Vox Podcast With Mike Erre

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

Uncover how reimagining the Image of God can transform our perspectives on disabilities, gender identity, and unity within the church community. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into the profound implications of being made in God's image, discussing how this understanding impacts our relationships, church practices, and societal debates on gender and inclusion. Key Takeaways: • Embracing the Image of God in All People – Recognizing that every individual, including those with disabilities and diverse gender identities, are bearers of God's image and worthy of dignity and respect. • Unity in Diversity – Exploring how the unity of humanity is expressed through diversity, reflecting the nature of God and challenging the church to embrace differences within the community. • Rethinking Traditional Views – Discussing the importance of revisiting traditional interpretations of scripture regarding gender roles and hierarchies, and how this impacts our approach to inclusion and church leadership. • The Role of the Chur

Explore how recognizing every human as made in the image of God challenges societal norms, reshapes our understanding of human worth, and calls us to value all people regardless of ability or status. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into the profound implications of the Imago Dei, discussing how this foundational truth confronts modern idolatry, societal biases, and our own perceptions. Key Takeaways: • Every Human as God's Image-Bearer – Understanding that every person, by virtue of being human, reflects the divine image, and how this shapes our interactions and ethics. • Challenging Cultural Norms – Examining ancient and modern practices that devalue human life based on efficiency, effectiveness, and societal standards. • Seth's Story – Mike shares personal insights from raising his son Seth, who has Down syndrome, illustrating the beauty and prophetic witness of valuing every life. • Imago Dei vs. Idolatry – Exploring how the concept of the image of God opposes societal idols of productivity, power, and pe

Mike and Tim dive into Genesis 1 to explore what it truly means to be made in the image of God. Challenging traditional notions of sin management, they discuss how embracing our full humanity as God's image bearers transforms our understanding of faith, community, and daily life. Addressing a listener's question about navigating college life, partying, and the complexities of applying faith in real-world situations, they offer insightful perspectives on discernment, wisdom, and living out the gospel authentically. Key Takeaways: The Fullness of Humanity as God's Image – Understanding that being made in God's image encompasses our entire being, not just specific abilities or attributes. Moving Beyond Sin Management – Critiquing the limitations of a sin-focused approach to faith and emphasizing the pursuit of Christlikeness in all areas of life. Wisdom and Discernment in Modern Challenges – Discussing how to approach topics like partying, alcohol, and relationships with a centered, wisdom-based perspective rat

Explore how reexamining Genesis 1–3 reveals a richer biblical anthropology, challenging traditional evangelical interpretations and uncovering what it truly means to be human. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into the implications of understanding Genesis beyond scientific literalism and how it shapes our perception of Jesus's mission. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Genesis Beyond Science – How Genesis focuses on metaphysical questions of meaning and purpose rather than material origins. • Reframing Our Human Story – Discovering how the starting point of our human story in Genesis impacts our understanding of what Jesus came to do. • Embracing a Richer Biblical Anthropology – Exploring a more compelling picture of humanity as presented in Genesis, and its implications for mental health, sexuality, and embracing our limitations. • Moving Beyond Literalism – Discussing how reading Genesis with curiosity and humility allows us to grasp the theological messages intended for the original audience. Guest Highlights

Discover how embracing humility and focusing on repair can transform your relationships with your children, regardless of their age. Mike Erre, Tim Stafford, and special guest Susie Lind explore the challenges of parenting beyond fear and control, emphasizing the importance of building authentic connections and being present for meaningful repair. Key Takeaways: The Power of Repairing Relationships – Acknowledging past mistakes and being available for repair can strengthen and heal the bonds with your children. Parenting Beyond Fear – Understanding how fear influences parenting styles and learning to approach your children with love and connection rather than control. Self-Awareness as a Parent – The significance of working on oneself to become a better parent, recognizing personal triggers, and how personal growth impacts your children. Redefining Authority – Exploring non-coercive ways to exercise authority through example, patience, and creating a safe environment for your children. Guest Highlights: Sus

Unveiling how the early Christians defied cultural norms and how rediscovering their radical approach can transform today's church. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by Dr. Nijay Gupta to explore the compelling differences between Roman religion and early Christianity, and how modern believers can make Christianity "weird" again by embracing humility, community, and the teachings of Jesus. Key Takeaways: • The Six Elements of Roman Religion – Understanding the hierarchical, elitist, and monocultural aspects of Roman faith, and how they contrast with early Christian beliefs. • Defying the Empire – How the first Christians rejected the norms of Roman religion, including hierarchy, rituals of appeasement, and limited access to the divine. • The Power of Compelling Community – Exploring how the early church's emphasis on love, equality, and inclusivity drew people in and transformed lives. • Making Christianity Weird Again Today – Practical steps for modern believers to reclaim the radical nature of early fai

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into the heart of parenting without shame, discussing how letting go of controlling outcomes and embracing faithfulness can transform our relationships with our children. By focusing on cultivating fruit rather than enforcing boundaries, they explore how to reflect Jesus's unconditional love, reject shame-based parenting, and foster genuine connection and growth. Key Takeaways: The Difference Between Fruit and Outcomes – Understanding how focusing on faithfulness and cultivating fruit differs from trying to control outcomes in parenting and life. Rejecting Shame-Based Parenting – Exploring the harmful effects of shame and fear in traditional parenting models, and how to parent without shame. Embracing Faithfulness Over Control – Discussing how prioritizing faithfulness and connection over controlling behaviors leads to deeper relationships with our children. Center-Set vs. Boundary-Set Parenting – Examining the shift from boundary-focused parenting to a center-set approach th

Discover how the resurrection of Jesus launches the New Creation project and what it means for us to live as New Creation people now. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford conclude their Revelation series by connecting Genesis, Revelation, and Paul's teachings to explore how we can embody New Creation realities and witness to its transformative power in our daily lives. Key Takeaways: • Understanding New Creation – How Jesus's resurrection initiated the New Creation and redefines our identity and mission. • Genesis and Revelation Parallels – Exploring the connections between the Creation and New Creation narratives to grasp God's overarching plan. • Living as New Creation People Now – Practical ways to embody New Creation values and ethics in the present age. • Paul's Teachings on Resurrection – Unpacking 1 Corinthians 15 and 2 Corinthians 5:17 to understand the implications of resurrection for New Creation. • Clarifying Pastoral Expectations – Discussing the importance of defining pastoral roles to foster healthier chu

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford challenge traditional views of evangelism by exploring how the early church grew through embodied faith and patient community life. Drawing from Alan Kreider's The Patient Ferment of the Early Church, they discuss moving beyond altar calls rooted in guilt and manipulation, and toward a transformative understanding of evangelism rooted in the way of Jesus. Key Takeaways: • Rethinking Evangelism – Understanding that the early church grew not by compelling arguments or altar calls, but by living out the teachings of Jesus in community. • Patience Over Outcomes – Exploring the virtue of patience as central to early Christians, and how trusting God's timing contrasts with modern urgency to produce immediate results. • Dangers of Control – Discussing how attempts to control spiritual outcomes can lead to manipulation and divert us from genuine discipleship. • The Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds – Unpacking Jesus's teaching on allowing wheat and weeds to grow together, and how it inform

Explore how shifting our understanding of the Holy Spirit from an individual focus to a communal one can transform the church and spiritual life. Mike Erre and Tim Stafford are joined by theologian Timothy Gombis to delve into Paul's vision of the Holy Spirit's role in uniting and empowering the Christian community, challenging modern misconceptions and inviting believers into a more collective experience of faith. Key Takeaways: The Communal Role of the Holy Spirit – Understanding how the Spirit works to unify the church, emphasizing collective transformation over individual experiences. Rethinking Spiritual Gifts – Challenging the individualistic interpretation of spiritual gifts and viewing them as contributions determined by the community's needs. Spiritual Disciplines and Community – Discussing how personal spiritual practices prepare believers for communal life rather than serving as the primary context of spirituality. Prayer and the Trinity – Exploring theological perspectives on praying to the Holy