Voxology

How the cruciform hermeneutic reshapes our understanding of violent images of God in the Old Testament and reveals the unwavering beauty of Jesus at the center of the biblical narrative. In this intellectually rich and deeply spiritual installment of the Exile Series, Mike Erre and Andy Lara sit down with Dr. Greg Boyd, theologian, pastor of Woodland Hills Church, and author of the provocative multi-volume work "The Crucifixion of the Warrior God." Together, they dive into the theological tensions many believers face when trying to reconcile the loving character of Jesus with the violent portrayals of God throughout Scripture. Dr. Boyd introduces his cruciform hermeneutic—a way of reading the Bible through the lens of the cross—and explains how these deeply troubling Old Testament passages don't dilute the beauty of God but instead reflect God's willingness to bear the distorted human perceptions of Him to ultimately reveal His self-sacrificial love. Key Takeaways: • The Cruciform Hermeneutic – Why the cross is the ultimate lens for interpreting the entire Bible and how Jesus unveils the true nature of God—not one facet among many, but the full revelation. • God as a Sin-Bearing Deity – Exploring how God suffers with and for humanity by allowing Himself to be portrayed in ways that reflect the fallen understanding of ancient cultures. • Three Flawed Approaches to Divine Violence – Breaking down the categories of synthesis, softening, and dismissal, and why each fails to do justice to the inspired nature of Scripture and the cross-centered revelation of God. • Reading Through the Mask – How even disturbing passages like God commanding genocide or the parting of the Red Sea point toward Christ when re-read through the lens of divine withdrawal, cosmic conflict, and redemptive intent. • Reframing Revelation's Warrior Jesus – Why the blood-soaked imagery in Revelation is not a contradiction of Christ's peaceable nature but a subversion of violent triumphalism through sacrificial love. Guest Highlights: Dr. Greg Boyd – Pastor, theologian, and author of The Crucifixion of the Warrior God and Cross Vision. Greg's groundbreaking theological work invites Christians to re-examine how Scripture portrays God's character, encouraging a move beyond flat readings of the Bible toward a dynamic, Christ-centered understanding. A drummer and metalhead, Greg brings both scholarly depth and a distinct joy to the conversation. Resources Mentioned: • Crucifixion of the Warrior God by Greg Boyd – Amazon Link • Cross Vision by Greg Boyd (Popular Summary) – Amazon Link • ReKnew.org – Greg Boyd's theological writings and resources: reknew.org • Woodland Hills Church – whchurch.org • Apologies & Explanations podcast with Greg Boyd – Short theological responses available via ReKnew or YouTube • Reunion by Bruxy Cavey – A clear, simple gospel presentation rooted in the kingdom message Amazon Link Engage with bold theology, challenge easy answers, and wrestle with the character of God in a way that invites awe and deeper faith. Subscribe to Voxology on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review. To stay part of the ongoing conversation, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @voxologypodcast. As always, we encourage discussion as we navigate theology together. Email your questions to hello@voxpodcast.com and check out our merch and resources below! We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Shop the Voxology Merch Store! ETSY Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the podcast on Patreon Enjoy 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

Struggling with trust in the church? Wrestling with the concept of hell? Unsure what "faith" really looks like when life feels messy? This live Q&A episode dives headfirst into your biggest theological questions, exploring the complexity of belief, grace, and what it means to follow Jesus in a world—and a church—full of contradictions. Mike Erre and Andy Lara gather questions from the Voxology community and Facebook Live to discuss how Christians can make sense of topics like universal reconciliation, annihilationism, the first miracle at Cana, biblical prophecy, and whether faith still counts when it's incomplete, doubtful, or deconstructed. Key Takeaways: • Trusting the Church While Disillusioned – Why institutional church hurt can lead to skepticism, and how to navigate spaces where love feels conditional. • Multiple Perspectives on Hell – Eternal conscious torment, annihilationism, purgatory, and universal reconciliation... which view actually reflects a loving God? • Faith That Fumbles – How Abraham's failures reveal that biblical "great faith" doesn't require perfection, just trust in God's activity, not our performance. • The Purpose of Jesus Turning Water to Wine – A layered look at joy, shame, and God's abundance in Jesus' first miracle, free from our debates over alcohol. • Misreading the End Times – Why fear-based eschatology misses Jesus' primary message and how Revelation offers a hope-filled call to faithful witness today. Guest Highlights: Seth Erre – Drops by mid-show for a surprise visit full of joy, laughter, and a reminder of the beauty of everyday faith. Resources Mentioned: • "Four Views on Hell" edited by Preston Sprinkle – A helpful theological primer on major views of the afterlife. • Vox Community Podcast Archive – Hell Series Episodes • Episodes on Religious Pluralism and Covenant vs. Contractual Faith – Available in the Voxology back catalog This episode is a powerful reminder that faith doesn't have to be polished to be real—and that Jesus meets us, questions and all, in the mess of it. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us @voxologypodcast on social media to be part of the ongoing conversation. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

A conversation with author and speaker Rob Bell about how reframing the Bible as a deeply human book opens the doorway to encountering its divine depth. As part of the "Embarrassed by the Bible" series, Mike and Andy talk with Bell about his book "What Is the Bible?" and how growing up in our reading of scripture helps us make sense of its most difficult passages. From violent Old Testament narratives to doubt, deconstruction, and rediscovery, this episode encourages us to move beyond literalism into transformation. Bell offers a pastoral and provocative invitation: stop reading the Bible flatly—and start seeing it as an unfolding narrative that shapes personal and communal identity. Key Takeaways: • Reading the Bible as Evolving Narrative – Why understanding scripture as a human and progressive story helps us encounter the divine more honestly and powerfully. • Recovering the Original Purpose of Sacred Text – How the Bible's ancient poems, stories, and laws were subversive, political, and profoundly human responses to empire and suffering. • Violence, Wrath, and Redemption – Rethinking how Old Testament violence reflects a tribal consciousness rather than a divine endorsement—and how Jesus reframes it all. • Taking the Bible Seriously, Not Literally – The difference between honoring scripture's depth versus flattening it through rigid dogma. • Doctrine and Experience – Bell explains how doctrines were attempts to preserve divine experience, but without engagement, they lose meaning. • What Reconstruction Looks Like – Why building anew after deconstruction isn't returning to certainty, but embracing the ongoing journey of faith and transformation. Guest Highlights: Rob Bell – Bestselling author, former pastor, and host of The RobCast. Bell shares insights from his book What Is the Bible?, expanding on how cultural context, poetry, humor, and the human experience reveal the Bible's enduring relevance and beauty. Resources Mentioned: • What Is the Bible? by Rob Bell – Link • Bell's Podcast – The RobCast • Book Recommendations in Bell's Bibliography – found at the back of "What Is the Bible?" • Genesis 1, Book of Jonah, Book of Lamentations – used to illustrate poetic and political layers of Old Testament literature • Enuma Elish – Babylonian creation myth compared with Genesis • Greg Boyd's Crucifixion of the Warrior God – an alternative take on biblical violence, discussed in a future episode Join us as we continue to wrestle with the complexities of scripture and what it means to follow Jesus in today's world. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow the Voxology Podcast to stay in the conversation. Email your thoughts to hello@voxpodcast.com and interact with us on Facebook and Instagram. Catch past episodes and explore curated topic collections at voxpodcast.com Watch on VOXOLOGY TV Shop our new merch on ETSY Support us via Patreon Listen to curated playlists on Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford (@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

Tackling three deeply personal questions that many Christians wrestle with, Mike Erre and Andy bravely open up a raw, grace-filled conversation on sexuality, singleness, soulmates, and divine sovereignty in times of tragedy. This Facebook Live episode builds on the Voxology Podcast's commitment to Gospel-centered honesty and vulnerability—taking on shame, breaking stereotypes, and offering theological clarity around some of the most misunderstood and silenced experiences in Christian culture. Key Takeaways: • Navigating Singleness and Sexuality – Why Christian women (and men!) struggle in silence with loneliness and masturbation, and how shame-based theology distorts our understanding of God's grace and blessings. • God, Masturbation, and Marriage – Is God withholding a godly spouse because of sin struggles? Mike unpacks why this notion is incompatible with the radical love we see in Jesus. • The Myth of Soulmates – A biblical critique of the soulmate concept, why it's rooted in pop mythology and not scripture, and what a better, more grounded theology of marriage actually looks like. • Where Was God in Columbine? – Wrestling with God's sovereignty in suffering, and how we hold the tension between thanking God for protection while grieving profound loss. Resources Mentioned: • Previous Voxology Episodes on Suffering and God's Will – voxologypodcast.com • Resources on Sexuality and Shame – Stay tuned for future episode recommendations • Authors quoted: Dallas Willard and reflections on God's beauty and evil Join the Voxology community as we wrestle with the hard questions of life, faith, and purpose. Subscribe to the show, leave a review, and follow us on social media to keep these conversations going. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How spoken word can confront injustice, build bridges of understanding, and bring healing to a broken church. In this inaugural conversation in the Art of Race series, Mike and Andy sit down with acclaimed spoken word artist and culture critic Micah Bournes to explore how race, faith, and art intersect in powerful, transformative ways. Micah brings compelling storytelling, prophetic insight, and grace-filled truth-telling about what it's like to grow up Black in America, walk through predominantly white institutions as a young man of faith, and still keep hope in Jesus's vision for a unified church. From personal encounters with systemic injustice to unflinching critiques of evangelical theology and culture, Micah challenges listeners to think deeply about white privilege, structural racism, and performative diversity in the church. Through it all, he models a radically honest but hope-filled path forward—one rooted not in tokenism or superficial unity, but in consistent community, shared power, and a theology shaped by the voices too often left out of the conversation. Key Takeaways: • The Difference Between Prejudice and Racism – Micah unpacks why intention matters but doesn't erase impact, and how understanding privilege requires deeper nuance. • White Theology and Culture as Normative – How seminary, Christian publishing, and church traditions often center white male perspectives, and what's lost in the process. • Superficial vs. Substantive Diversity – Why bringing in a gospel choir once a year doesn't equal inclusion, and how to move toward authentic representation in church leadership and community life. • The Power of Storytelling and Spoken Word – Why poetry is uniquely effective at confronting hard truths, opening doors for empathy, and creatively reimagining justice. • Why Jesus is Still Worth Following – Despite being harmed by church culture, Micah remains committed to Jesus and the radically inclusive, justice-driven vision of the Kingdom of God. Guest Highlight: Micah Bournes – A poet, musician, and dynamic communicator who uses storytelling and spoken word to challenge cultural norms and illuminate God's heart for justice and reconciliation. A frequent performer and community presence, Micah brings authenticity and prophetic imagination that offers both critique and healing. Resources Mentioned: • Micah Bournes Website and Videos • Micah Bournes on Bandcamp • Micah Bournes on Instagram – @micahbournes Don't miss Micah's poem "Stealing Bread" at the end of the episode—a gut-wrenching piece on systemic injustice, empathy, and survival told through the lens of a young man incarcerated for trying to help his family. Let's keep the conversation going. Share this episode with someone ready to listen, learn, and grow. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow the Voxology Podcast on your favorite platform and social media. As always, we encourage and welcome your voice in the journey. Email your thoughts and questions to hello@voxpodcast.com and join the dialogue on Facebook and Instagram. We're also on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Merch Store: ETSY Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support us on Patreon Voxology Spotify playlist: 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

Creating space for honest conversation, this episode launches our Vox Q&A Series with unfiltered dialogue on some of the most personal and challenging spiritual questions. Mike Erre and Andy unpack listener-submitted questions with depth, vulnerability, and humor—covering everything from whether God has a plan for your life, to how Christians can walk through depression and anxiety, to the mystery behind unanswered prayer and divine timing. Whether you're wrestling with your faith, rebuilding your picture of God, or just need to feel seen and heard, this episode reminds you that asking the hard questions doesn't mean you're lost—it means you're paying attention. Key Takeaways: • God's Plan vs. Free Will – Understanding how discernment, wisdom, and spiritual formation shape God's purposes in our lives, rather than relying on a formulaic "blueprint." • The Myth of the Soulmate – Why the Bible's descriptive moments (like God picking a wife for Isaac) aren't always prescriptive for today. • Holistic Approach to Depression and Anxiety – Mike shares his personal journey coping with anxiety and depression through therapy, medication, spiritual counsel, physical care, and community. • Waiting on God – Exploring how spiritual training often comes through divine delays, and how God's concern is often more about who we're becoming than what we're getting. • Prayer Without Performance – Rethinking prayer not as a transaction but as a relationship marked by formation and transformation. Notable Quotes: • "God is much more interested in why we're choosing the house we live in than in what house we choose." • "Anxiety is a symptom, not a root. We have to dig deeper to heal rather than just seek relief." • "Delay isn't rejection. God is often training us to be safe with His power before He entrusts us with it." Resources Mentioned: • Dallas Willard – Teachings on spiritual formation and "joyful non-compliance" • Book of Psalms – Reflections on waiting, lament, and divine intimacy • Vox Community Church Q&A Series – voxcommunity.org Be part of the conversation—leave us a question at the number posted in each episode, or message us on Facebook or Instagram. Help us keep creating space for spiritual curiosity and thoughtful faith. Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review on Apple or Spotify, and follow us on Instagram for updates and episode drops. As always, email your questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, or engage with the community on Facebook and Instagram. Join us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab merch: VOXOLOGY on Etsy Support us on Patreon: Voxology Podcast Patreon Follow Mike on X: @mikeerre Music by: Timothy John Stafford | @GoneTimothy Learn more at: voxologypodcast.com Listen on: iTunes | Spotify Visit our Spotify music curation: Voxology Radio 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 criticism becomes a regular part of your personal, professional, or spiritual journey? Mike Erre shares raw, hilarious, and honest insights from years of being on the receiving end of all types of feedback—from drive-by insults to thoughtful, transformative critiques. Whether it's angry emails, anonymous letters, vague threats cloaked in "concern," or painfully awkward encounters, Mike breaks down the different types of criticism and how to respond with wisdom, humility, and strength. This solo episode offers a practical and candid framework for examining feedback, gauging its value, and protecting your mental and emotional health in the process. Learn how to be a non-reactive presence, why not every critic deserves a response, and how criticism—when rightly received—can be a gift that cultivates deep growth. Key Takeaways: • "Who is this from?" – Why discerning the source of criticism is the first essential filter. • Specific vs. General Feedback – How to recognize the difference and why specificity leads to growth. • Responding with Non-Reactivity – Strategies to avoid anger, appeasement, or over-explaining when criticized. • The Power of Trusted Voices – Why you should surround yourself with safe, truth-telling people before the noise starts. • The Role of Humor and Boundaries – How levity and clear lines keep criticism from becoming toxic. Resources Mentioned: • Emotionally Healthy Church by Pete Scazzero – on being a nonreactive presence • Kenton Beshore (former pastor at Mariners Church) – influential feedback conversation • Patreon Support for Vox – https://www.patreon.com/voxology Call to Action: Got feedback of your own? Mike says—bring it on (within reason)! Let us know what resonates with you or what you've learned about handling critique in your own life. And as always, subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast on social media to stay part of the growing 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 Our Merch Store! https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market Learn more about the Voxology Podcast https://voxologypodcast.com/ Subscribe on iTunes https://apple.co/1Lla1Nj or Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr?si=KJoEXxxxTsqE-HiGL-PfIA Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/voxology The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio https://open.spotify.com/user/nj2l08pd1zt6zk3azs1plhmdy?si=3fb86269da0449ed Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford https://www.timothyjohnstafford.com/ Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

How the misunderstood "wives submit to your husbands" passage in Ephesians 5 unlocks a transformative and egalitarian vision of marriage rooted in mutual submission, sacrifice, and love. Mike Erre and Andy dive deep into the cultural, linguistic, and biblical context of this controversial scripture as they launch a new series, "Embarrassed by the Bible"—tackling tough and awkward verses that have long caused confusion and damage within Christian spaces. Key Takeaways: • Mutual Submission as the Heart of Discipleship – The verse "submit to one another out of reverence for Christ" is the foundation, not an add-on. Spirit-filled relationships begin with mutual surrender, not hierarchy. • Reframing Ephesians 5 – Understanding how Greek grammar links verses 21 and 22 shows "wives submit" is part of broader mutual submission, not a blanket endorsement of male dominance. • How Culture Shapes Misreading – Paul worked within patriarchal Greco-Roman household codes not to affirm them, but to subvert them by planting gospel-centered seeds of equality and sacrificial love. • Redefining "Headship" – Being the "head" doesn't mean control or final say; it means sacrificial love modeled on Christ's love for the church—being the first to serve, forgive, and selflessly uplift the other. • Marriage as Gospel Embodiment – Christian marriage isn't about rigid gender roles, it's about embodying the love, humility, and mutual care of Christ and the church. Resources Mentioned: • Ephesians 5:21–33 – Bible Gateway • Genesis 1–3 – The biblical foundation of male/female equality before the Fall • Past Episode – "Household Codes and Subversion of Power" (playlist coming soon) • Interlinear Bible Tool – biblehub.com/interlinear Join the "Embarrassed by the Bible" series as we uncover how scripture, when properly understood, reveals the revolutionary heart of Jesus. Have a verse that confuses or embarrasses you? Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com to share your questions. Subscribe, leave us a review, and follow the conversation on social media to keep this dialogue alive! We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Merch: Etsy Store Discover more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the podcast on Patreon Follow on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Connect on Facebook: Voxology Podcast Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford | IG & 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 tensions between faith, doubt, and tradition in the debut episode of the "Embarrassed by the Bible" series. Mike Erre and Andy Lara tackle tough theological questions sent in by listeners—from Rob Bell's legacy to the plausibility of Noah's Ark, and how modern sensibilities often clash with ancient texts. This candid conversation highlights the complexity of scripture and encourages thoughtful, humble engagement with controversial issues. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Rob Bell's Theological Journey – Mike shares personal interactions and the importance of discernment when exploring provocative voices in the church. • Embracing Difficult Texts – The Voxology team kicks off a new series exploring challenging and often misunderstood parts of the Bible, beginning with the story of Noah and the Ark. • Seeking Truth Over Certainty – A reminder that even the most respected theologians and teachers are human, and spiritual growth comes through wrestling with ideas, not blindly accepting them. • Investigating Eternal Judgment – Breaking down Matthew 18:8 and the concept of eternal fire—does hell mean eternal torture or eternal consequence? • Faith, Offense, and Interpretation – Discussing how modern Christian culture often avoids offense at the cost of nuance, and why honest engagement with scripture matters more than presenting sanitized theology. Resources Mentioned: • "Rethinking Hell" – [Link] • "Four Views on Hell" (edited by Preston Sprinkle) – [Link] • Matthew 18:8 – [Link] • Psalm 37 – [Link] Join us as we navigate the tensions of faith, doubt, and scripture together—and don't miss upcoming episodes in this exciting new series! Subscribe, leave a review, and connect with 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 → https://www.youtube.com/@voxology Our Merch Store! → https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast → https://voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on: → iTunes → Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon → https://www.patreon.com/voxology The Voxology Spotify channel: Voxology Radio → https://open.spotify.com/user/nj2l08pd1zt6zk3azs1plhmdy?si=3fb86269da0449ed 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 we move beyond deconstruction and actually begin to rebuild a meaningful, Jesus-centered faith? In this special crossover episode, Mike Erre and Andy interview theologian and podcast host Dan Koch for a rich, honest exchange on spiritual reconstruction, Eucharist-centered community, and how to foster real unity in an age of division. Both Dan and the Vox team reflect on their mutual journeys of disillusionment with traditional evangelicalism and explore what it looks like to reconstruct thoughtful, inclusive expressions of faith that hold space for complexity, difference, and depth. This episode unpacks some of the most important questions for Christians today: What should the church really look like? How do we offer a seat at the table for affirming and non-affirming Christians alike? And how the Eucharist might be the best shot we have at unity in the midst of polarized conversations about politics, sexuality, and theology. Key Takeaways: • From Bad Christian to Reconstruction – Dan Koch shares how his time with the Bad Christian podcast and the Liturgists fueled a desire to move into a constructive theological space, leading him to launch Depolarize and Reconstruct podcasts. • Reconstructing Faith after Deconstruction – Why the journey from questioning to rebuilding is necessary for long-term spiritual health, and how Eucharist plays a pivotal role in anchoring that process. • Making Room in the Church Without Taking Sides – The Vox team unpacks why they refuse to label their church as "affirming" or "non-affirming," and how they're cultivating a community where LGBTQ+ and non-LGBTQ+ Christians share communion and service. • The Role of the Table in Human Identity – Exploring how the practice of regular communion invites us to form our identity around Christ, not preferences, politics, or lifestyle. • Politics, Identity, and Jesus – A candid discussion on white evangelical support for Trump, why political ideology often overrides kingdom values, and how to reclaim Jesus as the center of our Christian identity. • Invitation over Condemnation – Reimagining the church as a "well" that draws people in with Jesus rather than a fenced-in space defined by who's in and who's out. Guest Highlights: Dan Koch – Host of the Depolarize and Reconstruct podcasts, Dan is known for his engaging conversations around difficult theological and political issues. A former member of the band Sherwood and veteran of the Bad Christian podcast world, Dan brings experience, humility, and intelligence to the space between doubt and belief. Resources Mentioned: • Reconstruct Podcast – reconstructpodcast.com • Depolarize Podcast – depolarizepodcast.com • Anthony Bloom – Beginning to Pray • Michael Ware Interview – Search past Vox Podcast episodes • Pacific Gold Band – pacificgoldband.com • Karl Rahner and Edward Schillebeeckx – Catholic theologians influencing Dan's thought on sacraments and faith reconstruction Find deeper hope beyond deconstruction and be inspired to reimagine church as a space of humility, dialogue, and table-centered belonging. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology on social media for more conversations that matter. We welcome your questions and feedback—email us at hello@voxpodcast.com or join the discussion on Instagram and Facebook. Want more? Check out: • VOXOLOGY TV on YouTube • Voxology Merch Store • Support us on Patreon • Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify • Follow Mike on Twitter • Music by Timothy John Stafford (@gonetimothy) Stay connected. Stay curious. Stay rooted in Jesus. 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