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 power over and power with, what is the importance of power under (with), which is exemplified by Jesus? What of the temptation to use power over and the need for discernment in using power in a way that aligns with the teachings of Jesus? The conversation touches on topics such as Christian nationalism, the role of the church, and the importance of community and shared power. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

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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 [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.

We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV.

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

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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 it should shape our political engagement and the importance of focusing on local issues and taking action in our own communities. We need compassion, empathy, and understanding in our interactions with others, especially those with different political views.

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.

We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV.

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

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 of nature.

And, hey, it concludes by encouraging listeners to go outside and enjoy something as a spiritual discipline.

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], 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

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

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 and accepting others. We analyze Genesis 1 and the poetic refrain that emphasizes the unity and diversity of humanity as images of God. The conversation explores 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.

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], 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

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Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon

The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio

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Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre

Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

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 messages.

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], 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

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

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-likeness. And of course, Tim pushes the need for critical thinking and discernment in engaging with culture.

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], 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

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Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon

The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

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. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], 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

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

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 the harm of using the Bible for control but shaping lives towards Christlikeness... How do we parent with selflessness and humility, different forms of authority, and exercising authority like Jesus... Yowza.

Parenting is not sin management. How can we emphasize the importance of restoring full humanness in children?

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], 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

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

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 pastoral ministry, elitism and limited access, building up each other, the teachings and lifestyle of Jesus, authentic relationship with Jesus, dying to everything but Jesus, the daily question of dying, the scandal of pastors falling from grace, and making Christianity weird again...

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], 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

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Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon

The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Growing Kids God's Way? Is that a thing? WARNING, it gets a little spirited. Today, Mike and Tim discuss the theme of differentiating fruit and outcomes, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness over controlling outcomes. The conversation concludes with a question about parenting and the use of the "rod," from the book of Proverbs. Mike and Tim discuss their perspectives on parenting and discipline. They emphasize the importance of building a close relationship with their children and prioritizing connection over strict discipline, challenge the idea of labeling one way of parenting as 'biblical' and highlight the harmful effects of shame in parenting. What is the difference between outcome-focused parenting and fruit-focused parenting? How do we differentiate between fruit and outcomes in order to focus on faithfulness rather than controlling results? How do we create environments that allow for the growth of fruit, but recognize that fruit cannot be produced or controlled?

00:00 Introduction

07:03Conversation on Super Bowl and Jesus' Appearance

09:13Debate on Jesus Teaching Hate

16:19 Differentiating Fruit and Outcomes

32:16 Parenting and the Difference Between Fruit and Outcomes

35:06 Question on Parenting and the Use of the Rod

01:09:01 Old Creation Dynamics vs New Creation Dynamics

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], 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