Encounter Life

Christian Apologetics for the Ordinary Man – Deconstruction Part 1

In this episode, Pastor Kurt and Pastor Dale tackle the large subject of Christian Apologetics. They discuss spiritual deconstruction. And explore why individuals, sometimes called "exvangelicals," leave the Christian faith. Learn and grow with Pastor Kurt and Pastor Dale in this multi-episode series!

Encounter Life Series | Episode 8

In this episode, Pastor Kurt delivers a sermon centered on the Christian believer's solemn responsibility to preserve and propagate the faith. He argues that this duty is a foundational, non-negotiable aspect of the Christian life, drawing parallels between this spiritual obligation and a formal legal trust. Therefore, we must embrace the seriousness of our role as contenders for the faith.

Encounter Life Series | Episode 7

In this episode, Pastor Kurt explores the Christian concept of peace, contrasting the common secular definition with the spiritual peace promised in the Bible.

• Secular Peace (or "Oxford Peace"): Defined as merely the absence of conflict or disturbance. This peace is temporary, fragile, and dependent on external circumstances.
• Biblical Peace (or "Jesus Peace"): A profound, internal calm and resilience that endures even in the midst of struggle, chaos, and pressure. It is a permanent gift from God, not a pause in conflict, but a sustaining power through it.

Pastor Kurt reinterprets the well-known verse, Philippians 4:7, which states that the "peace of God... surpasses all understanding." Take a listen to this episode of Encounter life!

Encounter Life Series | Episode 6

In this episode, Pastor Kurt focuses on the biblical story of Jesus healing the blind man Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52). 

He highlights a specific phrase from the story: "TAKE HEART. GET UP; HE IS CALLING YOU." Pastor Kurt explains that while the miracle itself is often the focus, the true message lies in Jesus stopping for the "ordinary" man despite the crowd's focus on the sensational.

As always reach out to encounterstudiosfl@gmail.com for support or questions.

Pastor's Desk Series | Episode 6

In this episode Pastor Kurt discusses the concept of salvation through faith versus the emphasis on good deeds and behavior that is often found in churches.

Pastor Kurt highlights the common Christian belief in salvation by grace through faith, as stated in Ephesians 2:8. So why do churches often focus on lists of prohibited behaviors and sins? He argues that this creates a contradiction, as one cannot simultaneously believe in salvation by faith and damnation by actions.

If you have a question or would like more information, email us at  encounterstudiosfl@gmail.com

In this episode, Pastor Kurt Richey interviews Pastor Nicole West, wife of Pastor Derrick West. The episode focuses on Nicole's life story, starting with her childhood in Upstate New York, her teenage years. It covers her downward spiral, the moment she was arrested, and her legal process. Nicole shares her "I gotta have Jesus" moment, new friendships, and her first date with Derrick West. Nicole also shares her call to ministry, how she married a preacher, and her experience as a cancer survivor. Her story is truly a beautiful testimony of God's great work in her life.

Pastor's Desk Series | Episode 5

In this episode Pastor Kurt narrates a story from his time in Michigan about a cold, dreary day when he heard a faint cry for help. This cry led him to an elderly neighbor named Leonard, a Navy veteran who had fallen outside and was trapped in the cold. Pastor Richey was able to assist Leonard and prevent him from potential hypothermia.

This story relates to the biblical instruction in Jude, encouraging believers to "snatch others from the fire," symbolizing rescuing people from various forms of suffering, loneliness, and self-destruction. He emphasizes the importance of being able to hear and respond to cries for help, without judging or pre-qualifying those in need. And he encourages listeners to be spiritual firefighters, ready to rescue anyone calling out for help.

If you are in need of help or support, contact Encounter Church at: 352-399-2132 or by email at encounterstudiosfl@gmail.com

Pastor's Desk Series | Episode 4

In this episode Pastor Kurt discusses the importance of listening to the Holy Spirit. He emphasizes the idea of listening with "spiritual ears" and being "bilingual" spiritually, able to hear what the Spirit says alongside speaking our native language.