

NCC Unplugged
Norwin Christian Church
Looking for real conversations and meaningful teaching? Welcome to NCC Unplugged—a podcast focused on Conversations, Community, and Culture. Along with weekly sermons from Norwin Christian Church, we share honest discussions about faith, life, and the world around us. Our hope is to help you unplug from the noise of everyday life and stay connected to what truly matters.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 12, 2024 • 31min
Intentional Parenting: Jerrad Lopes from Dad Tired talks The Impact of Faith on Family
Jerrad Lopes, author and podcaster of Dad Tired joins Matt and Jeff to share his personal journey of faith, marriage, and fatherhood. He discusses the challenges he faced, the impact of his ministry, and the importance of intentional parenting. The conversation also touches on mental health, the role of a disciple as a father, and the inspiration behind Jerrad's book.----more----
Dad Tired Community: https://www.dadtired.com/
Dad Tired Podcast: https://www.dadtired.com/podcast
Books from Jerrad Lopes: https://www.dadtired.com/books
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Takeaways
The importance of finding identity in faith and how it impacts all other aspects of life.
The significance of intentional parenting and the impact it has on children's understanding of faith and life.
The role of mental health in parenting and the importance of addressing it within the family dynamic.
The inspiration behind Jerrad's book and the message it conveys about the role of a father and the heroism of Jesus.
The value of community and the impact of sharing personal struggles and experiences with others.----more----
#dadtired #fatherhood #discipleship #christianparenting #intentionalparenting #15secondmoments #kingdomfocused #mentalhealth #singledads #grief #remarriage #homeschooling #disciplemaking #purposefulparenting #dadlife #husbandlife #authenticfaith #biblicalwisdom #christianpodcast #christianmen #nccunplugged #podcast

Jun 5, 2024 • 32min
Christian Unity: A conversation with Patsy Sassano from First Christian Church of New Salem
Today's episode features an important conversation about Christian unity, the importance of connections and relationships with other Christians within and beyond the walls of one church. Allison, Jonathan and Patsy discuss the significance of making connections, the challenges of disunity, and practical ways to foster unity. They also share personal insights and experiences related to building connections and maintaining unity within the Christian community.----more----Key Topics:
The importance of Christian unity
Building connections within and beyond the church
Practical ways to get involved and connect with others
Overcoming challenges to maintain unity
Personal stories and experiences in ministry
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#NCCUnplugged #NormanChristianChurch #ChristianUnity #CommunityAndCulture #FaithConnections #YouthMinistry #ChildrensMinistry #ChristianPodcast #BuildingBridges #ChurchFamily #FaithJourney #CampChristian #GrowCurriculum #UnityInChrist

May 29, 2024 • 31min
Jeff's Personal Struggle and Confession to you
The conversation explores the theme of authenticity and the struggle with seeking approval from others. It delves into the impact of being controlled by the opinions of others and the importance of finding freedom in God's love and acceptance. The discussion emphasizes the need for confession, staying connected to God's Word, and the power of positive encouragement in relationships.----more----
Takeaways
The struggle with seeking approval from others can lead to a fake self and a constant need for validation.
Finding freedom in God's love and acceptance allows for a more authentic and genuine self.
Confession, staying connected to God's Word, and positive encouragement are essential for breaking free from the control of others' opinions.
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May 22, 2024 • 17min
Faith Moore: From Youth Group to Ministry Calling
Faith Moore, the summer intern for Norwin Christian Church, shares her faith journey and her passion for ministry. She talks about the influence of her youth pastor, Garrett Crawford, and how he played a big part in her decision to go into ministry. Faith discusses her college studies in educational ministries and her desire to work in children's or youth ministry in Nashville. She also shares the impact of her parents' active involvement in her faith and their encouragement to make it her own. Faith's favorite Bible verse is Psalm 27:4, and she values acts of kindness and showing love to others.----more----
Takeaways
The influence of a youth pastor can have a significant impact on a young person's decision to go into ministry.
Parents who actively engage in their children's faith and encourage them to make it their own can have a lasting impact.
Educational ministries encompass a range of discipleship-focused ministries, including children, youth, college, and small groups.
Faith's favorite Bible verse is Psalm 27:4, which speaks to her desire to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord.
Acts of kindness and showing love to others can have a profound impact on individuals.
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Faith Moore
01:39 Faith's Background and Journey to NCC
03:08 Faith's Calling to Ministry
04:07 Educational Ministries and Passion for Children's Ministry
08:00 Dreaming of Nashville: Faith's Future Plans
08:52 The Impact of Parents and Making Faith Personal
09:50 Faith's Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 27:4
12:02 The Power of Acts of Kindness and Love
15:28 Closing Remarks and Invitation

May 15, 2024 • 47min
Divine Algorithms: Is A.I. the Future of Faith or a Threat to the Church?
In this episode of NCC Unplugged, the hosts discuss the topic of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications from a theological perspective. They explore the role of AI in relation to the concept of the imago dei (image of God) and how technology affects our understanding of human identity. The conversation delves into the different types of AI and the potential dangers and benefits they present. The hosts also discuss the transhumanism movement and its goal of improving humanity through technological means. They emphasize the importance of maintaining a biblical worldview and being mindful of the impact of AI on our relationships and our purpose as image bearers of God.
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Takeaways
AI raises important theological questions about the imago dei and human identity
There are different types of AI with varying levels of concern
Transhumanism seeks to improve humanity through technology, but it can lead to a focus on self-glory rather than God's glory
Using AI in a way that enhances or clarifies existing work can be acceptable, but using it to replace relational aspects diminishes the imago dei
Maintaining a biblical worldview and being mindful of the impact of AI on relationships and purpose is crucial
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:11 The Emergence of AI and the Need for Discussion
03:07 Different Types of AI and Concerns
08:19 Transhumanism: Improving Humanity or Exalting Self?
14:06 Using AI to Enhance vs. Replace Relational Aspects
32:53 The Christian Ontology and Teleology
39:18 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

May 8, 2024 • 43min
From Sports Dreams to Ministry Calling: Garrett's Journey and NCC's Search for a Worship Leader
In this episode of NCC Unplugged, Garrett Crawford, the Minister of Small Groups and Outreach at Norwin Christian Church, shares his journey and how he came to join the church. He talks about his upbringing in West Virginia, his early call to ministry, and his experiences in college and internships. Garrett also discusses the challenges and joys of his role at Norwin Christian Church, including the growth of small groups and the focus on outreach. The episode concludes with a discussion about the search for a new Worship Minister and the importance of finding the right fit for the church.----more----
Takeaways
Garrett Crawford shares his journey and how he came to join Norwin Christian Church
The role of small groups and outreach in the church's growth and community
The challenges and joys of ministry and the importance of finding the right fit
The search for a new Worship Minister and the opportunities it brings----more----
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Interview with Garrett Crawford
13:05 Garrett's Journey and Call to Ministry
26:20 The Role of Small Groups and Outreach
29:12 The Search for a New Worship Minister

May 1, 2024 • 33min
Interpreting Israel: Perspectives on Scripture and Current Events
In this episode of NCC Unplugged, Jeff & Joshua discus with Garrett the ongoing war in Israel and its spiritual implications. They explore different Christian theological perspectives on Israel, such as dispensationalism and covenant theology, that shape how people view current events in relation to biblical prophecy and God's plans.
Garrett explains concepts like the rapture, the millennium, and the relationship between the church and Israel. They consider how much significance to assign to world events, warn against reactionary hysteria, and advocate for thoughtful scriptural analysis. While avoiding overt political stances, they express care and concern for those suffering in war-torn regions.
Listen in as they unpack complex theological ideas and apply compassionate wisdom to understanding modern-day Middle East conflicts.

Apr 24, 2024 • 30min
NCC Round Table: Jonathan gets a dog. Does Garrett's dog really wear a diaper? Joshua answers if all dogs go to heaven.
Welcome back to NCC Unplugged, where the staff of Norwin Christian Church gather around for another roundtable filled with laughs, pet stories, and spiritual insights.
In this episode, the spotlight is on the furry friends of the staff members. Jonathan's adoption of Gabby the anxious shepherd mix and if they'll get anymore pets. Garrett shares the humorous saga of his diaper-clad dog, much to the amusement of everyone.
As the discussion meanders from pets to sermon planning, Joshua finds himself navigating the tricky question: Do all dogs go to heaven? With a mixture of humor and contemplation, the team delves into the theological depths of the afterlife for furry companions.
Tune in for a lively episode filled with laughter, pet anecdotes, and unexpected spiritual musings. After all, where else can you find such a delightful blend of fluffy tails and spiritual trails?

Apr 17, 2024 • 38min
Part 2: Coffee Creamer to California A Conversation with Liv Orischak
Divine Appointments and Changed Lives
In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of faith and the remarkable encounters that occur when individuals step out in obedience to their calling. From overcoming anxiety to finding hope in despair, these stories highlight the profound impact of God's love and the unexpected ways He works in our lives.
1. **Overcoming Anxiety Through Faith:**
- A team member faced his fears of public speaking and social anxiety by accepting the challenge to open air preach, leading to an unexpected breakthrough.
- Despite facing opposition and ridicule, his act of courage led to an outpouring of support and the dismantling of his fear of man.
2. **Embracing Divine Appointments:**
- The Circuit Riders team shares their experiences of partnering with communities and individuals across college campuses, offering support and connecting them with local ministries.
- Through QR codes and personal connections, they strive to ensure that no one is left without support or guidance.
3. **A Mother's Unwavering Faith:**
- A janitorial worker shares her journey of relocating to Colorado in search of her missing son, driven by faith and determination.
- Despite facing challenges and heartbreak, her unwavering belief in God's guidance sustains her through the darkest moments.
4. **Divine Encounters and Prayer:**
- Amidst the routine of daily life, moments of divine intervention occur, prompting individuals to step out in faith and offer prayers of hope and support.
- Through these encounters, lives are transformed, and the power of prayer is affirmed as a catalyst for change and healing.
Join us as we explore these compelling narratives and reflect on the profound significance of divine appointments and the resilience of faith in the face of adversity.

Apr 10, 2024 • 40min
Part 1: Coffee Creamer to California A Conversation with Liv Orischak
Olivia Orischak shares her experience with Circuit Riders, a discipleship training school based out of YWAM. She talks about her journey from being involved in various ministries at Norwin Christian Church to deciding to join Circuit Riders. Liv discusses the training she received during the lecture phase, particularly during Holy Spirit week, where she gained a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit's role in her life. She also shares stories from her time on tour, where she and her team would visit college campuses, evangelize, and hold events to share the message of Jesus. Olivia emphasizes the importance of being normal and having genuine conversations with people, planting seeds of faith along the way.
Keywords
Circuit Riders, discipleship training, YWAM, Norwin Christian Church, ministries, Holy Spirit, tour, college campuses, evangelism, genuine conversations, planting seeds of faith
Takeaways
Getting involved in various ministries at church can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth in faith.
Understanding the role of the Holy Spirit is crucial for an intimate relationship with Jesus.
Sharing the message of Jesus can be done through normal, genuine conversations with people.
Even small encounters and conversations can have a powerful impact on someone's faith journey.
Being open to divine appointments and trusting in God's guidance can lead to life-changing experiences.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Splitting the Interview
08:13 Getting Involved in Church Ministries and Building Faith
27:17 The Power of the Holy Spirit in Olivia's Faith
37:48 Divine Appointments and Trusting God's Guidance


