Episodios

  • The World of, Behind and In Front of the Text: Navigating Biblical Interpretations
    Jun 9 2025

    In this episode, Tim and Mike continue the conversation about the complexities of biblical interpretation, exploring how various contexts—textual, cultural, and personal—shape our understanding of scripture. What does "biblical" really mean, and why does it matter in today's world? Mike and Tim explore the "world of the text," the cultural and historical contexts "behind the text," and the modern assumptions we bring "in front of the text." With humor, humility, and intellectual depth, they examine how varying social locations, traditions, and cultural frameworks shape our understanding of scripture, and how the Spirit of God works through it all.

    From discussing the challenges of "cruciformity" to navigating cultural issues like justice, faith, and the role of the church in society, this episode invites listeners to wrestle with the tension between timeless truths and modern interpretations. Drawing on examples like the parable of the prodigal son and the story of Ruth, they highlight the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and engaging diverse perspectives to faithfully live out the teachings of Jesus.

    How do we discern faithful readings of scripture in a world filled with self-defined "biblical" interpretations? Tune in to explore this nuanced conversation, and share your thoughts as we seek to grow together. We encourage you to join the discussion on Facebook and Instagram or send in your questions—your voice matters in this journey of faith and learning!

    #bible #contextisking #biblestudy #topversestakenoutofcontext #scriptureoutofcontext #bible #privateinterpretation #principlesofinterpretation #exegesis #literalinterpretation

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Context Setting
    03:03 Exploring Biblical Interpretations
    05:45 Understanding the Text: World of the Text
    09:04 Contextual Influences: World Behind the Text
    11:53 Cultural Dynamics and Historical Context
    15:11 Personal Perspectives: World in Front of the Text
    18:04 The Role of the Spirit in Interpretation
    21:04 The Journey of Understanding Scripture
    23:56 Conclusion and Reflection
    28:36 Cultural Perspectives on Hunger
    30:02 The Layers of Parables
    32:11 Human and Divine Texts
    33:19 Relating to Biblical Characters
    35:40 Understanding Minority Voices in Scripture
    36:43 The Spirit and the Text
    39:29 Authority and Interpretation
    42:12 The Nature of Authority in Scripture
    48:16 Disagreeing Theologically

    As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, 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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    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

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    51 m
  • The Bible as a Cross Cultural Experience
    Jun 2 2025

    Is the label "biblical" helping or hurting how we approach faith, church, and cultural challenges? In this thought-provoking episode of the Voxology Podcast, Mike and Tim explore the pitfalls of using "biblical" as a rigid brand, how it impacts theology, and its effects on navigating issues like justice, community, and interpretation of Scripture.

    They discuss the importance of reading the Bible in community, embracing humility, and fostering critical thinking to form faithful and wise communities. Drawing on listener feedback, they tackle how Scripture has been used both to liberate and to harm and ask what it means to embody a cruciform way of living.

    The conversation dives into the role of the church in society, the balance between individual and communal faith practices, and the dangers of reducing the Bible to oversimplified categories. With humor, deep insight, and a commitment to justice and Jesus’ teachings, this episode invites you to rethink how we engage with Scripture and one another.

    #bible #selfimprovement #foundationforintentionalcommunity #biblestudy #importanceofchristiancommunity #bible #solascriptura #livingbythebook #eisegesisvs.exegesis #biblestudy

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Week Recap
    02:51 Modeling for a Glamping Resort
    06:05 Podcast Updates and Listener Feedback
    09:07 Discussion on Bible Accessibility and Interpretation
    11:57 The Role of Community in Bible Reading
    18:09 Intent Behind Bible Study
    21:05 Unity and Diversity in the Bible
    26:00 The Purpose of the Bible in Community
    30:09 Critique of Biblical Branding
    34:02 Closing Thoughts on Wisdom and Learning
    35:25 The Limitations of Biblical Prepackaging
    38:51 The Harm of Misusing Biblical Concepts
    44:52 Understanding the Bible as a Cross-Cultural Experience
    51:59 The Three Elements of Biblical Interpretation
    59:52 The Importance of Context in Biblical Texts
    01:06:01 The Dark History of Biblical Misinterpretation
    01:09:55 Navigating Modern Misinformation and Biblical Understanding

    As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.

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

    Our Merch Store! ETSY

    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

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    1 h y 12 m
  • Why 'Biblical' Might Not Mean What You Think
    May 26 2025

    Is "biblical" always what it seems? In this thought-provoking episode, the hosts unpack why the word "biblical" might not mean what you think and explore its misuse across faith, politics, and cultural issues. From examining how "biblical" has become a branding tool to discussing its role in sociological stress tests and power dynamics, this conversation challenges us to rethink how we approach scripture and the teachings of Jesus.

    The discussion delves into the complexity of interpreting the Bible, emphasizing the need to consider the text itself, the cultural context behind the text, and our own assumptions in front of the text. With deep humility and intellectual curiosity, the hosts highlight how faithful readings of scripture require dialogue, critical thinking, and a willingness to hold tension between differing perspectives.

    How does the Bible shape the church's role in society? What does it mean to navigate cultural challenges with cruciformity and justice in mind? Join the conversation as these questions and more are explored with nuance and authenticity.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction
    02:58 Exploring the Concept of 'Biblical'
    05:55 The Sociological and Branding Aspects of 'Biblical'
    08:49 The Ambiguity of 'Biblical' in Conversations
    11:56 The Power Dynamics of 'Biblical' Language
    15:04 The Clear Teaching of the Bible: A Nuanced Approach
    17:55 Understanding Context: Behind and In Front of the Text
    31:33 The Complexity of Biblical Teachings
    36:28 Navigating Interpretations and Understanding
    40:04 The Role of Community in Biblical Interpretation
    49:07 The Nature of Communication and Misunderstanding
    56:18 Unity in Biblical Diversity

    As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.

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

    Our Merch Store! ETSY

    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

    Más Menos
    1 h y 6 m
  • Discernment: Cruciformity is Active, Not Passive
    May 19 2025

    Discernment: Cruciformity is Active, Not Passive. On this episode of the Voxology podcast, Mike Erre and Tim Stafford focus on discernment in faith, the essence of Christian identity, and the importance of critiquing ideologies rather than individuals. They emphasize the need for community engagement and humanizing conversations across divides, particularly in the context of immigration and societal issues. Further, Tim and Mike explore the complexities of homelessness, systemic issues, and the role of faith in addressing societal challenges. They discuss the importance of understanding the root causes of homelessness, the church's responsibility in promoting human flourishing, and the significance of inclusivity at Jesus' table. The dialogue also delves into the church's political involvement, the concept of cruciformity, and the challenges of navigating emotional overload while advocating for justice. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for a Christ-like approach to engagement in the world.

    "Lean In" with Matthew Soerens and Mike Erre: RSVP

    1. Unless it sounds/acts like Jesus, it’s not Christian
    2. Who is the real enemy?
    3. The Table is open to all, but prioritize who Jesus prioritizes
    4. First the Church Then the World
    5. Nothing is so urgent to get off your cross for

    Chapters

    00:00 - Celebrating a Decade of Voxology Podcast
    02:56 - The Power of Live Music Experiences
    05:57 - Revamping the Voxology Podcast
    09:02 - Exploring Discernment in Faith
    12:02 - Understanding Christian Identity
    14:57 - Identifying the Real Enemy
    18:06 - Critiquing Ideologies vs. Individuals
    21:01 - The Importance of Community Engagement
    23:58 - Humanizing Conversations Across Divides
    29:59 - Understanding Homelessness and Systemic Issues
    31:45 - Faithfulness and the Role of the Church
    35:43 - The Table of Jesus: Inclusion and Prioritization
    39:12 - Political Involvement and the Church's Role
    42:34 - Cruciformity: Staying on the Cross
    49:10 - Navigating Emotional Overload and Advocacy

    As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.

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

    Our Merch Store! ETSY

    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

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    59 m
  • The Corruption of Biblical Leadership (Cruciformity Series)
    May 12 2025
    What does leadership shaped by the cross really look like in today’s church—and how far have we drifted from it? Mike and Tim continue the Cruciformity Series with a raw, revealing, and intensely personal reflection on their own experiences with American evangelical leadership culture. From megachurch strategy to influence-based platforms, they unpack how conventional models of “biblical leadership” often mirror corporate America more than Christ. This episode challenges deeply ingrained assumptions about success, authority, platform, and power, and proposes a radically different path: cruciform leadership, rooted in humility, weakness, and the relentless pursuit of others’ flourishing. Mike shares his personal struggle of unlearning old paradigms and embracing a leadership ethos shaped by Jesus’ downward trajectory from divinity to servanthood. It's a must-listen for pastors, churchgoers, and anyone navigating the tension between faithfulness and influence. Key Takeaways: • What is Cruciform Leadership? – How the biblical model of leadership centers on self-giving love and the surrender of privilege. • The Seduction of Success Metrics – Why growth, platform, and “effectiveness” are poor substitutes for faithfulness and Christlikeness. • From CEO to Servant – Reframing pastoral roles through surrender, not strategy. • Personal Confession and Reflection – Mike shares how his perspective changed after decades in the evangelical megachurch system. • Leadership Beyond the Church – Exploring how cruciformity applies in workplaces, families, and personal relationships. Quotes to Remember: • "Cruciform leadership isn’t about getting things done—it’s about delivering God’s love and grace into people’s lives, daily." • “You can run a church, a marriage, or a business using old creation power. But the gospel calls you to something new.” Resources Mentioned: • Tim Gombis – The Drama of Ephesians • Dallas Willard – Quotes on humility & leadership • Caitlin Schess interview – On platform vs. message • Book of Philippians 2 – The downward trajectory of Jesus • Mark Gombis’s Commentary on Mark Whether you’ve been hurt by church leadership, led within it, or simply want to grow as a follower of Jesus, this episode invites you to a deeper and more transformative way of thinking about influence, success, and faith. Keep engaging with us by subscribing, leaving a review, or connecting on social media. We'd love to hear your stories as we pursue the way of Jesus together. — Have questions or thoughts about the episode? Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com. Join the ongoing conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Visit the Voxology Website for more content, merch, and resources. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support the podcast by becoming a patron at Patreon Follow us on Instagram @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @gonetimothy  As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY 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
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    1 h y 4 m
  • Prophetic Resistance: Challenging the Status Quo (Cruciformity Series)
    May 5 2025
    How the church responds when Jesus is co-opted by political power, and what it means to faithfully resist using cruciform love. In this latest installment of the Exile Series, Mike and Tim explore recent headlines where government leaders invoke Christianity as a means to assert national identity and justify coercive policies. Rather than offering partisan critique, they unpack the deeper spiritual crisis at work—when the name of Jesus is taken in vain to baptize authoritarianism and cultural dominance. Rooted in Walter Brueggemann’s prophetic framework of “reality, grief, and hope,” Mike and Tim lead a passionate discussion around resisting empire the way Jesus did—through embodied love, not religious spectacle. They revisit core biblical ideas of the church living as exiles and dive deeply into the last days of Jesus' life—highlighting not just the fact that Jesus died on the cross, but how he lived and loved on it. From forgiveness to hospitality to non-retaliation, Jesus models a radical way of confronting evil with redemptive good. Key Takeaways: • Resisting Political Appropriation of Christianity – How invoking Jesus to justify state power is a modern form of taking the Lord’s name in vain. • Walter Brueggemann’s Prophetic Framework – “Reality, grief, and hope” as a lens to navigate our cultural moment and resist false ideologies. • Cruciformity as Active Resistance – Jesus didn’t just die for us—he loved, forgave, and restored while dying. This nonviolent, redemptive love becomes the pattern for Christian resistance. • Reordering Our Spheres – Why the private, social, and public spheres must be aligned in love and integrity, and why public outrage alone isn’t the answer. • The Church as a Community of Justice – A call to form communities that shelter the vulnerable, confront injustice, and embody the Sermon on the Mount in both small and subversive ways. Guest Highlights: No external guests—but powerful contributions from voices like Walter Brueggemann, Tim Gombis, and public figures such as Rev. William Barber and Shane Claiborne are discussed in the context of prophetic Christian witness. Resources Mentioned: • Reality, Grief, and Hope by Walter Brueggemann • Ephesians (particularly chapters 2-4) – Link • Voxology’s Exile Series Archive – voxologypodcast.com • Book: Resident Aliens by Hauerwas & Willimon • Book: The Patient Ferment of the Early Church by Alan Kreider Feeling overwhelmed by the cultural co-opting of Christianity? You're not alone. Join us as we discern the way of Jesus, especially when it's unpopular. Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode, and leave us a review. Let’s keep walking this road of faith, justice, and hopeful resistance—together. Email us anytime with questions or feedback at hello@voxpodcast.com. We’re also on YouTube at VOXOLOGY TV Catch live chats and more on Instagram @voxologypodcast and Facebook. Like what we’re creating? Support the show on Patreon Grab some merch on our Etsy Store Listen to our curated soundtracks at Voxology Radio Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram / Twitter : @GoneTimothy Follow Mike on Twitter: @mikeerre  As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY 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
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    1 h y 2 m
  • A Teachable Spirit: The Virtue of Learning from Strangers, Enemies, and Absolutely Anyone - w/ A. J. Swoboda
    Apr 28 2025
    How reclaiming a teachable spirit can radically transform our faith, our churches, and our relationships with those we often see as “the other.” Mike and Tim welcome theologian, pastor, and author A.J. Swoboda to unpack his latest book, The Teachable Spirit: The Virtue of Learning from Strangers, Enemies, and Absolutely Anyone, as well as a powerful call for intellectual humility and curiosity within Christian community. Together, they explore why Christians should be the most curious people in the world—yet are often seen as some of the least teachable—and how engaging others (even those we vehemently disagree with) can be a deeply Christlike act of discipleship and hospitality. Key Takeaways: • The Cost of Curiosity – Why a teachable spirit is more important than ever in a polarized culture, and how refusing to learn keeps Christians stuck in cycles of fear and pride. • Learning from Enemies – How sitting at the feet of someone you disagree with can strengthen faith, not threaten it—and why it’s an essential posture for being salt and light in the world. • Intellectual Humility as a Spiritual Discipline – Understanding that learning doesn’t always mean agreeing, and that repentance and growth require letting go of certainty. • Babylon vs. Jerusalem – Applying Daniel’s exilic posture in a modern world where Christians often prioritize cultural dominance over Christlike witness. • Shame and the Fear of Not Knowing – A touching and honest reflection from A.J. on how vulnerability around what we don’t know (like his story about a screwdriver) can lead to deeper discipleship and spiritual maturity. Guest Highlights: A.J. Swoboda – Professor, pastor, and co-host of the Slow Theology podcast, A.J. brings humor, vulnerability, and a prophetic lens to what it means to be a learner in today’s world. His new book, The Teachable Spirit, challenges Christians to pursue curiosity as a virtue and to rediscover the joy of growing, even when it’s uncomfortable. Resources Mentioned: • A.J. Swoboda – The Teachable Spirit: The Virtue of Learning from Strangers, Enemies, and Absolutely Anyone • Slow Theology podcast (with Nijay Gupta) – Listen here • Rodney Stark – Writings on the sociology of early Christianity • Daniel 9 – Reflections on exile and living faithfully in Babylon • Upcoming Book Club – The Upside-Down Kingdom by Donald Kraybill (starts June 5) Let’s keep asking better questions and cultivating hearts that are open to correction, growth, and true wisdom. Subscribe, share, and leave us a review—your support helps us build a curious and Christ-rooted community. As always, we welcome thoughtful dialogue and questions as we journey together. Email us at hello@voxpodcast.com, and keep the conversation going on Facebook and Instagram. Watch on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Grab our gear at the VOXOLOGY Merch Store Learn more at voxologypodcast.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Support us on Patreon Follow @voxologypodcast on Instagram Follow Mike on X/Twitter: @mikeerre Music by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy  As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY 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
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    1 h y 5 m
  • Why Did Jesus Have to Die? Understanding the Wages of Sin and Sacrifice (Cruciformity Series)
    Apr 21 2025
    Unpacking the deep narrative threads that make Jesus’s death not just inevitable, but essential to our human story, Mike and Tim dive into the costs of sin, how death is a consequence—not simply a punishment—and what Jesus’s crucifixion really reveals about God’s nature. This Good Friday reflection brings clarity to questions we’ve inherited or sidestepped: Why did Jesus have to die? Why that way? And what’s the deeper biblical thread connecting Eden, the tabernacle, and the cross? Follow this continuing journey through the Cruciformity Series as we reframe our view of atonement theology through the lens of relational, embodied love rather than transactional debt. This episode traces the arc from Genesis to Jesus, highlighting scripture’s subversive beauty and its world-building wisdom that invites us to reimagine what it means to live—and die—in union with Christ. Key Takeaways: • Death as Consequence, Not Retribution – Sin introduces decay, loss, and exile from creation’s eternal purpose. Jesus, in true solidarity, embraces that outcome fully. • The Bible's Moral Logic of Life and Death – From Eden through the temple system and culminating in Jesus, we’re always being invited to choose life. • Crucifixion and the Unmasking of Empire – Jesus’s nonviolent death at the hands of imperial power exposes the futility of violence and reveals the upside-down power of God’s kingdom. • Sacrificial Systems and Human Imagination – Why animal sacrifice wasn’t divine bloodlust, but a contextual, symbolic reminder of the corruption and gravity of sin. • Jesus Enters the Realm of Death to Open Eden – The torn temple curtain and the resurrection signify access to the tree of life has been restored—no longer guarded, but freely given. Resources Mentioned: • Genesis 1–3 – The foundational story of life, choice, and consequence. • 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 – Paul’s “first importance” gospel creed, spotlighting Jesus’s death and resurrection. • Leviticus 17 – “Life is in the blood”—understanding why sacrifices pointed to something deeper. • Daniel 12 – A rare Old Testament glimpse of resurrection hope. • Philippians 2 (Kenosis Hymn) – Cruciformity and Jesus’s descent through obedience and suffering. • Rich Villodas (Twitter Reflection) – A poetic thread connecting Eden and the cross: Rich's post Dive further: • Catch up on past episodes in the Cruciformity Series for more foundational context. • Check out our past deep dives on Genesis and sacrificial systems in the “Being Human” series. Join the conversation and rediscover why Jesus’s death was not a cosmic transaction but the climactic expression of God’s love. Don’t forget to subscribe, write us a review, and share the Voxology Podcast with someone who’s asking deep questions about faith and identity. As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we pursue these big ideas together. Email your thoughts to hello@voxpodcast.com, and engage with us on Facebook and Instagram. Watch this episode and more on VOXOLOGY TV. Grab some faith-fueled merch from our ETSY store Discover more about the podcast at VoxologyPodcast.com Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology community on Patreon Explore the Voxology Spotify Music Channel: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast + Facebook: Voxology Podcast Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Social: @GoneTimothy  As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY 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
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    1 h y 3 m
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