Discover how the challenges faced by the churches in Pergamum and Thyatira reveal the pitfalls of cultural assimilation and idolatry, and learn how to identify and resist the modern-day idols of money, sex, and power. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive into Revelation's letters to these churches, exploring how their struggles illuminate the ongoing battle against societal pressures that compromise faithfulness. Key Takeaways: Unveiling Cultural Idolatry – Understanding how the letters to Pergamum a...
Jul 10, 2023•1 hr 10 min
Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by biblical scholar Dr. Tim Gombis to explore how reimagining the powers and principalities in Ephesians transforms our understanding of spiritual warfare and the church's mission in the modern world. Delving into the complexities of the present evil age, they discuss how believers can actively resist systemic injustice, embrace communal salvation, and participate in new creation dynamics that defy the influence of the powers. Key Takeaways: Unveiling the Po...
Jul 03, 2023•1 hr 4 min
Mike Erre and Tim Stafford continue the Exile Series by delving into the letter to the church in Ephesus from Revelation. They explore how early Christians redefined victory, contrasting it with Roman imperial narratives, and discuss what it means for the modern church to resist assimilation into prevailing cultural norms. By examining themes of repentance, faithfulness, and the true meaning of overcoming, they challenge the American church's understanding of success and call believers to embody...
Jun 26, 2023•1 hr 13 min
Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive into the recent debates surrounding women's roles in church leadership, examining the Southern Baptist Convention's decision on female pastors and critiquing arguments against women in ministry. They explore how these contemporary issues mirror the challenges faced by the early churches in Revelation, discussing themes of faithfulness, compromise, and the call to overcome societal pressures. Key Takeaways: • Re-evaluating Traditional Views on Women's Leadership – ...
Jun 19, 2023•1 hr 13 min
Mike Erre and Tim Stafford engage with rapper and author KB to explore how embracing the "Dangerous Jesus" can reignite the church's mission by confronting issues of justice, race, and cultural complacency. They delve into KB's faith journey, his insights on the Christianity of Christ versus the Christianity of the land, and the transformative power of art in challenging and inspiring believers today. Key Takeaways: Embracing the Dangerous Jesus – Understanding how rediscovering the true nature ...
Jun 12, 2023•1 hr 8 min
In this episode of the Exile Series, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve deep into the Roman imperial cult to uncover how the official narrative of Rome influences the understanding of the Book of Revelation. They explore the parallels between ancient Rome's civic religion and modern-day cultural narratives, challenging listeners to discern where contemporary society may mirror the dynamics of empire. Key Takeaways: The Official Story of Rome – Understanding how Rome's mythic narrative of being the...
Jun 05, 2023•1 hr 17 min
Discover how decoding the symbols and Old Testament references in Revelation Chapter 1 can transform your understanding of Jesus and the Book of Revelation. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive deep into the rich tapestry of apocalyptic literature, Roman imperial context, and biblical imagery to unveil the profound messages intended for the original audience and for us today. Key Takeaways: Understanding Revelation's Context – How the book instructs us to read it and the importance of recognizing its...
May 29, 2023•1 hr 2 min
Explore how harmful messages from purity culture have impacted women in the church and how we can do better. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by authors Sheila Wray Gregoire and Rebecca Gregoire Lindenbach from Bare Marriage to discuss their latest book "She Deserves Better," which addresses toxic teachings on sex, self, and speaking up. They delve into empowering girls to resist detrimental teachings, the importance of consent education, and creating safe spaces in the church. Key Takeaway...
May 22, 2023•1 hr 35 min
Delve into the complexities of Old Testament violence and discover how reframing these challenging narratives reveals the Shalom of God. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by Dr. Matthew Lynch, Associate Professor of Old Testament at Regent College and author of Flood and Fury , to explore how stories like the Flood, the Nephilim, and the conquest of Canaan can be understood in the context of God's restorative justice and peace. Key Takeaways: • Reassessing the Flood Narrative – Rethinking tr...
May 15, 2023•57 min
Explore how incorporating feminist theory and a renewed understanding of the body can reshape the church's approach to gender, community, and intergenerational relationships. Mike and Tim sit down with theologian and author Kaitlin Schiess to discuss the church's failures and opportunities in valuing the human body, and how this impacts our engagement with culture, scripture, and the future of the church. Key Takeaways: The Importance of the Body in Theology – Understanding how the church has of...
May 08, 2023•1 hr 7 min
Mike Erre and Tim Stafford sit down with Phil Vischer, creator of VeggieTales and co-host of the Holy Post Podcast, to explore the historical roots of the current fractures within American evangelicalism and what this means for the future of the church. They delve into the split between Northern neo-evangelicals and Southern fundamentalists, the cultural and political forces that have shaped evangelicalism, and discuss how understanding this history can guide the church forward. Key Takeaways: T...
May 01, 2023•1 hr 15 min
Learn how to lead and engage in an increasingly polarized church environment as Mike and Tim celebrate their 400th episode with guest Skye Jethani. They explore practical insights on confronting Christian nationalism, adapting to technological advances like AI, and cultivating unity and tolerance within church communities. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Church Polarization – Insights into how cultural divides are leading to segregated 'red' and 'blue' churches, and the implications for the body ...
Apr 24, 2023•1 hr 6 min
Discover how rethinking sin as a cosmic force rather than individual failures transforms our understanding of forgiveness, salvation, and the gospel. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by theologian Tim Gombis to explore the communal aspects of sin and how this perspective reshapes our approach to discipleship, community life, and personal struggles. Key Takeaways: • Sin as a Cosmic Power – Understanding sin not just as personal transgressions but as an active force that seeks to enslave and ...
Apr 17, 2023•1 hr 6 min
Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into the perplexing time references in the Book of Revelation, exploring how phrases like "what must soon take place" and "the time is near" represent a kind of time rather than imminent calendar dates. They discuss the pitfalls of "calendarizing" prophetic scripture, the difference between kairos (opportune time) and chronos (chronological time), and how understanding God's unique timing transforms our perspective on living in the "now and not yet" of the Kingdo...
Apr 10, 2023•59 min
Mike Erre and Tim Stafford grapple with the profound grief and anger following the tragic school shooting in Nashville. They delve into the complexities of gun violence in America, examining how the intertwining of gun culture and evangelical Christianity hinders meaningful action. Through a heartfelt and critical exploration of common arguments against gun control, they challenge listeners to reconsider biblical teachings on violence, self-defense, and what it truly means to follow Jesus in the...
Apr 03, 2023•1 hr 23 min
A soul-stirring conversation recorded live at the 2024 Voxology Nonference in Brentwood, Tennessee, brings together Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, Susie P. Lind, and Timothy Gombis for a powerful exploration into what it truly means to rehumanize ministry and Christian life. Gathering in person for the first time as a group, these longtime friends and spiritual voices reflect on emotional health, identity, shame, self-talk, cruciformity, and how power is expressed through weakness, drawing inspiration...
Mar 27, 2023•1 hr 7 min
Delve into the rich history and enduring significance of "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" as we explore how this timeless hymn reshapes our understanding of authentic worship, deconstruction, and the journey back to faith. Tim Stafford discusses the life of Robert Robinson, his transformative encounter with faith, his moments of wandering, and the magic that brought him back—offering insights into how our own stories mirror this journey. Key Takeaways: The Story Behind 'Come Thou Fount' – Unc...
Mar 22, 2023•23 min
Mike and Tim delve into a listener's question about handling church discipline in cases of adultery within the church community. They explore how to approach restoration and reorientation with grace, empathy, and a focus on relationships, rather than mere rule enforcement. Drawing from centered set theology, they discuss the importance of inviting individuals back to the center—Jesus—and the role of community in fostering genuine transformation. Key Takeaways: Invitation Over Exclusion – Emphasi...
Mar 20, 2023•1 hr 4 min
Explore how harmful teachings on sexuality within the church have impacted women, and how reclaiming mutuality, consent, and healthy theology can lead to healing and transformation. Join hosts Mike Erre and Tim Stafford as they welcome guests Susie Lind and Katie Haseltine to discuss the damaging effects of purity culture and the importance of including women's perspectives in conversations about sexuality and theology. Key Takeaways: The Harm of Purity Culture – Understanding how purity culture...
Mar 13, 2023•1 hr 25 min
Discover how re-examining the Book of Revelation through its original context can transform our understanding of its message for today. Mike and Tim sit down with theologians Scot McKnight and Cody Matchett to discuss their new book, "Revelation for the Rest of Us," unraveling misconceptions and highlighting the timeless relevance of this apocalyptic text. Key Takeaways: Understanding Apocalyptic Literature – Exploring Revelation as an art form rich in symbolism and Old Testament imagery, inviti...
Mar 06, 2023•1 hr 11 min
Mike and Tim explore the importance of understanding the genre clues in the Book of Revelation, discussing how recognizing it as an apocalypse, a prophecy, and a pastoral letter reshapes our interpretation. They also confront systemic misogyny in the church, reflecting on recent events involving prominent female leaders and the need to address gender inequality. Key Takeaways: Confronting Misogyny in the Church – Discussing recent events highlighting systemic issues with gender inequality and th...
Feb 27, 2023•45 min
Delve into the complexities of evil and suffering as Mike and Tim are joined by scholar Tim Gombis in their Gospel with Gombis series. Together, they explore the origins of evil within the biblical narrative, the role of human collaboration in God's Kingdom, and how the church can respond to a world marred by suffering and injustice. Key Takeaways: The Origins of Evil – Understanding how human rebellion against God's plan introduced chaos and suffering into the world, drawing from Genesis and Ne...
Feb 20, 2023•1 hr 8 min
Explore how recognizing the apocalyptic genre of Revelation transforms our interpretation of this enigmatic book, allowing us to reclaim its original message of hope and comfort. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into the importance of genre in biblical texts, discussing how misreading Revelation has led to fear-based teachings rather than the intended encouragement. They also examine the "He Gets Us" Super Bowl ad campaign, offering thoughtful critique on modern evangelism methods and the portra...
Feb 13, 2023•1 hr 20 min
Delve into the powerful history and universal impact of "Amazing Grace" as Tim explores how this timeless hymn transcends cultural, religious, and social boundaries. Through the transformative journey of its author, John Newton, we uncover themes of grace, justice, and shared humanity, reflecting on how grace invites us into God's ongoing vision for the world. Key Takeaways: • John Newton's Transformation – From slave trader to abolitionist, and how his life experiences shaped "Amazing Grace." •...
Feb 09, 2023•32 min
Discover how transforming the culture of policing can lead to a more just and dignified society, as Mike Erre and Tim Stafford sit down with Nick Sensley, CEO of the Institute for American Policing Reform. Learn about practical steps towards meaningful reform, the importance of community engagement, and how embracing human dignity can reshape law enforcement in America. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Police Culture – How entrenched cultural norms within law enforcement contribute to systemic iss...
Feb 06, 2023•1 hr 22 min
Unpacking how debunking the myths of dispensationalism and embracing a more faithful interpretation of Revelation can transform your understanding of the end times and challenge the roots of Christian nationalism. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve deep into the history and theological flaws of dispensationalism, discussing how popular interpretations like the Left Behind series have distorted the true message of Revelation and contributed to unhealthy ideologies within Christianity. Key Takeaways...
Jan 30, 2023•1 hr 9 min
Discover how re-examining the Book of Revelation can challenge and dismantle the harmful ideologies of Christian nationalism. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford begin a new series that aims to reclaim Revelation from misuse and unpack its true message of hope, comfort, and allegiance to Jesus in times of marginalization. Key Takeaways: • Introducing the Revelation Series – Starting a deep dive into the Book of Revelation, focusing on its relevance today. • Confronting Christian Nationalism – Exploring h...
Jan 23, 2023•1 hr 3 min
Mike and Tim engage with New Testament scholar Tim Gombis to explore how our traditional understanding of the gospel might be missing the radical message of Jesus's Kingdom. They discuss the limitations of a transactional approach to faith and delve into how Jesus's teachings in the Gospel of Mark challenge our expectations, both then and now. This conversation kicks off a new series focused on rediscovering the Kingdom message in today's context. Key Takeaways: Moving Beyond Transactional Faith...
Jan 16, 2023•1 hr 2 min
Delving into the impact of celebrity culture on the church, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford engage with author and journalist Katelyn Beaty to discuss her book "Celebrities for Jesus: How Personas, Platforms, and Profits are Hurting the Church." They explore how the pursuit of platform and influence can undermine authentic Christian community, lead to scandals, and distort the gospel message. Key Takeaways: • Understanding the Dark Side of Celebrity Culture in the Church – How celebrity dynamics cont...
Jan 09, 2023•58 min
Explore how facing church scandals through genuine repentance and embracing healthy transitions can lead to a revitalized and authentic faith community. Join hosts Mike Erre and Tim Stafford, along with guest Susie Lind, as they delve into the challenges of event-driven church models, the complexities of leaving a church gracefully, and a critical analysis of Christianity Today's Top 20 Stories of 2022 to uncover what it means for the future of the church. Key Takeaways: • The Need for Genuine R...
Jan 02, 2023•1 hr 12 min
