Encounter Life

Ministry in the Last Days

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 Whom Do You Trust?

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.

Contending for the Faith

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.

The Last Man Out of the River

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.

Think on These Things

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.

God's Will For Your Life

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.

God is Always Faithful (Feat. Brett and Donia Steele)

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.

When Faith Matters Most

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.