Church Unplugged

Should We Believe What an Enneagram Test Says About Us? Jun 10, 2024

In today's episode of Church Unplugged, we'll discuss personality tests, including the popular Enneagram Test, that through a series of questions analyze and predict the patterns of our personalities. As Christians, how should we engage these materials? Tune in to today's episode to learn more!

*Please note: Church Unplugged will be taking a temporary break over the summer of 2024 as we consider how to refresh and update our podcast!*

How do we navigate being a citizen of our country? May 27, 2024

Tune into today's episode of Church Unplugged as we discuss how to navigate being a citizen of this country while maintaining our citizenship in the Kingdom of God. As Christians, we are experiencing a "dual" citizenship to our country and to God, but it is not equal. Our identity ultimately lies in our relationship with Jesus and should be the core of our beliefs as we walk through this election season.

How should Christians view work-life balance? May 13, 2024

On today's episode of Church Unplugged we discuss the phenomenon of work-life balance, what it means to leave work in the office, and how we can glorify God no matter our place of employment. Tune in to hear our perspective on work-life balance in the world of Christianity.

What is the Process of Sanctification? Apr 29, 2024

In today’s episode of Church Unplugged, we discuss sanctification. Although it can often sound like an intimidating theological process, sanctification is simply growing into the person God created us to be. Tune in to learn more about what that process might look like and the steps necessary to achieve sanctification.

How should Christians interact with AI? Apr 15, 2024

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we discussed the possible unintended consequences of AI and how Christians should interact with artificial intelligence as it continues to develop. Tune in to hear why the fast-paced world of technology might be eliminating the boundaries people truly need.

How does God speak to us? Apr 01, 2024

How do we actually hear the voice of God, and how do we know it's really his voice? In today's episode of Church Unplugged, we discuss how to not only be intentional in listening to God's voice but to trust the wisdom and discernment he has given you through your faith.

Men's Summit Recap Mar 18, 2024

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we have a chance to sit down and talk about what God has been doing in our church since the recent Men's Summit event. The event introduced men to the possibility of leadership not only in their careers but in their faith and, as a result, within their families.

Should Christians integrate into the current culture? Feb 05, 2024

How do we, as Christians, navigate the current culture? On this episode of Church Unplugged, we'll dive into this intimidating question and ask ourselves how much we should engage in the current culture and what it means to be a Christian in today's society.

A Christian Look at Antisemitism Jan 22, 2024

In the recent months following the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks that took place in Israel, there's been a rise in our culture's conversation on antisemitism. This episode of Church Unplugged will dive into how we, as Christians, should respond to the global issue of antisemitism.

How does our understanding of God impact our everyday life? Jan 08, 2024

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we'll delve into the significance of our understanding of God's relationship with us. Often, there is a disconnect between our professed beliefs about God and our practical beliefs. Join us as we discuss how to bridge this gap and what it means for all of us.

Why shouldn't Christians live together before marriage? Dec 11, 2023

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we're answering the question of why Christian couples should not live together before marriage. Join us for an honest discussion of what it means to follow Jesus in every area of our lives, including our romantic relationships.

When should the church speak publicly on political and cultural events? Nov 27, 2023

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we are discussing how CCC approaches making public responses to various political and cultural events. How do we process through what we should respond publicly to, and what manner of response is most appropriate? We're answering that question and more on today's episode.

2023 Election Response Nov 13, 2023

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we are discussing the recent passage of Issues 1 and 2 in the state of Ohio. In some ways, Christians in Ohio awake to a new moral landscape with the cementing of abortion rights and the legalization of marijuana use in our state. Join us as we discuss how Christians should process these events and what comes next as we seek to follow Jesus wholeheartedly in our ever-changing culture.

Ohio Issue 1 Oct 30, 2023

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we are discussing Ohio Issue 1. This issue will have wide-ranging implications regarding the availability and protections for abortion in Ohio. Join us as we discuss the content of the issue and the intersection of morality, theology, and politics.

CCC Sermons: How Are They Prepared? Oct 16, 2023

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we discuss how sermons are prepared here at CCC. If you've ever wondered how we think about the whole year and decide which topics from the Bible, this episode is for you.

Generosity vs. Stewardship: Which is correct? Oct 02, 2023

When considering your giving, sometimes it can be challenging as a Christian to balance generosity and stewardship. Should you give all your money away out of generosity or save it? Let's talk about it in this episode of Church Unplugged.

Why Does Community Matter? Sep 18, 2023

You may have heard the word "community" used often in church settings. What is community, and why does it matter? We're answering these questions on this episode of Church Unplugged.

What Role Does Gratitude Play in Our Lives? Sep 04, 2023

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we're discussing gratitude. What role does it play in our lives as Christians, and how do we practice it?

Why Don't Men Go to Church? Aug 21, 2023

Research in the American church shows that men’s attendance in church is lower than women’s. Women tend to attend church more frequently and are also more involved. Why is this? Let’s talk about it in this episode of Church Unplugged.

Pastor Zach Weihrauch's Story Aug 07, 2023

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we get to hear Pastor Zach Weihrauch's story. Tune in to hear how he came to faith in Jesus and ended up in ministry.

Parent Podcast Crossover: Discussing Pornography with Your Kids Jul 24, 2023

On this episode of Church Unplugged, we're doing a crossover episode from our parenting podcast, Parenting for the Everyday! In this episode, Pastors Joe and Zach discuss the dangers of pornography and how parents should think and talk about it with their kids.

Your relationship with God: What does it look like practically? Jul 10, 2023

Relationships require communication, time together, and hearing from both parties. So, what does having a relationship with God look like practically? We’re talking about this on today’s episode of Church Unplugged.

What Makes Christianity Compelling? Jun 26, 2023

Plenty of other religions and worldviews are out there, so with the largest number of followers, what makes Christianity so compelling? We're answering that question on today's episode of Church Unplugged.

How should Christians respond to gun violence? Jun 12, 2023

As you look around, you may be disheartened by the increasing occurrence of gun violence and loss of life. As Christians, how should we respond to gun violence? Tune into this episode of Church Unplugged to hear from our Leadership Team.

Our Sin Nature May 15, 2023

You may have heard that humans have a sin nature. What exactly does that mean? Tune into this episode of Church Unplugged to find out!

Christians and Gambling May 01, 2023

Have you ever wondered how should Christians think about gambling? In this episode of Church Unplgglued, our Leadership Team is answering that question.

Made in the Image of God: What Does It Mean? Apr 17, 2023

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we're answering the question, what does it mean to be created in the image of God? What does this mean for our everyday lives? Tune in and let's discuss.

Legalism and Our Relationship With Jesus Apr 03, 2023

What is legalism, and how can we pursue genuine growth in our relationship without becoming legalistic? We're answering these questions on this episode of Church Unplugged.

A letter to the American Church: What would it say? Mar 20, 2023

We see letters written to various churches in the Bible. In this episode of Church Unplugged, we're answering the question, what would a letter written to the modern-day American church have to say? Take a listen!

What makes a healthy church member? Mar 06, 2023

In this episode of "Church Unplugged," we’re unpacking what makes a healthy church member. Take a listen!

Christians and Physical Fitness Feb 20, 2023

Today's Church Unplugged episode answers the question, does the Bible have anything to say about physical fitness? Tune in, and let's talk about it!

How to Read Revelation Feb 06, 2023

One of the most common questions our Leadership Team gets is about the book of Revelation. If you’re wondering how Christians should think about Revelation, this “Church Unplugged” podcast episode is for you!

Being the Family of Ministry Leaders, What's It Like? Jan 23, 2023

On this episode of Church Unplugged, we’re discussing what it's like to be the family of a ministry leader. What are the perks and challenges? Tune in!

Caring for Aging Parents Jan 09, 2023

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we're welcoming Pastor Joe Coffey's wife, Karen, as we discuss caring for aging parents.

What Does the Bible Say About Gender? Dec 12, 2022

Gender identity is a popular topic in our culture. As Christians, how do we navigate this subject? On this episode of Church Unplugged, we're answering the question, what does the bible say about gender and gender identity?

How to Process Relational Brokenness Nov 28, 2022

We spend a lot of time around people, and inevitably, we may end up getting hurt or hurting others. In this episode of Church Unplugged, we discuss how we work through relational brokenness as Christians.

Prioritizing Jesus in Your Family Nov 14, 2022

Our society is becoming increasingly busy with so many opportunities that jam-pack our everyday schedules. On this episode of Church Unplugged, we're diving into what it looks like to prioritize and schedule your family with Jesus at the center.

How Should Christians Think About Halloween? Oct 31, 2022

On this episode of Church Unplugged, we’re answering the question, how should Christians think about Halloween? We discuss what the Bible has to say on the topic.

Why Is CCC Apolitical? Oct 17, 2022

Have you ever wondered why Christ Community Chapel is apolitical? Though this is not the case for all churches, CCC does not align itself with any particular political party or movement. Tune into this episode of Church Unplugged to find out why.

What Does the Bible Say About Money? Oct 03, 2022

On this episode of Church Unplugged, we discuss biblical principles and perspectives about money. If you've ever wondered how you should think about money as a Christian, this episode is for you.

How Do Spiritual Gifts Work? Sep 19, 2022

On this episode of Church Unplugged, we're discussing spiritual gifts. If you've ever wondered why some spiritual gifts are practiced and others are not, or how spiritual gifts work, this episode is for you!

Meet Steve, Orchard NEO Director Jul 25, 2022

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we sit down with the Director of Orchard NEO: Steve Hyatt. Orchard NEO is our church-planting ministry. Tune in as we get to know Steve, learn how God has moved in his life, and hear about his new role at CCC.

Meet John, New Church Planter Jul 11, 2022

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we sit down with another new resident church planter: John Twymon. Tune in as we get to know John, learn how God has moved in his life, and hear about his new role at CCC.

Meet Lentrail, New Church-Planter Jun 27, 2022

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we sit down with our new resident church planter: Lentrail Abston. Tune in as we get to know this Cleveland native, learn how God has moved in his life, and hear about his new role at CCC.

Modern-Day Idolatry Jun 13, 2022

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we’re discussing what modern-day idolatry looks like. How should we as Christians look at the idols that may exist in our lives?

Roe v. Wade: How Should Christians Respond? May 31, 2022

In recent news, there has been conversation around the leak of the Supreme Court’s draft opinion of Roe v. Wade. In this episode of Church Unplugged, we discuss how Christians should approach abortion.

Why We Sing Apr 18, 2022

Have you ever wondered why we sing in church? In this episode of Church Unplugged, we're answering that question and discussing the importance of raising our voices together in praise of God.

Raising Christian Children Apr 04, 2022

As a Christian parent, one of the most important joys is when your child comes to know and love Jesus. In this episode of Church Unplugged, we're discussing raising Christian kids.

How to Respond to the War in Ukraine Mar 21, 2022

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we address the current war in Ukraine. While this is a sensitive and complex subject, it's important that we as Christians know how to respond.

Good Reasons to Leave a Church Mar 07, 2022

The American Church as a whole has been experiencing members leaving the church in record numbers. In this episode of Church Unplugged, we're discussing what are good reasons to leave a church, and how to exit gracefully.

Marriage Preparation Feb 21, 2022

How do you know when you’re ready for marriage? We have all heard the phrase, “When you know, you know!” but flippancy aside, there are many serious considerations before entering the sacred union of man and wife. In this episode of Church Unplugged, we're discussing how to know you're ready for the covenant of marriage.

Ministry Calling Feb 07, 2022

Have you ever asked the question, "Am I called to ministry?"? In this episode of Church Unplugged, we're diving into how to know if God has called you to ministry as a career.

Respecting Civic Authority Jan 24, 2022

In this episode of Church Unplugged, we talk about how Christians ought to respond to the government and civic authorities in a way that is honoring to God.

Healthy Leadership Nov 22, 2021

There is a lot of talk in our culture about toxic leadership both inside and outside the church. Rather than talking about toxicity, in today's episode of Church Unplugged, the CCC Leadership Team takes a look at what healthy leadership should look like and how we as Christians can know that our leaders are healthy. Listen in to hear more!

How To Read the Bible With Jesus at the Center Nov 08, 2021

Have you ever had a hard time envisioning the Bible as one cohesive story? In today’s episode, the CCC Leadership Team shows us why it’s important that Jesus is at the center of the Bible and how this changes the way we read and respond to the biblical text in our day-to-day lives. As we see Jesus at the center of each story, we will find ways to practically keep him at the center of ours too. Listen in for more!

Church Membership Oct 25, 2021

What is church membership, and why does it matter? Tune in to hear CCC Leadership define church membership, consider where we find it in the Bible, and discuss how it contributes to a healthy church.

Pastor Joe's Sabbatical Oct 11, 2021

In case you missed it, our lead pastor, Joe Coffey, took a sabbatical for the past three months. This time off was a gift from CCC elders to allow Joe and his wife time to relax, restore, and prepare for their continued ministry! Tune into this episode of Church Unplugged as Pastor Joe shares how he felt about going on a sabbatical, what he did, and what God taught him.

The Fruit of the Spirit Sep 13, 2021

Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Christians may recognize these as the fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians. But, how do we cultivate and grow this fruit in our lives? How do we spot it in others and seek to nurture it in ourselves?

In this episode, CCC Staff shows us that the fruit of the Spirit is never cultivated by our mere willpower. Instead, as we walk with the Spirit and stay connected to the True Vine (John 15), we find that fruit grows when we live in alliance with Christ.

Biblical Sexuality Aug 30, 2021

Have you ever struggled with the biblical sexual ethic?

Christianity and culture can often clash on the topic of sexuality. So what does the Bible truly teach about sex? How does Jesus’ love for us and the gospel relate to this topic? At the heart of this discussion is an important question we must ask ourselves: Can we trust God in this area of our lives?

In today’s podcast episode, CCC staff unpacks what the Bible has to say about sex in the context of marriage and what that means for how we live our lives.

Family Worship Aug 16, 2021

As Christians, we know it's important to integrate our faith into our family life, but how can we make that happen? Perhaps more importantly, how can we make that happen in a way that feels enjoyable and authentic rather than something that your kids dread? These are all questions that the CCC Leadership team tackles in the newest episode of Church Unplugged. Tune in for practical tips and encouragement on how to be a family shaped by the gospel!

Living Out Your Faith in a Post-Christian World (feat. Scott Sauls) Aug 02, 2021

Tune in as CCC's Leadership Team speaks with author and pastor Scott Sauls about how we can live as Christians who bring light to our post-Christian culture. Whether you're a student, stay-at-home parent, or working full time outside of the home, you don't want to miss this episode! Scott will be speaking at Considering Jesus on Aug. 11. Learn more about this free event at ccchapel.com/considering. Everyone is invited!

Reading the Old Testament Jul 19, 2021

As CCC spends 10 weeks studying the Old Testament, we know that people may have many questions about this part of the Bible. Especially in 2021, when the stories may feel hard to grasp, we wanted to discuss common objections people may have about the Old Testament and point you to the truth. Tune in as CCC staff discusses the believability objection, moral objection, and relevance objection to the Old Testament.

Conspiracy Theories Jul 05, 2021

Conspiracy theories, the belief that a covert but influential organization or person is responsible for a circumstance or event, have always existed. But you may have noticed a rise of these theories in the past year as they've become more influential and mainstream. So, as Christians, how do we respond? Tune into this episode of Church Unplugged as CCC Leadership considers the temptation of conspiracy theories, their danger, and how to be in a relationship with people who believe them.

40 Years of CCC Jun 21, 2021

Tune in as we celebrate our church's 40th anniversary with CCC Leadership and Founding Pastor Jim Colledge. In this episode, Jim shares the story of how God called him to start Christ Community Chapel, then known as Hudson Community Chapel. If you love listening to stories and want to be reminded of God's faithfulness, don't miss this episode!

Deconstructing Your Faith Jun 07, 2021

In this episode, Pastor Zach references the Apostles' Creed, the Nicene Creed, and the Parable of the Prodigal Son. Learn more about each below!

The Apostles' Creed
The Nicene Creed
The Parable of the Prodigal Son

Fallen Leaders May 24, 2021

How should we respond when we see Christian leaders mess up publicly? Sometimes it can be tough to balance accountability with grace, understanding that no one is perfect. Tune in as CCC Leadership discusses this nuanced topic, sharing how Christians can have a healthy view of leaders who feel more like Christian celebrities at times.

Who is the church for? May 10, 2021

Does the church exist primarily for Christians to grow or as a means for missions? The answer is both! When we view the church as belonging to Jesus, we see that he desires Christians to flourish and for non-Christians to be brought close. Tune in as CCC Leadership thinks through the motivation behind this question, what the Bible says, how CCC has handled this topic.

Cancel Culture Apr 26, 2021

What is cancel culture, and how can we practice a healthier model of accountability as Christians? One that not only corrects but supports and restores? Tune into this episode of Church Unplugged as CCC Leadership unpacks cancel culture from a biblical perspective!

Why do we set numeric goals? Apr 12, 2021

With the Reimagine vision, we have three numeric goals. We dream of seeing 10,000 people within 10 miles of CCC come to know Jesus, 60 churches planted, and to give $30 million to global missions. So, why set such high numbers? Or, why set numbers at all? Tune into this episode of Church Unplugged as CCC Leadership discusses the benefit of measuring what we are doing as well as how they set each goal.

Counseling Mar 29, 2021

Historically, counseling has carried a negative stigma, especially within Christianity. But given the past year's events, we have all become more aware of the need to care for our mental and emotional health. Tune in as CCC Leadership reflects on the benefits of counseling and shares what they have learned in their own experiences with counseling. If you'd like to learn more about what the Care team at CCC offers, email them today at care@ccchapel.com.

Critical Race Theory Mar 15, 2021

To put it simply, Critical Race Theory looks at society in terms of how it is structurally biased against other races, specifically the black community. You might have noticed that lately, there is a lot of debate about CRT among Christians. It's clear that this is an important topic for us to talk about with an honest, loving, gospel-lense. Tune in to the latest episode of Church Unplugged as CCC Leadership discusses what CRT gets right and what CRT gets wrong.

Purity Culture Mar 01, 2021

If you grew up in church in the '90s or 2000s, you might be familiar with the idea of purity culture––a specific way of teaching about sex, dating, and marriage. Though parents and leaders had good intentions, the teachings of purity culture left many with a skewed, shame-based understanding of sexuality and relationships. Tune into this episode of Church Unplugged as the CCC Leadership Team unpacks the idea of purity culture, gives thoughts on where it went wrong, and shares some better ways of teaching about sexuality.

Black Contributions to Theology Feb 15, 2021

Historically, men and women of all different ethnicities have mobilized the gospel and contributed to Christianity. Yet, history does not always highlight the significant role Black Christians have had in our faith. So if God is writing the story of Christianity using people of all races, why does it seem like only white Christians have shaped our theology? Tune into this episode of Church Unplugged as CCC staff digs into this issue and considers why it is crucial to discuss.

What is Lament? Feb 01, 2021

How should Christians respond to difficult things? Loving and trusting God does not mean we are always happy. Rather than expressing an inauthentic faith, God allowed us to lament. Lament says, "I'm sad. I'm struggling. And God is still good." Tune in to this week's Church Unplugged as CCC Leadership digs deeper into the idea of lament and how believers can express their sorrow in a healthy way.

Christian Nationalism Jan 18, 2021

What is Christian nationalism? How can we balance a healthy love for our country while remembering we belong to the Kingdom of God first? It's easy to think there are only two options: blind patriotism or complete apathy toward our country. But for Christians, there has to be another way. Tune in as CCC Leadership tackles this complex topic, pointing us toward the way of Jesus.

What Is Discipleship? Jan 04, 2021

If you have spent time in a church, you have probably heard the word “discipleship” a time or two. Tune in as CCC staff discuss why discipleship means more than attending Bible studies.

COVID-19 & Suffering Dec 21, 2020

It's been about nine months since our lives changed due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, and many have faced immense suffering. Whether it's from losing a loved one or the loneliness of social isolation – all pain is valid. Tune in as our Leadership Team shares their thoughts on the current state of things and offer some encouragement on what is to come.

Why Is Evangelism Difficult? Dec 07, 2020

If we're being honest, sharing our faith does not come easy to most of us. What is it that makes it so difficult? Tune in to this episode of Church Unplugged as our leadership team discusses some of the issues that make evangelism difficult and how to overcome them.

The Reimagine Story Nov 23, 2020

As we gear up to officially launch CCC's new vision, Reimagine, our Leadership Team talks about how the idea came to be. Tune in as they discuss what lead to this change, how others contributed, what they're most excited about and more!

CCC Staffing Nov 09, 2020

How does CCC approach staffing? With a large team, we know there might be some questions about how we operate. Tune in to this episode of Church Unplugged to learn how we hire, fire, evaluate, and care for our staff.

Election Reaction Nov 04, 2020

Spoiler Alert: This podcast was recorded before Election Day. Why? Because we believe that regardless of who wins or loses, we are not hopeless. We know that whoever is elected will bring both good and bad things. Our hope is in God, who is still in charge and is advancing his unshakeable kingdom. Join us as CCC staff shares some thoughts and encouragement for people at all points on the political spectrum.

Forgiveness Oct 26, 2020

As followers of Jesus, we're called to forgive as Jesus forgave us. But in all reality, that is easier said than done. Forgiveness will always cost something–either we will hold onto what hurt us, or we will extend to others the same grace we have received. Tune in for an encouraging and honest podcast about forgiveness. CCC staff shares about the why behind forgiveness and how it practically works in relationships.

How To Confront Sinful Behavior Oct 12, 2020

How do we respond to sin like Jesus? When we look at the life of Jesus, we see him responding to sinners with both love and truth. Tune into this episode of Church Unplugged as CCC pastors discuss the heart behind confrontation and share some practical examples.

Racism and Christianity, Part 2 Sep 28, 2020

Tune in as Pastor Joe continues his conversation with Pastor Calvin Brown and Louis Holmes on how Christians should respond to racism. In this episode, they discuss the relationship between communities and the police force, and the importance of both preaching the gospel and being actively involved in caring for the vulnerable.

Christian Disagreement Sep 14, 2020

Our culture feels divisive lately. What if the problem isn't that everyone disagrees, but that not many people know how to disagree well? If you're tired of disagreements that end in people trying to shout their opinion louder than someone else, this week's episode of Church Unplugged is for you. Tune in as CCC pastors discuss the importance of disagreement, the value of listening, and how you can see people as more than just their opinions.

Racism and Christianity, Part 1 Aug 31, 2020

In July, Pastor Joe Coffey of CCC and Pastor Calvin Brown of Destiny Church in Twinsburg, Ohio co-hosted a forum on racial issues in modern society and how Christians should respond to those issues. It was such a fruitful discussion that we didn't get to all the questions we hoped to cover. We invited Pastor Calvin and Louis Holmes, a CCC member who participated in the forum, to rejoin Pastor Joe on Church Unplugged to continue the discussion. This is part one of a two-part series on Christianity and racial justice in America.

Did God Create Sin? Aug 17, 2020

In the book of Genesis, the Bible tells us that sin entered the world soon after humans did, corrupting God's perfect creation. If God is omnipotent, knowing everything, then he knew sin would enter the world, and it did not take him by surprise. And if God is all-powerful, he could have prevented this from happening, but he allowed sin to occur. The question we are left with is, "Why?" In this episode, Pastor Joe and Pastor Zach give us their perspective based on what they know about God and the evidence we have about his plan for creation.

Is It Possible for a Christian to Lose His or Her Salvation? Aug 03, 2020

When we are saved by believing in the divinity of Jesus and confessing that he is Lord, we understand that we will spend an eternity in heaven with him. But can we mess up and lose that salvation once we’ve attained it? How much of our salvation is ultimately in God’s hands, and how much do we control? And how do we know if we are saved in the first place? Listen to this week’s episode as Pastor Joe and Pastor Zach unpack what it means to be adopted into God’s family, how wandering in your faith affects that, and what it all means for eternal salvation.

What does it mean to have a relationship with God? Jul 20, 2020

Understanding what it means to have a relationship with God is best understood when we consider what it means to have a relationship with anyone. Spending time and conversation with those we love is a joy. In the same way, spending time with God is less about checking a box and more about genuine connection. In this week's episode of Church Unplugged, the leadership team shares about what is gained when we move from checking a box to making a real connection with God.

Christians, the Gospel, and Social Media Jul 06, 2020

Jesus said, "Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks." If he lived on earth now, perhaps he might have said, "Out of the overflow of the heart, the person tweets." Regardless of the platform, what we say is invariably connected to our hearts. In the same way that our spoken words can be used to bring healing or division, love or hate, so can our social media posts. So, how can Christians use social media to bring healing and love? Listen in to today's episode as our leadership team tackles the topic, "Christians, the gospel, and social media."

What is Hell? Jun 22, 2020

Our first inclination can be to think that if God were truly loving, he would not send people to hell, let alone have created it in the first place. But, in order to be a God of love, he must also be a God of justice. What if hell is actually a manifestation of God's love for people, reflected in his perfect justice? In this episode of Church Unplugged, our leadership team discusses what hell really is and why Jesus taught about it more than anyone else in the Bible.

Do Denominational Differences Matter? Jun 08, 2020

Did you know it wasn’t until the Protestant Reformation when the public could freely access the Bible that various denominations and sects began within Christianity? The benefits of getting God’s Word into people’s hands were endless, but consequently it led to the formation of many interpretations and opinions of what the Bible was really saying. In this episode of Church Unplugged, our leadership team discusses what really matters when it comes to denominational differences, and how at the end of the day, even if we disagree on certain issues, what matters most is loving Jesus and realizing there can be great beauty in the variety of ways churches worship him.

White Christians & Racism Jun 04, 2020

As we grieve the recent killings of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd, we know that some of our white brothers and sisters might not know how to think or talk about racism. We believe that as Christians, God calls us to be a voice to the voiceless and carry each other’s burdens. So how can we, as white Christians, be there for the black community? Tune in for an honest conversation between Richard White and Paul Turner on how they’ve been processing recent events, what it’s like to be black in America, and how their white friends can care for them in this time.

What will Heaven be like? May 18, 2020

Have you thought about how you’ll be spending your time in eternity? Do images of sitting on clouds, playing harps, and wearing white robes cross your mind? In this episode of Church Unplugged, our leadership team chats about common misconceptions and focuses on the reality that heaven will be much less about being in some distant picture-perfect place and more about being present with God enjoying his original and wonderful design for our world. The Bible may not give us all the details of our eternal home, but tune in to learn about how Heaven’s plans include a perfectly redeemed and restored version of you.

Why is Sex Outside of Marriage Wrong? May 04, 2020

God didn’t give you a whole bunch of rules in the Bible to keep you away from anything good. Rather, every command God declares stems from his infinite love and great design for you – including his command for you to not have sex outside of marriage. But sometimes rules can be hard to understand or accept when the they seem to be keeping you from something so seemingly great like pleasure or fun, right? In this episode of Church Unplugged, our pastors are digging into this topic to help us reflect on how our willingness to obey God is actually based on how much we trust him and value others.

The 10 Commandments Deep Dive – Part 2 Apr 20, 2020

There’s only so much our pastors can cover during 30 minutes in a weekend message, so we’ve created this special 2-part episode to give Pastor Joe, Pastor Zach, and Pastor Todd more time to dive deeper into each of the 10 Commandments you learned about in our recent message series. Tune in to hear them expound upon each commandment and address some of the questions they received during the message series.

The 10 Commandments Deep Dive – Part 1 Apr 06, 2020

There’s only so much our pastors can cover during 30 minutes in a weekend message, so we’ve created this special 2-part episode to give Pastor Joe, Pastor Zach, and Pastor Todd more time to dive deeper into each of the 10 Commandments you’ve been learning about in our current message series. Tune in to hear them expound upon each commandment and address some of the questions they received during the message series.

How Should Christians Handle the Coronavirus Crisis? Mar 30, 2020

COVID-19. It’s overturning life as we know it. But even if the world seems to be spiraling out of control, as Christians, we must remember that God did not give us a spirit of fear. It’s in times like these that we should focus our hearts and minds on following Jesus well and loving our neighbors in powerful ways. Tune into this episode of Church Unplugged to hear our leadership discuss how this coronavirus crisis actually presents an opportunity for us as Christians to be used by God to minister to people who are searching for hope, security, and love in the midst of this unprecedented situation.

Why Do Christians Need Church? Mar 16, 2020

In Christianity, it’s common to hear that our faith is all about a personal relationship with Jesus. But if that’s all we believe to be true, then why does the Bible make such a big deal about church, too? God’s word contains entire books written to churches, commandments for how to gather as a church, serve each other in the church, and grow the church. Clearly, God loves his church and wants you to love it, too. Tune into this episode of Church Unplugged where we discuss how your faith shouldn’t just start and end with Jesus – it’s actually much more than that. By following him, you are immediately made part of his family, the church, who he calls you to go to, be with, and love.

Bible-Based Masculinity Mar 02, 2020

How does the Bible define what it means to be a man? In a world that has a million opposing opinions on how men should behave, it’s important to have a clear understanding of how God determines what it truly means to be a man. Tune into this episode of Church Unplugged to learn how Jesus is our perfect example of masculinity through the ways he demonstrated strength, sensitivity, compassion, and vulnerability. It’s only through a relationship with the one who lived a perfect life can a man learn how to properly use everything from his strength to his softness to serve others and love God.

Christian Dating Feb 17, 2020

Have you ever considered that God designed dating as a way to sanctify you? This notion is quite at odds with our cultural ideas of dating that are self-centered and focused on finding someone who makes you happy. Instead, take a look at what the Bible says about romantic relationships and you'll discover the primary purpose of being with someone is to help them follow Jesus. Are you ready and equipped for that task? Tune into this episode of Church Unplugged to hear our leadership team discuss how you can think about Christian dating, even though this topic isn't technically found anywhere in scripture.

Women + Christianity Feb 03, 2020

Women in ministry, gender roles, and purity culture. We know these hot topic issues are ones that cause tension and have not always been handled well by the church. The reality is that a lot of confusion is caused by a misunderstanding of what the Bible actually says, and in the end, a misunderstanding of God’s true character. Tune in to hear CCC staff share what God’s Word actually says about women, the vital role they play in the church, and how you can have well rounded conversations over tough topics like modesty.

Christian Celebrities Jan 21, 2020

What do Kanye West and Tim Keller have in common? They are both celebrities that have publicly proclaimed faith in Jesus Christ. Does seeing their names in the same sentence make you uncomfortable? Then tune into this week’s episode of Church Unplugged as CCC staff discuss how to think about and respond to Christians in the spotlight.

What is tithing? Jan 06, 2020

What do you think about when the offering plate passes you during a weekend service? Do you feel compelled to give? Or maybe you feel like the church has enough, and there's no need for you to give? In the New Testament, Jesus makes it clear that Christians are called to live a life marked by generosity. Join CCC pastors as they talk about what that looks like.

Should Christians care about the environment? Dec 16, 2019

You’ve heard conversations about environmentalism in the news, politics, and most likely your Facebook feed— but how are Christians called to think about it? In a political climate where both sides of the argument seem too extreme, where should the church stand? Join us for Church Unplugged as CCC pastors think through this topic in light of Scripture and the Gospel.

Is pornography harmless? Dec 02, 2019

Pornography is not just an “out there” problem— it is an issue that plagues the men and women of the church. And in a day and age where the porn industry takes in more money than all major sports leagues combined, we have to talk about it. Join us as we discuss the difference between lust and love, the danger of consumerism, and the importance of aligning every aspect of our sexuality with God’s character.

How does capitalism align with the values of Christianity? Nov 18, 2019

Living in America, capitalism is our reality and there’s not much we can do about it. As Christians, we have to figure out which parts of it line up with the gospel and which points do not. Tune in as we talk about the good and bad of capitalism alongside what it means to love both God and our neighbors, even when it does not make economic sense.

What does the Bible say about mental health? Nov 04, 2019

We know that because of sin, brokenness can manifest itself in every aspect of our spiritual and physical health. But why does it seem hard for Christians to address the very real struggles of mental health, too? Listen in to this week’s Church Unplugged episode as our pastors discuss how the church should respond to those battling mental health struggles, why some people should seek medical help, and what Scripture has to say about our brokenness.

Listener Questions Oct 21, 2019

This week's podcast is a little different than the rest! Tune in as we discuss listener questions on topics such as tattoos and the existence of aliens. As always, these questions aren't as simple to answer as we may want, but listen as our pastors discuss how to appropriately apply the Gospel and Scripture to issues we face today.

Do we choose God or does he choose us? Oct 07, 2019

Obviously we both play a part, but who initiates the process by which we are saved? It has to start somewhere! The theological terms often used for this conversation are "predestination" and "election." Join our CCC pastors as they breakdown this debate in terms of free will, human nature, God's grace, and Scripture.

Is the death penalty a good or bad thing? Sep 16, 2019

The death penalty has long been debated in the West, with some asserting it's clear sense of justice and others questioning how it could line up with a pro-life stance. So what is the appropriate way to think about just punishment while still remembering that criminals are made in the image of God and therefore have undeniable value? Listen in as our pastors discuss as we consider how race, socio-economic class, and the Gospel can inform our thinking.

Can I be a gay Christian? Sep 02, 2019

Everybody's sexuality is broken, whether straight, bisexual, gay, or any other orientation. So the next question becomes, as disciples of Christ how do we allow Scripture to shape our sexuality? Join CCC pastors as they discuss identity, truth, and how the church should respond to both.

Why do we pray? Aug 19, 2019

Or in other words, why should we talk to God? In a culture that is constantly encouraging us to hustle until we get what we want, prayer allows us to slow down and get to know God. Join us for this episode of Church Unplugged as our pastors discuss how prayer changes us, how to react when God seems silent, and more.

Do Miracles Still Happen? Aug 05, 2019

Every new life in Christ is a miracle. The Browns winning a championship would also be a miracle. So how do we define a miracle? And how do we make sense of the miraculous acts seen in Scripture that aren't seen as much today? Tune in to find out!

How should Christians think about Marijuana? Jul 15, 2019

Short answer? It's a more complicated, nuanced topic than we want it to be. But before you jump to any conclusions, listen in on the conversation as we discuss medical vs. recreational marijuana use, being sober-minded, gateway drugs, and even how this topic has been understood and experienced differently in the African American community. Join us!

Can I be a Christian and a Trump supporter at the same time? Jul 01, 2019

Join us on this weeks installment of Church Unplugged as CCC pastors discuss what it means to support politicians without defending them and how we can remember our identity in Christ before we identify with a political party.

How do I figure out God's will for my life? Jun 17, 2019

Whether it is deciding who to date or finding a new job, how are we supposed to know God's plan for us? How important are our seemingly big decisions in the grand scheme of things? Check out this episode of Church Unplugged as pastors discuss how God's grace and our freedom interact as we face all of life's choices.

What should I watch? Jun 03, 2019

Game of Thrones, The Bachelor, HGTV. Pick your poison! Whatever you choose to watch, is it realistic to think our entertainment has no effect on us? Do the shows we watch glorify sin or show the consequences? Tune in the Church Unplugged as we talk about how our love for God influences what we watch.

Is there evidence to believe that Jesus rose from the dead? May 20, 2019

Almost all historians, whether Christian, Atheist, or Jewish, can agree that Jesus of Nazareth was crucified. Yet it's what happened after that is often debated. Did Jesus rise from the dead and walk out of the tomb or not? Tune into this installment of Church Unplugged as CCC pastors share how we can have confidence that Jesus defeated death, and why that is so important to our faith.

What’s so special about the Bible? May 13, 2019

What's so special about the Bible? Or better yet, how do we know that the Bible we have today hasn't been changed or edited over time? Can it still be trustworthy and culturally applicable in 2019? Well... those are a lot of great questions that a short podcast description will fail to answer. Instead, listen to CCC pastors discuss how we can honestly answer these questions and then continue to faithfully follow God's Word.

Do I really need Jesus? May 06, 2019

In the Bible, Jesus was very clear about who he is, yet we often have a hard time believing it. We often resort to the idea that Jesus was just a good, moral example for how we should all live, but can anyone really live up to his standard? Or are we missing the point? Check out this episode of Church Unplugged as CCC staff discussed who Jesus really is and why we need him.

Why does Christianity exclude other religions? Apr 29, 2019

Why does Christianity exclude other religions? In a society that views tolerance as agreeing and affirming every belief someone holds, how do we make sense of the exclusive claims of Jesus? Listen in on our first episode of the That's A Great Question series, as we talk about the need for Christianity to be exclusive and what it truly means to love others.

What does it mean to be an Evangelical? Apr 15, 2019

What do you think of when you hear the term "evangelical"? Historically, Christians have used this label to identify themselves as people who believe that the Bible is true and that we are saved by faith through Jesus Christ. But today it seems that the term has lost its original meaning and tends to carry political or racial assumptions. So should we continue to label ourselves as evangelical if it can be more divisive than unifying? Tune in as CCC pastor discuss a relevant, yet complex subject.

What does the Bible say about cohabitation? Apr 01, 2019

Should Christians live together before they’re married? Is there really any place at all for testing the waters at that level of a relationship before saying "I Do" forever? Lastly, and most importantly, what does the Bible say about cohabitation and if it says we shouldn’t live together before our wedding day, what’s so bad about it anyway? Before digging into what God’s Word says, we discuss why so many live together before tying the knot and just how prevalent cohabitation is for people today.

Should Christians cuss? Mar 18, 2019

Go lick a duck. Son of a motherless goat. Mothertrucker. Mothersmucker. Judas Priest. If you grew up in the church, you've probably tried to replace a cuss word with a creative alternative. But is cussing really such a big deal? Who decides what are "bad words," and which words are okay? It might not be as simple as we want it to be. Join CCC pastors as they discuss the purpose of language and how we can make Jesus famous with our words.

How should Christians respond to the refugee crisis? Mar 04, 2019

A 2018 survey found that 68% of white, evangelical Christians believe the U.S. has no responsibility to take in refugees. In contrast, Jesus calls us to invite the stranger in (Matthew 25:40-45) and to help the oppressed (Isaiah 1:17). But how do we reconcile a desire to protect our country with the teachings of Jesus? Tune in to Church Unplugged as we discuss what it means to follow Jesus before a political party and how we can practice faith informed politics.

What are the pros and cons of live streaming? Feb 18, 2019

Picture this: It's Sunday morning, you just brewed a fresh pot of coffee, fed your goldfish Tammy, and read the newspaper. You look at the clock and see it's time for church, so you plop on your Lazy Boy and log on to CCC's website to live stream a service. It's a great message, but is this the way church was meant to be experienced? What is the value in regularly engaging in the local church? Join the Church Unplugged crew as we discuss how live streaming can be helpful for some people yet dangerous for others.

Why do we need the Old Testament? Feb 04, 2019

Have you ever wondered why we need the Old Testament? If we have so much information on the life of Jesus in the New Testament, why do we also need a book full of seemingly bizarre laws such as not wearing clothing with mixed fabric? Join CCC pastors as they discuss the relevance of the Old Testament, and how Scripture points to Jesus.

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