Trailer
Encounter is a transformative series that explores the powerful moments when people come face to face with God. Through biblical stories and modern-day testimonies, this series reveals how encounters with Jesus change lives, bringing healing, hope, and transformation. Host Karl Faase brings stories from Africa, UK, North America and Australia, revealing how Jesus comes to those on the margins of society, those seeking truth, and those desperate for grace. With insightful commentary from theologians like Lynn Cohick and Michael Bird, along with personal reflections from guests such as Pete Greig, Sheridan Voysey and Justin Brierley, Encounter invites you to reflect on how these timeless truths resonate today and consider how you too might experience an encounter with God.
3 mins
Episode 01 - Encounter
Encounters with God can transform lives in profound ways, sometimes subtly, sometimes dramatically. When the Angel appeared to Mary, announcing that she would bear a child, her entire world shifted. This divine encounter is a powerful example of how God’s interventions alter the course of history. While Mary's experience may seem extraordinary, throughout Scripture and even today, encounters with God are not uncommon. In this episode, David Bennett, Genevieve Clay-Smith, and Martin Shaw share their own remarkable stories of meeting God. Additionally, Lynn Cohick, Michael Bird, Pete Greig, and Justin Brierley reflect on the significance of encountering the divine, offering insights into how these moments shape faith, both in biblical times and in the present.
28 mins
Episode 02 - Outsider
Jesus extends an invitation to everyone, regardless of their background, status, or past. When He called Levi, a tax collector, in Mark 2:13-17, it was a clear demonstration that no one is beyond the reach of His love and grace. Although Jesus often challenges people to change their behavior or loyalty, His heart is always to welcome those who feel like outsiders. In this episode, Aaron McKitrick, Alanzo Paul, and Taiha Lee McKitrick share their experiences of encountering Jesus' inclusive love. Lynn Cohick, Michael Bird, Pete Greig and Sheridan Voysey also explore the deep significance of Jesus' open door, particularly for those on the margins.
28 mins
Episode 03 - Seeker
Throughout history, people have searched for God, yearning to understand the divine and how it relates to their lives. Nicodemus, a Pharisee in John 3:1-7, approached Jesus with deep questions about faith, seeking clarity. Jesus’ response revealed that faith is not about a set of rules or traditions but about personal transformation—a new birth, a complete renewal. In this episode, Heather Tomlinson, Kanishka Raffel, and Pete Greig discuss this profound truth. New Testament experts Lynn Cohick and Michael Bird, alongside Justin Brierley, also share insights on the significance of spiritual rebirth and what it means to seek God in every age.
28 mins
Episode 04 - Unexpected
Nature can reveal much about God, but creation itself is not divine. In a world increasingly focused on the environment, many people look for spiritual significance in the natural world, leading to movements like Wicca or New Age practices. Yet, in Luke 8:22-25, when Jesus calms the storm, He demonstrates not only knowledge of the weather but His divine power over it. In this episode, Paul Kingsnorth, Michelle Cairelli, and Pete Greig reflect on the significance of this miraculous event. New Testament scholars Lynn Cohick and Michael Bird also provide insight into how Jesus' authority over nature reveals His divine identity.
28 mins
Episode 05 - Excluded
Across the world, countless individuals feel excluded, pushed to the margins of society, longing for acceptance. In Matthew 8:1-4, Jesus reaches out to heal a leper, offering not just physical restoration but also a profound sense of belonging. In this episode, Sam Wachiuri, Sheridan Voysey, and Ken & Wacuka Kamau share their perspectives on those living on the edges of society and the transformative power of love and inclusion. Lynn Cohick and Michael Bird also explore how this gospel encounter speaks to both the need for healing and the restoration of community.
28 mins
Episode 06 - Treasure
Money and wealth in Western cultures often become more than just a means of exchange—they can become rival gods, capturing our hearts and loyalty. In Mark 10:17-23, Jesus' conversation with the rich young ruler reveals the deeper issue of misplaced allegiance, challenging us to consider what truly holds our devotion. In this episode, Simon Pillar, Max Jeganathan, Courtney Delks, Carinne Henderson, and Pete Greig discuss the spiritual implications of wealth and generosity. Lynn Cohick and Michael Bird also dive into this gospel encounter, unpacking its lessons on faith, treasure, and where our hearts are truly invested.
28 mins
Episode 07 - Desperate
Desperation is a reality for many, whether due to medical, social, or psychological struggles. In Luke 8:40-48, when Jesus heals the woman suffering from a chronic bleed, He not only cures her physical ailment but also restores her dignity and place within the community. In this episode, Andrew Browning, Grace Chwezi, Elisifa Olairs Lesikar, and Simon Pillar share their thoughts on the deep needs people face today and the healing power of Jesus. New Testament experts Lynn Cohick and Michael Bird also explore the significance of this encounter, shedding light on its timeless message of restoration and hope.
28 mins
Episode 08 - Cost
Throughout His ministry, Jesus warned His followers to expect opposition and persecution. While many Western nations, shaped by Christian values, have grown accustomed to religious freedom, this is not the experience of believers in many parts of the world today. In Mark 10:35-40, when James and John ask for places of honor, Jesus reminds them of the cost of discipleship. In this episode, Ladan Nouri, Peter Abdullah, Joseph Wario Guyo, and Pete Greig discuss the realities of faith under pressure. New Testament scholars Lynn Cohick and Michael Bird also provide insight into this gospel encounter and the enduring relevance of Jesus' message on the cost of following Him.
28 mins
Episode 09 - Grace
The cross, a globally recognized symbol of Christianity, represents both the depth of sacrifice and the unmerited gift of grace. In Luke 23:32-43, the thief on the cross experiences this grace firsthand, even in his final moments. The brutality of the crucifixion points to the weight of sin and humanity’s need for redemption. In this episode, Ken Duncan, Lisa Multa, Max Jeganathan, Dwayne Jack, and Justin Brierley reflect on the profound meaning of the cross and its message of grace. New Testament scholars Lynn Cohick and Michael Bird also unpack this powerful gospel encounter, exploring how grace is extended to all, regardless of their past.
28 mins
Episode 10 - Redemption
Jesus’ death on the cross was not the end of the story. His bodily resurrection, as witnessed by Mary Magdalene in John 20:11-18, powerfully demonstrates that death is not final and that sin has been defeated. This encounter reveals that no one is beyond the reach of God’s redemption. In this episode, Carlos Campo, Jerry Pattengale, and Pete Greig reflect on the significance of the resurrection and its impact on our lives today. New Testament scholars Lynn Cohick and Michael Bird also delve into this pivotal gospel moment, exploring the depth of Christ's redemptive power.
28 mins
Encounter is a series that delves into the life-changing moments when individuals encounter God, both in the Bible and in modern times. In each episode, host Karl Faase unpacks a unique story from Scripture, highlighting how an encounter with Jesus brings healing, transformation, and purpose to those on the margins of society, those seeking truth, and those desperate for grace. From Mary’s life-altering meeting with the Angel to the woman healed of a long-term illness, these stories reveal that God continues to meet people in unexpected ways. Each story is reflected upon by a diverse group of voices—ranging from theologians and pastors to cultural commentators and those who have had their own divine encounters.
Alongside moving personal reflections, renowned New Testament scholars Lynn Cohick and Michael Bird bring deep insight into these biblical encounters, exploring their significance and relevance for today’s world. With compelling interviews from figures like Pete Greig, Sheridan Voysey, Max Jeganathan, and Justin Brierley, the series engages with themes of grace, redemption, and the cost of following Jesus. Whether it’s the rich young ruler, the thief on the cross, or Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb, Encounter invites viewers to reflect on how these transformative moments can still speak to our lives today.
Aaron McKitrick
Aaron started riding a motorbike when he was 16, and by 22 he really embraced all that riding had to offer. Part of this was entry into the biker clubs and that is when he connected to the Bondslaves. After coming to faith, he founded Armory Church and ministers to the outlaw and motorcycle community.
Alanzo Paul
Alanzo has theological degrees from Oxford and the University of Toronto. He constantly aims to use his training to impact people on a personal level, particularly the younger generations. Alanzo leads OCCA’s Reboot Team which serves to engage the youth and challenges them to join in the larger conversation on the intersection of faith and reason.
Andrew Browning
Dr Andrew Browning AM is an Australian-trained obstetrician, gynaecologist and senior fistula surgeon. In 2001, he joined Dr Catherine Hamlin in her first fistula hospital in Ethiopia and five years later took charge of the first regional Hamlin Fistula hospital. In 2009 he started his own charity, the Barbara May Foundation, to take the work that the Hamlins had started out of Ethiopia to the rest of Africa, and focus more on fistula prevention. Today, Andrew divides his time between Australia and Africa. He was named as a Member of the Order of Australia in 2019 in recognition of his outstanding contributions to improving maternal health care for women in poverty.
Carinne Henderson
In 2020 Carinne Henderson was in an almost fatal motorcycle accident with an impaired driver that should've left her dead. Miraculously, through years of therapy, training, love, and prayer, Carinne is making incredible progress and showing people what it truly means to compete: doing what God calls you to do, even when it's hard.
Carlos Campo
Former president at Regent University and Ashland University, began as CEO of the Museum of the Bible in DC in June of 2024. Vice chairman for the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference.
Courtney Delks
Courtney is one of Indiana’s basketball stars, as Miss Basketball (2010) and a standout at Purdue University. She joined her husband in founding Compete Training Academy (CTA) and began training hoopers and adults to COMPETE every day. She enjoys being a wife and a mother to her two kids, spending time outdoors, and reading.
David Bennett
Dr. David Bennett recently completed his doctorate (DPhil) in theology at Oxford University where he now works as a postdoctoral research fellow in the Theology and Religion Faculty. His thesis is in the process of being published, tentatively entitled, Queering the Queer: A Theological Ethics of Same-Sex Desire and Gay Celibacy in Contemporary Anglican Thought. He specialises in the relationship between the Trinity, Christian ethics, patristics, queer theology, discipleship and contemporary Anglican theology, especially the role of desire in knowing God. For two months of the year, he is a theologian in residence at Reality San Francisco and Church of the City, New York. He is also Associate Research Fellow at Wycliffe Hall.
Dwayne Jack
From growing up in a single-parent family on a council estate to overcoming homelessness, addiction, and a tumultuous life marked by multiple near-death experiences, Dwayne Nathan Jack has emerged as a beacon of hope and transformation. His journey through 17 years in and out of prison, battling substance misuse, and facing immense personal challenges, has shaped him into the resilient and inspiring mentor he is today. Now an author and public figure, Dwayne works with some of the UK’s biggest institutions, including HM Prison & Probation Service, Department for Work and Pensions, and National Citizen Service, using his firsthand experiences to empower others.
Elisifa Olairs Lesikar
Eli suffered a fistula during a childbirth and struggled with it for many years. She eventually met a doctor who was able to tell her about Maternity Africa and after a simple procedure, she was completely healed. Eli represents millions of African women who suffer in villages, without knowing there is hope and healing available to them through the work of doctors like Andrew Browning.
Genevieve Clay-Smith
As the co-founder, former CEO and current executive director of Bus Stop Films, Genevieve is dedicated to helping build a sustainable social enterprise that provides education, training and mentorship opportunities for people from diverse and marginalised communities, so that they can learn about and be involved in the film industry. As the co-founder and non-executive director of Taste Creative, Genevieve is dedicated to the creative excellence of our company and our ability to be moving ahead of trends. She’s also committed to involving students from Bus Stop Films in gaining work experience and employment opportunities on our commercial film sets.
Grace Chwezi
Grace is a Social Worker and her role is to create community awareness around the condition of a fistula and the opportunity for treatment at Maternity Africa. She works across villages in Tanzania, seeking out women who are suffering and bringing them to the hospital to get the help that is available to them.
Heather Tomlinson
Heather is a freelance journalist with an interest in apologetics and helping the secular world to understand Christianity and its values. She has worked on The Guardian and The Independent on Sunday, and now writes freelance for publications including Christianity magazine. She has also worked within the NHS for mental health services.
Jerry Pattengale
Jerry Pattengale is a scholar, researcher, author and speaker, and is the University Professor at Indiana Wesleyan University. He was one of two founding scholars and leaders of the Museum of the Bible, which opened in Washington, DC in 2017, and he was the museum’s Executive Director of Education until 2018. He obtained his doctorate from Miami University, has authored numerous books and his articles have appeared in the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Christianity Today and the Chicago Tribune among other publications.
Joseph Wairo Guyo
Joseph is a Gospel Apprentice and evangelist working in Marsabit in North West Kenya. He works in Sunday Schools, with teens and across more than 60 secondary and primary schools. In this region of the world, there is opposition and persecution for those who follow Jesus and yet, people like Joseph still serve Jesus with faith and courage!
Justin Brierley
Justin is a freelance writer, speaker and broadcaster who has become known for creating dialogues between Christians and non-Christians. Justin is passionate about creating conversations around faith, science, theology and culture. Through creative use of podcast, radio, print, video and social media, he aims to showcase an intellectually compelling case for Christianity, while taking seriously the questions and objections of sceptics.
Kanishka Raffel
Kanishka Raffel was born in London to Sri Lankan parents and was raised as a Buddhist. While studying law at Sydney University a friend gave him a copy of The Gospel according to John and he subsequently became a Christian. Kanishka Raffel was ordained deacon in 1996 in Sydney and priest in 1996 in Canberra-Goulburn. He has served in various roles before being elected as Archbishop of Sydney in 2021.
Ken and Wacuka Kamau
Ken and Wacuka Kamau serve in Sydney Australia as Pastors and Missionaries from Kenya. While ministering at a church in Africa, they came across Sam and were part of his remarkable journey to faith in Jesus.
Ken Duncan
Ken Duncan is well known as the pioneer of Limited Edition Photographic Art in Australia. Ken is truly passionate about his craft. Always striving for excellence, he travels extensively throughout the world in search of the stunning panoramic landscapes – or Panographs – for which he is best known. Recognised internationally as a gifted and prolific landscape photographer, Ken still chooses to describe himself as “… an average photographer, with a great God – merely an interpreter of God’s creation”.
Ladan Nouri
Ladan works in the UK with Elam Ministries but prior to re-settling in the UK, she lived and ministered in Iran. Growing up in a Muslim family, Ladan found faith in Jesus when she was invited along to a Christian church in her 20s. She experienced opposition and was even jailed for leading a house church while in Iran.
Lisa Multa
Lisa grew up with her family at Kungkayunti (Brown’s Bore), an outstation 1.5hrs drive, southwest of Haasts Bluff in Central Australia. She is an acclaimed artist and shared her experience of the cross at Memory Mountain being built.
Lynn Cohick
Lynn Cohick serves as distinguished professor of New Testament and director of Houston Theological Seminary at Houston Christian University in Texas. She is a professor, teacher and speaker, and has taught in numerous cities and countries, including Australia and Kenya. Lynn received her PHD in New Testament and Christian Origins from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA. Her written works include 'Women in the World of the Earliest Christians' and 'Christian Women in the Patristic World', commentaries on Ephesians, Philippians, and Romans, and contributing to two recently released study bibles with specific emphasis on justice issues and women in the Bible, respectively.
Martin Shaw
Dr Martin Shaw is a writer, storyteller and mythologist - best known for his award-winning books. He is a wilderness rites of passage guide and spent four years living in a tent. He also founded courses at Stanford University. For nearly 35 years he rejected Christianity, feeling from a young age that the evangelical faith of his childhood didn’t fit with his deeply artistic soul but changed his mind after a remarkable encounter with God.
Max Jeganathan
Max is a former lawyer and political adviser, educated at the Australian National University and the University of Oxford and is undertaking a PhD in Law. He has spoken in universities, political institutions and businesses including Samsung, Lego, Goldman Sachs and Amazon. Prior to this career, he and his family arrived in Australia as Sri Lankan refugees - having narrowly escaped death from a paramilitary gang in their native country.
Michael Bird
Michael Bird is a theologian and New Testament Scholar. He is the Academic Dean and a lecturer in theology at Ridley College in Melbourne, Australia.. He has written and edited over thirty books in the areas of Historical Jesus, the Gospels, St Paul and Biblical Theology. His book, ‘Evangelical Theology: A Biblical and Systematic Introduction’, is an attempt to develop a truly gospel-based theology that promotes the advance of the gospel in Christian life and thought.
Michelle Cairelli
Born to a mother who was 15, Michelle Cairelli now serves as the Executive Principal of the Young Parents College, connected to St Philip's Christian College in NSW. She became a Christian as an adult after a spiritual journey and experienced so much love and acceptance. She is now able to transform the lives of teen parents with love, grace, and education.
Paul Kingsnorth
English writer who lives in the west of Ireland. He is a former deputy editor of The Ecologist and a co-founder of the Dark Mountain Project. Alongside his prolific writing, he has had a long spiritual journey that eventually pulled him (reluctantly) towards Christianity. He was baptised in 2021 and feels like the ache in his life is gone and he has found the one true thing he had always been looking for.
Pete Greig
Pete Greig is the bewildered founder of the global 24-7 Prayer movement, the Senior Pastor of Emmaus Rd church, and a director of Waverley Abbey. He is also an award-winning author and host of the Lectio365 daily devotional, used by more than 250,000 people. He writes, speaks, mentors and pioneers.
Peter Abdullah
From Marsabit in North West Kenya, living his Christian faith under pressure and persecution. He came to faith through a missionary who shared the Gospel. When he was at a gathering, he witnessed someone healed and that convinced him to follow Jesus personally - at great cost to him!
Sam Wachiuri
Sam left home when he was 12 years old and grew up on the streets of Nairobi, Kenya. He was fending for himself, homeless and eventually became involved in gangs. After a remarkable encounter with God and finding faith, Sam is now a Lead Pastor and in full time ministry.
Sheridan Voysey
Sheridan is a writer, speaker, broadcaster, and author of popular books like The Making of Us, Resurrection Year, Resilient and Unseen Footprints. He is an Australian, now living in the UK and founder of The Friendship Lab.
Simon Pillar
Simon is a principal in a private equity firm and lives outside of Oxford. In the depths of a rising career, Simon found himself growing in his Christian faith and considered a move into church ministry. After a time of prayer and discernment, he was given the advice: “Stay in business for the glory of God" and he has done this ever since as a patron for the Gospel.
Taiha Lee McKitrick
Taiha was introduced to a Ouji board at a young age and it began a spiritual quest. By her twenties, she was described as a 'white witch' - part of the New Age occult but always wanting to bring 'light'. One day, she stumbled upon a YouTube clip and she began to re-think the world she was immersed in. She encountered God in surprising and real ways while reading scripture.