Piney Grove's Podcast

On Graduate Sunday 2026, Pastor Jason Tate walks through Psalm 1 and its timeless call to be firmly rooted in God's Word. In a culture filled with competing voices, shifting values, and deceptive influences, believers are reminded that true blessing, stability, and purpose are found in delighting in and meditating on the truth of Scripture. Using the imagery of a tree planted by streams of water, this message challenges graduates—and every believer—to resist the draw of the world, stand firm in Christ, and build a life that glorifies God. Whether you are entering a new season of life or simply seeking to follow Christ more faithfully, this sermon offers both encouragement and a clear call to be rooted in the Word.

As the Witnesses series comes to a close, Pastor Jason examines the call of Christ to carry the gospel to the end of the earth. From our neighborhoods to the nations, believers are called to live on mission for the glory of God. This message culminates with a look at Revelation 7:9–12, where people from every tribe, tongue, and nation gather around God's throne in worship—the ultimate fulfillment of the church's missionary task.

In this 4th sermon of the Witnesses series, Pastor Jason brings a message from Acts 1:4-11, reminding the church that every believer is called to be active in organized mission efforts in their local community. 

In the third sermon of the Witnesses series, Pastor Jason focuses on the “Jerusalem” aspect of Acts 1:8 through an exposition of Matthew 28:16–20, challenging believers to live on mission as witnesses right where God has placed them.

On this Mother's Day, Pastor Jason brings a message from Deuteronomy chapter 6 dealing with the calling of all believers to raise up the next generation in the ways of the Lord. 

Pastor Jason begins the sermon series "Witnesses" on the calling of the church to "Jerusalem (Here), Judea, Samaria (There), and the ends of the Earth (Everywhere).  This series is based around Acts 1:8.  Today's message is a call for compassion, love and unity in the body.  The message comes from Colossians 3:12-17. 

In a special episode of the Piney Grove Podcast, we hear from Pastor Jason all the way back from August of 2003. Special thanks to Pastor Mike Scott for preserving this cassette tape over the years.  

Pastor Jason wraps up the series through the book of Philippians with a look at Paul's "signature" as a reminder of themes found throughout the letter.  Special thanks to Thomas Barber, Thomas Hardison, Jacob Meetze, and Loyd Jones for preaching messages in this series.

Thomas Barber preaches from Philippians 4:10-20, highlighting our calling to be content in all circumstances in the work of Christ.  

On this Resurrection Sunday, Pastor Jason shares from 1 Corinthians 15 on the resurrection of Jesus and how it is the cornerstone of all of the gospel! 

On this Palm Sunday, Brother Steven preaches on the Triumphal Entry of Jesus from Luke 19 (as well as this account in Matthew, Mark, and John) and how Jesus is the True Prophet, the Final Priest, and King of Kings.  

Thomas Barber preaches from Ezekiel 37:1-14 (The Valley of Dry Bones) and reminds the church that all of man is dead in sin and in need of salvation.

On a special day for Piney Grove, Pastor Jason give a "trial sermon" from Philippians Chapter 4:1-9 as the church votes to call him as Senior Pastor.  The church is encouraged to foster unity, fix their hearts and minds on Jesus, and reminded that Jesus is always with his children. 

Former Piney Grove Student and current Associate Pastor of First Baptist Church Plymouth, NC - Loyd Jones - challenges us this morning from Philippians 3:12-21.  Loyd encourages believers to live looking ahead with heavenly vision rather than looking toward the things of the world.  

In this message Thomas Hardison preaches from Philippians 3:1-11 with a challenge and reminder that salvation is by faith alone in Christ. 

This week in Philippians Pastor Jason looks at Chapter 2 verses 19-30 and highlights the importance of Discipleship. 

Jacob Meetze continues our journey through the book of Philippians with a sermon from Chapter 2:12-18. 

As we continue working through the book of Philippians, today we are in Chapter 2:1-11.  Pastor Jason highlights the importance of the Hypostatic Union, and how Jesus is the ultimate example of humility. 

Thomas Barber delivers a message from Philippians Chapter 1 verses 27-30 reminding believers that our true citizenship is in heaven and in Christ.  

On this Sanctity of Life Sunday, we hear a message from Dr. Steven Manning, a physician in our church family. Dr. Manning walks us through the Biblical and moral preciousness of human life from conception to natural death, addressing both abortion and end of life care through the lens of Scripture as well as medical insight.

Pastor Jason continues the series through the book of Philippians with a sermon from Chapter 1 verses 12-26.  This sermon highlights how God uses our suffering for his glory and the advancement of the gospel.  

Pastor Jason begins a series through the letter to the church at Philippi.  The Message today is titled "The Fellowship of Joy" and comes from Chapter 1, verses 1-11. 

Thomas Hardison brings a message from Luke 2:7-21 reflecting on the ultimate act of God's love.  The birth of the Christ Child.

Thomas Barber delivers a message from Psalm 84 for the Advent day of Joy.

Pastor Jason brings a message for the Advent week "Peace" from Romans 5:1–11, showing how Jesus fulfills God's promise of reconciliation and offers lasting peace in a broken world.

Dr. Steven Manning completes the journey through the book of James with a sermon from James Chapter 5.

Thomas Hardison continues the series through the book of James.  

Casey Short continues our series working through the book of James with a challenging message from James 3:1-12. 

Shaun Price of Liberti Church in Liverpool England shares a message from Psalm 62.

Dr. Steven Manning continues the series through the book of James with a sermon from Chapter 2 verses 14-26. 

Note: Due to technical issues, the first 5 minutes of this podcast has reduced sound quality. The sound clears up for the remainder of the podcast at that point.   Thomas Barber continues our series through the book of James with a sermon from James 2:1-13.   

Thomas Barber and Jason Tate recap and close out the From Grace to Glory Bible Conference during the Piney Grove Homecoming service with mini messages from Ephesians 2, and Romans 11. 

Steven Manning wraps up the journey through the 5 Solas of the faith with a study on how all of the Solas, creation, and everything we do is to be for the glory of God alone. (Soli Deo Gloria)

Thomas Hardison continues our journey through the 5 Solas of the Faith.  Thomas unpacks the idea of Sola Scriptura - Scripture Alone. 

Thomas Barber continues the journey through the 5 Solas of the faith with a powerful sermon from Colossians Chapter 1. 

Danny Price continues the study through the 5 Solas with Sola Fide (Faith Alone)

Randall Woodard from Winterville Baptist Church begins the week of studying the 5 Solas with Sola Gratia. (Grace Alone)

Pastor Jason Tate looks at church history and the scriptures to illustrate why every believer should have a grasp on basic doctrine and theology.   

Thomas Hardison continues our study through the book of James.  Today's message is from James 1:19-27

Casey Short begins a series going through the book of James.  Today's sermon is from James 1:1-18.  

Recorded 09-07-2025 Pastor Larry Stephens brings God's Word from I Timothy 3:1-13 on "Discovering God's Servants." The challenge is to examine the qualifications of Overseers and Deacons.  I. The Right Man for the Right Time (vvs. 1-7): A modern-day description of these  characteristics may look like this: A good pastor will be 1. Kind and Caring.  2. Teachable  and Studious.  3. A Good Communicator of The Gospel.  4. Practices  Spiritual Disciplines   II. A Deacon is a Servant, Nothing More, Nothing Less (vss. 8-13).

Recorded August 31st 2025 Pastor Jason Tate brings a challenge from Hebrews 12:1-3 on building a robust faith in Jesus as the cornerstone of everything in life. Heb 12:1  Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,  Heb 12:2  looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.  Heb 12:3  Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. 

Recorded 08/24/2025: Pastor Larry Stephens brings a message from Hebrews chapter 11 entitled, "Surrounded by Faith."    I. Faith Demonstrated in Unlikely People (vss. 30-31): II. Faith Demonstrated in The Overpowered (vss. 32-40):   Discipleship Reflection of Hebrews 11- 1. A call to trust in God's promises 2. Those who have faith in God are setting examples for all believers, then and now.  3. Leave a legacy that communicates that faith is not simply to believe, but also to trust and obey God 4. We can also be part of a great witness for Christ.

Recorded 08/17/2025 Pastor Larry G. Stephens brings a message from Hebrews 11:17-30 entitled "Surrounded by Witness," pt. II   I. The Faith of Abraham: A Shadow of the Resurrection (vss. 17-19): II. The Faith of Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph: Lasting Worship (vss. 20-22): III. The Faith of Moses: A Fearless Faith (vss. 23-29):   Discipleship Reflection: How Can You Cultivate a Fearless Faith? 1. Be humbled enough to know Faith is God given. 2. Trust in God's promises 3. Take it to the Lord in Prayer 4.  Seek godly counsel

Recorded 08/10/2025 Pastor Larry G. Stephens brings a word from Hebrews 11:7-16 entitled, "A Cloud of Faithful Witnesses."  Discipleship Reflection: How can we trust God when we don't see a clear path? 1. It is important to remember God is in control: 2. Remember the Promises of God: 3. Never Cease to Pray: 4. Lean On the Community of Believers 5. Celebrate the Past:

Recorded 7/27/2025 Pastor Larry Stephens brings a message from God's Word on the importance of faith as demonstrated in Abel and Enoch. Pastor Larry will pinpoint how the author will continue to move toward the point that Jesus is better than the old covenant.  When one walks close to the Lord we see... 1. Confession to God with doubts and concerns. 2. Life transformation 3. Fruit Bearing for the Kingdom 4. Forgiveness for our sin and those who we have sinned against 5. A full satisfaction in Jesus

Recorded 07/20/2025 Pastor Larry G. Stephens brings a message on the biblical faith. Looking a Hebrews chapter 11:1-3, Pastor Larry brings out the following: I. “Faith” is Biblically Defined: II. “By Faith,” We Know God Provided Something Better:   Things "hoped for:"  1. The church must hope to continue to move forward with the gospel: 2. The church must hope for light in times of darkness. 3. The church must hope that their faith will increase throughout. 4. The church must have hope for the future and for gospel advancement. The church must replace despair with joy, worry with peace, indecisiveness with godly wisdom, fearfulness with courage, self-empowerment with Holy Spirit enablement. 

Recorded 07-13-2025 Pastor Larry Stephens brings a message from Joshua 24:1-33 entitled, "Will You Continue to Serve?"  Pastor Larry's main points were: I. Joshua 24:1-13 – A Rich History Retold: II. Joshua 24:14-15 – You Must Be Devoted First to God: III. Joshua 24:16-18 – Israel Affirms Their Loyalty to God: IV. Joshua 24:21–24 Rekindling the Covenant: V. Joshua 24:29-33: Joshua's Death and Israel's Faithfulness…For Now: 

Pastor Larry Stephens brings a message from Joshua 23 on the challenges facing churches today.  I. Be Strong and Stay Fixed on the Prize: II. Be Careful to Love the Lord Wholeheartedly:   Discipleship Reflection: What challenges does the church face today, both individually and corporately? 1. A Continual Lack of Proclamation of God's Faithfulness: 2. A Departure from the Truth of God's Word: 3. A Church Littered with Ministerial Idols:

Recorded 6/29/2025: This year's Vacation Bible School has come and gone. The key passage from this year was taken from Psalm 34:3 which reads, Psa 34:3  Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together!  Pastor Larry brings a message to deeper understand how to magnify and exalt the Lord Jesus in worship.  I.  Worship the Lord Regardless of the Circumstances (vs.1) II.  Boast In the Lord and Not in Self (vs.2) III.  Worship the Lord Together in Community (vs. 3) IV.  Seek The Lord During Your Deepest Fears (vs. 4) V.  Search for the Goodness of God and Be Unashamed (vs. 5) VI.  Cry-out To God and He will Answer (vs. 7) VII.  Worship the Lord and He will Deliver from Distress (vs. 8)  

Recorded 6-22-2025 Pastor Larry Stephens presents a sermon on the importance of building worshipful foundations for the future of the church.    • Obedience to the commands from scripture, Love and serve God with your whole being, not just giving Jesus the scraps of your life.  • We do not forsake our brothers and sisters in their distraught or need  • We raise awareness of rightful/meaningful worship and raise warnings when worship is  distorted.  • We become far sighted instead of exclusively short sighted with regards to worship.   • To build an everlasting guidepost for future worship, we must continue to exclusively point towards Christ Jesus.