Crosswinds Unleashed

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Pastor Craig Cooper and Pastor Elijah Merrill continue in chapter 6 of Keith Drury's book, Common Ground: What All Christians Believe and Why It Matters. Through reading Keith's book, we unpack the Apostles Creed and explore the shared beliefs that have united Christians across traditions for generations, and why those core truths are foundational for everyday faith. Whether you’re new to faith or you've been a believer for many years, let's discover the common ground we stand on together!Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Pastor Craig Cooper and Pastor Elijah Merrill take an honest look at the story of David and Bathsheba, exploring the dangers of unchecked sin, the importance of repentance, and the incredible depth of God's mercy. No matter where you've been or what you've done, remember that while sin has consequences, God's grace is greater for those who turn to Him.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this special episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Pastor Craig Cooper and Pastor Elijah Merrill Celebrate America's 250th birthday and explore what it means to be grateful for the freedoms we've been given while remembering that our ultimate hope and citizenship are found in Christ. Join us for a conversation about faith, freedom, and how we as believers can faithfully live out the Gospel in the place God has called us.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Pastor Craig Cooper and Pastor Elijah Merrill explore why consistency matters, how God often works through ordinary faithfulness, and the quiet impact of being present day after day. Whether in your walk with Christ, your relationships, your ministry, or your everyday life, showing up may be the most underrated skill of all.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Pastor Craig Cooper and Pastor Elijah Merrill continue in chapter 5 of Keith Drury's book, Common Ground: What All Christians Believe and Why It Matters. Through reading Keith's book, we unpack the Apostles Creed and explore the shared beliefs that have united Christians across traditions for generations, and why those core truths are foundational for everyday faith. Whether you’re new to faith or you've been a believer for many years, let's discover the common ground we stand on together!Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Pastor Craig Cooper and Pastor Elijah Merrill explore the lion inside of us as believers. God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline. Join us as we discover how faith awakens boldness, helps us overcome insecurity, and empowers us to live confidently in the calling God has placed on our lives.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Pastor Craig Cooper and Pastor Elijah Merrill explore the powerful truth found in Psalm 127:1: “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” Whether it's our families, ministries, careers, or personal dreams, lasting impact is only found when God is the foundation. Let's discuss what it means to surrender our plans to Him, trust His timing, and allow Him to build something greater than we could ever accomplish on our own.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Pastor Craig Cooper and Pastor Elijah Merrill explore a powerful lesson through the example of Chinese bamboo. A plant that spends years developing unseen roots before suddenly growing at an incredible rate. Through this illustration, we'll discuss faith, spiritual growth, perseverance, and trusting God's work beneath the surface, even when we can't yet see the results.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Pastor Craig Cooper and Pastor Elijah Merrill explore Theodore Roosevelt’s famous “Man in the Arena” speech and how its message connects to our walk with God. As followers of Christ, we are called to live boldly, serve faithfully, and keep moving forward even when criticism comes our way. Together, we discuss how to handle critics with grace, remain grounded in our identity in Christ, and stay focused on the One who called us into the arena.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Pastor Craig Cooper and Pastor Elijah Merrill continue in chapter 4 of Keith Drury's book, Common Ground: What All Christians Believe and Why It Matters. Through reading Keith's book, we unpack the Apostles Creed and explore the shared beliefs that have united Christians across traditions for generations, and why those core truths are foundational for everyday faith. Whether you’re new to faith or you've been a believer for many years, let's discover the common ground we stand on together! This week, Craig and Elijah are joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor, Wendy Emerson, the Missions & Outreach Pastor at Crosswinds!Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we explore the staggering reality that your life is not an accident. It’s the result of countless moments, choices, and divine intention woven together by God. From the breath in your lungs to the purpose placed within your soul, your existence carries more value than you may realize. We’ll unpack what Scripture says about our worth, and reflect on the truth that our value was settled at the cross. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we take an honest look at the lives of Paul, Peter, and even Jesus, exploring how faithfulness to God often led them not to comfort, but to chains. What does it mean when the people we’re called to imitate walked through suffering, rejection, and imprisonment? Together, we wrestle with what it means to follow Christ in a world that often resists Him, and why suffering has always been woven into the story of the gospel. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we ask, "Why church?" We discuss how the church is not just a building or a weekly obligation, but a living, breathing community designed by God. We’ll talk about why gathering together shapes our faith, how it challenges and encourages us, and what we miss when we try to follow Jesus alone. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Craig Cooper and Elijah Merrill continue in chapter 3 of Keith Drury's book, Common Ground: What All Christians Believe and Why It Matters. Through reading Keith's book, we unpack the Apostles Creed and explore the shared beliefs that have united Christians across traditions for generations, and why those core truths are foundational for everyday faith. Whether you’re new to faith or you've been a believer for many years, let's discover the common ground we stand on together! This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we take an honest look at the quiet struggle of laziness and how it can slowly dull our spiritual lives. What does Scripture really say about diligence, discipline, and purpose? Let's discuss how we move from knowing what’s right to actually living it out. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we walk through Passion Week, tracing the road from celebration to sacrifice, from Palm Sunday to the cross. Together, we reflect on the tension, the heartbreak, and the overwhelming love displayed in Jesus’ final days. Whether you’re familiar with the story or seeing it with fresh eyes, this conversation invites you to slow down, examine your own faith, and rediscover the depth of what Christ has done for you. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Craig Cooper and Elijah Merrill continue in chapter 2 of Keith Drury's book, Common Ground: What All Christians Believe and Why It Matters. Through reading Keith's book, we unpack the Apostles Creed and explore the shared beliefs that have united Christians across traditions for generations, and why those core truths are foundational for everyday faith. Whether you’re new to faith or you've been a believer for many years, let's discover the common ground we stand on together! This week, Pastor Craig and Pastor Elijah are joined by fellow Ministry Leader, Sheldon Boyce, the Technical Arts Director at Crosswinds Church, and Executive Producer of the podcast!Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we talk about the weight of a long winter, both in the world around us and in our spiritual lives. Seasons of waiting, dryness, and discouragement can make it feel like renewal will never come. But God is always at work beneath the surface, even when growth isn’t yet visible. Join us as we reflect on how faith sustains us through long seasons and how hope reminds us that spring always comes in God’s timing. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we explore what it truly means to rest in the Lord by trusting in His timing, releasing our burdens into His hands, and finding peace in His presence. Through Scripture and practical encouragement, we talk about how stepping away from the world's noise allows us to realign our hearts with God and remember that He is the one who sustains us. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we talk honestly about the weight of grief and the hope that can still be found in the midst of it. Through a Christian perspective, we explore how God meets us in our sorrow, why lament is an important part of faith, and how the presence of Christ brings comfort even in the darkest seasons. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Craig Cooper and Elijah Merrill jump into chapter 1 of Keith Drury's book, Common Ground: What All Christians Believe and Why It Matters. Through reading Keith's book, we unpack the Apostles Creed and explore the shared beliefs that have united Christians across traditions for generations, and why those core truths are foundational for everyday faith. Whether you’re new to faith or you've been a believer for many years, let's discover the common ground we stand on together! This week, Pastor Craig and Pastor Elijah are joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastors, Betty Ryan and Dave Wright!Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we explore what it means to keep walking faithfully when growth feels slow, seasons feel long, and the finish line seems far away. Together, we’ll reflect on how God’s grace sustains us, as we take one obedient step in His direction at a time. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this special Valentine’s Day episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we discuss how, in a world where messages go unanswered and relationships can feel uncertain, there's only one love that never disappears. Rediscover the steady, pursuing, and faithful love of God that sees you fully, stays with you faithfully, and holds you securely no matter what. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we talk about what it really means to live from our identity as who God says we are, rather than from the way the world defines us. When our identity is rooted in being loved, chosen, and redeemed, obedience becomes a response to grace and not a desperate attempt to earn it. Join us as we unpack how understanding our identity in Christ brings freedom, confidence, and a whole new way to walk through everyday life. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we kick off a new series by diving into Keith Drury's book Common Ground: What All Christians Believe and Why It Matters. This book walks through the Apostles’ Creed, unpacking the core beliefs of the Christian faith that all believers share, in a way that is both accessible and deeply meaningful. Whether you’ve read the book before or are joining us for the first time, this series will challenge, encourage, and refocus us on what truly brings us together in Christ. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we explore what Scripture teaches about the value of every human life and how that truth shapes the way followers of Jesus live, speak, and act. Through honest conversation and biblical reflection, we wrestle with difficult realities, cultural tensions, and the call to respond with both conviction and compassion. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we conclude our follow-up conversation with Pastor John Baker, Lead Pastor of LifeSpring Community Church in Valley City, Ohio. After first sitting down with us in 2024 to share his journey through cancer, Pastor John joins us again in 2026 to reflect on what the Lord has been teaching him since then. With honesty and humility, Pastor John gives us an update on his life, his ongoing journey, and how he’s seen God’s faithfulness at work in both the ups and downs. This week, along with Pastor John Baker, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we have the privilege of sitting down once again with Pastor John Baker, Lead Pastor of LifeSpring Community Church in Valley City, Ohio. After first sitting down with us in 2024 to share his journey through cancer, Pastor John joins us again in 2026 to reflect on what the Lord has been teaching him since then. With honesty and humility, Pastor John gives us an update on his life, his ongoing journey, and how he’s seen God’s faithfulness at work in both the ups and downs. This episode is a powerful reminder that even in seasons of uncertainty, the Lord is present, active, and deeply personal in His care for us. This week, along with Pastor John Baker, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In our first episode of Crosswinds Unleashed in 2026, we’re taking an honest look at fresh starts through a Christian lens. What does real change look like when it’s rooted not in willpower alone, but in God’s grace? We’ll talk about spiritual renewal, letting go of what no longer gives life, and stepping into who God is shaping you to be in this new year. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we dive into the Christmas Story! Christmas is a story we think we know, but sometimes the familiar needs to be heard again, slowly and honestly. In this episode, we revisit the birth of Jesus. We talk about the people, the interruptions, the quiet faith, and the surprising hope woven into that first Christmas night. It’s not just a story about what happened back then, but a story about what God is still doing in us now. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we take a look at how Jesus stepping into our world through the incarnation brings peace we cannot find anywhere else. From the quiet places of our hearts to the relationships we’re navigating, the Incarnation reminds us that God came close so peace could, too. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we reflect on the light Christ brings into the world at Christmas. From the hope that breaks through darkness, to the joy that steadies our hearts, join us as we explore how His light continues to guide, comfort, and transform our everyday lives. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we reflect on how Jesus’ arrival in a manger reveals the true heart of God, marked by gentleness, surrender, and deep humility. Join us as we reflect on how Christ’s humility invites us to live with the same grace, gentleness, and surrender this Christmas season. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, as we step into the Advent season once again, we're invited to slow down, breathe deep, and prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Over the next few weeks, we’ll journey through the rich themes of Advent—hope, peace, joy, and love—and discover how each one draws us closer to the wonder of Christmas Eve. Join us as we begin this sacred rhythm, opening our lives to the Light that breaks into the darkness and the Savior who comes near. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this week's episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we explore how practicing gratitude reshapes the way we see God, ourselves, and the world around us. We discuss why Scripture calls us to give thanks in all circumstances, how gratitude strengthens our faith, and the subtle ways it reorients our hearts toward hope and joy. Whether you’re in a season of blessing or walking through something heavy, this conversation invites you to slow down, remember God’s faithfulness, and choose thankfulness as a daily spiritual rhythm. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this week's episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we explore what it truly means to live with our eyes fixed on Jesus rather than the shifting opinions of people. We discuss the quiet freedom that comes when we root our identity in Christ, the daily choice to seek His approval above all else, and the practical ways this transformation changes how we work, love, and navigate pressure. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we continue our conversation with Global Missionaries Hamed and Liz, who spent seven years serving in Central Europe, ministering to refugees and immigrants, discipling new believers, and helping connect local churches with ministries that meet real needs on the ground. Now stepping into a new season of ministry in the United Kingdom, Hamed and Liz are partnering with the British Wesleyan Holiness Church in one of the most diverse cities in the nation. Join us as they share stories of faith, cultural connection, and what it means to live out the Great Commission in a rapidly changing world. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor Wendy Emerson.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we sit down with Global Missionaries Hamed and Liz, who spent seven years serving in Central Europe—ministering to refugees and immigrants, discipling new believers, and helping connect local churches with ministries meeting real needs on the ground. Now stepping into a new season of ministry in the United Kingdom, Hamed and Liz are partnering with the British Wesleyan Holiness Church in one of the most diverse cities in the nation. Join us as they share stories of faith, cultural connection, and what it means to live out the Great Commission in a rapidly changing world. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor Wendy Emerson.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this week's Lord of the Rings–inspired episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we explore what it means to “let go of the ring” and to release what God has placed in our hands so that His mission can move forward. Just as the One Ring carried both power and burden, we often hold tightly to gifts, influence, or comfort that we were never meant to keep for ourselves. Join us as we unpack how surrender, generosity, and obedience unlock the true adventure of faith! This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we throw back to a previously recorded episode when Pastor Elijah Merrill sat down with Pastor Sam Abraham from Inspire Wesleyan Church. They talk about Operation Christmas Child and the incredible impact it has around the globe. OCC is a fantastic opportunity to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ, along with some Christmas joy, to millions of children and families around the world! Tune in to find out how you can get plugged in and give a gift with kingdom impact this holiday season. Please visit the Crosswinds website for 2025 Operation Christmas Child information and dates!Visit us online: crosswinds.churchOperation Christmas Child: samaritanspurse.org/occInspire Wesleyan Church: inspirewesleyanchurch.com

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we delve into three vital aspects of the Christian life: justification, sanctification, and works. How do they fit together? What role do faith and obedience play in our walk with Christ? Join us as we explore how God saves us by grace through faith, continues to transform us into the likeness of Christ, and calls us to live out our faith through good works that flow from His Spirit at work within us. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we talk about the incredible truth that no matter where you’ve been, what you’ve faced, or how many times you’ve stumbled—God's not done with you. As long as you have breath in your lungs, He is still at work, redeeming, restoring, and shaping your life for His purpose. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Craig Cooper and Elijah Merrill conclude their ongoing series of discussions on Keith Drury's book, Holiness for Ordinary People. God calls all believers to a life of holiness as we become increasingly conformed to the image of Christ. What does that look like for ordinary people? Keith Drury's book answers that question! This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow pastor on staff at Crosswinds, Elijah Merrill, the Technical Arts Director.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswind Unleashed, we reflect on the unexpected passing of Charlie Kirk—his life, his passion, and the world's response to this tragic loss. Times like these confront us with questions and emotions, and lead us to consider our own faith in action. How do we respond as believers with boldness to our calling, and how, in the midst of fear or risk, can we learn to listen more deeply to God's Spirit guiding us? This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we share what’s ahead for the fall, including our upcoming series Touchdown In Christ, a series going through the book of Colossians. Join us as we talk about the heart behind this series, the opportunities God is opening up, and how you can be a part of what He’s doing! This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we tackle the tension many Christians feel between what’s “sacred” and what’s “secular.” Does God only show up in church services, worship music, and Bible studies? Or is He present in your workplace, your hobbies, your creativity, and even your everyday routines? We’ll unpack the idea that labeling something as “secular” can unintentionally suggest God isn’t there — but Scripture reminds us He is present in all things. Join us as we explore how to live with an awareness of God’s presence everywhere and invite Him into every part of our lives. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we dive into how God desires to use every season for His purpose, how to discern what He’s teaching you right now, and what changes might be needed to align your life with His plan. Together, we’ll explore practical steps for redefining your current reality through God’s perspective and embracing the unique work He’s doing in you today. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Craig Cooper and Elijah Merrill continue their series by discussing Keith Drury's book Holiness for Ordinary People. God calls all believers to a life of holiness as we become increasingly conformed to the image of Christ. What does that look like for ordinary people? Keith Drury's book answers that question! This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow pastor on staff at Crosswinds, Elijah Merrill, the Technical Arts Director.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we explore Ecclesiastes 3:11 and what it means to be created with "eternity in our hearts" and a longing for something beyond this life. Discover how this God-given desire points us toward His eternal kingdom, shapes our daily choices, and reminds us that our souls were made for more than the temporary. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we unpack what it truly means to be “on fire” for Christ and why passion for Jesus is more than just an emotional high—it’s a daily surrender. Inspired by John Wesley’s quote, "I desire to be set on fire for Christ, so others would watch me burn and be inspired to ignite their passion for Him," we explore how this vision still speaks powerfully today. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill and Pastor Vanessa Samuels.Visit us online: crosswinds.church