Pastor Elisabeth Lectka continues our series on Revelation.

SHOW NOTES
The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday June 28 in our Chapel and you can watch it here.

Get your copy of Dr. Scot McKnight’s book that has influenced our series, Revelation for the Rest of Us: A Prophetic Call to Follow Jesus as a Dissident Disciple

Check out this conversation between host Ross Cochran and Dr. Scot McKnight, author of the book Revelation for the Rest of Us: A Prophetic Call to Follow Jesus as a Dissident Disciple.

Pastor Tara Beth continues our series on Revelation, and opens up our Sanctuary for Contemporary Worship.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday June 28 in our Sanctuary and you can watch it here.

Get your copy of Dr. Scot McKnight’s book that has influenced our series, Revelation for the Rest of Us: A Prophetic Call to Follow Jesus as a Dissident Disciple

Check out this conversation between host Ross Cochran and Dr. Scot McKnight, author of the book Revelation for the Rest of Us: A Prophetic Call to Follow Jesus as a Dissident Disciple.

Dr. Scot McKnight joined us to kick off our summer series on the book of Revelation.

SHOW NOTES

Get a copy for yourself of Scot's book about Revelation that will serve as a framework for our summer teaching series, Revelation for the Rest of Us, A Prophetic Call to Follow Jesus as a Dissident Disciple. 

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Have you ever wondered what makes Jesus the ultimate example of resilience? Max Schiewe reveals how Christ's unwavering pursuit of humanity—from a humble birth in Bethlehem to His sacrificial death—demonstrates divine resilience that transforms our daily struggles.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday October 12th in our Activity Center and you can watch it here.

Max Schiewe & Collin Puckett join host Ross Cochran to share perspective from Good Shepherd Students, the ministry they lead. Max and Collin dive into the practical realities of what students need during mental health crises and how all of us can support students and leaders.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Ever feel trapped behind closed doors, paralyzed by fear in an uncertain world? Through a powerful exploration of John 20, Pastor Tara Beth reveals how Jesus transcends our barriers—whether physical or emotional—bringing transformative peace. Drawing parallels between the fearful disciples and our own anxious times, she shares how Christ's resurrection power transforms fear into mission. Experience how Jesus still breaks through our defenses today, breathing new life and purpose into our weariness.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday  in our ____ and you can watch it here.

Now that we've wrapped up our series Throwback, Ryan Hammer returns to the podcast to walk host Ross Cochran through some of the most influential music from the church in the 1980's, 90's, 2000's and 2010's. Enjoy this trip down memory lane!

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

What does it mean to love like Jesus in our digitally divided world? Soon-to-be-Pastor Elisabeth confronts this challenging question, exploring how Jesus crossed every imaginable boundary—racial, political, religious, and social—to demonstrate true agape love. Through vivid Gospel stories and contemporary parallels, she reveals how our formation in Christ must transcend the tribal divisions of our social media age. This timely message challenges us to examine whether our love reflects Christ or merely mirrors cultural divisions, offering practical wisdom for authentic Christian witness in a polarized world. Don't miss this powerful reminder that our love for one another remains the ultimate testimony of our discipleship. 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday September 28th in our Worship Center and you can watch it here.

What does it mean to love like Jesus in our digitally divided world, one that we saw come into existence in the 2010s? Max Schiewe confronts this challenging question, exploring how Jesus crossed every imaginable boundary—racial, political, religious, and social—to demonstrate true agape love.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday September 28th in our Sanctuary and you can watch it here.

Jen Fosdick, Ian Zamora, and Laura Jean "LJ" Martin join host Ross Cochran to offer a deep dive into the Disability Ministry at Good Shepherd, and some of the broader conversations impacting the disability community in Naperville. They share their experiences and perspectives with host Ross Cochran. They also offer insight into why this is community means so much to us at Good Shepherd, practical ways that you can get connected to the disability community in your neighborhood, and who they hope continues to be included in any conversation about discipleship.

SHOW NOTES

Learn more about the Disability Ministry at Good Shepherd

Listen to the episode with Mayor Scott Wehrli that was referenced during this conversation.

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Ever feel trapped behind closed doors, paralyzed by fear in an uncertain world? Through a powerful exploration of John 20, Pastor Tara Beth reveals how Jesus transcends our barriers—whether physical or emotional—bringing transformative peace. Drawing parallels between the fearful disciples and our own anxious times, she shares how Christ's resurrection power transforms fear into mission.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday September 21st in our Worship Center and you can watch it here.

Have you ever felt paralyzed by fear in an uncertain world? In a powerful exploration of faith versus fear, Ryan Hammer draws us into the disciples' locked room on that first Easter evening—where the risen Christ miraculously appears with words of peace. 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday September 21st in our Sanctuary and you can watch it here.

Elisabeth Lectka leads our ministry to families and returned to the podcast to share her experience connecting with kids and students, and their families, during mental health challenges. Elisabeth emphasized to host Ross Cochran about the power of relationships around our mental health, and how we can often make helping those who need help more complicated than it needs to be.

SHOW NOTES

If you are in crisis, please call or text 988, or go to 988lifeline.org/chat.

Listen to the conversation with Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Dr. Scot McKnight joined host Ross Cochran for an extensive conversation around the book of Revelation. They discuss how the way we view Revelation influences are discipleship, why so many churches can get this wrong, and how Christians today are meant to respond to the oppressive and corrupt forces we see in our world today.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Watch Scot's message from Sunday May 31 here.

Have you ever wondered how the seeds planted in the 1990s shaped our world today? Pastor Greg shares a powerful reflection on navigating our chaotic times through the lens of that pivotal decade. From the rise of the internet to global conflicts, he reveals how these cultural shifts mirror our current struggles—and points to an unchanging truth: Jesus Christ remains our constant foundation. Through personal vulnerability about his own emotional week, Pastor challenges us to be light-bearers in a dark world, embracing technology wisely while serving others with Christ-centered hearts. 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday September 14th in our Worship Center and you can watch it here.

Have you ever felt the weight of cynicism creeping into your faith? In this message, Pastor Pamela explores how God's transformative grace counters the rising tide of skepticism that took root in the 1990s and persists today. Through Ephesians 2:4-10, she reveals how God's unchanging grace offers hope when disappointment and distrust threaten to overwhelm us. From mixtapes to Y2K fears, Pastor Pamela weaves nostalgic touchstones into a compelling reminder that we're called to preach Christ crucified, serve others humbly, and love compassionately—even in an increasingly cynical world. 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday September 14th, in our Sanctuary, and you can watch it here.

Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli joined host Ross Cochran for an honest and uplifting conversation all about the people that make up the city of Naperville. Mayor Wehrli shared about his own faith journey as well as how organizations like Good Shepherd church can support the wellbeing of our community. This conversation also focused on mental health, particularly in how it impacts kids & students today.

SHOW NOTES

Adopted into a family with deep roots in Naperville, Mayor Wehrli grew up in the family construction business and continued working there full-time while he pursued his education at North Central College. He and his wife, Lynda, raised their two children, Sam and Hope, in Naperville. You can learn more about the Mayor here.

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Glen Wagner was able to join Good Shepherd, where he pastored for several years, as we kickoff a new teaching series, Throwback.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday September 7 in our Worship Center and you can watch it here.

Have you ever felt disconnected, drifting in a culture of individualism and materialism? Pastor Greg explores Jesus' powerful metaphor of the True Vine, revealing how our connection to Christ is the antidote to society's isolating forces. Through a fascinating look at the 1980s—from the rise of personal computers to transformative moments like "We Are the World"—he illuminates how the same challenges of individualism and materialism persist today. This timely message unpacks John 15's vital truth: apart from Jesus, we can do nothing, but connected to Him, we bear lasting fruit. 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday September 7th in our Sanctuary and you can watch it here.

Elisabeth Lectka returned to the podcast to walk through some of the key moments we saw in the church and in the culture during the 2000's and 2010's. She and host Ross Cochran also discuss finding peace in the mystery of God. 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

In a world where Monday mornings often bring dread and the "Sunday night scaries" plague countless professionals, Pastor Tara Beth brings a revolutionary perspective on work and purpose that could transform our daily grind into divine partnership. At Naperville's Last Fling, she challenges us to see our work through heaven's lens - not just as tasks to complete, but as ways to partner with God in making all things new. 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday August 31 at the 2025 Last Fling and you can watch it here.

Ryan Hammer, Creative Arts Executive Minister at Good Shepherd, joins host Ross Cochran to walk through key music and cultural events that played out around the church in the 1990s and 2000's. He also shares about how the church influenced the culture, and how the church was influenced by the culture, in this wide-ranging conversation. Thanks for listening! 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Pastor Tara Beth continues our series, The Art of Neighboring, diving into the barriers we place in the way of being a good neighbor.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday August 24th in our Worship Center and you can watch it here.

Pastor Greg Wenhold continues our series on The Art of Neighboring, diving into the barriers to neighboring.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday August 24 in our Sanctuary and you can watch it here.

Zac Larson gets to be in front of (sometimes literally) 100 riders the chance to experience the challenge and exhilaration of participating in a 100 mile bike ride on June 19th, the summer solstice… and they do it for our neighbors in need! They're trying to raise $100,000 for local charitable organizations in mental health, food, housing and youth services. Zac joined host Ross Cochran to cover how this idea came to be, the invitation to everyone to participate, and to the ride this year!

SHOW NOTES

Learn more, donate, and support Solstice Century, which benefits several organizations, including Good Shepherd mission partners like Cherish Watoto!

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Pastor Greg kicks off a new series for us on the podcast where we are taking a look back at a few of the previous decades and diving into how culture was shaped by the church (and vice versa). Today, he and host Ross Cochran talk about the 80's and the rise of individualism contributing to the birth of megachurches, and a lot more! 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Pastor Tara Beth kicks off our new series, The Art of Neighboring.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday August 17th in our Sanctuary and you can watch it here.

Bethany Hammer kicks off our new teaching series, all about being For Our Neighbors, called "The Art of Neighboring."

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday August 17th in our Worship Center and you can watch it here.

Pastor Greg wraps up our Sermon on the Mount with a call to love our enemies, and build our house on the solid rock of life and teachings of Jesus.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday August 10th in our Worship Center and you can watch it here.

As we draw our summer journey through the Sermon on the Mount to a close,  Elisabeth Lectka invites us to grapple with this profound question amidst the familiar yet challenging imagery of the narrow gate, good fruit, and the house built on solid rock. 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday August 10th in our Sanctuary and you can watch it here.

Elisabeth Lectka returns to the podcast to share about a new discipleship initiative coming from Good Shepherd with host Ross Cochran. Good Shepherd theology cohorts are open to anyone! Check out the show notes for more information.

SHOW NOTES

Here's everything you need to know about Good Shepherd Theology Cohorts!

As we try something new on the podcast, you can watch this conversation on YouTube!

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Pastor Pamela continues our summer teaching series on the Sermon on the Mount by diving into the Kingdom Culture Values of discernment compared to judgement.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday August 3rd in our Worship Center and you can watch it here.

Max Schiewe continues our summer teaching series on the Sermon on the Mount by diving into the Kingdom Culture values of, and difference in, judgement vs discernment.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday August 3rd in our Sanctuary and you can watch it here.

We all are tempted to keep our faith to ourselves, and make following Jesus a way to look inward instead of outward. In this wide ranging conversation, Max Schiewe reflects with host Ross Cochran on how people can move from making their faith about themselves to following what Jesus instructs all of us to do in the sermon on the mount. 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Much of today's conversation was centered around Max's most recent sermon, which you can watch here.

Are you hungry for deeper connection with God, or are your spiritual practices merely a performance for others? In her sermon, Elisabeth explores the powerful teachings of Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing that true righteousness isn't about outward piety but the alignment of our hearts with God. This message is an urgent reminder that our spiritual practices should draw us closer to God rather than seeking applause from those around us.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday July 27th in our Worship Center and you can watch it here.

Pastor Pamela wraps up our Claimed by God series.

SHOW NOTES
The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday May 24 in our Chapel and you can watch it here.

Pastor Greg Wenhold continues our series focused on the sermon on the mount, Kingdom Culture.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday July 27th in our Sanctuary and you can watch it here.

We've been off for a few weeks and today is part three of a conversation we think you'll love from Pastor Tara Beth's podcast, The Pastor's Table. Over the past two weeks you've heard from Tara Beth Leach and Mark Quanstrom as they talk to Pastor Greg Wenhold about his journey into ministry, unexpected new beginnings, and how his views on pastoring have shifted over his career. 

SHOW NOTES

This episode was originally published on the Pastor's Table Podcast on January 20th, 2025.

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

How does God redeem a church's past while preparing it for a flourishing future? 
In the final part of this compelling conversation, Rev. Tara Beth Leach and Dr. Mark Quanstrom sit down with Pastor Greg Wenhold to discuss the unique dynamics of pastoral succession, the power of trust in leadership, and the ongoing work of transformation at Good Shepherd Church.
🎙️ In This Episode:
•How a “redeemed succession plan” brought Greg and Tara Beth together in ministry.
•The delicate balance of leadership and humility in a thriving church community.
•Lessons on honoring a church’s past while calling it forward into God’s future.
•Practical insights on co-leading, mutual respect, and modeling healthy transitions.

Drawing on the biblical antitheses, Pastor Pamela Palmer reminds us that Jesus calls His followers to embody a love so complete that it mirrors God's unconditional grace, urging listeners to bless those who persecute them as an act of profound faith. However, she emphasizes that this journey is not easy—it requires intentionality and often feels impossible, yet it is essential for Christian maturity. In our daily lives, we are challenged to actively pray for those who hurt us, forgive transgressions deliberately, and respond with unexpected kindness. The world is watching, and our actions can testify to the transformative power of divine love. Will you rise to the challenge and let love lead your actions today?

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday July 20th in our Sanctuary and you can watch it here.

Pastor Tara Beth Leach delves into Jesus’ radical call to love our enemies in her sermon from the Sermon on the Mount. Using the concept of “antithesis,” where Jesus challenges our everyday understanding of love and morality, Pastor Tara Beth reminds us that loving only those who love us is far from the Kingdom calling. Instead, Jesus dares us to elevate our love to a divine standard—one that requires us to extend grace even toward those who seek to harm us. 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday July 20  in our Worship Center and you can watch it here.

While we take a few weeks off, we wanted to bring you a conversation we think you'll love from Pastor Tara Beth's podcast, The Pastor's Table.

Check out Part One in this feed in case you missed it, but this week and next week you'll hear from Tara Beth Leach and Mark Quanstrom who talk to Pastor Greg Wenhold' about his journey into ministry, unexpected new beginnings, and how his views on pastoring have shifted over his career. 

SHOW NOTES

This episode was originally published on the Pastor's Table Podcast on January 13th, 2025.

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

The journey of ministry often includes twists, turns, and unexpected moments of grace. 
In this second part of their conversation with Pastor Greg Wenhold, Rev. Tara Beth Leach and Dr. Mark Quanstrom explore the challenges and growth that come with navigating transitions, including stepping away from—and returning to—a beloved church community.
🎙️ In This Episode:
•Lessons from an unconventional call to ministry.
•The hard conversations and deep growth during seasons of leadership change.
•Embracing God’s timing in moments of uncertainty and transition.
•A pastor’s wisdom on leading with humility and trusting God’s sovereignty.

What would it look like if we truly embraced the full essence of our faith, walking in transformative obedience instead of mere conformity? In today’s powerful message, Ryan Hammer delves into the captivating story of Charles Blondin, the famed tightrope walker, who illustrates the difference between superficial belief and genuine trust. Ryan Hammer emphasizes the need for righteousness that exceeds mere checklist compliance, urging us to cultivate love, reconciliation, and community in our lives. 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday July 13th in our Worship Center and you can watch it here.

What would it look like if we truly embraced the full essence of our faith, walking in transformative obedience instead of mere conformity? In today’s powerful message, Pastor Tara Beth invites us to examine our commitment to living out Jesus' teachings, especially as we continue the "Kingdom Culture" series, which explores the core of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount in Matthew. 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday July 13th in our Worship Center and you can watch it here.

We're off for a couple of weeks but wanted to bring you a special conversation that Pastor Tara Beth had on her podcast, "The Pastor's Table" featuring Pastor Greg! 

Over the next three weeks you'll hear from Tara Beth Leach and Mark Quanstrom who talk to Pastor Greg Wenhold' about his journey into ministry, unexpected new beginnings, and how his views on pastoring have shifted over his career. 

SHOW NOTES

This episode was originally published on the Pastor's Table Podcast on January 6th, 2025.

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

What happens when the path God calls you to takes unexpected turns?

In this episode, Tara Beth Leach and Mark Quanstrom sit down with Pastor Greg Wenhold to explore his unconventional and inspiring pastoral story. From being "gently led" into ministry to navigating unexpected transitions, Greg’s journey is filled with honesty, resilience, and grace.

🎙️ In This Episode:
•How Greg’s unique call to ministry unfolded over time.
•The role of faithful mentors and unexpected opportunities in shaping a pastor.
•Navigating transitions—including leaving and returning to the same church.
•Wisdom for young pastors feeling the weight of uncertainty in their calling.

What does it truly mean to be the "salt of the earth" and the "light of the world"? As Max delves into Matthew 5:13-16, we discover that being salt signifies a call to preserve goodness in a world often marred by chaos and darkness. In a relatable manner, Max reminds us that our faith isn't meant to be a private affair; instead, it should be a force that impacts those around us. He emphasizes the importance of stepping out of our comfort zones, akin to lifting a lamp from under a bowl, so that the light of Christ can shine brightly in our communities. 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday July 6th in our Worship Center and you can watch it here.

What does it truly mean to be the "salt of the earth" and the "light of the world"? Elisabeth Lectka invites us to explore these profound biblical metaphors found in the Sermon on the Mount. Join us in this journey towards deeper faith and greater impact, and don’t miss the opportunity to listen to the full message that challenges us to stay salty and shine our light brightly every day!

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday July 6th 2025in our Sanctuary and you can watch it here.

Ryan Hammer wraps up our Claimed by God series. 

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday May 24 in our Activity Center and you can watch it here.

Pastor Greg returns to the podcast to share some Biblical and historical perspective around the Sermon on the Mount. He and host Ross Cochran also discuss the significance of the Sermon on the Mount in today's world.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

What if the path to true blessing isn’t found in self-sufficiency but in our deepest dependence? In her powerful message, Tara invites us to re-examine our understanding of blessing as we delve into the Beatitudes during Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Contrary to a world that equates blessings with material success or independence, Jesus flips this notion upside down, presenting a radical vision of those who are truly blessed—like the poor in spirit and those who mourn.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.

Today’s message was originally delivered on Sunday June 29th in our Worship Center and you can watch it here.

Pastor Tara Beth returns to the podcast to share her perspective and passion about the Sermon on the Mount. She discussed the impact of culture on everything else in our world today with host Ross Cochran as well as what from the Sermon on the Mount is most relevant to us today.

SHOW NOTES

The Encounter Faith Podcast is dedicated to creating space to slow down and dive deeper into the critical conversations we’re having every week at Good Shepherd. We fundamentally believe that you cannot encounter the risen Lord unchanged, and through the replays of our Sunday Sermons and conversations with our pastors and community leaders, we are prayerfully pursuing the author and the perfecter of our faith, together.

We’d love to meet you! Email us, check out our website, and come worship with us!

We are moving forward in faith. Join us.