Encounter Life

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, u...

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 reachi...

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 call...

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: t...

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...

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 "faithfu...

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 th...

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, en...

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...

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...

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 e...

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 de...

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...

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 measur...

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 G...

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...

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...

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 t...