Athens Church

In this message, Joel Thomas discusses how our trials, temptations, and tension shape us—and they have a way of revealing who or what we're truly depending on.

In this message, Joel Thomas discusses how, during trials, we tend to ask God to change what's going on around us. But God is more interested in transforming what's going on in us.

In a world that constantly pushes us toward comfort, convenience, and the path of least resistance, Jesus invites us into something deeper—something harder. But what if the hard path is actually the best one? What if growth, purpose, and true joy are found not in avoiding struggle, but in embracing it? In this message, we'll explore what it means to choose hard—to intentionally walk the narrow road of faith, obedience, and sacrifice. Joel Thomas presents a message to help us discover that choosing hard isn't about being reckless—it's about being courageous. And it's often the very place where God does His greatest work in us.

In this message, Andy Lowry invites us to discover a bigger view of God—one that moves beyond the version we can easily understand or control. As we explore God's greatness and the way he chose to come near through Jesus, we're reminded that his love is deeper, his grace is greater, and his presence is more personal than we often realize. No matter where you're starting from, this message offers an invitation to trust the God who is bigger than your questions, fears, and circumstances.Scripture to reflect on: Nehemiah 9:5-6Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise.  You alone are the Lord.  You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them.  You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you.Psalm 104:1-2  Praise the LORD, O my soul! O LORD my God, you are very great!You are clothed with splendor and majesty, covering yourself with light as with a garment,stretching out the heavens like a tentIsaiah 40:25-26To whom then will you compare me? Or who is my equal?  says the Holy One.  Lift your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these?  He who brings out the starry host one by one, and calls them each by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing.Job 38:3-5Brace yourself mere man; I will question you and you shall answer me.  “Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth?  Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions?  Surely you know!  Who stretched a measuring line across it?  Romans 11:33-36Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!  How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!  Who has known the mind of the Lord?  Or who has been his counselor?  Who has given to God that God should repay him?  For from him and through him and to him are all things.  To him be the glory forever! Amen.1 Timothy 6:15-16God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see.  To him be honor and might forever. Amen.John 1:1-5In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.  Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.  In him was life, and that life was the light of humanity.  The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.Colossians 1:15-17He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.  For by him all things were created:  things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible. Whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities, all things were created by him and for him.  He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.  Revelation 4:10-11They lay their crowns before the throne and say: You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.Link to the bulletin for further reflection: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hBONx9724sjQbkEp9XuBwX-A4-T_WE7P/view

In this message, Sean Seay reminds us that while parents have the greatest influence on their children's faith, they were never meant to carry that responsibility alone. God designed the church to come alongside families with encouragement, meaningful relationships, and practical support that helps faith grow over time. Whether you're raising kids, investing in the next generation, or simply looking for a place to belong, this message is an invitation to discover the difference community can make.

In this message, Josh Bayne explores the powerful impact our words, attitudes, and actions have on the people closest to us. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, mentor, or friend, the way you communicate can either build confidence and connection or create distance and discouragement. Discover how choosing encouragement over criticism can help the people in your life feel seen, valued, and deeply loved—and why that may be one of the greatest gifts you can give.

In this message, Stephen Sowell challenges parents to look beyond behavior and focus on what matters most—who their children are becoming. Through practical insights and timeless wisdom, he shares how parents can help their kids build a strong sense of identity, purpose, and resilience. Discover how guiding a child's heart can have a lasting impact far beyond their current actions.

In this message, Josh Bayne unpacks why so many of us feel stretched thin and what that means for our relationships. Drawing from Daniel's story, he offers a fresh perspective on navigating work, family, and the pressures of everyday life. This message may help you identify what deserves your best time and attention.

In this message, Sean Seay talks about one of the biggest traps parents fall into: trying to control what only God can change. Whether you're raising kids, hoping to one day, or simply trying to influence the next generation well, this message offers practical encouragement for letting go of pressure and leaning into prayer. You don't have to parent perfectly to faithfully love, lead, and pray for the people God has placed in your life.

In this message, Charles Ficken talks about the pressure so many of us feel to prove ourselves and measure up. Looking at Galatians 5 in the Bible, he explores the freedom Jesus offers from constantly performing for approval and the invitation to live like your worth is already secure. If you've ever felt exhausted trying to be enough, this message is for you.

In this message, Clay Scroggins talks about why so many of us feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and stuck carrying more than we were meant to. Looking at Jesus' invitation in Matthew 11, he explores the kind of rest that goes deeper than just slowing down. If life feels heavy right now, this message is a reminder that you don't have to carry it alone.

In this message, Stephen Sowell explores the pressure so many of us feel—that no matter what we have, it's never enough. Using a powerful story from Jesus' life, he challenges the constant striving and offers a different way to live, one marked by peace and contentment. Instead of chasing more, what if real satisfaction comes from trusting you already have what you need?

In this message, Josh Bayne explores the question we're all asking: is there anything better ahead? While life can feel exhausting and uncertain, he suggests what we're really facing is a crisis of hope. Challenging common ideas about heaven, Josh unpacks Jesus' promise of a restored future where everything broken is made new. If you've been wondering whether your best days are behind you, this message offers a reason to believe they're still to come.

In this message, Stephen Sowell unpacks how the “headline” we believe about our lives shapes the story we live. So many of us chase being noticed, only to find it never fully satisfies our deepest desire to be known and loved. Through the story of Peter in the Bible, we see the good news Jesus offers: that we are already fully known and fully loved by God. The invitation is to step out of our false story and into the greater story He's been telling all along.

In this message, Josh Bayne kicks off the “Good News” series by exploring a question we all wrestle with: what do we do with the weight of our past? We spend so much time trying to cover, fix, or outrun our mistakes, only to find they still follow us into the future. But what if the solution isn't something you do, but something that's already been done for you? This message invites you to discover the good news that through Jesus, your past doesn't have to define your future.

On Easter at Athens Church, Sean Seay explores how the "scary headlines" on our devices have become the primary lens through which we view our lives. He reveals how the resurrection of Jesus serves as the ultimate counter-narrative, offering a path to restore our fractured world and our individual peace of mind. Learn how to stop letting negative notifications define your reality and start living through the lens of the greatest news in history.

In this message, Clay Scroggins explores the universal struggle of what to do with the mistakes we wish we could erase. Whether you're exhausted from trying to hide a secret or you feel like your past has become your permanent identity, this talk offers a way out of the cycle of shame. Discover why your worst moment doesn't have to disqualify you, but can actually be the very thing that finally opens you up to a life of genuine freedom and fresh starts.

In this message, Stephen Sowell explores how the life of David reveals the path to living a heart "fully alive" rather than just going through the motions. He explains that while we often try to numb difficult feelings like fear or sadness, doing so actually blocks our ability to experience true joy and connection. By looking at Psalm 23, Stephen shows how we can find genuine peace and "true gladness" in any life circumstance by trusting in God's constant presence.

In this message, Sean Seay looks at the story of David to show that even the most legendary leaders deal with deep fear and anxiety. We're breaking down the old myth that "being tough" means hiding your feelings and instead discovering a healthier way to process stress. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by life or just looking for more peace, join us to learn how to move from feeling stuck to living with a heart that is truly alive.

In this week's message, Charles Ficken looks at a painful moment in the life of David to show that sadness isn't weakness—it's evidence that something mattered. Through the story of David, we see that a heart like David's is courageous enough to feel loss instead of explaining it away. When we numb our sadness, we also numb our capacity to love, connect, and experience joy. But when we bring our sadness to God and to others, it becomes a pathway to comfort and a deeper, more alive heart.

In this week's message, Clay Scroggins kicks off our new series on David by asking a simple but powerful question: what is God actually looking for? Looking at 1 Samuel 16:7, we see that while people focus on the outside, God looks at the heart. If you've ever felt exhausted trying to be better or wondering if you're doing enough, this message is for you. God isn't asking for a polished version of you — He's inviting the real you into a deeper, more honest relationship with Him.

In this message, Josh Bayne talks about what to do when someone hurts you — and you can't seem to move on. We've all carried wounds from betrayal, disappointment, or words that still echo. But what if you don't have to keep carrying them? This message offers a clear path toward forgiveness and the freedom that comes with it.

In this message, Josh Bayne challenges us to pay attention to the subtle habits and patterns that shape the direction of our relationships. With practical insight and clear next steps, Josh shows how being proactive today can protect what we value tomorrow. This message will help you strengthen your relationships by addressing the little things before they become big problems.

In the message, Josh Bayne challenges us to consider where the choices we're making today are actually leading. Long before life falls apart, we find ourselves on paths that slowly shape our future—for better or worse. This message invites you to be proactive about the direction you're heading and offers hope that a better path is always possible.

In this message, Sean Seay reminds us that we are all wired to celebrate and that the greatest joy comes when we celebrate what heaven celebrates. On Celebration Sunday, Athens Church marks 21 years of life change, faith, and impact in our city, reflecting on God's heart for the lost. This message celebrates salvation, baptism, and new life in Christ while honoring all that God has done—and continues to do—through Athens Church.

In this message, Sean Seay invites us to pause and reflect at the start of a new year. Instead of focusing on resolutions, he shares a meaningful perspective from the Bible on being rooted in love, a foundation that can shape our lives over time.

In this message, Bob Lotich speaks to the frustration of doing the right things and still feeling stuck. Using Galatians 6:9, he shares why slow progress doesn't mean failure and how the payoff often shows up differently than we expect. This conversation is a reminder to keep moving forward, stay faithful in the unseen moments, and trust that your effort isn't wasted—even when it feels that way.

In this message, Bob and Linda Lotich dive deeper into the practical steps we can take to experience financial breakthrough. They unpack what that looks like in everyday decisions with money. From earning, saving, and giving to accountability, generosity, and unity in relationships, this message offers clear, faith-filled guidance for taking wise next steps and trusting God to move.

In this message, Bob and Linda Lotich kick off a new series called Money Talks, where they share their journey from financial pressure to freedom, showing how humility, dependence on God, and faithful obedience led to breakthrough. Rooted in 2 Chronicles 20, they remind us that while God fights our battles, He invites us to take steps of faith and obedience. This message challenges us to trust God with our finances, take practical action, and expect Him to move.

In this message, Sean Seay reminds us that Christmas is about more than traditions or perfection—it's about Jesus coming for imperfect people. He shares that Jesus didn't come to judge us, but to rescue us and show us how deeply God loves us. And this Christmas, we're invited to receive that love and allow Jesus to lead every part of our lives.

In this message, Stephen Sowell explores the chaos that so often surrounds our families at Christmas and the deep longing all of us have for peace. Through Mary's story in Luke 1, we discover that peace isn't found by controlling our circumstances, but by surrendering them to God. The Bible recounts Jesus' family tree - a lineage filled with outsiders, messiness, scandals, and deeply flawed people. From the lives of these complicated people the Savior of the world descended. Jesus entered history to bring hope, grace, and redemption, not only to His family tree, but to the line of every family.

In this message, Clay Scroggins looks at the name Immanuel: God With Us in our Family Tree series and unpacks a life-giving truth: God doesn't wait for our lives or families to get cleaned up before He shows up. He steps into the mess with us. The Bible recounts Jesus' family tree - a lineage filled with outsiders, messiness, scandals, and deeply flawed people. From the lives of these complicated people, the Savior of the world descended. Jesus entered history to bring hope, grace, and redemption, not only to His family tree, but to the line of every family.

In this week's message, Josh Bayne dove into the story of Philip and the Ethiopian, and explained that, when we're willing to be interruptible and intentional, God can use us to guide others to life in Jesus. What is the church, really? Have you ever wondered when it all began and what it was meant to be from the start? In this Sunday morning teaching series, we'll journey through the book of Acts to see how the church was born and how the movement of Jesus spread across the world. Together, we'll discover that the church isn't just something we go to, it's something we are. 

In this week's message, Sean Seay continued our series, Acts: The Church on the Move, by challenging us to pray for courage and boldness, just as the first church did. In this Sunday morning teaching series, we'll journey through the book of Acts to see how the church was born and how the movement of Jesus spread across the world. Together, we'll discover that the church isn't just something we go to, it's something we are. 

In this week's message, Clay Scroggins continued our series Acts: The Church on the Move by explaining what the early Church was all about: staying close to people, serving those around you, and sharing what you have. What is the church, really? Have you ever wondered when it all began and what it was meant to be from the start? In this Sunday morning teaching series, we'll journey through the book of Acts to see how the church was born and how the movement of Jesus spread across the world. Together, we'll discover that the church isn't just something we go to, it's something we are. 

In this week's message, Sean Seay kicked off our new series Acts: The Church on the Move by walking through the moment that started the movement of the Church, and challenging us that we are key players in God's worldwide movement. What is the church, really? Have you ever wondered when it all began and what it was meant to be from the start? In this Sunday morning teaching series, we'll journey through the book of Acts to see how the church was born and how the movement of Jesus spread across the world. Together, we'll discover that the church isn't just something we go to, it's something we are. 

In this week's message, Bronson Crawford and Stephen Sowell lead us in ways we can show love to those in the Athens community during Athens, I Love You® season. Athens, I Love You® is a season of generosity that shows the love of God to the people of our city in tangible ways by partnering with nonprofits who are making a difference. Join us as we Love Serve Give!

In this week's message, Josh Bayne concluded our Chasing the Good Life series by challenging us: What do you need to sacrifice to follow Jesus instead of the good life? We're all chasing something. From childhood dreams to adult goals, we're wired to pursue “the good life.” But what if the life we're chasing is actually exhausting us instead of satisfying us?

In this week's message, Sean Seay continued our Chasing the Good Life series by reminding us that while all of us have a picture of the life we want — more money, more love, more experiences — the chase often leaves us exhausted, envious, and discontent. We're all chasing something. From childhood dreams to adult goals, we're wired to pursue “the good life.” But what if the life we're chasing is actually exhausting us instead of satisfying us?

In this message, Clay Scroggins continues our Chasing the Good Life series, showing why denial keeps us stuck and honesty is the first step toward real freedom. He'll challenge us to face what we've been avoiding, invite God's grace in, and start living the abundant life Jesus promises. We're all chasing something. From childhood dreams to adult goals, we're wired to pursue “the good life.” But what if the life we're chasing is actually exhausting us instead of satisfying us?

In this week's message, Josh Bayne unpacks Jesus' words about greed and possessions in a way that just might change how you see your stuff and your life. We're all chasing something. From childhood dreams to adult goals, we're wired to pursue “the good life.” But what if the life we're chasing is actually exhausting us instead of satisfying us?

In this week's message, Clay Scroggins continues the Chasing the Good Life series with another big question: What if the thing keeping us from the life we want isn't our circumstances, but our sense of entitlement? We're all chasing something. From childhood dreams to adult goals, we're wired to pursue “the good life.” But what if the life we're chasing is actually exhausting us instead of satisfying us?

In this week's message, Josh Bayne unpacks how to build a failure-proof identity that isn't tied to success or failure, but to something unshakable. We're all chasing something. From childhood dreams to adult goals, we're wired to pursue “the good life.” But what if the life we're chasing is actually exhausting us instead of satisfying us?

In this message, Sean Seay explores how culture tells us the good life should be fast and easy, but the abundant life Jesus offers, the life that truly satisfies, is slow, faithful, and lasting. We're all chasing something. From childhood dreams to adult goals, we're wired to pursue “the good life.” But what if the life we're chasing is actually exhausting us instead of satisfying us? 

In this message, Josh Bayne explores how, instead of endlessly climbing ladders that won't deliver, we're invited to bring our desires and restlessness to Jesus, who offers lasting fulfillment and purpose. We're all chasing something. From childhood dreams to adult goals, we're wired to pursue “the good life.” But what if the life we're chasing is actually exhausting us instead of satisfying us? 

We're all chasing something. From childhood dreams to adult goals, we're wired to pursue “the good life.” But what if the life we're chasing is actually exhausting us instead of satisfying us? In this message, Sean Seay explores why the version of success our culture promotes always feels just out of reach, and how Jesus offers us something better: a rich and satisfying life we don't have to chase to earn.

In this message, Stephen Sowell explores how true transformation often begins with a simple act: investing in your relationships and extending an invitation that could change someone's eternity. In this 4-part series, we unpack powerful principles that can help you find, build, and keep the kind of friendships your soul actually needs. Because great friendships aren't just nice—they're necessary.

In a world that feels more divided than ever, what if disagreement is actually the key to deeper, more meaningful friendships? In this message, Joel Thomas explores how Scripture invites us to move toward each other with curiosity, courage, and Christlike love. In this 4-part series, we unpack powerful principles that can help you find, build, and keep the kind of friendships your soul actually needs. Because great friendships aren't just nice—they're necessary.

In this message, Joel Thomas explores how valuing independence over connection can isolate us from the people who help us grow, and how even King David's greatest failure stemmed from acting alone. True strength isn't standing on your own; it's embracing interdependence, the way God designed us to live. In this 4-part series, we unpack powerful principles that can help you find, build, and keep the kind of friendships your soul actually needs. Because great friendships aren't just nice—they're necessary.