Vox Podcast With Mike Erre

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into the roots of shame and hiding in our lives, unpacking Genesis 3 to reveal God's compassionate invitation to step out of isolation and into authentic connection. By reexamining the true meaning of "fear of the Lord," they challenge common misconceptions and offer practical insights into overcoming shame through vulnerability and confession. Key Takeaways: Understanding Shame and Hiding – How shame leads us to hide from God and others, and the importance of coming out of hiding to restore relationships. Reframing the Fear of the Lord – Exploring "fear of the Lord" as trusting God's wisdom over our own, rather than being afraid of Him. God's Compassionate Questions – Discussing how God's response to Adam and Eve with questions is an invitation to reconnection, not condemnation. Overcoming Shame through Vulnerability – The role of authentic community and confession in healing shame and building genuine connections. Resources Mentioned: Genesis 3 – Genesis 3 Passage Prover

Uncover how redefining salvation and understanding the serpent's role in Genesis 3 can reshape our perspective on sin, humanity, and our relationship with God. Dive deep into the hidden wordplays in the Hebrew text and explore how these insights impact our daily lives and spiritual journey. Key Takeaways: • Redefining Salvation – A fresh perspective on salvation as embodied participation in new creation, moving beyond traditional views of sin and redemption. • The Serpent's Wisdom and the Fall – Analyzing the serpent's role in Genesis 3, the Hebrew wordplays between "naked" and "crafty," and how they inform our understanding of temptation and disobedience. • Imaging God vs. Idolatry – Exploring how we become like what we worship, the concept of idolatry, and its implications for our identity and spiritual formation. • The Role of Wisdom – Discussing the dual nature of wisdom in the Bible, how it can be used for good or ill, and the importance of seeking godly wisdom. • Community and Scripture – Understanding

Exploring how Christians can navigate feelings of outrage in response to cultural events like the depiction of the Last Supper at the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into the importance of responding with grace and aligning our reactions with Jesus' teachings. They discuss the multiple layers of outrage surrounding the event, the concept of righteous anger, and how to embody the Sermon on the Mount in today's polarized society. Emphasizing Jesus' example of inviting all to His table, they challenge listeners to reflect on their own responses and the church's role in demonstrating love amidst cultural tensions. Key Takeaways: Understanding Righteous Anger – Examining the biblical concept of righteous anger and how it is often directed towards believers rather than non-believers. Responding with Grace – Encouraging Christians to respond to mockery and offense by embodying Jesus' teachings, rather than reacting with outrage. The Role of Social Media – Discussing how social medi

Delve into how the creation of male and female in Genesis 2 reveals the profound unity in diversity intended by God, and how this shapes our understanding of human dignity, community, and the image of God today. Mike and Tim explore the original Hebrew terms used in the text, challenging traditional interpretations that have led to patriarchal views, and discuss the implications for the church and individuals in embracing equality and mutuality. Key Takeaways: The True Meaning of 'Ezer Kenegdo' – Unpacking the Hebrew term often translated as "helper suitable," revealing the woman's role as a strong helper or rescuer, not a subordinate assistant. Unity in Diversity as the Image of God – Understanding how male and female together fully image God, embodying unity in diversity as foundational to human identity and vocation. Challenging Patriarchal Interpretations – Examining how misreadings of Genesis have contributed to patriarchal systems, and how returning to the text's original meaning can restore equality.

Explore how reexamining biblical love can transform our relationships, especially when facing disagreements or challenging situations. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into common distortions of love within Christianity, discussing how to genuinely love others as Jesus taught—even when it's difficult. Key Takeaways: Love as Action, Not Just Emotion – Understanding that biblical love is demonstrated through actions, not merely feelings. Commitment Before Correction – The importance of being committed to, with, and for others before attempting to guide them. Reframing 'Speaking the Truth in Love' – Challenging the misconception that we must correct others before loving them. Loving Without Agenda – How to love others without the need to first express disagreement or disapproval. Practical Application in Tough Situations – Addressing ways to love family members who make choices we might not understand or agree with. Resources Mentioned: Scott McKnight's A Fellowship of Differents Preston Sprinkle's Embodied E

Uncover how the four rivers flowing from Eden in Genesis 2 set the stage for the entire biblical narrative, revealing our vocation as a royal priesthood. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford explore the profound connections between the Old and New Testaments, delving into the significance of the Hebrew words 'avad' and 'shamar' in defining our purpose to "work" and "keep." They discuss how these concepts echo throughout scripture, culminating in Jesus's temptation in the wilderness as a recapitulation of the choices faced in the Garden of Eden. This episode invites you to rediscover what it truly means to be human, transforming your understanding of worship, vocation, and your role in God's grand story. Key Takeaways: • The Four Rivers of Eden – How the rivers symbolize the empires of Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, and Canaan, setting up the Old Testament story. • Our Royal Priestly Vocation – Discovering what it means to "work" (avad) and "keep" (shamar) as a calling for all humanity. • Hebrew Insights – Understanding how a

Discover how revisiting the story of the two trees in Genesis can transform our understanding of humanity's purpose, mortality, and our relationship with God. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford unpack the profound implications of the Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, offering fresh insights that challenge traditional interpretations and invite us to embrace maturity through trusting God's wisdom. Key Takeaways: • The Trees as Symbols of Choice – Understanding the Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil as representations of humanity's choice between trusting God's definitions of good and evil or asserting autonomy. • Rethinking Original Sin – Challenging the traditional narrative of a perfect humanity that fell, and exploring the idea that humans were created mortal with the opportunity to transcend through obedience. • Wisdom and Maturity in God's Timing – Discussing how the knowledge of good and evil relates to moral maturity, and how God intended humans to gain wisdom

Discover how re-examining Genesis 2 transforms our understanding of humanity, mortality, and divine vocation, challenging traditional views on creation and sin. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into the depths of Genesis 2, exploring the implications of humans being created from dust, the role of Adam and Eve as archetypal priests, and the idea of Genesis 2 as a sequel rather than a recap of Genesis 1. Key Takeaways: • Mortality as a Fundamental Human Condition – Exploring how being made from dust signifies human frailty and finitude, reshaping the concept of original immortality. • Adam and Eve as Archetypal Priests – Understanding how God selected Adam and Eve from among existing humanity to serve as royal priests in the sacred space of Eden. • Genesis 2 as a Sequel to Genesis 1 – Examining the perspective that Genesis 2 continues the narrative, focusing on the creation of sacred space and human vocation. • Implications for Sin and Salvation – Discussing how this viewpoint affects our understanding of sin—n

Unveiling the profound gift of Sabbath rest and how embracing our limitations leads to a deeper understanding of our humanity and God's presence. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into the significance of the seventh day in Genesis, exploring how rest is not merely the absence of work but an invitation to enjoy God's creation and affirm our inherent value beyond productivity. Key Takeaways: • The True Meaning of Sabbath – Understanding Sabbath as a divine gift where God takes up residence among us, inviting us into His presence. • Being Human Beyond Productivity – Exploring how embracing our limitations and need for rest counters the demands of hustle culture. • Time as a Gift, Not a Curse – Discussing the concept of time in Genesis and how viewing time as a gift can transform our relationship with work and rest. • Rest as Resistance – How practicing Sabbath rest serves as a form of resistance against the oppressive demands of modern society, much like it was a gift to the Israelites after slavery. Guest Highl

Discover how to confront oppressive power structures with love and rethink the Genesis creation story in a way that reveals deeper insights about God's intention for humanity. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive into the challenges of resisting "power over" without perpetuating it ourselves, and explore the cultural understanding of the seven-day creation in Genesis to uncover its profound implications for us today. Key Takeaways: Resisting Power Over with Love – Practical strategies for opposing oppressive systems while embodying love, humility, and new creation dynamics. Understanding Power Dynamics in the Church and Society – Examining how institutions may use "power over" to harm or marginalize others and how we can respond faithfully. Reimagining the Seven-Day Creation – Delving into the cultural context of Genesis's creation narrative and what the seven days symbolize beyond a literal interpretation. Literal vs. Poetic Interpretations – Discussing the implications of reading Genesis as poetic literature an

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into the complexities of power dynamics in therapy, parenting, and church leadership, exploring how shifting from 'power over' to 'power with' can transform relationships and foster genuine connection. They discuss listener insights on therapeutic practices, reflect on the challenges of parenting without resorting to control, and examine a modern confession inspired by Matthew 23 that seeks to reverse the pitfalls of power misuse in ministry. Key Takeaways: • Reimagining Therapy Relationships – Understanding the importance of therapists serving as mirrors to facilitate self-discovery, avoiding judgmental or prescriptive approaches. • Power With vs. Power Over in Parenting – Exploring strategies to replace controlling tactics with collaborative approaches that prioritize connection and trust with children. • Connection as the Antidote to Shame – Discussing how genuine connection can combat shame in family and faith communities, fostering open communication and healing. • Revers

Discover how reimagining our role in God's creation transforms our understanding of sovereignty, agency, and the divine partnership intended from the beginning. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into Genesis to explore how humans are invited to actively participate in God's work, challenging misconceptions about God's control and our own passivity. Key Takeaways: • The True Meaning of Dominion – Unpacking what it means to be made in God's image and exercise dominion that reflects His character and goodness. • God's Sovereignty and Human Agency – Examining the partnership between God and humanity, where our actions are integral to His work in the world. • Challenging Misconceptions – Addressing beliefs that everything happening is God's will, and how this affects our understanding of suffering and responsibility. • Active Participation vs. Passive Waiting – Encouraging listeners to engage proactively in God's mission without falling into extremes of control or resignation. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis Chapter

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into how modern church power structures often contradict Jesus' teachings on leadership. They explore moving from "power over" models to embracing mutuality, plurality, humility, and vulnerability within church communities. Sharing personal experiences and biblical insights, they challenge conventional notions of authority and highlight the importance of aligning church leadership with the servant-hearted example set by Jesus. Key Takeaways: Rejecting Hierarchical Power – Understanding why "power over" structures can be harmful and how to resist them in favor of servant leadership. Embracing Mutuality and Plurality – The significance of shared leadership, mutual submission, and distributing power among all members of the church community. Practicing Weakness and Vulnerability – Recognizing that God's power is made perfect in weakness, and the role of authenticity and humility in ministry. Redefining Success in Ministry – Shifting focus from effectiveness and metrics to faithf

Mike and Tim delve into the concept of cruciformity, exploring how the church can move away from "power over" dynamics and embrace the "power with" approach exemplified by Jesus and Paul. They discuss the misuse of power within Christian communities, the meaning of living a cruciform life, and how this shift challenges entitlement and the quest for control. Key Takeaways: Understanding Cruciformity – How Jesus's self-emptying and humility serve as a pattern for believers to forsake entitlement and embrace self-expenditure for the sake of others. Power Over vs. Power With – Analyzing the difference between worldly power that coerces and godly power that collaborates, and why the church should reject power over in favor of power with. Paul's Leadership Example – Discussing how Paul exemplified cruciform leadership by boasting in weakness and rejecting social prestige to rely on God's power. Challenging Entitlement in the Church – Confronting issues of entitlement and misuse of power within Christian communitie

Explore how integrating psychology and faith can help the church overcome mental health stigma. Mike Erre is joined by mental health professionals Kevin Dixon, Lauren King, and Dr. Dave Verhaagen to debunk common misconceptions about mental health diagnoses and treatments within the Christian community. Key Takeaways: • Debunking Mental Health Myths – Addressing misconceptions about conditions like PTSD, OCD, and ADHD, and discussing the biological and psychological basis for these diagnoses. • Integrating Faith and Psychology – Understanding how faith and psychology can work together to promote holistic well-being rather than being at odds. • Navigating Mental Health in the Church – Emphasizing the importance of churches addressing mental health issues openly and compassionately. • Recognizing Healthy Church Leadership – Identifying markers of narcissism in church leadership and highlighting the significance of authenticity and openness to criticism. Guest Highlights: Kevin Dixon – Co-host of the Journey On

Discover how embracing weakness and confronting shame can rehumanize ministry and lead to authentic discipleship. In this special Non-Ference episode, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by Susie Lind and Timothy Gombis to explore cruciform living and the journey toward becoming truly human. Key Takeaways: • Embracing Weakness and Shame – Understanding how acknowledging our vulnerabilities fosters genuine relationships and authentic ministry. • Cruciform Living – Exploring what it means to live a life shaped by the cross, allowing our weaknesses to become strengths. • Rehumanizing Discipleship – Challenging dehumanizing practices in traditional discipleship models and moving toward a holistic, human-centered approach. • The Role of Therapy and Self-Awareness – Discussing the importance of therapy, spiritual direction, and self-awareness in personal growth and ministry effectiveness. Guest Highlights: Timothy Gombis – New Testament scholar and author of Power in Weakness, shares his personal journey of embra

Unpacking Jesus's radical call to reject "power over" in favor of "power with," Mike Erre and Tim Stafford continue the Rule Series by exploring how this paradigm shift can transform our understanding of leadership, authority, and the church's role in the world. Dive into a thought-provoking discussion on how embracing Jesus's model challenges modern Christian nationalism and the temptation to use worldly power to achieve spiritual goals. Key Takeaways: • Distinguishing Between Power Over and Power With – Understanding how coercive power contrasts with relational, cooperative power in the teachings of Jesus. • "Not So With You": Jesus's Command to Reject Worldly Power – Exploring Mark 10:42-45 and how Jesus instructs his disciples to lead through service and humility. • The Temptation of Power and Authority – Analyzing biblical examples such as the temptation of Jesus, Peter's use of the sword, and the disciples' desire for greatness. • Implications for Modern Church Leadership and Christian Nationalism – Dis

Explore how moving beyond gatekeeping and adopting a 'power with' approach can transform your understanding of authority, community, and what it means to be human in God's image. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive deep into the concepts of power over versus power with, drawing from Genesis and the nature of God's power, and discuss how rethinking power dynamics can lead to more authentic and inclusive Christian communities. Key Takeaways: Understanding 'Power Over' vs. 'Power With' – How shifting from coercive power to invitational and empowering relationships can reshape church and community life. Reflecting God's Image Through Stewardship – Insights on how the Genesis account informs our role in environmental stewardship as a way of bearing God's image. Overcoming Gatekeeping in the Church – Strategies to hold convictions with humility and avoid building new barriers that exclude others from the community. Resources Mentioned: "Reckoning with Power" by David Fitch Concepts of 'Power Under' by Greg Boyd Gene

Discover how to navigate the complexities of modern politics without compromising your loyalty to Jesus. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by Pauline scholar Dr. Timothy Gombis to delve into Paul's vision of the church as a political entity embodying the politics of the cross. Together, they unpack the dangers of partisanship, the allure of political idolatry, and the call for Christians to engage in a different kind of politics rooted in the kingdom of God. Key Takeaways: The Church as a Distinct Political Community – Understanding that the church's politics are shaped by the cross, emphasizing service, love, and justice over power and control. Identifying and Resisting Political Idolatry – Recognizing how allegiance to political parties can become idolatrous and detract from our primary loyalty to Jesus. Fostering Unity Amidst Political Diversity – Exploring practical ways to maintain unity within the church community when members hold diverse political views. Emphasizing Local Engagement – Encouraging

Discover how understanding the true meaning of 'rule' in Genesis can transform our perspective on humanity's role in God's good creation. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into the distinction between 'good' and 'perfect' in the creation narrative, revealing how embracing God's intent unlocks our creative purpose and joy. They explore how recognizing creation as loaded with potential invites us to actively participate in cultivating and enjoying the world around us, mirroring God's own delight in His creation. Key Takeaways: • Creation as 'Good', Not 'Perfect' – Understanding why God's creation is described as good and the significance of its potential and unfinished nature. • Rethinking 'Rule' – Exploring the true meaning of humanity's call to rule and subdue creation as caretakers and co-creators with God. • Enjoyment as a Sacred Vocation – Recognizing enjoyment and creativity as central to being human and reflecting God's image. • Challenging Misconceptions – Addressing how often the Christian story starts