Encounter Life

Encounter Church Building Dedication

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.

Go Stand In the River

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.

4 Steps to "Standing Firm"

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.

Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled

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.

Something New

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.

Celebrating 50 Episodes

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.

Overcoming Disinterest

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.

Be Curious

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.