Encounter Life

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.

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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.