Vox Podcast With Mike Erre

A reflection-driven conversation unpacks key questions raised by the "God Is Not In Control" series with Dr. Timothy Gombis and Dr. Peter Enns. Hosts Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and Bonnie Lewis revisit listener feedback, dive deep into the theology of prayer, biblical lament, supernatural healing, and the nuance of divine sovereignty. Using the Lord's Prayer and Psalms as guideposts, they explore how Christians are called to pray with humility, hope, and honesty—even when answers don't come as expected. Key Takeaways: • Exploring the Distinction Between Provision and Comfort – How "daily bread" in the Lord's Prayer speaks to trust in divine provision, not necessarily personal ease. • The Mystery of Prayer and Outcomes – Reflecting on why a faith-based approach to healing and intercession can't be reduced to formulas or outcomes. • Covenantal Context of the Psalms – Understanding how the Old Testament covenantal framework shapes the tone and expectations of prayers in the Psalms, and how we can still learn from

How reframing the Bible as a companion of wisdom rather than a rulebook can transform your faith and bring fresh insight into spiritual growth, deconstruction, and the struggles of modern Christianity. Featuring a deep and thought-provoking conversation with author, scholar, and podcaster Pete Enns, this episode from Voxology reflects on how scripture, community, and divine mystery guide us through seasons of doubt and spiritual evolution. Key Takeaways: • Reclaiming the Bible After Deconstruction – Why discarding the Bible isn't the only option after faith shifts, and how to engage it anew without fear or rigidity. • The Bible as Wisdom Literature – Moving away from transactional reading and embracing a communal, contextual approach to scripture rooted in discernment. • Inspiration vs. Interpretation – Exploring how the Bible's ancient context, genre, and diversity invite interpretation that leads to spiritual maturity, not confusion. • Paul, Plagues, and Proverbs – Reexamining misunderstood or misused scrip

What if the chaos we fear is part of the invitation? In part 2 of this conversation with Dr. Timothy Gombis—aka "Freaking Gombis"—we go deep into the mystery and discomfort of prayer during crisis. Picking up where Part 1 left off, Gombis stuns the crew with a bold observation about God's posture in the midst of suffering and unanswered prayer, leading to a rich exploration of lament, divine sovereignty, and the church's calling in a broken world. From Romans 8 to Psalm 44 to punk bands and Bob Ross, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, Bonnie, and Gombis uncover how deeply our theology of prayer reflects our assumptions about control, pain, and God's character. Key Takeaways: • Challenging Conventional Prayer – Why most of our prayers don't align with Scripture, especially when driven by comfort, fear, or certainty. • The Power of Lament – Re-centering our prayers on lament, mercy, grief, and solidarity with a creation groaning for redemption. • How God Intervenes – Exploring the provocative claim that God's primary int

A candid and provocative conversation with theologian Dr. Tim Gombis kicks off a special four-part series unraveling one of Christianity's most common yet misunderstood phrases: "God is in control." In this first episode, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and Bonnie Lewis explore what it actually means to say that God is sovereign, and why saying "God is in control" may hinder rather than help a healthy understanding of suffering, divine action, and human vocation. Gombis challenges us to take seriously the biblical portrayal of God as king, not controller, and to reimagine what divine sovereignty looks like in a chaotic world. Drawing deeply from Genesis, Revelation, and Pauline theology, the conversation lays a powerful foundation for understanding God's complex relationship with human freedom, suffering, and control. Key Takeaways: • Understanding God's Sovereignty vs. "Control" – Why the phrase "God is in control" oversimplifies the theological richness of scripture and misrepresents God's relationship with creati

How viewing Jesus through the lens of first-century Judaism can enrich faith, correct common misconceptions, and reshape our understanding of the New Testament. In this highly engaging and eye-opening episode, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and Bonnie are joined by New Testament scholar and Jewish academic Dr. Amy-Jill Levine (aka "AJ") to explore how Jesus' Jewish context clarifies theology, deepens spiritual practice, and invites a reexamination of the Christian narrative. Dr. Levine, University Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies at Vanderbilt University, offers an extraordinary blend of deep scholarship, humility, and humor, challenging long-held assumptions about the law, women in Judaism, Paul, and more. The conversation spans Jesus's teachings in the Gospels, Paul's relationship to Torah, Christian misconceptions about ancient Judaism, and the modern relevance of recovering Jesus' historical Jewish identity. Key Takeaways: • Jesus Was Fully Jewish – Understanding Jesus as a Torah-following first-ce

How the ancient themes of Passover, liberation, and wilderness speak directly into our lives during a global pandemic. Rabbi Nahum Ward-Lev joins Bonnie, Mike, and Tim for a powerful and timely conversation that explores the Hebrew prophetic tradition and how its liberative framework can offer hope, transformation, and solidarity in the face of disruption and isolation. Drawing from his book, The Liberating Path of the Hebrew Prophets Then and Now, Ward-Lev invites listeners to rediscover the biblical wilderness as a space of creativity, growth, and divine intimacy. Key Takeaways: • Rediscovering the Wilderness – How the biblical concept of "midbar" (wilderness) as the "wide place" is not just a location of hardship, but a sacred space where healing, creativity, and relational connectedness emerge. • Liberation as an Ongoing Spiritual Journey – Passover isn't just a historical event, but an invitation to engage in continual internal and communal transformation, especially in times of collective crisis. • God

How embracing the Enneagram as a tool for spiritual formation and self-understanding can deepen your empathy, reshape your identity, and lead you toward relational and emotional wholeness. Bonnie and Tim are joined by Enneagram coach and spiritual director Annie Dimond, who brings a rich, narrative-based understanding of the Enneagram to this dynamic conversation. Broadcasting from her farmhouse in Scotland—where she moonlights as a yoga teacher and soon-to-be lambing shepherdess—Annie dives deep into how the Enneagram can be more than just a personality tool. From understanding childhood survival strategies to engaging with the "false self vs. true self" dynamic, this episode explores how spiritual direction, emotional integration, and body awareness come together to form a holistic approach to transformation. Key Takeaways: • The Narrative Enneagram Tradition – A method that emphasizes stories, body awareness, and personal experience over rigid typology. • False Self vs. True Self – How the Enneagram reveal

Responding to a cultural moment that disrupted daily rhythms, community gatherings, and global certainty, Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and Bonnie Lewis come together in a special quarantine episode to ask four essential questions: What do we believe God is doing in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic? What is being exposed in us, our culture, and the Church? What does faithful witness look like right now? And how can communities like Voxology step up during a crisis? Exploring both personal and theological layers, the conversation examines old views of judgment vs. participation, public theology vs. quiet presence, and how to engage empathetically when isolation looks different for each person. And yes—there are moments of humor, real talk, and even a surprise cameo from a passing train. Key Takeaways: • Rejecting a Narrative of Judgment – Unpacking why attributing the pandemic to divine punishment misrepresents the character of God, especially in light of Jesus's covenant and ministry. • Seeing God in Slowness an

A powerful and deeply personal follow-up to episode 224 ("Together in Process"), this conversation invites listeners into the real-time journey of healing, restoration, and redemption. Mike Erre returns to share openly about his months-long process of owning his failures, confronting entrenched patterns of shame, and embracing the hard work of inner transformation. With contributions from co-hosts Bonnie and Tim, this episode models courageous vulnerability, celebrates emotionally healthy spirituality, and illuminates what it means to be pursued—even when exposed. Hear how Mike's journey has been shaped through therapy, spiritual direction, tools like the Enneagram, and a deeply impactful experience at Onsite—a secular therapeutic program that helped reveal the sturdy presence of Jesus in unexpected spaces. The team reflects on the role of shame, the difference between sharing wounds and scars, and the powerful grace of being sung back into wholeness by a supportive community. This episode is for anyone navig

How the theology of "hopeful inclusion" and a reimagined understanding of judgment can expand your vision of redemption, freedom, and the character of God. In this eye-opening conversation, author and theologian Brad Jersak joins Voxology to discuss his acclaimed book, "Her Gates Will Never Be Shut," which explores biblical and historical perspectives on hell, divine judgment, and the ultimate redemption of all things. Brad shares how a deeper dive into scripture, the early church fathers, and the layered symbolism of Revelation shifts our understanding of God's justice from punishment to purification, and hell from eternal torment to transformative love. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has wrestled with fear-based theologies, inherited beliefs about hell, or the unsettling silence around what judgment really means. Key Takeaways: • The Spectrum of Hell Theology – Breaking down common views including eternal conscious torment, conditional immortality (annihilationism), and ultimate redemption (a

How artifacts like broken pottery, ancient bread ovens, and fingerprints in clay awaken us to the real lives and faith of biblical peoples—and what that means for us today. Tim and Bonnie welcome Dr. Cynthia Shafer-Elliott, professor of Hebrew Bible and archaeology at William Jessup University, to talk all things context—biblical genre, ancient family structures, and why daily life matters just as much as kings and temples when reading scripture. Dr. Cynthia brings fresh perspective through her academic work and archeological field experience in Israel, digging into Iron Age homes from the time of Hezekiah and Isaiah. You'll hear what she's learned from excavating ancient kitchens, how she distinguishes mythic genres from historic timelines, and why focusing on the "mundane" aspects of life radically reframes our understanding of God's people in the Old Testament. Key Takeaways: • Valuing the Mundane – Why archeology focuses less on big discoveries and more on everyday items that reveal how people lived, work

Discover how perfect love, humble conviction, and courageous listening can help Christians engage politics without being divisive. Mike, Tim, and Bonnie welcome author, pastor, and activist Eugene Cho to talk about his new book, Thou Shalt Not Be a Jerk: A Christian's Guide to Engaging Politics. They dig into what it looks like to bring thoughtful, compassionate discipleship into political engagement in an era of fear, outrage, and division. The group explores what it means to love our neighbors on both sides of the political aisle, how fear-based ideologies distort faith, and why being faithful to the gospel is inherently political—but never partisan. Eugene shares his own story as a Korean immigrant and pastor navigating the often fraught intersections of justice, theology, and civic responsibility. Whether you're tired of political shouting matches or seeking to live a more grounded Christian witness in divisive times, this conversation provides wisdom, challenge, and hope for reclaiming a better way. Key

How the biblical pattern of liberation empowers us to confront economic injustice, redefine power, and co-create a more just world. In this dynamic episode of Voxology, Bonnie and Tim are joined by Don Golden—author, activist, theologian, and leader in faith-centered impact investing. Don brings decades of experience in international relief, political advocacy, and theological reflection to guide a conversation that challenges listeners to think deeply about what it means to be God's liberating people in today's complex world. From Exodus to economics, Don unpacks a prophetic framework of four biblical locations—Egypt, Sinai, Jerusalem, and Babylon—that mirror the spiritual and societal cycles we live in today. The episode explores how privilege distorts our reading of Scripture, how American Christianity risks irrelevance by aligning with earthly power, and how marginalized voices and refugee realities should shape the conscience of the church. Don also reflects on his journey from World Relief to founding J

How rethinking sexuality beyond purity culture can lead to healing, empowerment, and deeper intimacy. Bonnie and Tim are joined by sexologist Dr. Celeste Holbrook for an honest, hilarious, and deeply needed conversation about disentangling shame, reframing abstinence, and reclaiming sexual wholeness within a Jesus-centered framework. Key Takeaways: • Separating Purity Culture from Abstinence – Why defining abstinence by fear and shame is damaging, and how making informed, autonomous decisions empowers both men and women. • Addressing Shame and Fear – How purity culture instilled unspoken trauma and confusion around sex, and how to begin the healing process from those messages. • Sex as a Behavior, Not a Drive – Reframing male sexuality away from uncontrollable urges and toward mutual emotional and physical connection. • Communal Healing Around Sexuality – How conversation, education, and sensual presence can begin to undo harmful narratives and help couples rediscover intimacy. • Intentional Parenting – Why t

How reframing vocation through theology can transform our understanding of purpose, identity, and calling. In this enlightening conversation, Bonnie and Tim welcome author and Holy Post co-host Skye Jethani to explore the often misunderstood topic of vocation. Drawing upon Reformation theology, personal experience, and a global mindset, Skye breaks down the biblical framework of calling: the highest calling to God, our shared Christian callings, and our individual, Spirit-led callings. Whether you've felt pressure to choose between "sacred" and "secular" work, wrestled with vocational guilt, or wondered how desires intersect with God's will, this episode unpacks how the church can better support believers in every walk of life and why your "ordinary" job may be more spiritual than you think. Key Takeaways: • Three Levels of Calling – Recovering the Puritan model of highest, common, and specific callings—and why it matters. • Your Job Isn't Your Identity – How your value comes from being in communion with God,

How can pastors lead with openness, authenticity, and courage—especially in the face of anxiety, societal pressure, and denominational tension? In this powerful episode, Bonnie Lewis and Tim Stafford introduce Jenny Smith, a United Methodist pastor from Washington, who shares her deeply personal and transformational journey with anxiety, ministry, and discovering a contemplative rhythm called "Palms Up." Whether you're a pastor, ministry leader, or seeker longing for a more integrated faith, this conversation offers wisdom, practical tools, and a compassionate invitation to lead and live with vulnerability and freedom. Key Takeaways: • Palms Up Leadership – Learn Jenny Smith's four-step contemplative practice designed to cultivate presence, spiritual awareness, and trust in difficult moments: Show Up, Pay Attention, Cooperate with God, and Release the Outcome. • Courage in Vulnerability – Jenny shares a life-changing moment when she experienced a panic attack mid-sermon—and how her congregation's response tra

How the local church can embody the reign of Christ through self-giving love, radical hospitality, and a commitment to justice in the face of national political chaos. This powerful conversation with New Testament scholar Tim Gombis unpacks how Christians can resist cultural currents shaped by sin and death—instead bearing witness to the kingdom of God through embodied practices rooted in community. Tim Stafford, Bonnie Lewis, and Tim Gombis wade through important (and often overwhelming) questions about national politics, collective Christian identity, denominational history, modern evangelicalism, and the ripple effects of our everyday actions. But don't worry—before diving in, the trio also shares favorite films, irrational fears, strange personal facts, and why mayonnaise divides the room. Key Takeaways: • Kingdom Dynamics Over Culture Wars – Gombis outlines how Paul frames the world through the cosmic realms of the present evil age and the in-Christ reality, and what that means for the modern church. • E

How can the church move forward with honesty, vulnerability, and healing when leadership fails or fractures arise within the community? Bonnie and Tim open this deeply honest episode with licensed therapist Elise Snipes, entering into what they call both a conversation and a process—a safe space for grief, anger, grace, and renewal. This marks a journey into how we, as the church, respond when our spiritual communities are shaken. Listeners are guided through a powerful, therapeutic framework designed to help navigate the emotional impact of last week's news surrounding co-host Mike Erre. Elise leads a communal process of separating reactions into three containers—Mike's story, your personal story, and the collective church story—offering clarity, compassion, and direction. If you're carrying feelings of betrayal, anxiety, anger, guilt, or confusion, this episode creates space for you to be exactly where you are while equipping you with language and tools to move toward healing. Key Takeaways: • The Three Str

How do we become a community where truth, brokenness, and grace can coexist? In this deeply vulnerable episode, Mike Erre steps forward to share hard, personal truths about the convergence of his private struggles and public ministry. Joined by co-hosts Tim Stafford and Bonnie Lewis, the Voxology team models what it means to confront sin, pain, and shame not with silence but with courageous transparency, loving accountability, and a commitment to holistic healing. Together, they explore the importance of rooting a spiritual community in truth, grace, and vulnerability rather than image management and performance. This candid conversation serves not only as an update for Voxology listeners but as an invitation for all Christians to consider how we respond to failure, how we practice redemptive grace, and how we create spaces safe enough to walk through real pain in pursuit of real transformation. Key Takeaways: • Truth Over Image – Why honest confession and transparency are essential in deconstructing performa

How can Christians break free from shame-driven views of body image and embrace their inherent worth in Christ? In this deeply personal and vulnerable episode from the Mini Episode Series (#8), Mike Erre, Bonnie Lewis, and Tim Stafford gather in person to respond to a powerful listener letter about body image, dieting, disordered eating, infertility, and the church's silence on these issues. Bonnie steps forward to share her own story of healing and freedom, striking a raw and redemptive tone that resonates with so many in the church today—especially Christian women navigating toxic body narratives reinforced by culture, churches, and families. Discover how micro-communities can become safe spaces for truth-telling, how spouses can walk in honesty and support, and why therapy, spiritual grace, and self-compassion are essential tools in the healing journey. With humor, honesty, and depth, the trio explores how distorted messages about "biblical womanhood" fuel body shame, and how the church can offer a differe