Encounter Life

In this episode, Pastor Kurt Richey reflects on the agonizing pain of delayed rescue. He uses the metaphor of a life-saving traffic signal installed a day after a fatal crash. And then connects it to the biblical tragedy of Stephen’s martyrdom just before his persecutor’s conversion. Pastor Kurt intensely validates the grief, anger, and bitterness of those who feel God's intervention arrived "one day too late." Rather than attempting to explain why God allows such painful timing, he finds profound solace in the story of Jesus calming the storm. The episode concludes by noting that true peace comes not from understanding God's mysterious timeline or questioning His power. But true peace comes by choosing to trust that He deeply and personally cares for us in the midst of our darkest tragedies.

In this episode, Pastor Richey explains that Hebrews 11 honors both those who triumphed and those who suffered, proving that faith does not guarantee a trouble-free life. Ultimately, the "Faith Hall of Fame" exists to shift our focus away from human heroes and fix our eyes entirely on Jesus.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt notes that just as God chose the obscure towns of Nazareth, Colossae, and Winona Lake to unleash profound spiritual impact, He uses Colossians 1:11–14 to deliver a massive truth to believers today: our rescue from the dominion of darkness is not a future hope, but a finished reality. Comparing defeated spiritual fears to paper tigers and the giants of Deuteronomy, Richey urges Christians to stop needlessly flailing in fear or "tilting at windmills" when the victory has already been won at the Cross. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to step out of the enemy's illusion of survival and live confidently in the secure, present peace of their redemption.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt Richey sits down with Encounter Church's new Creative Arts Director, Riley Arnold, in a newly designed outdoor space called "The Backyard." Recording from this new venue, Arnold shares her faith journey, describes her day-to-day role managing the church's digital footprint, discusses the future of social media, and offers personal spiritual insights alongside advice for young Christians.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt Richey shares a powerful look at Jude 22–23, explaining that biblical mercy is an active verb rather than a passive noun. He challenges believers to apply this active mercy in three distinct ways: by offering gentle care to those wrestling with doubt, moving with urgency to rescue those spiritually endangered, and exercising extreme caution when helping people entangled in sin.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt uses the fierce brand loyalty of Detroit autoworkers to challenge listeners to examine their own spiritual allegiance. Drawing parallels between the Prophet Elijah’s showdown on Mount Carmel and Charles Spurgeon’s call to believe the Bible "up to the hilt," he addresses the modern tendency to hedge our bets in comfortable, middle-of-the-road faith lanes. Reminding the audience that there is no spiritual parking spot in the middle, Pastor Kurt points to the uncompromising faith of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to encourage believers to abandon indecision, plunge into the deep end of divine revelation, and fully trust God with their whole hearts.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt uses Jude 1:3 and 2 Timothy 3:12-17 to urge believers to "contend for the faith," emphasizing our responsibility to protect the unaltered Gospel. To successfully navigate spiritual opposition, he outlines three practical guidelines: continue in what you have learned by staying spiritually current (much like a pilot maintaining flight hours); continue in what you firmly believe by drawing a line in the sand on non-negotiable truths; and be wise and well-equipped through God’s Word, treating Scripture like a mission-ready emergency "go-kit." Ultimately, Pastor Kurt reminds listeners that while contending requires a fight, walking with Jesus remains a joyful and certain adventure.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt dives into one of the most dramatic, yet often overlooked, narratives in the Bible: Israel’s miraculous crossing of the flooded Jordan River into the Promised Land. By uncovering hidden details—such as Joshua’s prophetic name change and the strategic placement of a hidden stone memorial—Pastor Kurt masterfully connects this ancient event to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross. Reflect on the depth of God's grace and the urgency of salvation, serving as a stirring reminder that the window of grace will not stay open forever and that a single encounter with Jesus can change everything.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt reveals the biblical secret to lasting contentment found in Philippians 4:8. Explaining that true peace does not depend on our external circumstances, Pastor Kurt highlights the power of intentionally focusing our minds on whatever is true, pure, lovely, and commendable. Tune in to discover how shifting your daily thoughts away from worry and anchoring them in Christ can cultivate an unshakable, deep-seated peace that carries you through any storm.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt Richey simplifies the daunting search for God’s will by distinguishing between worldly career paths and eternal spiritual convictions. Drawing from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, he explores how God’s true will isn't a complex checklist of life choices, but a steadfast internal posture of rejoicing always, praying continually, and giving thanks in every circumstance. Tune in to discover how this liberating perspective can provide peace and clarity, even when your personal plans or career goals face unexpected challenges.

In this episode, hosts Joni and Kurt Richey welcome Brett and Donia Steele for a moving conversation about family, faith, and the rewards of lifelong service. The Steeles share their journey from disparate backgrounds to their shared ministry at Encounter Church, reflecting on the community's growth and Brett’s transformative mission work in El Salvador. Through personal stories and heartfelt advice for young families, this episode serves as a powerful testament to God’s enduring faithfulness and the impact of living a life dedicated to Christ.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt Richey highlights three critical stages where faith is indispensable: the moment of salvation, the endurance through life's trials, and the final transition into eternity. Critiquing the modern church's tendency to avoid the topic of mortality, Pastor Kurt urges listeners to cultivate a "final faith" that looks past the body's expiration date toward the promise of resurrection.

In this episode, Brad and Amber Werlin join the Richeys to explore the vital role of church administration. Drawing on his business background and faith journey, Brad explains that managing budgets and facilities is a spiritual ministry essential to the Body of Christ. The conversation highlights that administration is not just about paperwork, but about stewarding the church's mission to ensure the Gospel can effectively reach and transform the community.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt Richey interviews Jorge and Ashley Morales, whose life journey is a powerful "go and tell" testimony. From serving as a police officer in Mexico and surviving a harrowing cartel kidnapping, Jorge shares his miraculous path to freedom, his move to Florida, and the joy of building a family through adoption with his wife, Ashley. It is a story of extreme rescue and faith, proving that one encounter with Jesus can change everything. Featured Music: “Come and See” – The Mylon Hayes Family

Christian Apologetics for the Ordinary Man series In this episode Pastor Kurt Richey and Pastor Dale Clayton explore a vital distinction for any believer seeking to apply the Bible correctly: the difference between descriptive and prescriptive scripture. Descriptive passages record what happened in history, while prescriptive passages provide direct instructions on what we are expected to believe or do.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt Richey talks about the profound impact of the Resurrection, describing it as the "sure and steadfast anchor" for the soul. He emphasizes that hope is the essential seedbed for faith, and without the living Christ, our spiritual journey would lack its source of power. By weaving together scriptures like II Corinthians 5 and Hebrews 6, Pastor Kurt illustrates how Jesus’ victory over the grave validates the Cross, provides a "safe harbor" from life's storms, and secures an eternal inheritance for all who believe. This episode is a stirring reminder that because Jesus lives, we are saved to the uttermost.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt introduces The Café Bible Study, a new conversational ministry at Encounter Church in Wildwood, Florida. Inspired by the fellowship of the early church in Acts 2, Pastor Kurt explores typology—the study of Old Testament patterns that point to Jesus. He highlights the powerful connection between the timing of the Passover lamb sacrifices and the crucifixion of Christ, ultimately reminding listeners that the Bible is a grand revelation of God's infinite grace and love.

In this episode, hosts Joni and Kurt Richey welcome their dear friend and devoted servant of the Gospel, Louise Blessing. The episode centers on the theme of a life lived with "no regrets," framed by the apostolic resolve found in Acts 20:22-24.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt welcomes Marii Cruz, the Youth and Young Adult Pastor at Encounter Church. They have a great conversation about the changes of youth ministry. Pastor Marii shares her personal story—from her Puerto Rican roots and her time as a single mother in leadership to navigating marriage and ministry with her husband, Aaron. Together, they discuss the unique challenges of reaching everyone from middle schoolers to thirty-year-olds, the importance of protecting family time, and the powerful rewards of seeing young lives transformed by an encounter with Jesus.

Gemini said In this episode, Pastor Kurt reflects on his return mission to El Salvador with The Thirst Initiative, moving from the "brokenness" of his first trip to the focused action of providing clean water to those in need. He describes the complex coordination of these projects as a "divine conspiracy," arguing that while God promises future healing for a broken world, our current highest calling is to serve as "living sacrifices." By contrasting Western abundance with global thirst, Richey challenges listeners to recognize that when a solution is within our reach, we have a spiritual mandate to act as essential pieces of God’s plan.

In this landmark episode, Pastor Kurt takes us inside the walls of the newly dedicated Encounter Church building. It was a weekend of "firsts" and "faithfuls," marked by a Celebration Service of over 600 people, a bustling Open House, and a formal Dedication Ceremony attended by national leaders, local law enforcement, and community pillars.

In this milestone episode, we celebrate a historic moment for Encounter Church as we move from four years in a tent to the dedication of our new 22,000 sq. ft. facility. Drawing from Joshua 3, this message explores how to step into a future you’ve never seen before. Just as the Israelites faced a flooded Jordan River, we are called to move forward with faith. We discuss the "Wet Feet" principle: the miracle only happens when we are willing to "go stand in the river" before the waters part. Whether you are part of the Encounter family or facing your own "Jordan," this episode is a call to follow the Cross, consecrate your heart, and watch God make a way on dry ground. Key Points Following the Covenant: Navigating the unknown by keeping our eyes on the grace and love of the Cross. Consecration vs. Idolatry: Understanding that our dedication is not found in a building, but in Christ alone. The Step of Faith: Why God waits for the "soles of our feet" to touch the water before He stops the flow.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt celebrates Encounter Church’s move from a tent to a new facility by sharing four steps to standing firm in faith. Drawing from Philippians 3, he explores the importance of pressing past the past, living authentically in your current spiritual growth, embracing the Cross without apology, and eagerly awaiting Christ’s return. Pastor Kurt reminds us that while seasons and structures change, our victory is found in remaining anchored to the Word of God.

In this 1st Anniversary episode, Pastor Kurt reads and discusses the bedrock promises of John 14. Discover the peace that thrives in the midst of conflict and the assurance that the Holy Spirit abides in you—not just on your best days, but forever.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt talks about the constant tension between old and new—from vintage clothes and new restaurants to church traditions and modern trends. He highlights that both the new (Isaiah) and the old (Jeremiah) are valued in the Bible. The core message is that the conflict is unnecessary because God is eternal and uses both; the true test is whether something is "true" and "faithful," not whether it's old or new. Be encouraged to embrace unchanging truth while remaining open to God's fresh work.

In this 50th episode, Pastor Kurt talks about the transformative power of gratitude through the biblical lens of "counting your blessings." Pastor Kurt challenges listeners to move beyond measuring success by material wealth or social media status, instead embracing a "win-win" faith that finds God’s goodness in both mountaintop celebrations and the darkest valleys of pain. By anchoring hope in the finished work of Christ and the promise of eternity, this milestone episode serves as a powerful reminder that while human achievements are worth celebrating, the immeasurable love and victory of God are the ultimate reasons to praise.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt Richey talks about how to overcome "the giant of disinterest" by intentionally choosing optimism and peace over despair. Drawing on biblical examples and the classic "pony in the manure" story, Pastor Kurt explains that our reactions to hardship serve as a powerful testimony to the Gospel. He concludes with practical advice on how to live as a light in a dark world, encouraging listeners to choose life and hope regardless of their circumstances.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt explores the "noble character" of the Berean Christians from Acts 17. By examining the ministry of the Apostle Paul, he highlights the importance of consistency, reason, and a deep hunger for the truth. As we enter 2026, you are invited to: Be Eager: Receive God’s Word with genuine enthusiasm. Be Curious: Examine the Scriptures daily to know Jesus more deeply. Relying on the simple but profound truth that "Jesus loves me," Pastor Richey encourages us to make this a year of active discovery and spiritual growth.

Happy New Year! In this episode, Pastor Kurt reminds us that God’s mercies are new every morning and aren't restricted to a man-made calendar. Rather than feeling the pressure of New Year’s resolutions, listeners are encouraged to lean into God's daily faithfulness and irrevocable calling. Join the conversation as we prepare for a season of prayer and fasting to hear God's voice in 2026.

Merry Christmas! In this episode, Pastor Kurt talks about how the birth of Christ wasn't just a historical event; it was the beginning of a grand adventure available to "whosoever will." Whether in 1976 or today, the message of Christmas remains one of hope, invitation, and transformation.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt explores the "royal paradox" of Jesus. He explains how Jesus serves as the Prince of Peace through His earthly sacrifice and the King of Kings through His eternal authority. This episode bridges the gap between the cross and the throne, offering a deep dive into Isaiah 9:6. Also, there are some exciting announcements about the new Encounter Life studio and the upcoming launch of The Chaplain’s Desk podcast. Thanks for faithfully listening!

On this episode, Pastor Kurt discusses the challenge of proclaiming Jesus as King, given modern skepticism toward royalty. Inspired by King David's warriors whose mission was "to make David King," he asserts that while Jesus is already King, believers "make Jesus King" personally through their profession of faith. This act is a spiritual revolution, granting authority and privileges. Pastor Kurt encourages listeners to make Jesus the King and Lord of their lives and serve His Kingdom, especially as Christmas approaches.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt examines how "ordinary outliers" like athletes Cliff Young and John Daly parallel the apostles Peter and John, who were known simply for having "been with Jesus." While discussing the coming technological shifts, including the rise of AI and the potential for AI Persona Preachers, Richey delivers his core message: the effectiveness of the Gospel ministry will always depend on ordinary people filled with the Holy Spirit, a vital, spiritual component that technology and algorithms can never replicate.

Happy Thanksgiving! There is so much to be thankful for. Join Pastor Kurt and his family as they share what they are thankful for this year. And how God works through our act of giving thanks.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt stresses that although "you can't unring a bell," it is vital to recognize that "some bells only ring once," referring to unique life events that must not be missed due to bitterness or pride. Drawing on the Western command to "Circle the wagons," he argues that family gatherings, especially in times of sorrow, are not optional, but an essential obligation that creates a crucial, God-designed circle of defense, loyalty, and refuge against the troubles of life.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt shares a pre-Thanksgiving message, "The Attitude of Gratitude." He encourages us to live a life overflowing with joyful thanksgiving. Drawing from Colossians 2:6-7, he stresses the importance of trusting Christ daily and allowing faith to deepen. Pastor Kurt challenges Americans to recognize their immense, often-overlooked, prosperity and freedom, urging them to measure their gratitude by a global standard, especially for the blessing of hearing the Gospel, which remains inaccessible to billions worldwide. Check Out This Link: Alpha News - Thoughts From a Hipster Coffee Shop

In this episode, Pastor Kurt explores the Christian doctrine of redemption. He defines redemption through three lenses: exchange (paying a price), convertibility (worthlessness converted to value), and most importantly, relational restoration (being ransomed and reclaimed). He explains that on Calvary, Jesus paid the full ransom for humanity's sin, conquering death and reconciling believers with God the Father. This act transforms spiritual darkness into light and restores the lost relationship. Check out this song link: Gold City Redeemed  

In this episode, Pastor Kurt challenges the typical use of the phrase, "God loves a cheerful giver," arguing that God's love is unconditional and doesn't depend on how happily we give. He explains that the Apostle Paul's true point in 2 Corinthians 9:7 is about a deep-seated generosity that flows from a heart's decision to serve others. This giving unlocks "surpassing grace," enabling believers to be abundantly blessed so they can "abound in every good work" and increase Kingdom righteousness. Check out this link mentioned: Until Then (LIVE) | Joseph Larson

In this episode, Pastor Kurt interviews Dr. Steve Hall. Dr. Steve is the Professor of Pastoral Ministry at Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee. He led this team in El Salvador. And Dr. Steve is the executive director of Thirst Initiative. The Thirst Initiative is working to "help communities break the cycle of generational poverty by taking a holistic, relational, and long-term approach, and it all starts with access to clean water". Check out these links: https://www.ctgfoundation.org/ Thirst Initiative Video

In this episode, we get to Celebrate 51 years of marriage with Kurt Richey and his wife, Joni, on this special episode of Encounter Life, "Marriage Beyond 50 Years." The couple shares their hard-earned wisdom, including their top three pieces of advice for a successful, long-term marriage, such as the power of commitment with "no exit" and the wealth of a compounding "relationship fortune."

Christian Apologetics for the Common Man Series Part 2 In this episode Pastor Kurt and Pastor Dale discussing the transformative power of saying "yes" to God. The discussion contrasts the Christian and secular worldviews, exploring how Christians should handle conflict and debate. Pastor Dale emphasizes that a commitment to saying "yes" to the Lord is a powerful life mission that is much greater than merely saying "no to sin," but it is a "yes" that comes with consequences and may lead to difficulties or suffering, especially in some parts of the world. They conclude that a commitment to God carries a real cost, but historically, the advance of the Gospel is often accelerated following moments of persecution.

Christian Apologetics for the Common Man Series In this episode, Pastor Kurt and Pastor Dale, discuss the powerful theological premise: "Your yes to God is more powerful than your no to sin." The conversation explores how a focus on a single, positive "yes" to God can be more transformative than a life dedicated to saying "no" to sin, examining the tension between grace and holiness, and how this dynamic shapes both personal faith and church theology.

Encounter Life Series | Episode 14 In this episode, Pastor Kurt argues that revival is a sovereign work of God, not something humans can orchestrate. He uses a "chocolate omelette" analogy to explain how churches often mistake their own man-made efforts for true spiritual change. The episode concludes with a prayer for genuine revival, emphasizing that Jesus will build His church, and nothing can stop Him.

Encounter Life Series | Episode 13 In this episode, Pastor Kurt addresses the heartache of believers who worry about their unsaved loved ones. He offers a three-step prayer strategy to help listeners find renewed hope and trust in God. Pray for softened hearts and open minds. Ask God to remove spiritual blindness so your loved one can understand and receive the Gospel. Pray for a credible witness. Trust God to send the right person, a trusted friend or even a stranger, to share the Gospel at the perfect time. Pray, "Lord, do whatever it takes." This is the hardest step—surrendering your loved one to God and trusting that He will use any circumstances necessary to bring them to a "Damascus Road" moment and full surrender.

Encounter Life Series | Episode 12 In this episode, Pastor Kurt offers a new perspective on Christian life, challenging the idea that we are in a constant spiritual struggle. He argues that through Christ's finished work, we are an "occupying force" with legal authority, living from a position of victory rather than fighting to obtain it. Inspired by the phrase "Occupy Until I Return," this episode encourages listeners to shift their mindset from that of a weary soldier to a confident administrator of peace and stewardship, reflecting the character of our returning King.

Encounter Life Series  | Episode 11 In this episode Pastor Kurt uses a story from his 6th-grade math class to explain the difference between human and divine standards. He argues that while our lives are defined by imperfect, measurable standards, God is boundless and immeasurable. Richey encourages listeners to seek God through faith and the Holy Spirit rather than trying to understand Him with limited human logic.

Pastor's Desk Series | Episode 7 In this episode, Pastor Kurt re-examines Robert Fulghum's famous list of life lessons, arguing that it is incomplete without a crucial element: Jesus Christ. He contrasts the secular view of death as an end with the Christian promise of eternal life, sharing a personal story about ministering to the hopeless. His challenge is to make an informed choice between life without hope and a life with a steadfast faith in Jesus.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt welcomes Jahzzy Gonzales, the Music Minister at Encounter Church, for a heartfelt conversation about the powerful and often controversial role of music in Christian worship. Jahzzy shares his personal story, his calling to ministry, and his perspective on leading a diverse congregation in praise.

Tired of feeling like you have to "fake it 'til you make it"? In this episode, Pastor Kurt demystifies what it truly means to "live by faith." It's not a lofty, unattainable goal, but a simple practice for ordinary people. Through powerful personal stories, discover the two unmistakable marks of a life of faith: unwavering confidence and the dogged determination to simply show up and not quit.

Encounter Life Series | Episode 10 In this episode, Pastor Kurt talks about the concept of "survivor bias" to ask a deep question: Has the modern church spent decades catering only to those who make it through the doors? Pastor Kurt poses a new posture for the church to stop reinforcing what's comfortable and start a new mission: actively rescuing the truly lost, broken, and left-behind who will never find their own way to us.