Vox Podcast With Mike Erre

To Be Human - Part Fourteen: Knowledge of Good & Evil. Today, Mike and Tim discuss the trees in the Garden of Eden, specifically the Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. They explore the significance of these trees and how they relate to the themes of mortality, eternal life, and moral discernment. Further, our fearless hosts explore the concept of the knowledge of good and evil and the choice to trust God's definition of good and evil or define it for oneself. How is this choice present throughout the biblical story, from Adam and Eve to Israel and the church? What is the importance of discernment and the role of Torah in guiding human choices? How do we trust God's wisdom and definitions of good and evil, rather than relying on our own understanding? 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

462 - To Be Human - Part Thirteen: Dust to Dust. Today, on the Voxology Podcast, Mike and Tim further discuss the creation account in Genesis 1 and 2. They explore the themes of cosmic order, the role of humans as image bearers, and the significance of the Garden of Eden. They also examine the relationship between Genesis 1 and 2, arguing that Genesis 2 is a sequel to Genesis 1, focusing on the creation of the already existing land and the selection of Adam and Eve as representative priests. Mike and Tim highlight the theological implications of these accounts and challenge the idea of humans being created perfect and then falling, exploring the themes of sacred space, the creation of a mountain temple garden, the role of humanity, and the distortion of God's ideals in Genesis 2 and 3. Does Genesis 1 describe the creation of general humanity, distinct from Adam and Eve's creation in Genesis 2? What is the significance of land in the Old Testament and the presence of other beings opposing God's wo

To Be Human - Part Twelve: The Gift of Time. Today, Mike and Tim discuss the topic of mandating the Ten Commandments in school classrooms, highlighting the problematic aspects of this idea and the recent incidents of sexual abuse and hypocrisy within the church. Then, we're back in Genesis to pick up the conversation on time and the concept of Sabbath and its significance in the biblical narrative. It emphasizes the idea that Sabbath is not just about taking a day off from work, but about recognizing our inherent value as human beings and resting in the love of God and the cultural and historical context of Sabbath, highlighting its relevance for an enslaved people who were constantly producing and working. Sabbath is a time of rest, reflection, and rejuvenation and the benefits of incorporating Sabbath practices into our lives are discussed. To be human is to be limited, to need rest, and to find value in our humanness rather than productivity. Sabbath is a counter to the hustle culture and a reminder

To Be Human - Part Eleven: Time After Time. Today, Mike and Tim bring back an old segment, Tim's Troubled Times!, to discuss the challenges of responding to power over within the church. We explore the use of Christian language to baptize political agendas, the rise of Christian nationalism, and the harm caused in the name of Jesus. How do we resist power over in a healthy way and advocate for life without engaging in conflict? We then step back into the book of Genesis to look at the seven day Creation story. Is it literal? What is the author doing? What would be understood by the original audience? What is lost in translation? How should we interpret it now? What is the significance of time and the number seven in Genesis? Fun Stuff. 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. Our Merch Store: ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Su

The Relationship Between Power, Parenting and Therapy. Today, Mike and Tim respond to a few listener questions from the past few episodes: First, they read a response to the "therapist vetting questionnaire" from the last episode. What is the role of therapists as mirrors rather than windows, reflecting back the client's thoughts and patterns? In response to another email, does the same questionnaire speak to the importance of finding a therapist who can accept and understand both faith and sexuality? Next, parenting. How does power over translate there? How do we stay connected with children and focus on catching them doing things right rather than wrong? What is the balance of power over and power with in parenting? What is the importance of love and commitment in order for power to be received as love? We discuss the importance of parenting with connection and empathy rather than shame and punishment, the need for parents to be willing to walk with their children through their mistakes and b

To Be Human - Part Ten: A Divine Partnership. Today we cover a range of topics, including the use of titles in the church, the role of apostles, the responsibilities of pastors, and the implications of human action in the world. We look at the concept of image bearers and the divine partnership between God and humans. We challenge the idea that everything that happens is God's will and emphasizes the importance of agency, freedom, and the distinction between outcomes and fruit. We also explore the power dynamics of power over versus power with, and the need to change the course of the wind rather than react to it. The discussion touches on the implications of Genesis 1 and 2, the restoration of the image, and the concept of divine partnership in the context of salvation. 01:25 - The Role of Titles in the Church 13:00 - A Christian Therapist Vetting Questionnaire 20:33 - Human Action and Divine Partnership As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to h

To Be Human - Part Nine: Fight The Power. Today, Mike and Tim conclude the topic of power in the church. They reflect on the dangers of power over and the need for leaders to resist it. They also explore the idea of fundamental goodness in humans and the role of hierarchy in the church. Jesus' teachings on power and the misuse of titles are examined, emphasizing the importance of humility and servanthood. The conversation challenges traditional views of power and encourages a more communal and egalitarian approach in the church. What is the importance of resisting power over in the church and embracing power with and power under? Why the need to abolish status markers and privileged hierarchy, refuse to build platforms of social prestige, and avoid public performance of piety? Why highlight the significance of mutuality, plurality, weakness, vulnerability, and humility in creating healthy church communities? We encourage everyone to find churches that prioritize these values and resist the tempta

To Be Human - Part Eight: The Two Powers. After a couple of weeks of hijinks, we're back to your regular scheduled programming. Today we further explore the misuse of power and the difference between power over and power with or under. What about the idea of entitlement and the need to relinquish rights and privileges for the sake of others? What is the concept of power and its role in the church? What is the difference between power over and power with, and how can the church to embrace power with and forsake power over? The examples of Jesus and Paul are highlighted as models of power with, where weakness, cooperation, and relationship are valued over coercion and control. We also look at the question of whether Christians can ever use power over, with different perspectives presented. First, Tim asks Mike to clarify the meaning of cruciformity, which is living in a self-expenditure and other-oriented way, following the example of Jesus. How can we understand it as more than a rhetorical idea and not a

Mental Illness & Spiritual Formation. Today, Mike talks with guests Lauren King, Dave Verhaagen and Kevin Dixon about mental health in the Christian environment. You can learn more here: www.southeastpsychnashville.com 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. 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

Power in Weakness. As you can hear, we are not alone... Mike and Tim are in studio! In person! With friends! It's chaos of the best kind... This week, Mike and Tim are in Nashville for the VOXOLOGY Nonference, which awards them some rare in person time and they are joined by Pastor Suzie P. Lind and Dr. Timothy Gombis to discuss a myriad of things... Power in Weakness! Discipleship as dehumanization! How we show up in our uniqueness to communal events, how different that can be and how we can be prepared to see each other fully! We cover a range of topics under the banner of rehumanizing ministry and church. It's fun and a rare gift. 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. Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology

To Be Human - Part Seven: Not So With You. Misuse of power? Misunderstanding power? Non discerning power? Today, we explore the idea that Christians should not seek worldly power, but instead focus on loving their neighbors and embodying the teachings of Jesus. There are two types of power: power over and power with. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of power dynamics in future episodes. This episode, Mike and Tim explore the concept of power and distinguishes between power over and power with: Power Over is the ability to control or influence others, whether through force, expertise, or social systems. Power With, on the other hand, is relational power that works in cooperation and mutuality. Jesus exemplifies power with, as he serves and empowers others instead of exerting power over them. The conversation also highlights the dangers of using power over, as it inhibits God's work in the world and goes against the nature of the kingdom of God. Further, as we explore the difference between po

To Be Human - Part Six: Power Over vs. Power With. Today, Mike and Tim discuss the concept of gatekeeping and the misuse of power in various contexts, including the church and society. They explore the idea of ruling and having dominion over creation, emphasizing the importance of modeling God's rulership, which is based on love, humility, and invitation. This opens us up to our main topic: power over vs. power with. Mike and Tim highlight the need to hold convictions in a way that promotes curiosity, conversation, and hospitality, rather than using them to exclude or shame others. Further, they discuss the concept of power and how it is used by God, the idea of power over versus power with, and how power with is invitational and cooperative, while power over is hierarchical and coercive. How does this play into the importance of environmental stewardship and how is it a way of bearing the image of God? As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hel

First off, we were hit on all sides in this episode. Construction, sick kid interruptions, audio problems... it was bumpy. However, we stuck the landing... How Should We be Political? Today, Mike and Tim welcome another Tim, Dr. Timothy Gombis, to explore the role of the church in politics and how to navigate political engagement as Christians. The church IS a political entity and the Christian way is political from beginning to end! However, the focus should be on practicing the politics of the cross, which involves service, love, and advocacy for the weak. It is important to resist being seduced into practicing the politics of this world and instead focus on the politics of the kingdom of God. We also highlight the need to balance mental health with being concerned about justice issues and the importance of taking action at the local level. Further, we discuss the dangers of getting caught up in national politics and the media's role in fueling anger and division, the idea of loyalty to Jesus and how

To Be Human - Part Five: It Is Good. Today, Mike and Tim discuss the concept of ruling and what it means to be human. They explore the idea that creation is good, not perfect, and that humans are placed in the world to direct and manage it. They emphasize the importance of enjoying and appreciating creation, as well as the potential for misuse of power and authority. The episode touches on topics such as the purpose of marriage, the value of physical embodiment, and the need to honor God's goodness in our actions. Further, they explore the themes of enjoyment, creativity, and restoration in the context of ruling and reigning over creation. It emphasizes the idea that God created a world filled with potential and invites humans to participate in the cultivation and enjoyment of that creation. The conversation also touches on the concept of freedom and how it relates to our understanding of what is good, highlighting the importance of finding joy in the simple pleasures of life and appreciating the beauty

To Be Human - Part Four: Woman & Man. Today we analyze Genesis 1 and the poetic refrain that emphasizes the unity and diversity of humanity as images of God. Let's talk about the themes of the Genesis story and its relationship to ancient Near Eastern creation stories, the image of God and the unity in difference between male and female, the implications for gender equality, the absence of hierarchy between male and female, the image of God and procreation, the image of God and gender identity, treating all humans as image bearers, the Church as a community of image bearers, ruling in community, and the thread of congruity throughout the Bible.... Heyo! First, we discuss an email on the topics of correcting conditions and disabilities, as well as the implications of the new creation for individuals with disabilities. They explore the concept of the image of God and its significance in human ethics. The conversation also delves into the tension between hope and suffering, and the importance of loving

To Be Human - Part Three: The Royal Dignity of Seth Erre. Today, we continue the conversation on what it means to be human, by exploring different views on the image of God, including the substantive, relational, and functional views. The conversation highlights the need for Christians to live out their faith in a way that reflects the kingdom of God and promotes inclusivity and love for all people, including the concept of human image and the different views on personhood. We delve into the implications of the functional view and presents the ontological view as a counterargument. What is the importance of treating all human beings as image bearers and the inherent value of every individual? What is the revolutionary nature of the image of God in Genesis and its impact on ancient societies? The conversation also addresses the treatment of children with special needs and the reevaluation of definitions and vantage points. Annnnd, we wrap it up with a reflection on the use of power and the threat of radical

To Be Human - Part Two: Statuesque. Today, we explore the concept of the image of God in humanity. The "image and likeness" of God were standard statue words used in the ancient Near East, referring to physical representations of deities or kings. How is it that being the image of God is not limited to specific capacities or religious aspects of life, but encompasses the totality of human existence? What is the importance of understanding that humans are meant to be living statues of Yahweh, representing God's presence in the world? What are the implications of the "image of God" for human relationships and the restoration of humanity's image through Jesus? First, we look at an email about the topics of faith, guidance, and discernment in relation to partying, sex, and drinking. What is the importance of a centered approach rather than a bounded approach to these topics? The goal of Christ-following is to become like Jesus and overcome behaviors that hinder our pursuit of Jesus-lik

New series alert! To Be Human... Today, we begin a new conversation around what it means to be human. In this episode, Mike and Tim dive into the meaning of the first sentence of Genesis and the significance of the words 'bereshit' and 'reshit.' What is the purpose of Genesis and the creation story?  Why is it important to understand the literary devices used in the text? Further, we explore the conflict between science and faith in interpreting Genesis. We emphasize that Genesis is not meant to answer scientific questions about ‘how' and ‘when' things happened, but rather the ‘what' and ‘why.’  The importance of curiosity and humility in biblical interpretation is highlighted, as well as the use of symbolism and metaphor in Genesis. We also discuss the flexibility of interpretation and the role of liturgy and tradition in faith. It concludes by emphasizing the role of Jesus and the gospel in understanding Genesis. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Fe

Chapstick for the Heart. Today, Mike and Tim are joined by the amazing Suzie P. Lind to discuss various topics related to personal growth, relationships, and parenting. They share personal experiences and insights, highlighting the importance of setting boundaries, being aware of one's limits, and learning from past mistakes. The conversation also delves into the challenges of repairing relationships with adult children and the need for self-reflection and growth as parents. How do we take a less bounded approach and impart wonder and love for Jesus, the power of repair and healing and encourage being available for repair and connection? What does it mean to trust Jesus with our children's faith? How doe we repair and connect with adult children? Or connect over outcome-based apology, naming wounds and seeking repair, teach with wonder and connection, invite kids into wonder and curiosity, dismantle the formulaic approach, teach with wonder and age-appropriate methods, teach scripture with life, not t

Today, we have Dr. Nijay Gupta back to talk about his new book, "Strange Religion: How the First Christians Were Weird, Dangerous, and Compelling." In this book, Dr. Gupta discusses and explores the social force of early Christians in the Roman Empire. He highlights the contrast between Roman religion and the beliefs and practices of the early Christians. The early Christians defied Roman hierarchy and power, rejected rituals of appeasement, and emphasized direct access to God. They also practiced gift-giving and generosity, expanding their acts of kindness beyond their own community. The early Christians challenged the notions of Romanness and monoculturalism, embracing diversity and inclusivity. What are the parallels between Christianity and Roman religion? How does Christianity resemble the Roman religion, including hierarchy and power, appeasement and divine judgment, and elitism and limited access? We talk about the influence of preachers, the role of the church, the professionalization of pa