expiration Date – Why gigantism in church culture echoes the dinosaur effect: large, unsustainable, and vulnerable to collapse. • Community over Celebrity – Why decentralizing church leadership may be necessary for long-term spiritual health and resistance to abuse. • Post-Mars Hill Landscape – What collapses like Mars Hill teach us about the dangers of charismatic leadership, institutional dependence, and commodified faith. • Creating Space Instead of Systems – Why Matt sees himself not as building an institution but clearing wilderness paths so others can build better faith communities. Guest Highlights: Matt Carter – Founding member of the band Emory and co-creator of the Bad Christian Podcast and media network. Known for combining sharp insight, satire, and openness, Matt unpacks the failures of church leadership models and advocates for more democratized, organic, and participant-led spiritual spaces. Resources Mentioned: • Bad Christian Podcast & Media Network – badchristian.com • Matt Carter on Twitter – @ZodCarter • Emory (the band) – emerymusic.com • Barna Group Church Attendance Data – barna.com Join the conversation by subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing this episode with fellow seekers and spiritual curators trying to imagine a healthier future for the church. Have thoughts or feedback? Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com and follow @voxologypodcast on Instagram and Facebook. We're on YouTube if you'd rather watch: VOXOLOGY TV Support the podcast on Patreon to keep these meaningful conversations going: patreon.com/voxology Shop merch that supports the Voxology community: ETSY Subscribe and follow Voxology on your favorite platforms: 🎧 iTunes 🎧 Spotify Music by Timothy John Stafford Follow Tim on Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy Let's keep reimagining the church together. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the 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 perception of evangelical Christianity in American culture has become a point of crisis, and why it's worth engaging in honest self-examination. In this first episode of the Vox Mailbag Series, Mike Erre and producer Andy Bear tackle a flood of listener questions, critiques, and encouragements—ranging from Rob Bell's theology and Paul's role in shaping gospel narratives, to how Christians are perceived in politics and the media. This episode explores how the Vox community wrestles with heavy accusations against the evangelical church, including charges of hypocrisy, cruelty, and sociopathic behaviors. By reading listener emails directly and offering raw responses, Mike and Andy create a brutally honest and empathetic space to ask who really represents Jesus—and whether "loving your enemies" and "making Jesus beautiful" can still be the defining markers of the church. Key Takeaways: - Evangelicalism Under Fire – Responding to critiques that evangelical Christianity is toxic, damaging, and irreparably harmful to outsiders and marginalized communities. - The Paul Conundrum – Why the letters of Paul may have been misused to overshadow the message of Jesus and how modern interpretations can distort the gospel. - Rob Bell and Christian Orthodoxy – Exploring whether Rob Bell's ideas still align with Christianity or represent something new entirely—and why hosting such voices matters. - Ableism, Racism, and Prejudice – Clarifying how inherited bias distorts how we interact with others, and why comparing struggles (e.g., ableism to racism) requires careful nuance and humility. - Jesus Always at the Center? – Wrestling with listener concerns that some theological discussions seem to minimize Jesus, and debating whether every conversation must end with a Gospel bow. Resources Mentioned: - Isaiah 55:9-10 – Divine wisdom vs. human understanding. - Matthew 10 – On relationships and loyalty to Jesus. - Romans & Ephesians – Paul's major theological contributions. - "A Thicker Jesus" – (Referenced jokingly, but highlights interest in deeper Christology) - Psychology Today – Definitions and traits of sociopathic behavior, discussed through the lens of evangelical conduct. Call to Action: Join the ongoing conversation and help shape future mailbag episodes by sending your feedback to hello@voxpodcast.com. If you've resonated with this series or want to hear more listener-driven content, leave us a review, subscribe, and engage with us on Facebook or Instagram. As always, we welcome thoughtful disagreement, kind critique, and radical honesty. 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 practical and sincere deep dive into how we read the Bible, how we think about sin, and how the church engages controversial topics like women in leadership — all driven by listener-submitted questions. Mike and Andy tackle a full mailbag in this no-frills Q&A episode that offers fresh insight, book recommendations, and pastoral reflection on issues at the heart of modern Christian conversations. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Scripture in Context – Mike offers resources and frameworks for reading the Bible with cultural and historical context, challenging surface-level interpretations of key passages like Matthew 18. • Are We Still "Bad" After Jesus? – A nuanced response to the weight of sin, shame, and human identity in Christ. Mike confronts Reformed views of total depravity while uplifting the biblical declaration that those in Christ are no longer defined by sin. • Women in Church Leadership – A heartfelt question leads to discussion on gender roles in the church, how tradition can distort gospel beauty, and steps for engaging church leadership respectfully (or when to move on). • Fiction vs. Eyewitness: Debunking the "Epic Myth Theory" – Responding to claims that the Gospels are fictional parallels to epic stories, Mike argues for the authenticity, complexity, and historical rootedness of the Jesus narrative. Resources Mentioned: • Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes by E. Randolph Richards & Brandon J. O'Brien – [Link] • NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible – [Link] • IVP Bible Background Commentary – [Link] • hello@voxpodcast.com – Email for a detailed book list on scripture context and more studies • 1 Corinthians 11 & 14; 1 Timothy – For discussions on women in leadership • Books with alternate takes on gender roles in church (email for recommendations) Join the journey of asking better questions and rediscovering the beautiful mystery of Jesus. Subscribe to Voxology on your favorite podcast app, leave a review, and follow us on social media to keep the conversations alive. 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 at https://voxologypodcast.com/ Listen or subscribe via: • 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 Follow us: • Instagram: @voxologypodcast • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast • 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

Discover how the absence of God's felt presence can be part of his transformative grace. Mike Erre shares deeply from his current season of spiritual dryness, wrestling with divine silence, emotional fatigue, and the disorienting experience of not sensing God. Drawing from scripture, mystics, theology, and his own heartache, Mike explores the paradox of a God who is always present but sometimes hidden. This episode is a vulnerable and powerful conversation about the dark night of the soul, why God may withhold his tangible presence, and what we can learn when spiritual adrenaline runs dry. Whether you're currently wandering through one of those desolate spiritual seasons or accompanying someone who is, this episode offers honesty, hope, and a roadmap for seeking God in the silence. Key Takeaways: • God's Hiddenness Isn't Absence — Unpacking the biblical concept of God's manifest vs. universal presence, and why his felt absence might actually be forming us into deeper maturity. • Seeking in the Dry Seasons — How spiritual dryness can be an invitation to pursue God more earnestly, with examples from scripture including the Psalms, Isaiah, and Jesus' parables. • The Role of Timing — Exploring the idea that sometimes God's silence is strategic, waiting for the right moment to reveal himself more deeply or guide us forward. • Ugly Prayers and Authentic Faith — Learning to bring raw, unfiltered emotion into our prayer lives in seasons of doubt, fear, or exhaustion. • Follow the Faith of Others — When you can't see God for yourself, trust the community around you who might be seeing him on your behalf. Guest Highlights: This heartfelt episode features the unscripted, pastoral wisdom of co-host Andy Lara, who joins Mike in reflecting on faith, resistance, and the courage of walking through suffering alongside one another in community. Resources Mentioned: • Isaiah 45:15 – "Truly, you are a God who hides himself" • The Dark Night of the Soul (Concept) – Writings from Christian mystics on spiritual dryness • Prince Caspian by C.S. Lewis – The story of Lucy and Aslan as a metaphor for following even when others can't yet see • John 15:1-5 – "I am the vine, you are the branches" • The Psalms of Lament – Honest, raw expressions of spiritual emptiness and longing Call to Action: If you're in a season of silence or feeling far from God, you're not alone. Join the conversation, send us your questions, and share your story. Then subscribe, leave a review, and follow us to stay connected with the Voxology community. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

An honest and deeply human exploration of some of faith's toughest questions—Mike and Tim kick off a new Listener Questions series by tackling themes of prayer, suffering, LGBTQ inclusion, spiritual transformation, and interfaith relationships. With humility and sharp insight, they respond to real listener questions that challenge conventional church narratives and offer alternative visions of faith rooted in grace, compassion, and authentic formation. Key Takeaways: • Why Christians Pray to Jesus – Exploring Trinitarian theology, biblical examples like Stephen and Revelation, and what it really means to pray "in Jesus' name." • The Church's Double Standard with Divorce vs. LGBTQ+ Inclusion – Highlighting the inconsistency in how churches treat divorced individuals compared to LGBTQ+ believers and how Vox's community is pursuing a table of mutual respect and shared belonging. • Pain, Suffering, and the Meaning of Following God – Reflecting on whether God removes pain or redeems it, and how encountering God in suffering shapes a deeper, more resilient faith. • Forming New Desires: Ice Cream or Broccoli? – What transformative spiritual practices can teach us about wanting what is truly good—and not just avoiding what's harmful. • Loving Our Muslim Neighbors During Ramadan – A beautiful story of sharing life and fasting with a Muslim family sparks discussion on incarnational spirituality, honoring others' devotion, and why gentle, relational witness reflects the heart of Jesus. Resources Mentioned: • Dallas Willard's Spirit of the Disciplines – A guide to spiritual practices and transformation • Richard Foster's Celebration of Discipline – Celebration of Discipline on Amazon • Acts 17 and the Apostle Paul's approach to other faiths • Revelation – Passages where Jesus receives divine worship • Book of Acts: Death of Stephen Join us as we wrestle with real questions from our community and uncover the grace, tension, and transformation at the heart of following Jesus. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook 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 – VOXOLOGY Merch Learn more about the Voxology Podcast: voxologypodcast.com 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 Like us on Facebook: Voxology Podcast 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