

Voxology
Voxology
Voxology (Formerly the Vox Podcast with Mike Erre) is a collection of voices that question and discuss our culture's most relevant topics in relation to Christ and Christianity. We talk LGBTQ, American and church politics, Christian culture's catastrophic marginalization of the very people Jesus implores us to love and so much more. If you have serious questions about the church's representation of Jesus, what he has done and the beauty of his work on earth today, join hosts Mike Erre and Tim Stafford and their guests to talk things out and find your way back to the true mission of Jesus.
Episodes
Mentioned books

4 snips
Feb 6, 2017 • 53min
Why Prayer Still Matters in a World of Suffering: Wrestling with Faith, Healing, and the Silence of God
The podcast delves into the challenges and complexities of prayer, addressing why some prayers are answered while others are not. It explores the existence of evil and the concept of control. The speakers discuss the complex nature of faith and prayer, highlighting the importance of trust and understanding God's perspective. They also explore the power of words and the significance of spiritual disciplines. The podcast ends with a message of hope and a blessing.

19 snips
Jan 30, 2017 • 56min
Faith and Disorientation: Stages of Spiritual Growth and Worship in the Psalms (Psalm Series)
Discover how the Psalms provide a roadmap for spiritual maturity, addressing emotional turmoil and the complexities of faith. The discussion highlights Walter Brueggemann's categories of orientation, disorientation, and reorientation, paralleling M. Scott Peck’s spiritual stages. Emphasis is placed on the importance of lament in a culture that often avoids pain, while modern worship is critiqued for neglecting the realities of disorientation. Engaging insights encourage honesty in church culture, advocating for deeper connections forged through shared struggles.

Jan 23, 2017 • 49min
Navigating Spiritual Growth: Understanding the Four Stages of Faith Development
How the Four Stages of Faith, as outlined by M. Scott Peck, can help you better understand your own spiritual journey and engage more graciously with people at all stages of Christian development. Mike and Andy take a deep dive into Peck's psychological and spiritual framework—introducing the stages of Chaotic/Antisocial, Formal/Institutional, Skeptic/Individual, and Mystic/Communal—and reflect on how these stages intersect with church life, leadership, and what it means to follow Jesus. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Peck's Four Stages of Faith – A journey from chaotic self-interest to mystic communion, and how these psychological insights mirror major spiritual milestones. • Stage-Specific Challenges and Temptations – Why each stage brings unique struggles, comforts, and moments of crisis that often catalyze deeper growth. • The Painful Beauty of Transition – How breakdowns in belief systems, routines, or institutions can lead to more authentic spiritual engagement when embraced with humility. • Why Forms Aren't the Goal – Differentiating between the external structures (forms) of religion and the deeper truths they represent. • Lessons for Leaders and Churches – How teaching, community engagement, and discipleship can better serve multistage faith communities—and avoid alienating those in transition. • Jesus Across All Stages – How Christ graciously interacts with people at each stage, offering transformation without demanding conformity. Helpful Insight: Peck's provocative assertion that many people turn to religion in Stage 2 to escape mystery, while those at Stage 4 are drawn to it because of mystery, becomes a powerful lens for reshaping how we view spiritual maturity. Resources Mentioned: • M. Scott Peck – "The Road Less Traveled" and "People of the Lie" • Romans 14 – "Who are you to judge someone else's servant?" • Mike Erre – "Astonished" (book) • Vox Podcast Archive – Deep dive conversations on deconstruction, doubt, and discipleship Join the conversation and reflect on where you are in your spiritual growth. Which stage resonates with you the most right now? How can your community create space for people wrestling with different stages? Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected with us online. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: 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

Jan 16, 2017 • 1h 4min
What the Bible Really Says About Hell: Exploring Eternal Punishment, Annihilation, and Universalism - w/ Preston Sprinkle
Gain theological insight into one of Christianity's most complex and debated doctrines as Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by theologian, author, and scholar Dr. Preston Sprinkle for an honest, in-depth conversation about the biblical views of hell. Drawing from his extensive study and his role as editor of the book "Four Views on Hell," Preston breaks down how Scripture has been interpreted through church history, discusses the implications of eternal conscious torment, annihilation, and universal reconciliation, and explains how these views reflect (or conflict with) the character of God. This episode challenges traditional assumptions and invites Christ followers—and seekers alike—to reconsider the meaning of "perish" in John 3:16, how justice and love work together, and why Jesus's own teachings on hell deserve contextual and thoughtful engagement. Key Takeaways: • The Three Christian Views of Hell – Eternal conscious torment, conditional immortality (annihilationism), and universal reconciliation are all scripturally rooted and historically endorsed within Christian orthodoxy. • Why 'Perish' Might Actually Mean Perish – Reexamining the wording of John 3:16 and other key passages that support death and destruction over eternal torment. • Conditional Immortality Explained – Understanding how "the gift of eternal life" depends on God granting immortality, not humans inherently possessing it. • The Soul Is Not Naturally Immortal – A critique of Augustine's Platonic influence and how church tradition may have distorted biblical teaching. • Hell's Evolution in Church History – From early church variety to Augustine's dominance, plus medieval distortions with Dante and power structures. • The Problem of 'Eternal Punishment' – Interpreting key passages like Matthew 25 and 2 Thessalonians 1 with scholarly nuance and care. • Universalism's Biblical Basis – Exploring possible scriptural justification for ultimate reconciliation—yes, including Romans 5 and Revelation's open gates. • Pastoral and Evangelistic Implications – How we talk about hell matters, especially for those exploring Christianity or harmed by toxic theology. Guest Highlight: Dr. Preston Sprinkle – A noted New Testament scholar and founder of the Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender, Dr. Sprinkle is known for his accessible and compassionate engagement on tough theological topics. He shares candidly about his interpretive journey, from co-writing "Erasing Hell" with Francis Chan to now strongly supporting the annihilationist view. Resources Mentioned: • Four Views on Hell – Zondervan Counterpoints Series • Erasing Hell by Francis Chan & Preston Sprinkle – Link • People to Be Loved by Preston Sprinkle – Link • Theology in the Raw Podcast – Preston Sprinkle's Podcast • N.T. Wright's Surprised by Hope – Link • The Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender – centerforfaith.com Discover how framing hell biblically rather than traditionally opens up deeper, more compassionate theology. Subscribe to the Voxology Podcast, leave us a review, and follow us on social media to join the conversation. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more at 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

Jan 7, 2017 • 1h 5min
Why Church Culture Makes Infidelity Easier: Power, Hiding, and the Failure of Discipleship
What happens when church culture rewards appearance over transformation and silence over honesty? In this brutally honest and deeply reflective episode, Mike Erre and Andy Bear tackle a listener's request to unpack the issue of infidelity among church leaders and why it may be more common—or at least more hidden—than we'd like to admit. Reflecting on personal experience, witness to spiritual leaders who have fallen publicly, and a dysfunctional worship team dress code, the conversation explores how Western models of church and pastoring create systems where personal brokenness is ignored rather than exposed and healed. Mike shares vulnerably from his own struggles to reveal how unchecked ego needs and church culture's preference for polish can lead to spiritual rot. This episode is a crucial call to shift from sin management to discipleship, from platform addiction to communal honesty, and from isolation to transformation. If you're a church leader, serve on a ministry team, or care about the health of your faith community, this one's for you. Key Takeaways: • Why Sin Management Fails – How transactional gospels ignore the need for genuine transformation and contribute to shallow spiritual formation. • The Toxicity of the Stage – How church platforms and social media reward image over honesty, and how that dynamic gives temptation room to grow. • Creating a Culture of Confession – The difference between shocking vulnerability and life-giving transparency that fosters healing and spiritual maturity. • Why Messes Aren't Welcome – How church systems discourage emotional honesty, forcing leaders to hide behind performance and piety. • Personal Stories of Struggle – Mike reflects on therapy, ego needs, temptation, and how he's learning to walk in fullness rather than validation-hunting. Resources Mentioned: • Close Calls by Dave Carder – A powerful look at the warning signs of emotional and physical affairs and how to navigate temptation before damage is done. • Dallas Willard – His concept of the "gospel of sin management" as a critique of modern Christian discipleship. • Vox Community Podcast – A four-part deep dive series on God's judgment and wrath, referenced throughout this episode. Share your own thoughts, stories, or questions by emailing us at hello@voxpodcast.com or engaging on Facebook and Instagram. Subscribe, leave a review, and help us build a church culture that welcomes messiness, promotes honesty, and seeks true transformation in Jesus. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Voxology Spotify channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Like us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/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

Dec 26, 2016 • 8min
Looking Back in Gratitude, Looking Ahead with Hope
A heartfelt wrap-up to a remarkable year of the Voxology Podcast, as Mike Erre shares gratitude for the incredible support, growing community, and the conversations that have shaped the last twelve months. On this special solo episode, Mike records an intimate update on what's ahead for Voxology in 2023, including new series exploring tough questions about prayer, suffering, and being "embarrassed by the Bible." And as a bonus, he offers a humorous and moving original year-end Christmas poem, reflecting on the joys and heartbreaks of 2016 while celebrating the hope found in Jesus. Key Takeaways: • Gratitude for Community Growth – From 430,000+ total downloads to 57 generous Patreon supporters, the show's growth has exceeded expectations, with listeners from California to Texas and beyond. • Upcoming Series Sneak Peek – Mike outlines plans for new series, including: A prayer series exploring theological tensions and unanswered questions. Topics of suffering and God's sovereignty. "Embarrassed by the Bible" series unpacking strange or troubling passages. "When We Disagree" – a guide to navigating Christian conflict with love. "The Resistance" – living out minority views within faith and culture. • Reflections Through Humor and Poetry – Mike's original Christmas poem combines pop culture references and spiritual insights, offering a creative capstone to the year. Resources Mentioned: • Vox Christian Community: voxoc.com • Support the Podcast on Patreon: patreon.com/voxpodcast • Follow us on Twitter: @TheVoxPodcast Let's keep the conversation going. Subscribe, leave a review, and stay engaged with us on social media as we head into an exciting year ahead. 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 – YouTube 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: 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

Dec 19, 2016 • 46min
Reclaiming the Church's Purpose: How Critique, Feedback, and Cultural Engagement Build a Better Body
How specific feedback, honest critique, and cultural engagement can help reimagine the Church's role in a changing world. In this open and deeply introspective episode, Mike Erre and Andy unbox some recent listener feedback with striking vulnerability—addressing head-on the accusations of church-bashing, ambiguity around biblical truth, and the challenge of speaking tough topics in a way that honors both grace and truth. Using a listener email as a springboard, the conversation unfolds around topics like how Jesus critiqued the religious elite, why the Church can be both deeply flawed and deeply beloved, and how Vox embodies hospitality and lifelong learning through the value of feedback. Through stories about Apple's internal culture to training for a Spartan Race (yes, seriously), the episode opens conversation about past hurt, responsibility, and the tension between evangelism and truth-telling. Key Takeaways: • How and why Vox separates the podcast from the church—legally and missiologically—to allow space for honest political and cultural conversations. • A breakdown of the four types of feedback and why specific feedback is essential for personal and organizational growth. • Why critiquing the Church isn't a declaration of abandonment, but an invitation to reform grounded in love and prophetic tradition. • How Jesus models grace-first engagement with outsiders—and why leading with truth doesn't always reflect his method. • Building a culture where correction, humility, and vulnerability are spiritual disciplines, even in digital spaces. Resources Mentioned: • Vox Community feedback email: feedback@voxoc.com • Support the show on Patreon – patreon.com/voxology • Vox Merchandise – VOXOLOGY on Etsy • Spotify Channel: Voxology Radio Join us as we talk candidly about criticism, humility, and the mission of being the Church in a divided world. Your insights matter—email us at hello@voxpodcast.com or join the ongoing conversation on Instagram and Facebook. Subscribe, leave a review, and help us rethink the church from the inside out. — We're on YouTube too: VOXOLOGY TV Follow on Instagram & Twitter: @voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: twitter.com/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

Dec 12, 2016 • 1h 8min
Is Jesus the Only Way? Rethinking Exclusivity, Salvation, and Truth in a Pluralistic World
What if the path to knowing God is wider, richer, and more mysterious than we've assumed? This episode of Voxology takes a deep dive into the controversial question: is Jesus really the only way to God? Prompted by a listener email and a candid conversation between two brothers, Mike Erre and Andy dismantle simplistic formulas of salvation and exclusivism—offering a vision of God's redemptive work that is bigger than Christian categories. Drawing from Scripture, theology, and real-life stories, this thoughtful reflection explores religious pluralism, God's relationship to the nations, how salvation may extend beyond formal religion, and the surprising way Jesus includes outsiders in the Kingdom. From Paul's teachings in Acts and Romans to Jesus's healing of the Roman centurion, the episode offers a deeply biblical, hopeful, and theologically generous framework for understanding who gets "in." Key Takeaways: • Reimagining Religious Exclusivism – Understanding how truth claims and pluralism can coexist without abandoning the uniqueness of Jesus. • Salvation and the Nations – Exploring God's global redemptive mission throughout Scripture and how Israel's calling always pointed toward universal blessing. • Jesus Beyond Christianity – Why God does not require Christianity or human institutions to reveal himself; insights from Cornelius, Acts 17, and other examples. • The Surprise of Judgment – Jesus's teachings reveal that many who seem "outside" will be included, and those who assume they're "in" may be left out. • The Heart Over Doctrine – God is searching for a certain kind of heart, regardless of cultural or religious labels, and will relentlessly pursue those open to him. Notable Quotes: • "The surprise of judgment in Jesus's parables is that those you think are in may be out, and those you think are out may be 'in.'" • "Christianity is not the only vehicle through which Jesus reveals himself." • "Love of neighbor is the first rule in any theology of pluralism." • "We're not in the position to know how God applies Jesus to the world—but we trust he is always good, just, and merciful." Resources Mentioned: • Acts 10 & 17 • Romans 2 • Dallas Willard – on discipleship and epistemology • N.T. Wright – theological insights on salvation and the nations • Revelation 21 – the leaves of the tree for the healing of the nations Call to Action: This episode invites you to hold your convictions with humility and curiosity. If it stirred questions for you or sparked meaningful conversations, join in by emailing hello@voxpodcast.com or engaging on social media. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Voxology Podcast as we continue to explore the complexities of faith, Jesus, and modern culture. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: Etsy Learn more at: voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the podcast by becoming a partner on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and Facebook: facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford – also @GoneTimothy on social. 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

Dec 5, 2016 • 58min
Welcoming and Mutually Transforming: Rethinking Church Community and LGBTQ Inclusion
How can the church navigate LGBTQ conversations without reducing them to binary stances? Mike and Andy break down one of Voxology's most foundational and pressing topics—what it means to be a faith community that is welcoming, inclusive, and mutually transformative. Drawing from years of wrestling in both the podcast and the local Vox community, they respond to a prominent article that challenges the idea of "agreeing to disagree" on homosexuality within the church. Mike shares personal insights from leading a church that makes space for affirming and non-affirming people to walk alongside each other with empathy, honesty, and grace. This vulnerable and unfiltered episode confronts the complexities of LGBTQ affirmation, biblical authority, spiritual leadership, and the dangers of boiling nuanced conversations into political or doctrinal litmus tests. Whether you're well into your spiritual journey or still discerning what you believe about LGBTQ issues in the church, this episode invites deeper reflection on what unconditional welcome, true discipleship, and shared transformation really look like. Key Takeaways: • Examples of how affirming and non-affirming Christians can coexist in authentic, Jesus-centered community—without sacrificing conviction or compassion. • Why the "agree to disagree" model often misses the deeper discipleship that happens when diverse stories and honest dialogue are prioritized. • The problem with reducing LGBTQ issues to binary positions and how mutually transformative community offers a richer, more faithful alternative. • Powerful critiques of how the church treats sexual sin inconsistently, especially when comparing LGBTQ inclusion to the treatment of divorce, remarriage, and greed. • A call to rethink church litmus tests and public pronouncements that may hinder mission, discipleship, and the gospel witness to LGBTQ individuals. Resources Mentioned: • David Fitch – Writer and theologian offering the term "welcoming and mutually transforming" • Breakpoint / Chuck Colson Article – Critiqued in the episode as promoting a rigid stance on LGBTQ inclusion • David Gushee – Changing Our Mind (book on evolving Christian ethic around sexuality) • Nicholas Wolterstorff – Cited among Christian scholars questioning traditional readings • Matthew Vines – God and the Gay Christian Join us as we continue to question, examine, and rediscover the mission and ways of Jesus in complex theological spaces. Share this episode with someone wrestling through these conversations, and remember to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay connected with the Voxology community. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue these topics together. Email your questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. Check out VOXOLOGY TV on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@voxology Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/voxology Grab your Voxology merchandise on Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market Official website: https://voxologypodcast.com/ Subscribe on iTunes: https://apple.co/1Lla1Nj Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mvxz3OQDSkEpHujXiFkkr?si=KJoEXxxxTsqE-HiGL-PfIA Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast "Like" us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/voxologypodcast Follow Mike on Twitter: https://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

Nov 28, 2016 • 48min
Why Christians Should Be the Loudest Voices for Climate Justice and Creation Care
Unpacking the theological and cultural roots of why many Christians have ignored or resisted environmental issues, Mike and Andy answer a listener's question from a post-Thanksgiving Facebook group that's diving into faith, science, and the planet. Drawing on the Genesis creation narrative and the biblical theme of heaven and earth, they explore why the church should lead the charge in caring for creation, and what's at stake when we don't. This episode takes a deep dive into the biblical framework that supports environmental stewardship, challenges the theology that says "the Earth doesn't matter because it's all going to burn," and offers hope that strikes at the heart of climate apathy. Key Takeaways: • Biblical Mandate to Steward the Earth – Genesis 1 positions humanity as image-bearers of God tasked with ruling and caring for creation as co-regents and priests. • Why We've Failed – How bad theology, political polarization, and capitalism have led many Christians to ignore or oppose environmental movements, wrongly labeling them "liberal." • The Real Endgame – The true biblical narrative isn't about escaping earth for heaven, but heaven and earth being reunited through a purification and renewal of creation. • Climate Justice as a Discipleship Issue – Taking care of the planet isn't just a trendy concern; it's central to following Jesus and participating in God's redemptive mission. • Jesus and the Scope of Salvation – Jesus didn't talk about "souls going to heaven." Instead, he announced the arrival of God's kingdom and invited people to align with it now—which includes caring for creation. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis 1 & 2 – For foundational theology on humans as image-bearers. • Romans 8 – Creation groaning and awaiting redemption. • Revelation 21 – Vision of a New Heaven and New Earth. • 2 Peter 3 – Understanding "purified by fire" as renewal rather than annihilation. • Teaching on Heaven and Earth from Vox Community – November 27 • Visual Diagrams of Heaven and Earth (via show notes) Join the conversation and challenge the narrative. Let's be the church that reflects Jesus's love—not just for people, but for all of God's good creation. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay connected and take part in this mission of restoration. 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 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


