Encounter Life

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 than merely saying "no to sin," but it is a "yes" that comes with consequences and may lead to difficulties or suffering, especially in some parts of the world. They conclude that a commitment to God carries a real cost, but historically, the advance of the Gospel is often accelerated following moments of persecution.

Christian Apologetics for the Common Man Series

In this episode, Pastor Kurt and Pastor Dale, discuss the powerful theological premise: "Your yes to God is more powerful than your no to sin." The conversation explores how a focus on a single, positive "yes" to God can be more transformative than a life dedicated to saying "no" to sin, examining the tension between grace and holiness, and how this dynamic shapes both personal faith and church theology.

Encounter Life Series | Episode 14

In this episode, Pastor Kurt argues that revival is a sovereign work of God, not something humans can orchestrate. He uses a "chocolate omelette" analogy to explain how churches often mistake their own man-made efforts for true spiritual change. The episode concludes with a prayer for genuine revival, emphasizing that Jesus will build His church, and nothing can stop Him.

Encounter Life Series | Episode 13

In this episode, Pastor Kurt addresses the heartache of believers who worry about their unsaved loved ones. He offers a three-step prayer strategy to help listeners find renewed hope and trust in God.

Pray for softened hearts and open minds. Ask God to remove spiritual blindness so your loved one can understand and receive the Gospel.

Pray for a credible witness. Trust God to send the right person, a trusted friend or even a stranger, to share the Gospel at the perfect time.

Pray, "Lord, do whatever it takes." This is the hardest step—surrendering your loved one to God and trusting that He will use any circumstances necessary to bring them to a "Damascus Road" moment and full surrender.

Encounter Life Series | Episode 12

In this episode, Pastor Kurt offers a new perspective on Christian life, challenging the idea that we are in a constant spiritual struggle. He argues that through Christ's finished work, we are an "occupying force" with legal authority, living from a position of victory rather than fighting to obtain it. Inspired by the phrase "Occupy Until I Return," this episode encourages listeners to shift their mindset from that of a weary soldier to a confident administrator of peace and stewardship, reflecting the character of our returning King.

Encounter Life Series  | Episode 11

In this episode Pastor Kurt uses a story from his 6th-grade math class to explain the difference between human and divine standards. He argues that while our lives are defined by imperfect, measurable standards, God is boundless and immeasurable. Richey encourages listeners to seek God through faith and the Holy Spirit rather than trying to understand Him with limited human logic.

Pastor's Desk Series | Episode 7

In this episode, Pastor Kurt re-examines Robert Fulghum's famous list of life lessons, arguing that it is incomplete without a crucial element: Jesus Christ. He contrasts the secular view of death as an end with the Christian promise of eternal life, sharing a personal story about ministering to the hopeless. His challenge is to make an informed choice between life without hope and a life with a steadfast faith in Jesus.

In this episode, Pastor Kurt welcomes Jahzzy Gonzales, the Music Minister at Encounter Church, for a heartfelt conversation about the powerful and often controversial role of music in Christian worship.

Jahzzy shares his personal story, his calling to ministry, and his perspective on leading a diverse congregation in praise.

Tired of feeling like you have to "fake it 'til you make it"? In this episode, Pastor Kurt demystifies what it truly means to "live by faith." It's not a lofty, unattainable goal, but a simple practice for ordinary people. Through powerful personal stories, discover the two unmistakable marks of a life of faith: unwavering confidence and the dogged determination to simply show up and not quit.

Encounter Life Series | Episode 10

In this episode, Pastor Kurt talks about the concept of "survivor bias" to ask a deep question: Has the modern church spent decades catering only to those who make it through the doors? Pastor Kurt poses a new posture for the church to stop reinforcing what's comfortable and start a new mission: actively rescuing the truly lost, broken, and left-behind who will never find their own way to us.