NorthWoods Church Matters

Discussing why the local church matters and things that matter to the local church. Presented by NorthWoods Church in Evansville, Indiana.

Ep 276 | Serving Utah 07/28/2026

Ep 276 | Serving Utah /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/42241835

Ep 275 | Meet our New Discipleship Pastor 07/16/2026

Ep 275 | Meet our New Discipleship Pastor /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/42113165

Ep 274 | The Impact of a prayerful Invite to VBS 07/14/2026

Ep 274 | The Impact of a prayerful Invite to VBS /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/42088020

Ep 273 | Who can baptize? 06/29/2026

Ep 273 | Who can baptize? For several years, the elders of NorthWoods Church have wrestled with a question that many churches are now facing: Who should perform baptisms? Can a parent baptize their child? Should a close friend, mentor, or family member be allowed to baptize someone, or should baptisms remain the responsibility of pastors and elders? In this candid conversation, Pastor Bobby Pell sits down with elders Eric Gobin and Dan King to pull back the curtain on a three-year theological discussion that took place behind the scenes. Together they walk through the biblical arguments, the passages that shaped their thinking, and the process the elder team used to arrive at a decision. More importantly, this episode offers a rare glimpse into healthy church leadership. You’ll hear how faithful Christians can disagree on secondary issues, search the Scriptures together, and ultimately maintain unity around the gospel. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/41725380

Ep 272 | Following Up on the SBC Annual Meeting 06/17/2026

Ep 272 | Following Up on the SBC Annual Meeting In this special post-SBC episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters Podcast, Bobby Pell is joined by Bob Weeks, Rachel Bland, and Ryan Moore to unpack what actually happened at the 2026 SBC Annual Meeting in Orlando. They discuss some of the headlines and controversies surrounding the SBC, clarify misconceptions about women in ministry and convention actions, and share firsthand insights from the convention floor. Along the way, they highlight encouraging reports of gospel growth, church planting, international missions, and the work Southern Baptists are doing around the world. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/41681060

Ep 271 | Meet the Elders (Carey Bockting, Ivan Mcdonald, and James Sanders) 06/15/2026

Ep 271 | Meet the Elders (Carey Bockting, Ivan Mcdonald, and James Sanders) In this special episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters Podcast, Pastor Bobby Pell sits down with elders Carey Bockting, Ivan McDonald, and James Sanders for an honest conversation about faith, family, leadership, and the life of the church. From growing up in Southern Illinois, Newburgh, and Darmstadt to finding their way to NorthWoods, each elder shares the story God has written in his life and the path that led him to serve the congregation. Along the way, they discuss everything from cycling, gardening, and technology projects to the joys and challenges of family life. The conversation also explores what excites them most about the future of NorthWoods, including the church’s growing outreach to international communities and the Deaf community, as well as the many ways they see God at work among the people of the church. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/41548725

Ep 270 | The Upcoming SBC Annual Meeting 06/03/2026

Ep 270 | The Upcoming SBC Annual Meeting In this episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters Podcast, Bobby Bell, Bob Weeks, Ryan Moore, Matt Higgins, and Rachel Bland break down the upcoming Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting and explain why being part of the SBC matters for NorthWoods. They discuss the Cooperative Program, missions, church autonomy, the unique culture of the SBC, and what it’s like to attend the convention in person. The conversation also explores one of the convention’s most discussed issues: a proposed constitutional amendment regarding women serving in pastoral roles. The team shares a complementarian perspective, discusses areas of agreement and concern, and reflects on how churches can remain faithful to Scripture while encouraging every believer to use their God-given gifts for the Great Commission. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/41512950

Ep 269 | Darin Garton's Retirement 05/27/2026

Ep 269 | Darin Garton's Retirement After 45 years in ministry and nearly a decade serving at NorthWoods, Pastor Darin Garton announces his retirement from vocational ministry. In this episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters podcast, Pastor Bobby sits down with Darin to reflect on God’s faithfulness through decades of ministry, church planting, discipleship, leadership, and the recent NorthWoods building project. Darin shares why now feels like the right season to step away, what he and Stacy are looking forward to in retirement, and how the Lord has guided their family through this decision. Bobby also shares personal encouragement and gratitude for Darin’s friendship, wisdom, and faithful service to NorthWoods Church. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/41431980

Ep 268 | Theological Education (Plus...Seminary at Northwoods?) 05/14/2026

Ep 268 | Theological Education (Plus...Seminary at Northwoods?) In this episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters Podcast, Bobby Pell sits down with Matt Higgins and Rachel Bland to talk about Southern Baptist seminaries, online learning, ministry preparation, and why theological education isn’t just for pastors. Together, they unpack the differences between the six Southern Baptist seminaries, discuss their own educational journeys, and explore how seminary can strengthen everyday believers, not just vocational ministers. The conversation also introduces Northwoods’ new partnership with New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, giving students the opportunity to earn accredited master’s-level credits right here through NorthWoods. Whether you’re considering ministry, wanting to grow deeper in your faith, or simply curious about theological education, this episode offers practical insight, encouragement, and a vision for lifelong discipleship. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/41285810

Ep 267 | Answers about Roman Catholicism 05/07/2026

Ep 267 | Answers about Roman Catholicism In this episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters Podcast, Pastor Bobby Pell sits down with Pastor Darin Garton and Bob Weeks to continue the conversation on Roman Catholicism after a recent Gathering session sparked plenty of questions. The conversation explores questions surrounding the authority of the pope, the role of church tradition versus Scripture, the Apocrypha, praying to Mary, purgatory, indulgences, and whether a Catholic can truly be born again. Along the way, the gang shares personal experiences ministering to Catholics, discusses the emotional and cultural pull of Catholicism, and carefully distinguish between critiquing Catholic doctrine and condemning individual Catholics. Helpful resources: /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/41197020

Ep 266 | Meet the Team: Emily Pfister & Kennedy Roos 04/10/2026

Ep 266 | Meet the Team: Emily Pfister & Kennedy Roos In this episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters Podcast, Pastor Bobby Pell sits down with two new members of the NorthWoods team: Emily Pfister and Kennedy Roos. Get to know their stories, from growing up in the Evansville area to how each of them came to faith in Christ. Together, they talk about their new roles as Ministry Assistants, what excites them about serving at NorthWoods, and how they’re helping behind the scenes to support everything NorthWoods. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/40794260

Ep 265 | Our New Leaders, Bob Weeks and Larry Lovelace 04/02/2026

Ep 265 | Our New Leaders, Bob Weeks and Larry Lovelace In this episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters Podcast, Bobby Pell sits down with Bob Weeks and Larry Loveless to introduce their new roles at NorthWoods during a pivotal season in the life of the church. Bob shares his powerful testimony of conversion, his calling into ministry, and his heart for helping pastors and staff grow in effectiveness. Larry reflects on his business background, his journey to NorthWoods, and his desire to strengthen the church’s operational systems so ministry can flourish. Together, the conversation explores how healthy leadership, discipleship, and support structures can help NorthWoods continue making disciples who make disciples. This episode offers a meaningful look at where NorthWoods is, where it is headed, and how God is providing the right people for the next chapter. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/40706360

Ep. 264 | What to Expect During Easter at NorthWoods 03/27/2026

Ep. 264 | What to Expect During Easter at NorthWoods In this episode of NorthWoods Church Matters, Bobby sits down with Bob Weeks to discuss all things Easter 2026 in relation to NorthWoods Church. In this episode Bobby & Bob discuss: What Easter was like growing up What Easter means to followers of Jesus How we celebrate Easter at NorthWoods What things will be different this year How the people of NorthWoods can/should participate with Easter activities in 2026 Toolbox: by S.M. Lockridge Learn more about Easter at NorthWoods Church ____________________________________ Want to learn more about NorthWoods Church? Contact us at Follow us on Facebook at: Watch our Live Sermons on YouTube at: /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/40644185

Ep. 263 | The Gathering Spring 2026 03/11/2026

Ep. 263 | The Gathering Spring 2026 In this episode of NorthWoods Church Matters, Jim sits down with Pastor Darin Garton to discuss cults, world religions, and the Gathering. In this episode Jim & Darin discuss: What's up with the Groups and Grounds title? What are the differences between Cults and World Religions? How does NorthWoods differ from a Cult? What to expect during the Spring Season of The Gathering. and more. . . Toolbox: by Walter Martin by Answers in Genesis ____________________________________ Want to learn more about NorthWoods Church? Contact us at Follow us on Facebook at: Watch our Live Sermons on YouTube at: /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/40393755

Ep 262 | Meet the Graenings 02/24/2026

Ep 262 | Meet the Graenings In this episode of NorthWoods Church Matters, Bobby & Jim sit down with Michael and Brittani Graening to discuss Next Generation Ministry and why it matters. In this episode Jim & Bobby introduce the Graenings and discuss: How God uses all types of tools to draw people to Himself. Michael & Brittani's adventures in 20+ years of ministry How NorthWoods parents can model prayer in their homes The DNA of a good Student Ministry What's on their Spotify playlist and more. . . Toolbox: Check out The Ambassador's music You can watch Michael's video Greek is Heartless (Greek Alphabet) ____________________________________ Want to learn more about NorthWoods Church? Contact us at Follow us on Facebook at: Watch our Live Sermons on YouTube at: /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/40211975

Ep 261 | Worship Choices @NorthWoods 02/10/2026

Ep 261 | Worship Choices @NorthWoods In this episode of NorthWoods Church Matters, Lexi sits down with Pastor Bobby, Pastor Matt and our new Communications Director, Jim Miller to discuss how NorthWoods Church chooses worship music and why transparency matters. The four discuss how discernment and intentionality in song choices can: Prepare our hearts for God's word. Elevate our view of God. Advance the mission of NorthWoods Discover alternative resources for Worship Help us navigate when division is needed Pastor Matt's Toolbox of References: Mike Winger's 6 hour Expose on the Keith & Kristyn Getty - ____________________________________ Want to learn more about NorthWoods Church? Contact us at Follow us on Facebook at: Watch our Live Sermons on YouTube at: /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/40054965

Ep 260 | Understanding Exodus 21-24 01/15/2026

Ep 260 | Understanding Exodus 21-24 In this episode of NorthWoods Church Matters, we explore Exodus 21–24, a section of Scripture that’s often skipped but deeply important. Instead of preaching these chapters, Pastor Bobby Pell and Lexi walk through them in conversation, unpacking how God’s covenant laws shaped Israel’s life and what they reveal about God’s character today. These chapters address justice, responsibility, and human dignity, including difficult topics like servitude, restitution, and the limits of power. The discussion clarifies how God regulated broken systems, restrained vengeance through proportional justice, and consistently showed concern for the vulnerable. As the conversation moves to Exodus 24, Bobby and Lexi focus on the covenant itself, God formally binding Himself to His people and inviting them into a relationship marked by obedience and trust. This episode helps listeners slow down, understand a challenging passage, and see how these laws ultimately point forward to Christ and a Spirit-filled life of grace. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/39749355

Ep 259 | Sermon Follow-Up: Why Prayer Is Where the Real Battle Is Won 01/07/2026

Ep 259 | Sermon Follow-Up: Why Prayer Is Where the Real Battle Is Won This week on the NorthWoods Church Matters podcast, Lexi sits down with Pastor Bobby for an extended follow-up to Sunday’s sermon, exploring the deeper layers beneath Exodus 17–18 and what it means to live with prayerful dependence in 2026. Together, they unpack why the real battle isn’t won by effort alone, but by dependence on God, and why prayer is not an accessory to the Christian life, but the engine. Pastor Bobby explains the powerful image of Moses’ raised hands, the role of Aaron and Hur, and how community prayer sustains faith when we grow weary. They also dive into practical theology: what it truly means to pray “in Jesus’ name,” why evangelism flows best from compassion rather than obligation, and how prayer reshapes the way we see and love others. A key focus of the conversation is the Circles, a simple way to identify people God has already placed in our lives who need Jesus. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/39648990

Ep 258 | Getting to know Larry Riley 12/19/2025

Ep 258 | Getting to know Larry Riley In this episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters podcast, Lexi sits down with Larry Riley, who will be joining the NorthWoods staff in January as Ministry Director. Larry shares about growing up in the mountains of eastern Kentucky, coming to faith as a teenager, and discovering a lifelong calling to ministry. Along the way, he reflects on God’s faithfulness, the importance of relationships, and what it means to join God where He is already at work. You’ll also hear why NorthWoods stood out to him, what excites him most about the Ministry Director role, and how the church can pray for him as he steps into this new season. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/39460800

Ep 257 | Missions Update with Ryan Moore 12/18/2025

Ep 257 | Missions Update with Ryan Moore What does it really look like to live on mission, right where you are? In this episode of NorthWoods Church Matters, Lexi sits down with Ryan Moore, Missions Pastor at NorthWoods, to reflect on the Do Not Be Silent Missions Conference and unpack how God is calling ordinary believers to faithful, everyday obedience. Ryan shares personal stories from hosting missionaries from around the world, explains how evangelism fits into discipleship, and offers practical next steps for anyone who feels stirred to witnessing but unsure where to begin. From sharing the gospel with neighbors, to serving locally, to joining mission teams headed to Peru, Ecuador, Ireland, Puerto Rico, and beyond, this conversation paints a compelling picture of what it means to live “from Evansville to everywhere.” You’ll also hear exciting updates about: Local NorthWoods mission partnerships and volunteer opportunities Upcoming 2026 mission trips NorthWoods’ growing Deaf Ministry /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/39456400

Ep 256 | Getting to know Lexi Bruner (plus the future of the podcast) 12/04/2025

Ep 256 | Getting to know Lexi Bruner (plus the future of the podcast) In this special “Get to Know the Staff” episode, Pastor Bobby sits down with Lexi Bruner, the NorthWoods Communications Director and the new voice of the NorthWoods Church Matters podcast. Lexi shares about her small-town upbringing, her journey to USI, and how a shift from long-term care to marketing set her on a path she never expected. She describes growing up a “Christmas and Easter” churchgoer, how God woke her up from that, and the big part that NorthWoods has played in her testimony. Lexi and Bobby also look ahead to the future of the podcast: why it matters for discipleship in a growing church, how it creates space for conversations that Sunday mornings can’t hold, and what’s coming when the new building opens, including the launch of a full vodcast. Lexi even shares her dream guest list (and Bobby doesn't shoot any of them down!). /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/39273630

Ep 255 | Understanding the 2026 Budget 11/20/2025

Ep 255 | Understanding the 2026 Budget In this special episode, Lexi sits down with Pastor Bobby Pell and Elder Troy Lucht to walk through NorthWoods’ proposed 2026 annual budget. Together, they unpack why the church creates a budget each year, the major categories that shape our financial planning, and what’s changing as we look ahead to a new year of growth and ministry. Troy explains the core purposes behind the budgeting process: planning, mission alignment, stewardship, transparency, and accountability. Bobby adds insight about how the budget reflects the heart of our church’s mission. They discuss expected shifts for 2026, including the mortgage for the new building, adjustments in Cooperative Program giving, changes in staffing roles, and the financial impact of NorthWoods’ recent 15% growth. You will also hear why some line items are increasing, how ministry expansion affects spending, and how the elders evaluate stewardship through historical trends, mission focus, and real-time financial health. The team also outlines how members can review the budget, ask questions, and participate in the upcoming approval vote. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/39111305

Ep 254 | How Can I Know I’m Saved? 11/10/2025

Ep 254 | How Can I Know I’m Saved? Can a believer lose their salvation? What if I don’t feel saved? Why do I still struggle with sin? What are the real signs of a changed heart? Many Christians wrestle with the question: How can I be sure I’m really saved? In this episode of NorthWoods Church Matters podcast, the crew digs into the doctrine of assurance of salvation: what it means to be saved, how God initiates and completes our salvation, and why we can rest in His unchanging grace. Listen for a down-to-earth, theologically rich discussion on finding assurance in a world full of doubt. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/38969205

Ep 253 | The Christian and Profanity, Part 2 10/13/2025

Ep 253 | The Christian and Profanity, Part 2 On this episode of NorthWoods Church Matters, Pastor Matt and the gang continue their conversation on language and cursing. Are “Christian cuss words” really any better than the real thing? What does our speech reveal about the condition of our hearts? From “dag-nabbit” to cultural taboos, the crew talks about how words shift across generations, how Christians should respond when faced with other folks' foul language, and why holiness matters even in our humor. They also tackle how media, music, and technology shape our tongues—and what practical steps believers can take to guard their speech in a world that’s lost its filter. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/38549775

Ep 252 | The Christian and Profanity, Part 1 09/29/2025

Ep 252 | The Christian and Profanity, Part 1 On this episode of NorthWoods Church Matters podcast, Matt is joined by Ivan and Carey to tackle a subject the church often avoids—cussing and profanity. Together, they explore how culture’s shifting standards on language compare with God’s unchanging Word. The conversation highlights how generational views on profanity differ and why Gen Z Christians often have looser tongues, the influence of the internet and media on what society considers “acceptable speech,” and what the Bible says about the power of words, especially from James 3. They discuss why careless or corrupting talk reveals the heart, how Christians are called to use speech to build up rather than tear down, and practical wisdom for watching our words, guarding our hearts, and teaching children about godly speech. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/38378985

Ep 251 | Utah Mission Trip 09/22/2025

Ep 251 | Utah Mission Trip In this episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters podcast, missions pastor Ryan Moore is joined by church membes Eli and Kimberly to reflect on their recent mission trip to Salt Lake City, Utah. Together, they dive into why Utah is such a unique and spiritually urgent mission field, and what it’s like to share the gospel in a culture dominated by Mormonism. The conversation highlights key theological differences between evangelical Christianity and the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints—while offering practical insights into how to lovingly engage with LDS friends and neighbors. You’ll hear what a typical day on the mission trip looked like, from early breakfasts and canvassing neighborhoods with door hangers, to preparing for block parties, supporting two local churches, and even handing out water bottles during Utah’s Pioneer Day parade. As the team reflects on their time in Utah, they talk about moments when they felt especially used by God, the importance of approaching every conversation with both truth and love, and how the experience has changed the way they view evangelism at home. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/38298225

Ep 250 | Alcohol and the Christian, Part 2 09/08/2025

Ep 250 | Alcohol and the Christian, Part 2 In this second installment of the NorthWoods Church Matters podcast series on alcohol, Matt and the team dig deeper into what Scripture teaches about drinking. How should we understand Paul’s advice to Timothy to take “a little wine” for his stomach? Why does Paul contrast drunkenness with being filled with the Spirit in Ephesians 5? And what does Christian freedom look like in a culture where alcohol is both celebrated and misused? /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/38124580

Ep 249 | Alcohol and the Christian, Part 1 09/01/2025

Ep 249 | Alcohol and the Christian, Part 1 In this episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters podcast, Matt sits down with Carey and Ivan for a candid conversation about alcohol. From the church’s historical stance on drinking—spanning John Wesley, the Temperance Movement, and Prohibition—to the biblical passages that warn against drunkenness while also portraying wine as a good gift, the crew explores both sides of the debate. They discuss practical questions every Christian faces: Where is the line between moderation and excess? How do we know when alcohol has become an idol? What wisdom does Scripture offer for navigating gray areas? Whether you’ve wrestled with alcohol yourself or simply want to understand the church’s complicated history with it, this episode invites you to look beyond what is merely lawful and consider what is truly wise, helpful, and honoring to God. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/38023740

Ep 248 | Healing And Deliverance Ministry, Part 2 08/25/2025

Ep 248 | Healing And Deliverance Ministry, Part 2 Can demons cause physical ailments? What about deliverance ministries—are they biblical, or do they risk becoming spectacle? Bobby, Matt, and Rache explore these questions in part 2 of our conversation on healing. Along the way, they caution against turning suffering into a guessing game, highlight the hope believers have in Christ’s victory, and stress the importance of humility and community when walking through illness. Whether you’re wrestling with your own suffering or seeking to minister to others, this episode offers both truth and encouragement rooted in the gospel. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/37941820

Ep 247 | Healing and Deliverance Ministry, Part 1 08/18/2025

Ep 247 | Healing and Deliverance Ministry, Part 1 What does the Bible really say about the spiritual gift of healing? Is it still around today? And why do some ministries make handkerchiefs sound like magic wands? In this episode of NorthWoods Church Matters, Bobby, Matt, and Rachel dive into one of the least-discussed (and most misunderstood) spiritual gifts: healing. From 1 Corinthians 12 to James 5, from mud in the eyes to mailed-out prayer cloths, we sort through what’s biblical, what’s questionable, and what’s just plain strange. The conversation explores why “gifts of healing” is written in the plural, whether healing in Acts should be seen as descriptive or prescriptive, and how prayer, faith, and God’s sovereignty actually work together in healing. We also unpack why it can be dangerous to build a ministry around miracle-stories and how God uses both healing and suffering for His glory and for our growth in holiness. /episode/index/show/northwoodschurchmatters/id/37847395

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