Athens Church: Recent Episodes
Athens Church
Welcome to the weekly audio podcast for Athens Church in Athens, GA where our mission is to lead people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Our desire is that this podcast will encourage you in your relationship with God. Visit us at athenschurch.com.
In this message, Josh Bayne continues our Discovering Jesus series with the story of the woman caught in adultery and Jesus' unexpected response that left everyone shocked. Have you ever wondered what God is really like or if He even cares about you? Explore powerful moments where Jesus met real people right where they were and discover what that reveals about the true heart of God.
In this message, Stephen Sowell continues our Discovering Jesus series, inviting us into the idea that when we get personal with God, He will get personal with us. Have you ever wondered what God is really like or if He even cares about you? Explore powerful moments where Jesus met real people right where they were and discover what that reveals about the true heart of God.
In this episode, Sean Seay and Stephen Sowell dive deeper into Sunday’s message, exploring what it really means to navigate failure in our lives. Together, they explore how our biggest failures can become a foundation for spiritual growth, humility, and even transformation. Whether you're in the middle of a setback or reflecting on past mistakes, this conversation offers encouragement, perspective, and hope.
In this message, Sean Seay reminds us that even in our biggest failures, Jesus is not finished with us — He still has a purpose, a calling, and good plans for our lives. Have you ever wondered what God is really like or if He even cares about you? Explore powerful moments where Jesus met real people right where they were and discover what that reveals about the true heart of God.
In this message, Sean Seay references a clip from The Chosen Season 4, Episode 2. You can watch this clip at https://watch.thechosen.tv/video/184683596183.
In this message, Charles Ficken continues our Discovering Jesus series with a story of people who were overlooked by everyone, except Jesus. He reminds us that no one goes unseen by Him, and His compassion extends to those the world often passes by. Have you ever wondered what God is really like or if He even cares about you? Explore powerful moments where Jesus met real people right where they were and discover what that reveals about the true heart of God.
In this message, Clay Scroggins continues our Discovering Jesus series, reminding us that God rarely runs on our schedule, but He is always right on time. Have you ever wondered what God is really like or if He even cares about you? Explore powerful moments where Jesus met real people right where they were and discover what that reveals about the true heart of God.
In this message, Sean Seay continues our Discovering Jesus series with the story of the Rich Young Ruler — a powerful moment that shows us how God meets us right where we are. Have you ever wondered what God is really like or if He even cares about you? Explore powerful moments where Jesus met real people right where they were and discover what that reveals about the true heart of God.
In this message, Josh Bayne kicks off the Discovering Jesus series with a story about a man who waited 38 years for healing—until Jesus stepped in and asked the question we all must face: “Do you want to get well?” Have you ever wondered what God is really like or if He even cares about you? Explore powerful moments where Jesus met real people right where they were and discover what that reveals about the true heart of God.
On Easter at Athens Church, Jeff Henderson discussed our natural inclination to distance ourselves from God. Life can be distracting, full of worry and busyness, and many people keep their distance from God due to guilt, shame, or a feeling that God is disappointed in them. But God has so much more for us, and He is inviting us to come near.
In this message, Sean Seay wraps up The Digital Fast series, discussing how to live differently from the culture, with clarity, peace, and purpose—using technology without being used by it. The Digital Fast is a 28-day challenge to break digital distractions, refocus on God, and be more present. As we learn to spend less time scrolling and more time being present, we’ll find ourselves growing closer to each other and to God.
In this message, Clay Scroggins walks through Psalm 37, showing us how to move from duty-driven faith to deep, soul-refreshing joy. The Digital Fast is a 28-day challenge to break digital distractions, refocus on God, and be more present. As we learn to spend less time scrolling and more time being present, we’ll find ourselves growing closer to each other and to God.
In this message, Sean Seay will help us discover 3 things: our relationship with technology, our approach to spiritual growth, and the voice of God in our lives. The Digital Fast is a 28-day challenge to break digital distractions, refocus on God, and be more present. As we learn to spend less time scrolling and more time being present, we’ll find ourselves growing closer to each other and to God.
In this message, Clay Scroggins discusses how we live in a distracted world & that there's a battle for our attention. How do we even focus our attention on God when everything else is competing? The Digital Fast is a 28-day challenge to break digital distractions, refocus on God, and be more present. As we learn to spend less time scrolling and more time being present, we’ll find ourselves growing closer to each other and to God.
In this message, Sean dives into the effects of technology on our lives. He invites us to consider stepping into a richer, more satisfying life by participating in The Digital Fast. The Digital Fast is a 28-day challenge to break digital distractions, refocus on God, and be more present. As we learn to spend less time scrolling and more time being present, we’ll find ourselves growing closer to each other and to God.
In this message, Joel Thomas invites us to consider the truth that God is speaking to us about his unique purpose for our lives. Have you ever been in a season where you felt like you really needed to hear from God? Did you hear him? Does God still speak to people practically, personally, and purposefully? Through the lens of Moses's life, we'll explore all these questions and more!
In this message, Joel Thomas addresses how God wants to speak to us about our identity. Have you ever been in a season where you felt like you really needed to hear from God? Did you hear him? Does God still speak to people practically, personally, and purposefully? Through the lens of Moses's life, we'll explore all these questions and more!
In this message, Joel Thomas invites us to consider the truth that we can hear from God personally. Have you ever been in a season where you felt like you really needed to hear from God? Did you hear him? Does God still speak to people practically, personally, and purposefully? Through the lens of Moses's life, we'll explore all these questions and more!
In this episode, Josh Bayne identifies one of the main culprits to conflict in our relationships. Between dating disasters and marriage struggles, if we’re honest, many of us feel lost when it comes to love. Whether you’re single, dating, engaged, or married, this series is for all of us as we learn how to cut through the frustration and confusion of modern relationships.
In this episode, Josh Bayne explores Ephesians 5 and how it holds the key to lasting relationships. Between dating disasters and marriage struggles, if we’re honest, many of us feel lost when it comes to love. Whether you’re single, dating, engaged, or married, this series is for all of us as we learn how to cut through the frustration and confusion of modern relationships.
In this message, Josh invites us to examine what we believe about soulmates and our relationship expectations. Between dating disasters and marriage struggles, if we’re honest, many of us feel lost when it comes to love. Whether you’re single, dating, engaged, or married, this series is for all of us as we learn how to cut through the frustration and confusion of modern relationships.
In this episode, Jon Tyson joins Athens Church as we celebrate 20 years of life-changing ministry in the Classic City. It was an amazing time of celebration as we looked at what God has done in the past 20 years and dreamt together about what He has next in this city we love!
In this episode, Stephen Sowell discusses the vital role of celebration in overcoming discouragement. We all face discouraging things in life. If we’re not careful, discouragement can overwhelm us or shut us down. This teaching series is about how we can each live a meaningful life beyond life’s frustrations.
In this episode, Jeff Henderson shares with us one of the best ways we can each deal with discouragement. We all face discouraging things in life. If we’re not careful, discouragement can overwhelm us or shut us down. This teaching series is about how we can each live a meaningful life beyond life’s frustrations.
In today's message, Sean invites us to look at how Jesus dealt with discouragement. We all face discouraging things in life. If we’re not careful, discouragement can overwhelm us or shut us down. This teaching series is about how we can each live a meaningful life beyond life’s frustrations.
Merry Christmas to you and your family! This family-friendly service will include opportunities to acknowledge the goodness and love of God, moments to celebrate what God has been doing, and a chance to look forward to what a new year has in store. Enjoy Christmas Eve at Athens Church!
In this episode, Stephen wraps up this series by inviting us to search for true meaning in Christ. Ultimately, everyone is searching for meaning and significance. But the question remains for so many: how do I find it? The Christmas story in the Gospel of Luke is full of people and situations where regular people received new meaning for their lives. What if the meaning you've been searching for all your life can be found in the meaning of Christmas?
In this episode, Josh open the Bible to look at the passage of Luke to explore the life of Jesus. Ultimately, everyone is searching for meaning and significance. But the question remains for so many: how do I find it? The Christmas story in the Gospel of Luke is full of people and situations where regular people received new meaning for their lives. What if the meaning you've been searching for all your life can be found in the meaning of Christmas?
In this episode, Stephen offers practical tools to implement Joy in our everyday lives. Ultimately, everyone is searching for meaning and significance. But the question remains for so many: how do I find it? The Christmas story in the Gospel of Luke is full of people and situations where regular people received new meaning for their lives. What if the meaning you've been searching for all your life can be found in the meaning of Christmas?
In this episode, Sean talks about the impact of gratitude. Discover how this spiritual practice can deepen your faith and bring God's peace into every area of your life. Drawing from the Psalms to Paul's letters, we'll explore practical ways to cultivate a heart of thanksgiving that revolutionizes your relationship with God and others. This series will help you increase the joy & decrease the negativity in your life.
In this episode, Sean offers some practical tools to help us find gratitude as we reflect on our lives daily. Discover how this spiritual practice can deepen your faith and bring God's peace into every area of your life. Drawing from the Psalms to Paul's letters, we'll explore practical ways to cultivate a heart of thanksgiving that revolutionizes your relationship with God and others. This series will help you increase the joy & decrease the negativity in your life.
In this episode, Stephen talks about how Athens I Love You® is more than a catchy motto. It’s the heartbeat of Athens Church for our city; in fact, love is at the heart of what it means to be a follower of Jesus. We deeply love our city—its quirks and all—and we want to share the love of Jesus with everyone who calls Athens home. But we know actions speak louder than words; so, we want to show our love by investing, engaging, and supporting our city. Because that’s what you do when you love something! Instead of recreating the wheel, we’ve chosen to partner with local, non-profit partners who are already doing incredible work in our city to continue to show our city we love it.
Your great work is to identify the distractions that keep you from the “problem” that you are uniquely positioned to solve. Jesus came that we might discover “life to the full,” while the enemy plots to steal, kill, and destroy. Many often miss out on this abundant joy available to them due to “fatal distractions.” It's much easier for the enemy to keep us distracted than it is for him to take us out. In this series, we’ll explore both the implications and antidotes of three major types of distractions: fog, fires, and fear.
Great work is often found on the other side of a terrifying longing. How could
clarity regarding your “terrifying longing” reduce the allure of the distractions you’re most
susceptible to? Jesus came that we might discover “life to the full,” while the enemy plots to steal, kill, and destroy. Many often miss out on this abundant joy available to them due to “fatal distractions.” It's much easier for the enemy to keep us distracted than it is for him to take us out. In this series, we’ll explore both the implications and antidotes of three major types of distractions: fog, fires, and fear.
In this episode, Clay asks the question: If we knew we were in a battle, how would we pray? Ephesians 6 tells us that prayer is one of the greatest weapons God has given us against the lies of the Enemy. Discover how this ancient collection of books known as the Bible communicates timeless truths that we can apply to our modern lives.
In this episode, Sean explains that we live in a spiritual world. In Ephesians 6, we learn that there is a spiritual battle going on between light and darkness. Through putting on the armor of God, we can choose to live in light and reject darkness.
While Ephesians 1-3 teaches us about who we are in Christ, Ephesians 4 begins to explain how to live that out. In this episode, Clay walks through Ephesians 4 and the difference between being a spiritual infant and someone who is growing in Christ through pursuing unity with others.
In this episode, Sean walks through Ephesians 3 and helps us understand the importance of being rooted in God’s love by spending time with Him, being established in God’s love by doing what His Word says, and being filled by God’s love. Discover how this ancient collection of books known as the Bible communicates timeless truths that we can apply to our modern lives.
In this episode, Clay walks us through the passage of Ephesians 2 and encourages us to rest in God's grace. Discover how this ancient collection of books known as the Bible communicates timeless truths that we can apply to our modern lives.
In this episode, Sean talks about identity. Discover how this ancient collection of books known as the Bible communicates timeless truths that we can apply to our modern lives.
In this episode, Sean talks about the power of renewing our minds and connecting with God's word daily. Discover how this ancient collection of books known as the Bible communicates timeless truths that we can apply to our modern lives.
In this episode, Josh talks about the joy we receive when we surrender our lives. Life is full of pivotal moments that shape our journey. Whether you’re a college student or 20-something charting your future, an empty-nester rediscovering your purpose, or right in the middle raising kids and figuring out how to step into new decades yourself, every new season brings about new decisions that have the potential to make or break the months and years to come. In this sermon series, we'll discover how faith can provide direction, hope, and purpose through life's most challenging transitions.
In this episode, Josh talks about what to do with your freedom. Life is full of pivotal moments that shape our journey. Whether you’re a college student or 20-something charting your future, an empty-nester rediscovering your purpose, or right in the middle raising kids and figuring out how to step into new decades yourself, every new season brings about new decisions that have the potential to make or break the months and years to come. In this sermon series, we'll discover how faith can provide direction, hope, and purpose through life's most challenging transitions.
In this episode, Josh redefines success in life's changing seasons through the lens of three vital relationships. Life is full of pivotal moments that shape our journey. Whether you’re a college student or 20-something charting your future, an empty-nester rediscovering your purpose, or right in the middle raising kids and figuring out how to step into new decades yourself, every new season brings about new decisions that have the potential to make or break the months and years to come. In this sermon series, we'll discover how faith can provide direction, hope, and purpose through life's most challenging transitions.
In this episode, Sean talks about the importance of being equipped with different tools to maintain authentic relationships. It is easy for men to feel lonely & isolated, but most want to be good men & just don't know how to get there. This series is taught by 3 men who have been helping each other live well for 30 years. It's a can't miss series for men & anyone wants to help men be their best.
In this episode, Brent encourages us to lead those around us well. It is easy for men to feel lonely & isolated, but most want to be good men & just don't know how to get there. This series is taught by 3 men who have been helping each other live well for 30 years. It's a can't miss series for men & anyone wants to help men be their best.
In this episode, Michael offers some tools to keep pushing forward to find meaningful community for men. It is easy for men to feel lonely & isolated, but most want to be good men & just don't know how to get there. This series is taught by 3 men who have been helping each other live well for 30 years. It's a can't miss series for men & anyone wants to help men be their best.
In this episode, Sean, Brent, and Michael have a discussion on the importance for men to have relationships & environments to have meaningful & vulnerable conversations. It is easy for men to feel lonely & isolated, but most want to be good men & just don't know how to get there. This series is taught by 3 men who have been helping each other live well for 30 years. It's a can't miss series for men & anyone wants to help men be their best.
In this episode, Andy Lowry shares how we can pause and rest in God’s presence. When we create space to be with God, we can grow in knowing that we are seen, known, and loved by God. Are you struggling to catch a breath, to find rest, or to find time to experience the presence of God? Pause Sunday was created just for you. We all need a moment to be able to sit with God, but it's not always easy to find the time in our busy schedules.
In this episode, Justin Halleck reminds us that your friends determine the quality and direction of your life. The book of Proverbs is overflowing with wisdom in this area. How can we know what to do when we are stuck at a crossroads or are striving to make decisions that will have an impact on the direction of our lives? Wisdom allows us to rise above the clouds of emotion and bias. It looks beyond our present circumstances to a bigger picture. We all need wisdom, so how do you get it?
In this episode, Trevour Wiltshire reminds us to continually pursue a passion for wisdom. The book of Proverbs is overflowing with wisdom in this area. How can we know what to do when we are stuck at a crossroads or are striving to make decisions that will have an impact on the direction of our lives? Wisdom allows us to rise above the clouds of emotion and bias. It looks beyond our present circumstances to a bigger picture. We all need wisdom, so how do you get it?
In this episode, Stephen Sowell shares how we can have wisdom in the midst of our fear and uncertainty. The book of Proverbs is overflowing with wisdom in this area. How can we know what to do when we are stuck at a crossroads or are striving to make decisions that will have an impact on the direction of our lives? Wisdom allows us to rise above the clouds of emotion and bias. It looks beyond our present circumstances to a bigger picture. We all need wisdom, so how do you get it?
In this episode, Sean Seay shares how we can honor God with our finances and actually be successful by following His ways. The book of Proverbs is overflowing with wisdom in this area. How can we know what to do when we are stuck at a crossroads or are striving to make decisions that will have an impact on the direction of our lives? Wisdom allows us to rise above the clouds of emotion and bias. It looks beyond our present circumstances to a bigger picture. We all need wisdom, so how do you get it?
In this episode, Bronson Crawford looks at Proverbs 16 as it gives wisdom for our life plans. How can we know what to do when we are stuck at a crossroads or are striving to make decisions that will have an impact on the direction of our lives? Wisdom allows us to rise above the clouds of emotion and bias. It looks beyond our present circumstances to a bigger picture. We all need wisdom, so how do you get it?
In this episode, Daniel helps us understand what it's like to be on the other side of a teenager today and challenges us to commit to the next generation. Every relationship has a climate- sunny, stormy, or even icy. Many of us are unaware of the emotional climates we carry around us. Join us for the series Climate Change to understand how the changes in our own climate impact the relationships around us.
In this episode, Sean celebrates mothers and discusses how the most important thing we can do for our families is to hear from God. Every relationship has a climate- sunny, stormy, or even icy. Many of us are unaware of the emotional climates we carry around us. Join us for the series Climate Change to understand how the changes in our own climate impact the relationships around us.
In this episode, Josh talks about something that plagues so many of us: anxiety. What's the cause of it, and how do we handle our anxiety? Every relationship has a climate- sunny, stormy, or even icy. Many of us are unaware of the emotional climates we carry around us. Join us for the series Climate Change to understand how the changes in our own climate impact the relationships around us.
In this episode, Clay helps us acknowledge the distractions in our lives and challenges us to instead pay attention to our emotions, which will lead to freedom. Every relationship has a climate- sunny, stormy, or even icy. Many of us are unaware of the emotional climates we carry around us. Join us for the series Climate Change to understand how the changes in our own climate impact the relationships around us.
In this episode, Sean helps us understand how to heal and grow from the anger we experience. Every relationship has a climate- sunny, stormy, or even icy. Many of us are unaware of the emotional climates we carry around us. Join us for the series Climate Change to understand how the changes in our own climate impact the relationships around us.
In this episode, Stephen helps you understand how to deal with discontentment in your life. Every relationship has a climate- sunny, stormy, or even icy. Many of us are unaware of the emotional climates we carry around us. Join us for the series Climate Change to understand how the changes in our own climate impact the relationships around us.
In this episode, Jeff challenges us to ask people a very difficult question: what is it like to be on the other side of me? This question will help you understand how your emotions affect your relationships. Every relationship has a climate- sunny, stormy, or even icy. Many of us are unaware of the emotional climates we carry around us. Join us for the series Climate Change to understand how the changes in our own climate impact the relationships around us.
In this episode, Sean helps us understand the reality and truth of the resurrection of Jesus while living in an intellectual world. Easter is the most significant day in the Christian faith. The day on which our faith is founded. But have you ever wondered if it's historically true? Does it even matter? Do you have to turn off your intellect to believe in Jesus?
In this episode, Joel talks about the age to come and that it's better than anything we could imagine. What comes to mind when you think about heaven? It was probably not difficult for you to think about an image or word when you think about heaven. Here's the thing about heaven: it's not that we don't think about heaven enough. It's that we don't think highly enough about it.
In this episode, Joel talks about how we can experience heaven on earth, for how we live today impacts how we experience heaven. What comes to mind when you think about heaven? It was probably not difficult for you to think about an image or word when you think about heaven. Here's the thing about heaven: it's not that we don't think about heaven enough. It's that we don't think highly enough about it.
In this episode, Joel talks about the realities of heaven and that it's better than we think it will be. What comes to mind when you think about heaven? It was probably not difficult for you to think about an image or word when you think about heaven. Here's the thing about heaven: it's not that we don't think about heaven enough. It's that we don't think highly enough about it.
In this episode, Josh talks about what is means to be saved. He spends time discussing justification, sanctification, and glorification. We can all agree that the world needs saving, but can anyone really save the world? What if you could find the answer and know with confidence that it’s true?
In this episode, Josh talks through what other religions say about salvation and how Christianity is different. We can all agree that the world needs saving, but can anyone really save the world? What if you could find the answer and know with confidence that it’s true?
In this episode, Josh helps us that the bad and brokenness we experience in this world is because of sin, and because of sin, we can all agree that the world needs saving. We can all agree that the world needs saving, but can anyone really save the world? What if you could find the answer and know with confidence that it’s true?
In this episode, Sean challenges you to take a step in your finances as a way to live fully surrendered to Jesus. Are you ready to be ALL IN? As a church, it’s our hope and prayer that the heart of Athens Church would be a group of people fully surrendered to Jesus. Yet we know that none of us drift toward a life of surrender. We all battle the sinful flesh within us, the broken world around us, and a spiritual enemy who despises us. So, we need all the help we can get in order to practice the way of Jesus. We need community. We need worship. We need inspiration, and we need challenge. That’s what this ALL IN series is about. It’s about all of us moving into a more eternally focused life- a life lived fully surrendered to Jesus. You can still commit at AthensChurch.com/allin.
In this episode, David Nasser shares his story of a local church in his life that because they were ALL IN radically changed his life. As a church, it’s our hope and prayer that the heart of Athens Church would be a group of people fully surrendered to Jesus. Yet we know that none of us drift toward a life of surrender. We all battle the sinful flesh within us, the broken world around us, and a spiritual enemy who despises us. So, we need all the help we can get in order to practice the way of Jesus. We need community. We need worship. We need inspiration, and we need challenge. That’s what this ALL IN series is about. It’s about all of us moving into a more eternally focused life- a life lived fully surrendered to Jesus.
In this episode, Sean acknowledges that oftentimes when we talk about money there's a sense of risk, yet he helps us understand that we are actually just meant to be good stewards of the money that we're given, as money is a good gift from our heavenly Father. As a church, it’s our hope and prayer that the heart of Athens Church would be a group of people fully surrendered to Jesus. Yet we know that none of us drift toward a life of surrender. We all battle the sinful flesh within us, the broken world around us, and a spiritual enemy who despises us. So, we need all the help we can get in order to practice the way of Jesus. We need community. We need worship. We need inspiration, and we need challenge. That’s what this ALL IN series is about. It’s about all of us moving into a more eternally focused life- a life lived fully surrendered to Jesus.
In this episode, Stephen helps us understand how to prioritize eternity in our finances, and when we choose to prioritize eternity in our finances, that's where we become generous. As a church, it’s our hope and prayer that the heart of Athens Church would be a group of people fully surrendered to Jesus. Yet we know that none of us drift toward a life of surrender. We all battle the sinful flesh within us, the broken world around us, and a spiritual enemy who despises us. So, we need all the help we can get in order to practice the way of Jesus. We need community. We need worship. We need inspiration, and we need challenge. That’s what this ALL IN series is about. It’s about all of us moving into a more eternally focused life- a life lived fully surrendered to Jesus.
In this episode, Stephen helps us understand that God is worthy of our trust because He's bigger than our fear, which when it comes to our finances, to trust Him fully means to trust Him financially. As a church, it’s our hope and prayer that the heart of Athens Church would be a group of people fully surrendered to Jesus. Yet we know that none of us drift toward a life of surrender. We all battle the sinful flesh within us, the broken world around us, and a spiritual enemy who despises us. So, we need all the help we can get in order to practice the way of Jesus. We need community. We need worship. We need inspiration, and we need challenge. That’s what this ALL IN series is about. It’s about all of us moving into a more eternally focused life- a life lived fully surrendered to Jesus.
In this episode, Sean helps us understand the treasure of following Jesus and challenges us to trust him specifically in the area of our finances. As a church, it’s our hope and prayer that the heart of Athens Church would be a group of people fully surrendered to Jesus. Yet we know that none of us drift toward a life of surrender. We all battle the sinful flesh within us, the broken world around us, and a spiritual enemy who despises us. So, we need all the help we can get in order to practice the way of Jesus. We need community. We need worship. We need inspiration, and we need challenge. That’s what this ALL IN series is about. It’s about all of us moving into a more eternally focused life- a life lived fully surrendered to Jesus.
In this episode, Sean shares the greatest story ever told and how it personally impacts us because this story, the Christmas story, is a rescue mission for us all. This year you and your family are invited to join us as we celebrate together on Christmas Eve at Athens Church. This family-friendly service will include opportunities to acknowledge the coming of our savior- Jesus, celebrate what God has been doing, and provide an opportunity to look forward to what a new year has in store. We're looking forward to experiencing Christmas Eve at Athens Church with you!
In this episode, Bronson gives us steps to fight against selfishness and move towards humility. You feel all the excitement and anticipation for Christmas Day. But despite the wonder and decorations galore, there’s something in your heart that feels a little sore. Whether you’re trying to endure that awkward family dinner, grieving the loss of a loved one, or trying not to argue for once this season, there’s one thing that seems to be the missing piece in our relationships during the holiday season: peace. What if the presence of Jesus could help us bring the thing that’s needed most this season?
In this episode, Josh helps us understand how we can have peace in a relationship that is missing peace. You feel all the excitement and anticipation for Christmas Day. But despite the wonder and decorations galore, there’s something in your heart that feels a little sore. Whether you’re trying to endure that awkward family dinner, grieving the loss of a loved one, or trying not to argue for once this season, there’s one thing that seems to be the missing piece in our relationships during the holiday season: peace. What if the presence of Jesus could help us bring the thing that’s needed most this season?
In this episode, Stephen talks about how to find peace through spending time in the presence of God by practicing the discipline of solitude. More. You feel all the excitement and anticipation for Christmas Day. But despite the wonder and decorations galore, there’s something in your heart that feels a little sore. Whether you’re trying to endure that awkward family dinner, grieving the loss of a loved one, or trying not to argue for once this season, there’s one thing that seems to be the missing piece in our relationships during the holiday season: peace. What if the presence of Jesus could help us bring the thing that’s needed most this season?
In this episode, Justin helps understand how to find peace in our relationships with lost loved ones through sharing our story of life change because of Jesus. You feel all the excitement and anticipation for Christmas Day. But despite the wonder and decorations galore, there’s something in your heart that feels a little sore. Whether you’re trying to endure that awkward family dinner, grieving the loss of a loved one, or trying not to argue for once this season, there’s one thing that seems to be the missing piece in our relationships during the holiday season: peace. What if the presence of Jesus could help us bring the thing that’s needed most this season?
In this episode, Josh helps us realize that it's possible that God has actually strategically placed us exactly where we are in order to be a light for others around us. What if your faith was a part of everyday? Faith on Monday, on Tuesday, on Wednesday, on Thursday, on Friday, on Saturday- not just Sunday. How would an everyday faith impact your life from where you live to where you work to where you play?
In this episode, Josh defines the purpose of work as being able to cultivate and tend to a task in a way that is good for the world or to help others to flourish. He also asks three questions to help you figure out what you should do. What if your faith was a part of everyday? Faith on Monday, on Tuesday, on Wednesday, on Thursday, on Friday, on Saturday- not just Sunday. How would an everyday faith impact your life from where you live to where you work to where you play?
In this episode, Josh challenges us to integrate your faith where you live, where you work, and where you play . What if your faith was a part of everyday? Faith on Monday, on Tuesday, on Wednesday, on Thursday, on Friday, on Saturday- not just Sunday. How would an everyday faith impact your life from where you live to where you work to where you play?
In this episode, Clay challenges you to be honest to God about your guilt in order to experience relief because of the grace of God. When it comes to your relationship with God, how honest are you... really? Join us on Sunday for a series with Clay Scroggins that will challenge you to lead with honesty in order dive deeper into your relationship with God and others.
In this episode, Clay helps us understand what to do with our doubts by looking at the life of David in Psalm 13. When it comes to your relationship with God, how honest are you... really? Join us on Sunday for a series with Clay Scroggins that will challenge you to lead with honesty in order dive deeper into your relationship with God and others.
In this episode, Clay tells us the truth that when we're honest to God, we're close to Him. When it comes to your relationship with God, how honest are you... really? Join us on Sunday for a series with Clay Scroggins that will challenge you to lead with honesty in order dive deeper into your relationship with God and others.
In this episode, Bronson introduces you to a few of our nonprofit partners and challenges you to take a step of radical generosity. Athens I Love You® is more than just a catchy motto for us. It’s the heartbeat of Athens Church for our city; in fact, love is at the heart of what it means to be a follower of Jesus. We know actions speak louder than words; so, we want to show our love by giving, serving, and loving our city. In the past you may have heard us call this Be Rich, but this year we want to show our city what it means when we say “Athens I Love You.” You’ll learn about all the opportunities for you to be part of Sunday, so don’t miss your chance to give, serve, and love our city!
In this episode, Josh discusses the vision behind Athens Church- to be a church that unchurched people love to attend, and he challenges you to take steps to be a part of the vision as an attender. Do you ever feel distant from God? Feel disconnected from God? Strain to feel God’s presence? What if you could guarantee making your way back to God, would you do it? You’re not alone. We all feel distant from God at times; join us Sunday as we talk about how to make our way back.
In this episode, Charles helps us understand how to make our way back to God through being independent, truthful, and present. Do you ever feel distant from God? Feel disconnected from God? Strain to feel God’s presence? What if you could guarantee making your way back to God, would you do it? You’re not alone. We all feel distant from God at times; join us Sunday as we talk about how to make our way back.
In this episode, Sean explains why should a believer get baptized and invites those who have placed their faith in Jesus to take an obedient step in baptism. Do you ever feel distant from God? Feel disconnected from God? Strain to feel God’s presence? What if you could guarantee making your way back to God, would you do it? You’re not alone. We all feel distant from God at times; join us Sunday as we talk about how to make our way back.
In this episode, Clay talks about what to do if you've been hurt by the church. Do you ever feel distant from God? Feel disconnected from God? Strain to feel God’s presence? What if you could guarantee making your way back to God, would you do it? You’re not alone. We all feel distant from God at times; join us Sunday as we talk about how to make our way back.
In this episode, Stephen shares with us the truth that life with God is built on practicing the way of Jesus, and he challenges us to practice following Jesus in four different ways: reading scripture, praying, finding community, and worshipping. Do you ever feel distant from God? Feel disconnected from God? Strain to feel God’s presence? What if you could guarantee making your way back to God, would you do it? You’re not alone. We all feel distant from God at times; join us Sunday as we talk about how to make our way back.
In this episode, Sean talks about how life is different when you choose to follow Jesus. Do you ever feel distant from God? Feel disconnected from God? Strain to feel God’s presence? What if you could guarantee making your way back to God, would you do it? You’re not alone. We all feel distant from God at times; join us Sunday as we talk about how to make our way back.
In this episode, Josh reminds us of the truth that when you miss God, God misses you too. Do you ever feel distant from God? Feel disconnected from God? Strain to feel God’s presence? What if you could guarantee making your way back to God, would you do it? You’re not alone. We all feel distant from God at times; join us Sunday as we talk about how to make our way back.
In this episode, Sean talks about the importance of community and challenges us to show up and be real in community. You want to be known, and we want to help. We all want to feel like we belong and that we matter, yet it can often be hard to find a space where you can be real with those around you. Join us Sunday to find out what it looks like to be real from Jesus himself and how you can apply these principles in your life.
In this episode, Josh looks at a well known Old Testament story to help us understand how we can live after regretful decisions, decisions that often feel messy. We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that captures our imagination and makes us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies: Family Feature. Each Sunday we’ll focus on a biblical principle and use movies to help us understand what God has to say about different familial relationships in our life.
In this episode, Charles challenges us to stop hiding and be true to our heart with our heavenly Father because he cares for the heart of man. We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that captures our imagination and makes us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies: Family Feature. Each Sunday we’ll focus on a biblical principle and use movies to help us understand what God has to say about different familial relationships in our life.
In this episode, Stephen helps us understand that what you seek first today will become your legacy tomorrow. We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that captures our imagination and makes us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies: Family Feature. Each Sunday we’ll focus on a biblical principle and use movies to help us understand what God has to say about different familial relationships in our life.
In this episode, Sean helps us understand how to parent a hurting child through prayer. We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that captures our imagination and makes us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies: Family Feature. Each Sunday we’ll focus on a biblical principle and use movies to help us understand what God has to say about different familial relationships in our life.
In this episode, Trevour challenges us to honor those around us, particularly those older than us, and if we learn how to honor biblically, it will lead to blessing. We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that captures our imagination and makes us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies: Family Feature. Each Sunday we’ll focus on a biblical principle and use movies to help us understand what God has to say about different familial relationships in our life.
In this episode, Sean and Stewart challenge us to ask, seek, and knock in prayer at the feet of Jesus, to ask confidently to a God who has been and always will be faithful. Are you struggling to catch a breath, to find rest, or to find time to experience the presence of God? Pause Sunday was created just for you. We all need a moment to be able to sit with God, but it's not always easy to find the time in our busy schedules.
In this episode, Joel discusses how what we prioritize impacts our relationships, particularly when it comes to submission and sacrifice. A false sense of intimacy leaves us disillusioned, discouraged, and dissatisfied in our relationships. But there is a path that leads to the true intimacy we really want. Join us on Sundays in a new series with Joel Thomas!
In this episode, Joel helps us understand generosity in relationships. A false sense of intimacy leaves us disillusioned, discouraged, and dissatisfied in our relationships. But there is a path that leads to the true intimacy we really want. Join us on Sundays in a new series with Joel Thomas!
In this episode, Joel encourages and challenges you to risk vulnerability for the sake of true intimacy. A false sense of intimacy leaves us disillusioned, discouraged, and dissatisfied in our relationships. But there is a path that leads to the true intimacy we really want.
In this episode, JOEL CONTENT HERE... A false sense of intimacy leaves us disillusioned, discouraged, and dissatisfied in our relationships. But there is a path that leads to the true intimacy we really want. Join us on Sundays in a new series with Joel Thomas!
In this episode, Rebekah walks through 5 rules for building a resilient life. Most of us, if we’re honest, would admit that we’re either stressed out, exhausted, or feel like we just can’t keep up with everything. We can’t catch a breath, and even if we do, it’s pretty short lived. What if you don’t have to feel this way? What if you found a way to live that was filled with peace and life instead of hurry and stress? Stress, exhaustion, and what on earth we can do about it.
In this episode, Sean challenges us to work on the health of our souls in order to fight The Burnout Society. Most of us, if we’re honest, would admit that we’re either stressed out, exhausted, or feel like we just can’t keep up with everything. We can’t catch a breath, and even if we do, it’s pretty short lived. What if you don’t have to feel this way? What if you found a way to live that was filled with peace and life instead of hurry and stress? Stress, exhaustion, and what on earth we can do about it.
In this episode, Josh discusses how technology may be causing burnout in your life and how you can effectively manage your screen time. Most of us, if we’re honest, would admit that we’re either stressed out, exhausted, or feel like we just can’t keep up with everything. We can’t catch a breath, and even if we do, it’s pretty short lived. What if you don’t have to feel this way? What if you found a way to live that was filled with peace and life instead of hurry and stress? Stress, exhaustion, and what on earth we can do about it.
In this episode, Clay challenges us to find margin in our finances in order to fight the burnout that is so common in our society. Most of us, if we’re honest, would admit that we’re either stressed out, exhausted, or feel like we just can’t keep up with everything. We can’t catch a breath, and even if we do, it’s pretty short lived. What if you don’t have to feel this way? What if you found a way to live that was filled with peace and life instead of hurry and stress? Stress, exhaustion, and what on earth we can do about it.
In this episode, Stephen helps us identify how you can get rest and challenges us to enter the rest of God through a practice known as Sabbath through three practical steps: make the time, prepare to rest, and enter His rest. Most of us, if we’re honest, would admit that we’re either stressed out, exhausted, or feel like we just can’t keep up with everything. We can’t catch a breath, and even if we do, it’s pretty short lived. What if you don’t have to feel this way? What if you found a way to live that was filled with peace and life instead of hurry and stress? Stress, exhaustion, and what on earth we can do about it.
In this episode, Josh helps us see that we can opt out of The Burnout Society and choose to find margin in our lives in order to live with peace and rest. Most of us, if we’re honest, would admit that we’re either stressed out, exhausted, or feel like we just can’t keep up with everything. We can’t catch a breath, and even if we do, it’s pretty short lived. What if you don’t have to feel this way? What if you found a way to live that was filled with peace and life instead of hurry and stress? Stress, exhaustion, and what on earth we can do about it.
In this episode, Sean challenges us to leave our comfortable, casual, consumeristic Christianity for bold resurrection faith, and celebrate the hope, joy, and life found in the resurrection of Jesus.
In this episode, Bronson helps you understand what it looks like for the Holy Spirit to work THROUGH you. We all need help, and there is a way to get access to the same helper Jesus relied on.
In this episode, Stephen teaches us that if the Spirit is our guide, he's guiding us to freedom. We all need help, and there is a way to get access to the same helper Jesus relied on.
In this episode, Joel talked about how the Holy Spirit can lead you and the fruit The Spirit produces. We all need help, and there is a way to get access to the same helper Jesus relied on.
In this episode, Joel helps us understand what it means to be filled with the Holy Spirit. We all need help, and there is a way to get access to the same helper Jesus relied on.
In this episode, Joel introduces us to the presence of the Holy Spirit from the beginning of time. We all need help, and there is a way to get access to the same helper Jesus relied on.
In this episode, Sean helps us understand what it means to put on the full armor of God and fight the lies of the world. We all crave the good life: success, relationships, rest. But what if the very things the world offers to bring us peace are actually a prison? Distractions, deceptive ideas, playing to disordered desires in our hearts. Keeping us from the very peace we seek. What if there was another way? A way to recognize the lies that hold us captive. Jesus said, you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.
In this episode, Stephen encourages us to fight the flesh through the spiritual discipline of fasting. He also provides practical steps to understand how to fast. We all crave the good life: success, relationships, rest. But what if the very things the world offers to bring us peace are actually a prison? Distractions, deceptive ideas, playing to disordered desires in our hearts. Keeping us from the very peace we seek. What if there was another way? A way to recognize the lies that hold us captive. Jesus said, you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.
In this episode, Sean helps us acknowledge a number of different lies and provides truth from scripture to combat them. We all crave the good life: success, relationships, rest. But what if the very things the world offers to bring us peace are actually a prison? Distractions, deceptive ideas, playing to disordered desires in our hearts. Keeping us from the very peace we seek. What if there was another way? A way to recognize the lies that hold us captive. Jesus said, you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.
In this episode, Jon Tyson discusses the source of all the lies we experience in the world: the devil. We all crave the good life: success, relationships, rest. But what if the very things the world offers to bring us peace are actually a prison? Distractions, deceptive ideas, playing to disordered desires in our hearts. Keeping us from the very peace we seek. What if there was another way? A way to recognize the lies that hold us captive. Jesus said, you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.
In this episode, Josh tells us that in order to discover truth- you must abide. We all crave the good life: success, relationships, rest. But what if the very things the world offers to bring us peace are actually a prison? Distractions, deceptive ideas, playing to disordered desires in our hearts. Keeping us from the very peace we seek. What if there was another way? A way to recognize the lies that hold us captive. Jesus said, you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.
In this episode, Clay uses scripture to helps us identify 3 ways to identify the ways of the world: the desires of the flesh, the desires of the eyes, and pride of life. We all crave the good life: success, relationships, rest. But what if the very things the world offers to bring us peace are actually a prison? Distractions, deceptive ideas, playing to disordered desires in our hearts. Keeping us from the very peace we seek. What if there was another way? A way to recognize the lies that hold us captive. Jesus said, you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.
In this episode, Mark helps us acknowledge the spiritual battle we're in against the flesh, and he offers some tools you can use to fight the battle well. We all crave the good life: success, relationships, rest. But what if the very things the world offers to bring us peace are actually a prison? Distractions, deceptive ideas, playing to disordered desires in our hearts. Keeping us from the very peace we seek. What if there was another way? A way to recognize the lies that hold us captive. Jesus said, you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.
In this episode, Sean helps us recognize the reality of evil, the different lies we believe, and where these lies come from: the world, the flesh, and the devil. We all crave the good life: success, relationships, rest. But what if the very things the world offers to bring us peace are actually a prison? Distractions, deceptive ideas, playing to disordered desires in our hearts. Keeping us from the very peace we seek. What if there was another way? A way to recognize the lies that hold us captive. Jesus said, you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.
In this episode, Stephen shares three ways we can find joy in the midst of dysfunction this Christmas. It's that time of year where families gather together for turkey dinners and activities filled with Christmas cheer. And though we all hope for a perfect season filled with smiles from ear to ear, Christmas always seems to be filled with surprises each year. No matter what your family dynamic is like the holidays often bring up familial tensions we dislike, making Christmas more like a very merry dysfunctional family Christmas. Join us for a local series Sunday - A Very Merry Dysfunctional Family Christmas.
In this episode, Andy offers us how we can react in light of the truth that God is for us . You’ve heard it said that your actions speak louder than words, and that’s true, but our actions don’t tell the whole story. However, our reactions do, so what do your reactions say about you?
In this episode, Andy helps you connect your reactions to your obedience to God . You’ve heard it said that your actions speak louder than words, and that’s true, but our actions don’t tell the whole story. However, our reactions do, so what do your reactions say about you?
In this episode, Andy helps you evaluate your reactions and how they impact the relationships around you. You’ve heard it said that your actions speak louder than words, and that’s true, but our actions don’t tell the whole story. However, our reactions do, so what do your reactions say about you?
In this episode, Josh challenges us to invest in our city and invite our city to Athens Church. There’s something special about Athens. There’s just something special about this city, and you don’t have to spend long before it finds its way into your heart. The beautiful thing about Athens is everyone falls in love with Athens for a different reason—it’s different for the single mom than the retiree, for the college student than the young family. And while we might all love something different about our city, we can all say Athens I Love You®.
In this episode, Jeff helps us understand what it looks like to be for our city. There’s something special about Athens. There’s just something special about this city, and you don’t have to spend long before it finds its way into your heart. The beautiful thing about Athens is everyone falls in love with Athens for a different reason—it’s different for the single mom than the retiree, for the college student than the young family. And while we might all love something different about our city, we can all say Athens I Love You®.
In this episode, Stephen helps you recognize the role you play in the dreams we have for the city of Athens because God's love is not just for you but working through you. There’s something special about Athens. There’s just something special about this city, and you don’t have to spend long before it finds its way into your heart. The beautiful thing about Athens is everyone falls in love with Athens for a different reason—it’s different for the single mom than the retiree, for the college student than the young family. And while we might all love something different about our city, we can all say Athens I Love You®.
In this episode, Sean and Bronson introduce you to some of our local nonprofit partners that make our city better. There’s something special about Athens. There’s just something special about this city, and you don’t have to spend long before it finds its way into your heart. The beautiful thing about Athens is everyone falls in love with Athens for a different reason—it’s different for the single mom than the retiree, for the college student than the young family. And while we might all love something different about our city, we can all say Athens I Love You®.
In this episode, Sean shares our dreams and vision for the city we love. There’s something special about Athens. There’s just something special about this city, and you don’t have to spend long before it finds its way into your heart. The beautiful thing about Athens is everyone falls in love with Athens for a different reason—it’s different for the single mom than the retiree, for the college student than the young family. And while we might all love something different about our city, we can all say Athens I Love You®.
We all want it. We all pursue it. But how do we define it? In this episode, Charles helps us discover why we don’t feel happy or successful despite our success in life.
We all want it. We all pursue it. But how do we define it? In this episode, Josh helps us discover why we don’t feel happy or successful despite our success in life.
We all want it. We all pursue it. But how do we define it? In this episode, Sean sits down with Ben and Mobley Brandenburg to hear how their story has changed their view of success.
We all want it. We all pursue it. But how do we define it? In this episode, Jeff helps us understand how our faithfulness directly impacts our success. We'll look at a question that Jesus asks: "when the Son of Man comes will he find faith on the earth?" In our pursuit of success, let's be a people that is found faithful here on earth.
We all want it. We all pursue it. But how do we define it? In this episode, Bronson tells the story of his greatest failure and how his failure has influenced his understanding of success after failing. Failure may play a role in your success too.
We all want it. We all pursue it. But how do we define it? In this episode, Sean introduces us to the idea of Success and helps begin to define what it really is.
In this episode, Josh guides us through the biblical principles found in the well-known friendship of Woody and Buzz in the movie Toy Story. We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that captures our imagination and makes us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies. Each Sunday we’ll focus on a different movie to see how they offer opportunities to engage with the life-changing love of Jesus. If you've been wanting to check out Athens Church or know someone who has, this is the perfect series with something for everyone. So, consider yourself officially invited to At The Movies!
In this episode, Charles guides us through the biblical principles found in the story of Williams family in King Richard. We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that captures our imagination and makes us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies. Each Sunday we’ll focus on a different movie to see how they offer opportunities to engage with the life-changing love of Jesus. If you've been wanting to check out Athens Church or know someone who has, this is the perfect series with something for everyone. So, consider yourself officially invited to At The Movies!
In this episode, Sean guides us through the biblical principles found in the 80s classic we all know and love: Top Gun. We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that captures our imagination and makes us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies. Each Sunday we’ll focus on a different movie to see how they offer opportunities to engage with the life-changing love of Jesus. If you've been wanting to check out Athens Church or know someone who has, this is the perfect series with something for everyone. So, consider yourself officially invited to At The Movies!
In this episode, Trevour guides us through the biblical principles found in the response to pain and betrayal in Captain America: Civil War. We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that captures our imagination and makes us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies. Each Sunday we’ll focus on a different movie to see how they offer opportunities to engage with the life-changing love of Jesus. If you've been wanting to check out Athens Church or know someone who has, this is the perfect series with something for everyone. So, consider yourself officially invited to At The Movies!
In this episode, Mark guides us through the biblical principles we can find in the well known franchise of Star Wars. We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that captures our imagination and makes us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies. Each Sunday we’ll focus on a different movie to see how they offer opportunities to engage with the life-changing love of Jesus. If you've been wanting to check out Athens Church or know someone who has, this is the perfect series with something for everyone. So, consider yourself officially invited to At The Movies!
In this episode, Andy introduces the final question we should ask when making a decision: what does love require of me? We all want a better story. But our story is never better than the decisions we make. When we ask ourselves the right questions, answer honestly, then act appropriately, we make better decisions with fewer regrets. But what are the questions we should be asking?
In this episode, Andy introduces the fourth question we should ask when making a decision: what is the wise thing to do? We all want a better story. But our story is never better than the decisions we make. When we ask ourselves the right questions, answer honestly, then act appropriately, we make better decisions with fewer regrets. But what are the questions we should be asking?
In this episode, Andy introduces the third question we should ask when making a decision: is there a tension that deserves my attention? We all want a better story. But our story is never better than the decisions we make. When we ask ourselves the right questions, answer honestly, then act appropriately, we make better decisions with fewer regrets. But what are the questions we should be asking?
In this episode, Andy introduces the second question we should ask when making a decision: what story do I want to tell? We all want a better story. But our story is never better than the decisions we make. When we ask ourselves the right questions, answer honestly, then act appropriately, we make better decisions with fewer regrets. But what are the questions we should be asking?
In this episode, Andy introduces the first question we should ask when making a decision: am I being honest with myself? We all want a better story. But our story is never better than the decisions we make. When we ask ourselves the right questions, answer honestly, then act appropriately, we make better decisions with fewer regrets. But what are the questions we should be asking?
In this episode, Andy introduces the relationship between good questions and good decisions, and he begins the conversation of where do we go from here. We all want a better story. But our story is never better than the decisions we make. When we ask ourselves the right questions, answer honestly, then act appropriately, we make better decisions with fewer regrets. But what are the questions we should be asking?
In this episode, our student pastor Charles challenges to have courage and share courage. You'll get to embrace your inner-Student and experience what happens in our Students environments each Sunday morning. You’ll laugh, squirm, and smile, but our biggest hope is that you get just a glimpse into what God is doing in the lives of Students of Athens Church each week even if you never step foot in one of those environments.
In this episode, Sean sits down with April Farlow and Chanda Santana to discuss the way of Jesus discovered in motherhood. Life pulls us in a million different directions. We’re trying to make the right decision and do the right thing, but we don’t always know what’s right. Social media tells us one thing. Our family tells us another. TV another. Our jobs another… and the list goes on. Life’s hard and you want to get it right, but what if there was a better way than “right?” Would you try it?
In this episode, Jeff acknowledges how we should respond when life overlooks us. Life pulls us in a million different directions. We’re trying to make the right decision and do the right thing, but we don’t always know what’s right. Social media tells us one thing. Our family tells us another. TV another. Our jobs another… and the list goes on. Life’s hard and you want to get it right, but what if there was a better way than “right?” Would you try it?
In this episode, Clay helps us understand the mercy that the way of Jesus offers us. Life pulls us in a million different directions. We’re trying to make the right decision and do the right thing, but we don’t always know what’s right. Social media tells us one thing. Our family tells us another. TV another. Our jobs another… and the list goes on. Life’s hard and you want to get it right, but what if there was a better way than “right?” Would you try it?
In this episode, Sean helps us understand what life looks like when we allow Jesus to be the Lord of our life. Life pulls us in a million different directions. We’re trying to make the right decision and do the right thing, but we don’t always know what’s right. Social media tells us one thing. Our family tells us another. TV another. Our jobs another… and the list goes on. Life’s hard and you want to get it right, but what if there was a better way than “right?” Would you try it?
In this episode, Andy Stanley discusses the last of five catalyst to grow up and blow up our faith: pivotal circumstances. There are people who live in what can be a desolate and draining world, yet they’re hopeful. They have what seems to be an unshakable confidence in God in spite of what they’ve seen, in spite of what they’ve experienced, in spite of what’s happening around them. They don’t have amazing beliefs, they have amazing faith. So where does that come from and how do we get it? How doe we rediscover and refuel our faith in a world that’s running on empty?
In this episode, Andy Stanley discusses the fourth of five catalyst to grow up and blow up our faith: private disciplines. There are people who live in what can be a desolate and draining world, yet they’re hopeful. They have what seems to be an unshakable confidence in God in spite of what they’ve seen, in spite of what they’ve experienced, in spite of what’s happening around them. They don’t have amazing beliefs, they have amazing faith. So where does that come from and how do we get it? How doe we rediscover and refuel our faith in a world that’s running on empty?
In this episode, Andy Stanley discusses the second of five catalyst to grow up and blow up our faith: providential relationships. These relationships are the ones that seem that God dropped them into your life at just the right time. There are people who live in what can be a desolate and draining world, yet they’re hopeful. They have what seems to be an unshakable confidence in God in spite of what they’ve seen, in spite of what they’ve experienced, in spite of what’s happening around them. They don’t have amazing beliefs, they have amazing faith. So where does that come from and how do we get it? How doe we rediscover and refuel our faith in a world that’s running on empty?
In this episode, Andy Stanley discusses the second of five catalyst to grow up and blow up our faith: practical ministry. One way you can be involved in practical ministry is serving here at Athens Church. There are people who live in what can be a desolate and draining world, yet they’re hopeful. They have what seems to be an unshakable confidence in God in spite of what they’ve seen, in spite of what they’ve experienced, in spite of what’s happening around them. They don’t have amazing beliefs, they have amazing faith. So where does that come from and how do we get it? How doe we rediscover and refuel our faith in a world that’s running on empty?
In this episode, Andy Stanley discusses the first of five catalyst to grow up and blow up our faith: practical teaching. There are people who live in what can be a desolate and draining world, yet they’re hopeful. They have what seems to be an unshakable confidence in God in spite of what they’ve seen, in spite of what they’ve experienced, in spite of what’s happening around them. They don’t have amazing beliefs, they have amazing faith. So where does that come from and how do we get it? How doe we rediscover and refuel our faith in a world that’s running on empty?
In this episode, Andy Stanley will explore what God uses and what we can do to grow our faith and confidence in God. There are people who live in what can be a desolate and draining world, yet they’re hopeful. They have what seems to be an unshakable confidence in God in spite of what they’ve seen, in spite of what they’ve experienced, in spite of what’s happening around them. They don’t have amazing beliefs, they have amazing faith. So where does that come from and how do we get it? How doe we rediscover and refuel our faith in a world that’s running on empty?
In this episode, Sean helps us face the pains of life rather than numb them with alcohol. Life pulls us in a million different directions. We’re trying to make the right decision and do the right thing, but we don’t always know what’s right. Social media tells us one thing. Our family tells us another. TV another. Our jobs another… and the list goes on. Life’s hard and you want to get it right, but what if there was a better way than “right?” Would you try it?
In this episode, Josh helps us navigate what to do when our faith is in crisis because deconstruction always implies reconstruction. Life pulls us in a million different directions. We’re trying to make the right decision and do the right thing, but we don’t always know what’s right. Social media tells us one thing. Our family tells us another. TV another. Our jobs another… and the list goes on. Life’s hard and you want to get it right, but what if there was a better way than “right?” Would you try it?
In this episode, Clay Scroggins presents salvation that is offered in Jesus. Salvation that doesn't require you to find your way back or work your way back, but one where Jesus says, "I'm the way back." Life pulls us in a million different directions. We’re trying to make the right decision and do the right thing, but we don’t always know what’s right. Social media tells us one thing. Our family tells us another. TV another. Our jobs another… and the list goes on. Life’s hard and you want to get it right, but what if there was a better way than “right?” Would you try it?
In this episode, Stephen Sowell challenges us to avoid escaping and stop denying in order to choose the way of Jesus: surrender. Life pulls us in a million different directions. We’re trying to make the right decision and do the right thing, but we don’t always know what’s right. Social media tells us one thing. Our family tells us another. TV another. Our jobs another… and the list goes on. Life’s hard and you want to get it right, but what if there was a better way than “right?” Would you try it?
In this episode, Jon Tyson will help us identify three ways we can live and begin to discuss how we can choose the way of Jesus. Life pulls us in a million different directions. We’re trying to make the right decision and do the right thing, but we don’t always know what’s right. Social media tells us one thing. Our family tells us another. TV another. Our jobs another… and the list goes on. Life’s hard and you want to get it right, but what if there was a better way than “right?” Would you try it?
In this episode, our lead pastor Sean Seay shares our biggest announcement in over a decade. For the past 17 years, our mission has been to lead people into a growing relationship with Jesus, and our prayer is every person in the Athens-area will have a chance to experience the love of God. Listen now to to learn how you can be a part of what’s next for Athens Church in reaching more people in our city. Trust us, you'll want to be a part of it!
Did 2021 not live up to expectations? Well, it’s 2022 now and this is the year. The year you’re going to get that promotion. The year you’re going to lose the weight… and keep it off! The year Mr. Perfect is going to propose. The year the Dawgs go all the way. What if there was something you could do this January that would guarantee 2022 would exceed all your expectations? Would you do it? In this episode, Sean Seay challenges us to make church a consistent part of our routine because of what hangs in the balance for you, your family, and your future.
Part 3 of 3 Speaker: Sean Seay
Did 2021 not live up to expectations? Well, it’s 2022 now and this is the year. The year you’re going to get that promotion. The year you’re going to lose the weight… and keep it off! The year Mr. Perfect is going to propose. The year the Dawgs go all the way. What if there was something you could do this January that would guarantee 2022 would exceed all your expectations? Would you do it? In this episode, Bronson Crawford talks about how prayer has the potential to inspire your faith and change your future.
Part 2 of 3 Speaker: Bronson Crawford
Did 2021 not live up to expectations? Well, it’s 2022 now and this is the year. The year you’re going to get that promotion. The year you’re going to lose the weight… and keep it off! The year Mr. Perfect is going to propose. The year the Dawgs go all the way. What if there was something you could do this January that would guarantee 2022 would exceed all your expectations? Would you do it? In this episode, Sean Seay talks about how a daily habit of spending time in the Bible can change your outlook for the year.
Part 1 of 3 Speaker: Sean Seay
What comes to mind when you hear the “character of God?” Don’t think “character” from your high school English literature class, instead, think about what comes to mind when we talk about who God is. What comes to mind? In our new, live series, He Shall Be Called, we want to get to know God better and see how these characteristics are fleshed out in the person of Jesus. We'll be talking about a different characteristic found in Isaiah 6:9 each week. In this episode, Clay Scroggins talks about how Jesus is our Prince of Peace. Our hope is this series is encouraging for you in this season and you’re able invite someone to join this Christmas season!
Speaker: Clay Scroggins Part 4 of 4
What comes to mind when you hear the “character of God?” Don’t think “character” from your high school English literature class, instead, think about what comes to mind when we talk about who God is. What comes to mind? In our new, live series, He Shall Be Called, we want to get to know God better and see how these characteristics are fleshed out in the person of Jesus. We'll be talking about a different characteristic found in Isaiah 6:9 each week. In this episode, Charles Ficken talks about how God is our Everlasting Father. Our hope is this series is encouraging for you in this season and you’re able invite someone to join this Christmas season!
Speaker: Charles Ficken Part 3 of 4
What comes to mind when you hear the “character of God?” Don’t think “character” from your high school English literature class, instead, think about what comes to mind when we talk about who God is. What comes to mind? In our new, live series, He Shall Be Called, we want to get to know God better and see how these characteristics are fleshed out in the person of Jesus. We'll be talking about a different characteristic found in Isaiah 6:9 each week. In this episode, Jeff Henderson will be talking about how Jesus is our Mighty God. Our hope is this series is encouraging for you in this season and you’re able invite someone to join this Christmas season!
Speaker: Jeff Henderson Part 2 of 4
What comes to mind when you hear the “character of God?” Don’t think “character” from your high school English literature class, instead, think about what comes to mind when we talk about who God is. What comes to mind? In our new, live series, He Shall Be Called, we want to get to know God better and see how these characteristics are fleshed out in the person of Jesus. We'll be talking about a different characteristic found in Isaiah 6:9 each week. In this episode, Josh Bayne will be talking about how Jesus is our Wonderful Counselor. Our hope is this series is encouraging for you in this season and you’re able invite someone to join this Christmas season!
Speaker: Josh Bayne Part 1 of 4
No one likes feeling trapped. All of us have something that is holding us back, getting in our way, or keeping us from experiencing God’s best for us. In this episode, Clay and Sean will be talking about a mindset that seems to be creeping into much of world and you might not even noticed it.
Speaker: Clay Scroggins & Sean Seay Part 3 of 4
No one likes feeling trapped. We all have mindsets— particular ways of viewing the world around us. What if our mindsets about life have become mind traps? How would we know? What would we do if that was true? This week, we’re talking about the mind trap of negativity.
Speaker: Clay Scroggins Part 2 of 4
Our minds are powerful tools. They hold our memories, store information, and help us interpret the world around us. But our minds also house our worries, suspicions, and fears. Over time, these mindsets can leave us feeling trapped. How do you stop a mindset from becoming a mind trap? In this message, Clay talks about how we can take positive steps to overcome the trap of a victim mindset.
Speaker: Clay Scroggins Part 1 of 4
What do you want? What do you really want? We’ll never get what we really want until we discover what is most valuable. And what we naturally want is often in conflict with what we ultimately value. So, in order to figure out what you really want, you have to figure out what you value.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 4 of 4
What do you want? What do you really want? We’ll never get what we really want until we discover what is most valuable. And what we naturally want is often in conflict with what we ultimately value. So, in order to figure out what you really want, you have to figure out what you value.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 3 of 4
We’ll never get what we really want until we discover what is most valuable. But choosing what’s valuable isn’t natural. We’ve all had the experience of getting what we naturally want, only to discover it's not what is most valuable—it’s not what we ultimately want. But how do we avoid being deceived by our short-term desires?
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 2 of 4
Our culture likes to put labels on everything and everyone to try and identify them—conservative, northerner, white-collar, progressive, UGA fan, southerner, and so many more. As followers of Jesus, we also have an identity, and it’s one that can change our lives if we really believe it. In this episode, Clay Scroggins talks about how remaining in Christ the most important factor for your ability to live out His identity for you.
Our culture likes to put labels on everything and everyone to try and identify them—conservative, northerner, white-collar, progressive, UGA fan, southerner, and so many more. As followers of Jesus, we also have an identity, and it’s one that can change our lives if we really believe it. In this episode Stephen Sowell will be unpacking why it's important that God calls us "friend."
Our culture likes to put labels on everything and everyone to try and identify them—conservative, northerner, white-collar, progressive, UGA fan, southerner, and so many more. As followers of Jesus, we also have an identity, and it’s one that can change our lives if we really believe it. Today Josh Bayne, our college director, will be talking about what we do with that inescapable feeling that we’re not enough and why that's actually not a bad thing.
Our culture likes to put labels on everything and everyone to try and identify them—conservative, northerner, white-collar, progressive, UGA fan, southerner, and so many more. As followers of Jesus, we also have an identity, and it’s one that can change our lives if we really believe it. In this episode, our friend Clay Scroggins will be challenging us to live from God’s approval rather than for other’s approval.
Speaker: Clay Scroggins Part 2 of 5
Our culture likes to put labels on everything and everyone to try and identify them—conservative, northerner, white-collar, progressive, UGA fan, southerner, and so many more. As followers of Jesus, we also have an identity, and it’s one that can change our lives if we really believe it. In this episode, Sean Seay, our lead pastor, will be talking about what a life “in Christ” actually means and how it has the potential to change our lives.
Speaker: Sean Seay Part 1 of 5
We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that capture our imagination and make us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies. Each Sunday we'll pick a movie, talk about important themes, and see what the Bible has to say too. This week Jeff Henderson will be talking about how Thor can show us a picture of worthiness and what it means for us.
Speaker: Jeff Henderson Part 5 of 5
We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that capture our imagination and make us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies. Each Sunday we'll pick a movie, talk about important themes, and see what the Bible has to say too. This week we’re focusing on The Fast & The Furious as Josh Bayne, our college director, challenges us to examine if we’re living our life at a sustainable pace.
Speaker: Josh Bayne Part 4 of 5
We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that capture our imagination and make us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies. Each Sunday we'll pick a movie, talk about important themes, and see what the Bible has to say too. This week we’re focusing on Guardians of the Galaxy as Sean Seay, our lead pastor, challenges come together and join in a mission bigger than ourselves.
Speaker: Sean Seay Part 3 of 5
We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that capture our imagination and make us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies. Each Sunday we'll pick a movie, talk about important themes, and see what the Bible has to say too. This week Trevour Wiltshire will be focusing on The Lion King and challenging us to not only remember WHO we are but WHOSE we are.
Speaker: Trevour Wiltshire Part 2 of 5
We all love movies. From superheroes to childhood classics, there's something about movies that capture our imagination and make us feel "all the feels." And when you experience that with other people… it's even better! That's why, this summer, we're inviting you to At The Movies. Each Sunday we'll pick a movie, talk about important themes, and see what the Bible has to say too. This week Mark Lamb will be using Jurassic World to remind us that moving from death to life is actually impressive.
Speaker: Mark Lamb Part 1 of 5
This online-only service was filmed as part of our Recovery Week activities. Please join us for this special service of worship and prayer as we close out our time of recovery.
If you'd like to learn more about what Athens Church has done for Recovery Week and to start your own My Recovery Plan, visit AthensChurch.com/recoveryweek
If your main goal is your kid's obedience, you're settling for something less than and you're setting yourself up to have anger stirred up regularly. Instead of obedience being the objective, there's a long-term target that will go a long way toward winning as a parent.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 4 of 4
When our kids mess up, our tendency is to take something away from them. However, punishment shouldn't be the end goal of discipline. Restoration should be.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 3 of 4
Moms and dads dream of a future where their kids become adults and still want to come home regularly to visit. As parents, there’s something we can do to lay the foundation for that dream to become a reality.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 2 of 4
Ideal can seem out of reach, and it sometimes feels easier to put it out of sight. Part of being a parent is to point our children toward the ideal, while at the same time navigating what is real.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 1 of 4
Today middle school and high school students joined us in service today for Student Takeover! It's a chance to embrace your inner-Student and experience what happens in our Students environments each Sunday morning. Our biggest hope is that you get just a glimpse into what God is doing in the lives of Students of Athens Church each week even if you never step foot in one of those environments.
Speaker: Charles Ficken
What would make this summer the “Best Summer Ever” for you? That perfect beach vacation? A long weekend away from the kids? All the poolside hangs with no school hanging over your head? Who wouldn’t want that? But what if there’s something that’s holding you back from having that kind of summer? Maybe it’s a freedom you didn’t know you needed so that you can experience the fullness of life God wants for you to have.
Speaker: Sean Seay
For years people have tried to predict or understand behavior in an attempt to strengthen communication. One of the best keys to better communication is to understand the four temperaments. In this message, Clay Scroggins and Kathleen Edelman walk through four temperaments and show how understanding them will lead you to better communication.
Speaker: Clay Scroggins & Kathleen Edelman Part 1 of 1
The Bible did not create Christianity. Christianity is the result of an event (the resurrection) that created a movement (the church) that produced sacred and reliable texts that were collected and bound into a book (the Bible). But how do we approach not being at peace with everything we read in the Bible? Paul—the apostle, Pharisee, author, preacher, and church planter—offers us clarity and confidence to move forward.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 4 of 4
The Old Testament chronicles God’s redemptive, sequential activity in history. It’s a fabulous, gritty, epic history of the Hebrew people in which, over and over, Israel is reminded that they are a divine means to an end. So, maybe instead of seeing the Old Testament as a spiritual guidebook or a storyline that needs to be tidied up, we should see it as something even better: the history of God preparing the world for a Savior.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 3 of 4
“In the beginning. . . .” can be a loaded phrase—one that forces us into debate and doubt. But maybe we’re missing the point of Genesis 1:1—a point Moses made to a world where the violence and injustice of the gods justified and legitimized the violence and injustice of human rulers. Moses introduced a radically different, unparalleled, and untested worldview.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 2 of 4
Most of us know some Bible stories, but very few of us know the story of the Bible. And it may be surprising to discover it’s a story that doesn’t actually begin in the beginning. It begins with the accounts of a few men who sat down to record the death and resurrection of Jesus. It begins with the words of his followers who were compelled to document the events that had changed everything for them—because they knew it could change everything for us.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 1 of 4
You don’t have to understand everything to jump into something. We do that all the time with new jobs, relationships, and hobbies. So what holds us back when it comes to matters of faith? For some it’s our past, our pain, our doubts, or our questions. But the truth is you don't have to understand everything to believe in something. And most people don’t become Christians because all their questions were answered. Instead, their questions became smaller because they experienced something that changed their life. For anyone who’s looking for a connection with God but has questions, concerns, and doubts, our next series is for you… because It’s Personal.
Speaker: Sean Seay Part 5 of 5
The story of Good Friday often helps us focus our hearts and minds on the sacrifice of Jesus through the cross. But in today's episode, Debbie Butler shares how the raucous crowd at Jesus's trial can teach us something powerful as well.
Sometimes slowing your life down enough to focus on Jesus during the Easter season can be hard. We want to help you with that. The Holy Week miniseries is designed to give you a daily audio devotional to help you focus your mind and heart on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
Maundy Thursday details the final meal Jesus had with his closest followers and the timeless message he shared with them that night. In today's episode, Whit Smith shows us how that message is sometimes the hardest one for us to receive.
Sometimes slowing your life down enough to focus on Jesus during the Easter season can be hard. We want to help you with that. The Holy Week miniseries is designed to give you a daily audio devotional to help you focus your mind and heart on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
Often called "Spy Wednesday," Holy Wednesday details the story of Judas Iscariot plotting to betray Jesus of Nazareth. In today's episode, Andy Lowry helps us understand how the story of Judas isn't as far fetched off as we may think.
Sometimes slowing your life down enough to focus on Jesus during the Easter season can be hard. We want to help you with that. The Holy Week miniseries is designed to give you a daily audio devotional to help you focus your mind and heart on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
Jesus often spoke in parables—made up stories that taught people about the Kingdom of God. On Holy Tuesday, Jesus tells a parable specifically designed for the religious elite of His day. Today, Courtney Rue teaches us how an ancient story Jesus told could be the thing we need the most in 2021.
Sometimes slowing your life down enough to focus on Jesus during the Easter season can be hard. We want to help you with that. The Holy Week miniseries is designed to give you a daily audio devotional to help you focus your mind and heart on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
Believe it or not, disruption was often a common occurrence around Jesus everywhere he went. But on Holy Monday, Jesus is the one found doing the disrupting. Josh Bayne shares a few thoughts with us today on how Jesus may be trying to get our attention through disruption.
Sometimes slowing your life down enough to focus on Jesus during the Easter season can be hard. We want to help you with that. The Holy Week miniseries is designed to give you a daily audio devotional to help you focus your mind and heart on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
On Palm Sunday, Jesus enters Jerusalem for the beginning of the final week of his life. Have you ever wondered what could have been going through Jesus's mind on His way to Jerusalem? In our first episode, Stephen Sowell walks us through some aspects of Jesus's journey to Jerusalem and how they impact us today.
Sometimes slowing your life down enough to focus on Jesus during the Easter season can be hard. We want to help you with that. The Holy Week miniseries is designed to give you a daily audio devotional to help you focus your mind and heart on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
You don’t have to understand everything to jump into something. We do that all the time with new jobs, relationships, and hobbies. So what holds us back when it comes to matters of faith? For some it’s our past, our pain, our doubts, or our questions. But the truth is you don't have to understand everything to believe in something. And most people don’t become Christians because all their questions were answered. Instead, their questions became smaller because they experienced something that changed their life. For anyone who’s looking for a connection with God but has questions, concerns, and doubts, our next series is for you… because It’s Personal.
Speaker: Jeff Henderson Part 4 of 5
You don’t have to understand everything to jump into something. We do that all the time with new jobs, relationships, and hobbies. So what holds us back when it comes to matters of faith? For some it’s our past, our pain, our doubts, or our questions. But the truth is you don't have to understand everything to believe in something. And most people don’t become Christians because all their questions were answered. Instead, their questions became smaller because they experienced something that changed their life. For anyone who’s looking for a connection with God but has questions, concerns, and doubts, our next series is for you… because It’s Personal.
Speaker: Gerald Fadayomi Part 3 of 5
You don’t have to understand everything to jump into something. We do that all the time with new jobs, relationships, and hobbies. So what holds us back when it comes to matters of faith? For some it’s our past, our pain, our doubts, or our questions. But the truth is you don't have to understand everything to believe in something. And most people don’t become Christians because all their questions were answered. Instead, their questions became smaller because they experienced something that changed their life. For anyone who’s looking for a connection with God but has questions, concerns, and doubts, our next series is for you… because It’s Personal.
Speaker: Stephen Sowell Part 2 of 5
You don’t have to understand everything to jump into something. We do that all the time with new jobs, relationships, and hobbies. So what holds us back when it comes to matters of faith? For some it’s our past, our pain, our doubts, or our questions. But the truth is you don't have to understand everything to believe in something. And most people don’t become Christians because all their questions were answered. Instead, their questions became smaller because they experienced something that changed their life. For anyone who’s looking for a connection with God but has questions, concerns, and doubts, our next series is for you… because It’s Personal.
Speaker: Josh Bayne Part 1 of 5
We all have hopes and dreams, but what are we supposed to do when our hearts are broken and our dreams can’t come true? It’s tempting to take matters into our own hands, but is there a better way?
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 6 of 6
Many times, we learn from our mistakes in the areas that matter least, but we repeat our mistakes in the areas that matter most. So how can we ensure that the next time won’t be like the last time? Instead of being a conformer, it’s time to be a transformer.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 5 of 6
If you don’t want a relationship like the majority of relationships, don’t date like the majority of daters. In this message, we'll be talking about five rules for dating.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 4 of 6
From elementary school through high school, many of us had ideas of what the perfect relationship would look like in the future. While those dreams may not represent our current reality, a step in the right direction could be to follow the apostle Paul’s advice—move from our childish ways and start being grownups.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 3 of 6
If becoming the right kind of person is key to a great relationship, how do you do that? Is there something you can do to prepare? Does it just happen? Sure, we’re supposed to love others, but what does that really mean? Let’s lean in and read the fine print.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 2 of 6
In relationships, we often believe if we find the right person it will make everything right. So we ask ourselves, “Is this the right person for me?” Maybe we need to be asking a different question—a question that shifts our focus from seeking the right kind of person to becoming the right kind of person.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 1 of 6
Right out of the gate in the new year, have you found yourself looking at your resolutions for 2021 and hoping if you cross off a couple, the future will be brighter than 2020? Because we all know that once you prioritize the important things everything else feels like it falls into place, right?
In this message Sean Seay helps us take a look at how when we prioritize biblical authority, it can help us build new habits for hope.
Right out of the gate in the new year, have you found yourself looking at your resolutions for 2021 and hoping if you cross off a couple, the future will be brighter than 2020? Because we all know that once you prioritize the important things everything else feels like it falls into place, right?
In this message Jeff Henderson helps us take a look at how when we prioritize time alone with God, it can help us build new habits for hope.
Right out of the gate in the new year, have you found yourself looking at your resolutions for 2021 and hoping if you cross off a couple, the future will be brighter than 2020? Because we all know that once you prioritize the important things everything else feels like it falls into place, right?
In this message Bronson Crawford helps us take a look at how when we prioritize giving, it can help us build new habits for hope.
Philippians 4:6 talks about a "peace that surpasses all understanding." But is that even possible to experience? If so, how? In the final episode of our Advent Journey podcast, Stephen has a conversation with Mark Lamb, our InsideOut Director, on how to pursue peace that surpasses all understanding. But first, Stephen and Josh share what they think are the most stressful parts of Christmas.
Every generation of Jesus followers is responsible to ensure the news of the Christian faith stays true to the original. So are you good news? What if you’re the only news someone gets?
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 3 of 3
If we're not careful, joy can be something we miss out on in life. If we're honest, most of us would describe our lives as more messy than joyful. In this week's edition of the Advent Journey, Stephen has a conversation with Laurie Curtis, our Children's Director, on what joy looks like in the middle of the mess. But to get things started, Josh and Stephen remember their favorite Christmas gift of all time.
The original message of Jesus was so compelling that everyone who heard it wanted it to be true. Maybe the version you’ve heard isn’t as captivating. If Jesus truly offered an invitation that left no one out, would you consider it really good news?
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 2 of 3
All of us want our faith to be strong, but how do you keep your faith when things feel scary in life? In this episode, Stephen talks with Kierstin Haddock, our InsideOut Women's Groups Director, on how to have faith when things feel scary. But first, Stephen and Josh open today's podcast with a conversation about their favorite Christmas traditions.
People close to Jesus were convinced they had met good personified. So they documented the story. They were convinced it wasn’t just for a nation or for a generation, but for all nations and every generation. This was good news, great joy, for all people—perhaps especially for those of us who aren’t all that good.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 1 of 3
Hope is something we all want, but sometimes, it can be hard to find. In this first episode, Stephen talks with Sean Seay, our lead pastor, about how to have hope in the real world and what we can do everyday to pursue hope instead of despair. But to get things started, Stephen and Josh celebrate the start of December with what gets them in the Christmas spirit.
In this message, Sean talks about The Power of Being Thankful. Not just the feeling of gratitude, but the expression of it. Our hope is that through this conversation we will all be able to identify areas of our lives we can be thankful for, and we will end this year walking in the power of a grateful heart.
Resilience has changed throughout the generations and as a culture we are trending toward. The trend for parents is to protect rather than prepare the next generation for adulthood. Our greatest opportunity for leading the next generation is to model and build resiliency muscles.
Speaker: Tim Elmore & Clay Scroggins Part 3 of 3
Everyone faces rejection. How we handle that rejection can either cripple us or force us to become more resilient. In a critical moment during Jesus’ ministry, his Heavenly father reminded him of something that can help all of us walk through seasons where we feel rejection.
Speaker: Clay Scroggins Part 2 of 3
We will all face setbacks in life. This is something that’s out of our control. But we can build resilience through the small trials, which will give us what we need when the bigger trials come.
Speaker: Clay Scroggins Part 1 of 3
What if there was a clear way to live in step with how God wants us to live? The good news is the Holy Spirit helps us do that. However, many people view the Holy Spirit as unapproachable, mystical, or just too confusing, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually means to live a life guided by the Holy Spirit, then this series is for you. This week, our college director, Josh Bayne, will be talking about what it means to walk in self-control in a time of no-control.
Speaker: Josh Bayne Part 9 of 9
What if there was a clear way to live in step with how God wants us to live? The good news is the Holy Spirit helps us do that. However, many people view the Holy Spirit as unapproachable, mystical, or just too confusing, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually means to live a life guided by the Holy Spirit, then this series is for you. This week, our lead pastor, Sean Seay, will be talking about what it means to walk in gentleness in a time of intensity.
Speaker: Sean Seay Part 8 of 9
What if there was a clear way to live in step with how God wants us to live? The good news is the Holy Spirit helps us do that. However, many people view the Holy Spirit as unapproachable, mystical, or just too confusing, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually means to live a life guided by the Holy Spirit, then this series is for you. This week Mike Koslowsky, Courtney Rue, and Shawnté Sandle will be having a conversation about what it means to walk in goodness in a time of darkness.
Speaker: Mike Koslowsky & Courtney Rue Part 7 of 9
What if there was a clear way to live in step with how God wants us to live? The good news is the Holy Spirit helps us do that. However, many people view the Holy Spirit as unapproachable, mystical, or just too confusing, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually means to live a life guided by the Holy Spirit, then this series is for you. This week Jeff Henderson will be talking about what it means to walk in faithfulness in a time of weariness.
Speaker: Jeff Henderson Part 6 of 9
What if there was a clear way to live in step with how God wants us to live? The good news is the Holy Spirit helps us do that. However, many people view the Holy Spirit as unapproachable, mystical, or just too confusing, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually means to live a life guided by the Holy Spirit, then this series is for you. This week, our student ministry director, Charles Ficken, will be talking about what it means to walk in kindness in a time of harshness.
Speaker: Charles Ficken Part 5 of 9
What if there was a clear way to live in step with how God wants us to live? The good news is the Holy Spirit helps us do that. However, many people view the Holy Spirit as unapproachable, mystical, or just too confusing, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually means to live a life guided by the Holy Spirit, then this series is for you. This week Gerald Fadayomi will be talking about what it means to walk in patience in a time of instant.
Speaker: Gerald Fadayomi Part 4 of 9
What if there was a clear way to live in step with how God wants us to live? The good news is the Holy Spirit helps us do that. However, many people view the Holy Spirit as unapproachable, mystical, or just too confusing, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually means to live a life guided by the Holy Spirit, then this series is for you. This week, our college director, Josh Bayne, will be talking about what it means to walk in peace in a time of anxiety.
Speaker: Josh Bayne Part 3 of 9
What if there was a clear way to live in step with how God wants us to live? The good news is the Holy Spirit helps us do that. However, many people view the Holy Spirit as unapproachable, mystical, or just too confusing, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually means to live a life guided by the Holy Spirit, then this series is for you. This week, our lead pastor, Sean Seay, will be talking about what it means to walk in joy in a time of sadness.
Speaker: Sean Seay Part 2 of 9
What if there was a clear way to live in step with how God wants us to live? The good news is the Holy Spirit helps us do that. However, many people view the Holy Spirit as unapproachable, mystical, or just too confusing, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually means to live a life guided by the Holy Spirit, then this series is for you. This week, our high school director, Mark Lamb, will be talking about what it means to walk in love in a time of fear.
Speaker: Mark Lamb Part 1 of 9
The unity and diversity of the early church shocked and intrigued the ancient world. Ours should as well.
Our political views are shaped by a number of variables: our backgrounds, education, and personal experiences to name a few. It’s easy to feel like our view is the right one, but the person beside you is more precious to God than your political view.
Your favorite candidate will win or lose based on how our country votes this November. However, the church will win or lose based on our behavior between now and then.
Each fall, thousands of parents drop their son or daughter off for college in Athens. They outfit the dorm room and say their goodbyes, but then what? What does a college student need to truly thrive, and how can we, as the church, give that to them? This message outlines new vision and working plans for college ministry at Athens Church, both in 2020 and the years to come.
It feels like if a person or organization makes one bad choice or says things the wrong way they will possibly be publicly ostracized and ganged up on. They’ll be shut down and shut out. However, as a church of people who are following Jesus, we have been called to live a different way… a better way.
When we see someone we care about make bad decisions, we can either confront them about it or hope someone else does. Many times we opt for the latter, under the guise of being kind, not wanting to interfere, or waiting for them to ask for our input. But we should ask ourselves: are we really being kind, or are we letting fear, discomfort, or indifference be the boss of us?
All of us walk through life with occasional fear. And it’s not always a bad thing. Fear is a byproduct of our ability to think about what might happen in the future, and it can protect us from harm. However, living with too much fear can cause us to be self-absorbed, distracted, and overly protective. But the good news is this: You don’t have to be afraid even when there’s something to be afraid of.
When we feel anger, our emotions tell us it’s 100 percent someone else’s fault. But James, the brother of Jesus, has something different to say. When we take a step back and acknowledge what the problem really is, anger will no longer be the boss of us.
Envy causes us to compare and compete with others in an unhealthy way. It brings arrogance when we’re winning and discouragement when we’re not. It robs us of contentment and causes us to feel like—as an ancient king put it—we’re chasing after the wind. But envy doesn’t have to be the boss.
When it comes to guilt, many of us naturally lean in one of two ways: we wallow in it by reliving the past, or we deny it by making excuses. In either instance, guilt is causing us to be out of balance. The apostle Paul reminds us that, because of Jesus, guilt is not the boss of us.
We all monitor our behavior to some degree. This keeps us out of trouble and helps us in our personal and professional relationships. But Jesus invites his followers to take monitoring a step further.
We avoid things we don’t like. But sometimes things come our way that we can’t avoid. When our circumstances deteriorate, what do we do when there’s nothing we can do? If current circumstances have taken a toll on your faith or relationship with God, this message is for you.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 2 of 2
Everybody had an opinion. Everybody claims to have a solution. What we need is an experience. This special message designed to coax all of us out of our echo chambers and into the messy middle where assumptions are challenged and solutions are discovered.
Christians have never believed in a God who doesn’t allow bad things to happen to good people. Christians believe the worst possible thing happened to the best possible person. If current circumstances have taken a toll on your faith or relationship with God, this message is for you.
Speaker: Andy Stanley Part 1 of 2
This week was special, not just because it was our first ever Drive-In service, but because we were able to celebrate Seniors: The Class of 2020. We know they missed out on a lot of "lasts" and didn't have opportunities to celebrate their achievements. It's been disappointing in a lot of ways, but our Student Ministry team went above-and-beyond to make them feel special and celebrated during this week's Student Celebration Sunday.
Mother or not, culture tries to encourage us by telling us that we are enough, but that is not what the Gospel teaches us. The Gospel teaches that we are not enough, and that we need Jesus to save us from ourselves! In fact, trying to be enough keeps us striving, working, or scraping up every last ounce of our own inner strength which leaves us weary and worn out. Jesus is our enough. Listen in as Courtney, Tara, and Jennie talk about the best thing we can offer ourselves and our children and families is to seek God and trust that He will be enough.
The first days were disorienting and stressful. But some of us discovered new, not-so-bad rhythms. But, it quickly we lost track of time as one day bled into the next. Now, all we want is to do is just get back to “normal,” but it feels like we’re being told more and more what we can’t do. So, what do you do when you can’t do all the things you want to do?
This week, Clay Scroggins, Lead Pastor of Buckhead Church, talks with us about a simple practice we can start that can instantly change not only our marriages but all our relationships.
The first days were disorienting and stressful. But some of us discovered new, not-so-bad rhythms. But, it quickly we lost track of time as one day bled into the next. Now, all we want is to do is just get back to “normal,” but it feels like we’re being told more and more what we can’t do. So, what do you do when you can’t do all the things you want to do?
This week, Jeff Henderson, Lead Pastor of Gwinnett Church, talks with us about the best way to start our day and offers a 21-day challenge to go along with it.
The first days were disorienting and stressful. But some of us discovered new, not-so-bad rhythms. But, it quickly we lost track of time as one day bled into the next. Now, all we want is to do is just get back to “normal,” but it feels like we’re being told more and more what we can’t do. So, what do you do when you can’t do all the things you want to do?
This week, Sean talks with author and speaker Dave Runyon about the Art of Neighboring and how we can show the love of Jesus to those who live around us even in the midst of this unique season.
At different points in our lives, many of us wonder why a good God would allow bad things to happen. And without a clear response, that dilemma could cause us to question God’s existence altogether. The gospel writer John documented an occasion where Jesus not only brought his friend Lazarus back to life, but demonstrated how God can exist in the midst of a world of evil and suffering.
There are many products we buy, use, and put our confidence in without having all the information or fully understanding how they work. In the Gospel of John, we see a man begin to follow Jesus based on limited information. This man, who was born blind, said he only knew one main thing—and that one thing was enough to make him curious about who Jesus really was.
Perhaps one of the most famous signs performed by Jesus is feeding over 5000+ people with five loaves of bread and two fish. Those that followed Jesus thought he was finally getting to the point of what he could do for them. They were more enamored with the signs instead of what the signs were pointing to.
Just outside of Jerusalem, Jesus performed a miracle that changed a man’s life forever. For 38 years, this man was unable to walk. But when Jesus said, “Get up,” the man was healed. However, it’s what Jesus said next that made this miracle a clear sign of who Jesus really was.
In order to demonstrate who he was, Jesus performed a number of miracles—which the apostle John referred to as “signs.” The first of those signs was at a joyous occasion where Jesus turned water into wine. The second sign was in the midst of a heartbreaking circumstance in which a father desperately asks Jesus to heal his dying son.
The first of Jesus' miracles that John documents is when Jesus–with a nudge from his mother—attended a wedding and turned water into wine. It was the first sign of many that gives evidence of who Jesus is.
This series has been focused on living in freedom with our technology, but what we are really talking about is living a free life. Technology offers us a lot, But it can’t provide us with the life we want and need. In this message, Sean sits down with best-selling author Rebekah Lyons for a conversation about putting rhythms in place that help us live the life we want and the one God wants for us.
Things have changed so much in just the last 25 years in regards to technology. We used to just have a desire to be entertained and now our endless appetites have been met with endless access. Technology is the new gluttony, and we can easily overindulge in a way that’s unhealthy. So, where’s the line? In this talk, Sean will suggest 10 tips for everyone AND 10 tips specifically for parents for how you win when it comes to technology—no matter the season!
We likely all agree that social media, while it has many benefits, can also cause many problems. So often, we want to label things like social media as good or bad. But it seems that what would make it “good or bad” is how it is used. There are a million ways we could manage this tension. Gerald helps us manage our social media habits by asking a better question: how can I use social media wisely?
Technology and the use of it, while helpful, can definitely be a hot topic! People have a lot of thoughts when it comes to the use of technology. However, there does seem to be one thing about technology that most people have in common. Whether you are married, living at home with your parents, a college student, or a single adult with roomate, whomever you live with “They’re the ones on their phone too much!” But this series isn't about THEIR relationship with THEIR phone, it's about YOUR relationship with YOUR phone, tablet, tv, etc. Together we are going to begin to assess our relationship with our phones and how it affects us and those around us.
When we started Athens Church back in 2005, we believed Athens didn’t need another church; it needed a different kind of church. Fifteen years later, we believe our mission—to lead people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ—is more important than ever! Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or you're planning to visit for the first time, you are part of something miraculous. You're invited to celebrate with us what God has done in the lives of the people of Athens Church over the last fifteen years, while also looking forward to what He is going to do in the future in the lives of the people of our city!
Most of us want this year to be better. But “better” requires a bit of honest and awkward evaluation. So what are you holding onto that’s holding you back?
Many of us want this year to be better than last year. We start off with good intentions by making a commitment to improve but inevitably end up not following through. There’s got to be a better way, right? A perfect year may be impossible. But a better year is possible.
Many of us want this year to be better than last year. We start off with good intentions by making a commitment to improve but inevitably end up not following through. There’s got to be a better way, right? A perfect year may be impossible. But a better year is possible.
God’s grace to us is an invitation to be amazing. It’s our chance to extend to others what God has freely extended to us. But while most of us are full of something . . . it’s usually not grace. So what are you full of? And what would it take for you to give someone what they don’t expect? Or deserve?
The kingdom of God is characterized by unsettling generosity —the kind of generosity that gives the undeserving what they don’t deserve and regardless of how unright we’ve been, makes us right with God. So what do we do when we’re faced with this math that doesn’t add up? And how do we respond to this unfair, unsettling system that Jesus came to invite us into?
There is an unsettling solution for just about everything, and we can sum it up in one word. Grace. It’s the undeserved, unearned, unearnable favor that Jesus came to offer us. So why wouldn’t we want Christianity to be true? And where should you start if it’s a word that was never part of the equation for you?
Generosity requires a plan. But how do you make a plan? These two simple gauges will help you decide where and how much to give.
We all worry about money. What if we don't have enough? What if we lose what we have? This simple shift in perspective can free you from financial worries.
Everyone gives something somewhere. But there’s a difference between random acts of giving and true generosity. The good news is, it’s possible to learn how to be generous.
Together with churches across the country, we'll be kicking off our big fall giving and serving initiative, Be Rich! In this service, we took time to highlight a few of the organizations we'll be partnering with this year so that you could see how your time and money will make a difference in our city through Be Rich.
Most of the emotional stuff we cover up and refuse to deal with revolves around loss. We all struggle with expectations that went unmet, goals we failed to achieve, or dreams that were broken. How we handle our loss matters. It impacts the quality of our lives. If we bury those negative emotions alive, they will come back to haunt us . . . and the people we love.
Establishing healthy habits will benefit the relationships you care most about. Others will reap from the emotional habits you sow.
Many of us learned from an early age to hide what we were feeling from other people. We got the message that showing our emotions made us look weak. In time, we became so skilled at hiding what we feel, we even learned to hide our emotions from ourselves. But hiding isn’t a sign of courage or strength. If we want to grow, we have to stop saying, “It’s fine,” and start being honest—with ourselves and others—about what’s going on inside.
This has been a great series to discover our individual styles for connecting with God and two staples (prayer and scripture) we can all practice to grow in our relationship with Jesus. As we conclude this series we are reminded that while we have different styles it’s vitally important that we appreciate each others’ style so we grow in unity and not division. Our unity gives the message of Jesus credibility to the world and shows that God loves us all and is for all of us no matter our style, no matter our story. We are better together!
The Bible says there is one way to God and that’s through the person of Jesus. Because it is so important to connect with Jesus, the series You’ve Got Style has been helping us learn about our spiritual temperaments and how we can connect with God. There are a few staples for connecting with God, one of which Gerald talked about last week…prayer. In this talk, Sean shares another staple—Scripture. In the Bible, Paul says that the word of God should live abundantly in us. Sean encouraged us to publicly expose ourselves to the word and privately give it time to soak in. We can interact publicly, privately, and personally with the word of God!
In You’ve Got Style, we’ve been talking about how we can connect better with God. Today, Gerald made the point that we are too connected to connect with God. This world keeps us from spending time with Him, but we need to connect with Him. Talking to God in prayer is a vital way we can grow a relationship with God, just like you need to talk to your friends in order to invest in your friendships. In Luke, God teaches us that there are four main principles for good prayer life: disconnect to connect with God, pray personally, pray persistently, and pray expectantly. God gave us these suggestions instead of a script to remind us that there is not a formula to pray the perfect prayer.
This week, Sean spoke about the Sacred Pathways, the nine spiritual styles discussed in Gary Thomas’ book. It is important that we understand our spiritual temperament, because knowing how God has wired us could actually help us more effectively draw near to God. We hope that through this series, you can get a clearer picture of God’s unique design in your life and how that allows you to draw near to Him.
The best way to predict your future is to pay attention to where you’re headed. But sometimes it’s easy to get distracted by what’s on the path. The appeal of money, acceptance, or security can lower your defenses and lead you away from the path you want to be on. So is there a way back? How do we change course when we realize that we’ve chosen a path that leads us to what’s appealing instead of what’s ultimately satisfying?
We all start out life with great intentions. But our intentions aren’t good indicators of our destinations. In fact, our direction trumps our intention every time. That’s why we all need to follow someone we trust. Someone who can make our lives better and make us better at life. So we all have a decision to make. If not Jesus, then who? And if not Christianity, then what?
Nobody gets lost on purpose. But we often find ourselves in places we never intended. If there’s a disconnect between what you hope to be true in the future and the direction you’re headed now, maybe it’s time to take a closer look at your path. Our direction, not our intention, will determine our destination.
We’re all going to end up somewhere in life, but often there’s a disconnect between where we want to end up and the path we choose. So how can we avoid choosing a path that’s guaranteed to get us where we don’t want to be?
We all believe exercise is good for us, but we don't always head to the gym or go on a run. To actually get in shape, we have to exercise. We have to get off the couch and do it. And isn't it easier when we have someone to keep us accountable? The same is true of our faith—we can only get so far on our own.
What goes around often comes around. The powerless often find themselves in a position of power and the people who hurt us may someday need us. In the moments when we’ve got those people right where we want ‘em, what we say will say as much about us as anything else. If our words are stones, will we choose to throw them, or use them to pave the way forward?
Our big mouths can be destructive, but they also have the power to build others up. What we say can impact the quality, and even the direction, of the lives of the people around us. How can we use this power for good?
Like a small spark that has the potential to scorch an entire green forest, our tongues are untamable, with the power to control our whole bodies. We have a tool that can be used to build up those around us or tear them down in just a few words. What do we do with that kind of power? We can’t lock it away. But we can, by God’s grace, learn to control it.
We all know what it’s like to be hurt by someone who just couldn’t listen long enough to understand us. Maybe in their attempt to be right, they damaged a relationship that could have been saved with a little patience and curiosity. You’ve probably been on the other side of that coin too. Taking the verbal o ense may have won the argument, but you lost relationally. What if we didn’t settle for being right, but tried to make things right instead? The longer we listen, the more we learn, and the better chance we have of protecting ourselves from our own big mouths.
Only one person can ensure that we end up somewhere on purpose. And that person isn’t in the House of Representatives or the White House. They’re in our house. In fact, we look at that person in the mirror every morning. The reality is that we face our greatest leadership challenge every morning when we face ourselves.
In this message, Josh shares how God can use our pain for purpose and provide comfort for us to share with others. God doesn’t need us, but He chooses to use us anyways. By leaning into our pain we can discover our purpose, which we could use to encourage the people around us. It is possible to turn your pain into your platform and your mess into your message.
The most heroic thing we can do for people close to us is become a healthy person. You can take the steps today to become an everyday hero, and you can take steps to grow. In this message, Sean encourages us to become an everyday hero to those who we will have the biggest impact on through simple, practical steps we can practice today.
Many of us, when we think of heroes, immediately precede the word with super. We love superheroes! Maybe we love superheroes because of their powers or because they always seem to save the day, but maybe we love superheroes because we feel like we can relate to them…it seems to be a common trend that the superheroes we know and love all have some kind of “dad story” that involves brokenness or hurting. We can relate to this, seeing our fathers as superheroes when we were young and later noticing their flaws. Today, Justin shared about the long and hard circumstances he has gone through with his dad and step-dad, and how he has been able to use scripture to find forgiveness and realize that even when earthly fathers fail, we have a Heavenly Father who paid the ultimate price for us and is always with us.
A hero saves the day. If you believe Hollywood, a hero saves the planet. That makes heroism seem inaccessible to most of us. But with a single question, Jesus made hero status available to us all. He also took away our excuses for not accessing our heroic potential.
Faster than an speeding bullet! More powerful than a locomotive! There’s something about hero blockbusters in the summertime. We can’t get enough of them. Saving the world and rescuing the weak resonates with us. But what does it look like to be a hero in real life? Maybe we need a new definition of what it means to be a hero.
Happy couples decide they owe each other everything but are owed nothing in return. But that requires effort. Every married person makes a choice every day. That choice feels more like a reaction, so most people don’t think they have a choice at all. But they do. Happy couples make the happy choice.
As long as you think your spouse owes you, your marriage will be all about keeping score. That destroys intimacy. It destroys love. But what are we supposed to do about our hopes, dreams, and desires?
We all enter into marriage with hopes, dreams, and desires. They create expectations. But when you put those expectations onto your spouse, it turns your marriage into a debt/debtor relationship. Your relationship becomes marked by the belief that your spouse owes you something. So, how do you keep your hopes, dreams, and desires from becoming expectations?
A great marriage doesn’t happen by accident. It requires care and regular maintenance. But sometimes we don’t want to make the effort. As long as it’s not broken, do we really need to talk about it?
There was a Jewish man who lived 2000 years ago. It’s historically verified that He was cruelly killed on a cross and 3 days later the tomb was empty. And with this resurrection He offers a new kind of life to anyone who wants it. The invitation for you today is to think about yourself in alignment with what God says is true—you’re dead to sin, but alive to God. God says it’s vitally important that we believe the truth about ourselves!
On Palm Sunday, we celebrated by singing more songs and taking communion together. Our lead pastor, Sean Seay, gave a short message about the importance of authenticity as we reflect on different areas of our life as we prepare for Easter.
Back in January, we started a series called Momentum where we encouraged everyone to take a big step forward in an area that matters. Many took a step financially, physically, emotionally, or spiritually, and, today, we want to celebrate those stories!
When you have a mess to address, first options aren’t usually the best options. First options often make messes messier. In this message, Andy explores an approach that can take the -er out of your messy situations.
A common misperception is that the Christian life is all about avoiding messes and staying out of trouble. But following Jesus isn’t about avoiding something; it’s about becoming something.
I know a mess when I see one because I am a mess. When we acknowledge our messes, we're a baby step away from acknowledging God. Your mess has the potential to bring God near you.
Whether we’re religious or not, we’ve all been in, are in, or are only one decision away from a mess. But there’s a powerful connection between your messes and your relationship with God.
Join us as our ministry leader step into the Shark Tank where YOU, the Sharks, are deciding which environment you want to invest your time to volunteer.
We know volunteering can be a huge step and feel like a big commitment. We also know it’s the quickest and easiest ways to begin getting to know people at Athens Church. Volunteers lead small groups from toddlers to adults, greet guests at the door, produce video in the auditorium, and much, much more! There’s literally a spot for everyone, no matter what your skill or passion. And not only is rewarding to see your hour of service help other people, but it’s also just fun!
Don’t worry, you’re not making a commitment to serve right now. You’re just signing up for an event called Backstage Pass, where you’re learn more about the ministry area you’re interested in and get a behind-the-scenes look at how you could serve week-to-week. Interested? Sign up at AthensChurch.com/BackstagePass
Inadequacy whispers into every quiet moment of the soul. We think, "I don't have what it takes." For so many, inadequacy drives the pursuit of power, prestige, and possessions. If we never deal directly with our inadequacy, the white noise will keep us dissatisfied.
Loneliness is one of the most common ailments of the modern age. Because of the stigma attached with it, most people never deal with it. Instead of resorting to the white noise we use to mask loneliness, what if we dealt with it directly?
Life is full of noise. It’s everywhere, all the time. Sometimes we just want to escape, to control the noise by drowning it out with other distractions. But too often, the noise you control is masking the noise that is controlling you. If you’re willing to turn down the white noise, you might be surprised what you’ll hear.
If we want to move forward and have momentum in an area of life that matters, we need God to be part of it. We can't do it on our own. In this message, Sean shares a practical step we can all take to invite God into the middle our situation so that we can experience momentum.
Anthony ONeal shares his story—from finding himself homeless at only 18 to today—and how the steps he's learned along an unusual path can help lead us to sustained, financial momentum.
We love sacrifice… as long as someone else is doing it. We love watching other people deny themselves or do something hard, yet the word we least like to tell ourselves is “no”. But what if the big progress you want to make in 2019 all hinges on a sacrifice you may or may not be willing to make? It is possible to reach your goals and improve your life, but there’s no guarantee it’ll be easy.
We all find ourselves at some point looking ourselves in the mirror and asking how in the world we got to the place we are in and what we should do about it. When we get to this place we often attempt to change our behaviors, the things we do. But our habits and behaviors often reveal more about what we believe about ourselves than anything else. Therefore, the key to focused intensity that leads us to take a big step in an area that matters is setting some WHO goals that will result in our DO goals. Let what is true about you guide what you do.
The beauty of a new year is new opportunities. Each of us has a number of areas of our lives where we need to grow. In this series we are talking about how we can create and leverage momentum in our lives to help us grow. We think this is an incredible opportunity for the people of our church to take a big step forward in an area that matters. We hope you’ll join us!
We all wonder. When we fix our eyes somewhere other than on God, wonder leads to wander. If you’ve wandered from the faith or are looking for the door, it’s not because of Jesus. You may think Christianity requires mind-numbing, experience-denying faith, but what if that’s not true?
We wonder because our frame of reference doesn’t provide us with all of the answers. Every version of religion works for children. But then life happens. We experience challenging circumstances that sow doubt in our childhood faith. Tragedy causes us to question if God is good and loving. Sin leads to guilt and shame. We wonder if God can really love us. Is there such a thing as a frame of reference that can accomodate a grown-up faith?
We wonder because our frame of reference doesn’t provide us with all of the answers. As our frame of reference changes or expands, some mysteries are solved. Some remain mysterious. So what do you do with the big mysteries in life—the mysteries that won't resolve no matter how much we explore them? What do you do with your unanswered questions?
Gratitude isn't just an emotion. It's relational. It's not enough to feel grateful. You have to express your gratitude.
When the church does good, God’s name is made great. This year, we want to continue the wave of Be Rich good deeds we’ve experienced over the past decade. We want to show people in our communities that God loves them. And we don’t want you to miss this opportunity to be extraordinarily generous.
At the heart of the Christian faith is this idea: in Jesus, God became one of us and dwelt among us. When it comes to those around us who are hurting and in need, the God who dwelt among us calls his followers to be hands on.
The more we talk about our fears and anxieties, the greater the potential for it increasing. BUT, the more aware we are of the sources of those anxieties/fears, greater potential for it decreasing can be true. Fear and anxieties come from many sources. Identifying areas that we can monitor and adjust will help us live with less anxiety and find more peace.
Your past is a problem when it creates fear for your future. It limits your potential and gets in the way of a deeper relationship with God.
As a society, we have more anxiety now than we ever have before. We carry it around like a software virus. It slows us down and quietly keeps us from operating at our full potential.
Fear is an emotion caused by belief in a looming potential loss. It’s based in the future. The source of our fears is usually something we’re going to lose or we’re afraid we won’t have in the future. Since we can never really know what’s the around the corner, is it even possible to live without fear?
We’re all scared of things – heights, spiders, and even public speaking. Unfortunately, fear is a reality for each of us. It impacts our lives in so many ways. It can make us do whatever it takes to be accepted by others, but fear is also like a weight that holds us down and keeps us from experiencing the full life God has for us. Ultimately, fear of what others think of us can keep us from doing what we know God wants us to do.
In life it’s really easy slip into OK. You don’t have a major crisis you’re working through; you’re OK. But being OK is leading somewhere, and the destination of an OK life is “NOT OK.”
It’s vital to erect guardrails around our hearts becuase an unguarded heart can overpower our most guarded behavior.
When it comes to our finances, it’s easy to cross the line into the danger zone. That’s why it’s essential to establish guardrails against greed.
Guardrails keep vehicles from straying into dangerous or off limit areas. We need personal guardrails so we don’t stray into areas of life that can harm us or the people we love. If there’s one area in which personal guardrails are most needed but also most resisted, it’s in our relationships.
Have you ever met someone that later you wish you’d never met? Is there a person you wish your husband, wife, son, or daughter had never met? Sometimes people are our greatest regrets because they influence us to ignore our guardrails and step into the danger zone.
Guardrails are designed to keep vehicles from straying into dangerous or off-limit areas. They minimize damage by keeping us in the safety zone. But the highway isn’t the only place we need guardrails.
We all want to be known for something. But what do you do when you don't measure up . . . even to your own standards? You’ll never become who you want to be until you are willing to face up to who you actually are. And the only way to do that is to stop worrying about being known for something, and allow yourself to be known by a group of someones.
The beginning of a new school year is a great time to reset and take inventory of our wishes for a new season. However, sometimes it can be hard to determine what areas of life are the most important to focus on. At Athens Church, we have four wishes that we believe could forever change the landscape of our city.
If there's a gap between where you are and where you wish you were, this simple principle can close that gap.
When it comes to getting from where you are in life to where you want to be, this one thing can set you on the right course.
No matter where we find ourselves, we all have an area of life where we find ourselves stuck. That is to say, we wish we were somewhere else. Tired of being stuck and wishing for something different? Discover the one obstacle that keeps us from moving from where we are to where we want to be.
Have you considered what legacy you are leaving for the next generation? Will you be leaving something worth leaving behind? Dave Ramsey, and his daughter Rachel Cruze, explore how we manage our finances and how it can hurt or help the next generation and in the process how it can do the same for our current generation.
A TedTalk style message from Laurie Curtis, Justin Halleck, and Sean Seay on how we can help the next gen win.
There is something in all of us that desires a blessing and affirmation from our dads. If we don’t receive it, we can often go looking for it, sometimes in all the wrong places. Some of us received this blessing. Some of us didn’t. For some of us, the voice of our fathers is gone. The good news is all of us can receive a blessing from our Father today, no matter who we are or what our past experience may be.
This generation is the first that doesn’t need adults for information. But they do need adults for interpretation. What can we do to help the next generation to see the world in a way that sets them up for success? Join Clay Scroggins and Tim Elmore as they have a conversation about how we can help the next gen win.
The Greatest Generation. Baby Boomers. Generation X. Millennials. Generation Z. Each generation is distinct from those that came before and those that come after. They have different priorities and different experiences. They see the world differently. It’s easy for the generations to live in conflict and competition. But what is our responsibility to the generations that come after us?
It’s easy to get discouraged when you look at all the things in life that aren’t going well, but discover how you can find peace and rise above the things that are weighing you down.
Mother’s Day brings about varying feelings depending on whom you may ask. However, the principle purpose of the holiday is to celebrate the women in our lives that either biologically or by choice have taken part in one of God’s gifts to humanity-- motherhood.
We spend years investing in the lives of students, then they take off to college. How can the church help students maintain their faith in college? And how can we pack the bags of students already with us?
Sometimes you know what’s coming next—graduation, wedding, new baby, new job, retirement. But there’s no correlation between knowing what’s next and being prepared for what’s next. So, how do you prepare for the next season when you can't see what’s coming?
We’re all headed somewhere. We’re all moving toward a new season. And none of us has been where we’re going. Yet it’s up to us to figure out what we need to pack in our bags so that we’re prepared for that coming season. But how can you know what you’ll need when the coming season is a mystery? How can you know what you don’t know?
We’re all headed somewhere. Arriving at our new destinations requires change. For most of us, change creates stress. Just like when we travel on a boat, plane, or in a car, traveling through life can give us motion sickness. We’re knocked off balance. The ground beneath our feet doesn’t feel solid. So how do you prepare for what’s next when the anxiety of transition has you fighting motion sickness?
Life is full of change. Transitions can be both exciting and stressful. That’s because we can’t see into the future. We can’t tell what comes next. But what if there was a way to prepare for the next season? What if you could do something now to influence where you end up then?
Do you sometimes wonder how anyone could believe Christ died for our sins, was buried, rose from the dead, and was seen? It was enough then. Maybe it’s still enough today.
Plans are great. Reality is greater. Reality wins. Things don’t always go as planned. Some dreams don’t come true. So what do you do when you discover your dream can’t come true?
Few things are as repulsive as a leader, parent, boss, or politician who leverages influence for his or her benefit to the neglect of those he or she is responsible for. Few things are as inspiring as a leader who says no to himself or herself in order to say yes to those for whom he or she is responsible. So how can we lead well when authority is placed in our hands?
The way of God isn't appealing when we have been wronged by someone else. Our natural urge is to try to get even. We want to wrong the people who wrong us as a way of getting payback. That seems just. It seems fair. But does it solve anything? Maybe there’s a better way.
The way of God is most unappealing when we are angry, isolated, or afraid. That’s when we consider things we would never otherwise consider. It's when we feel compelled to do something . . . anything. But maybe there's a better way.
David went from humble shepherd to national hero to great king. But he wasn't great because of his reputation or military prowess. He was great because of where he'd learned to place his hope.
Too often, the church doesn't feel like a safe place for people who are far from God. They experience judgment and rejection. But that's not what Jesus intended when he established his church. He meant for the church to be a magnet for the unchurched, a place where they could find reconciliation with God.
God has called us to live a life of “doing good”. Yet so often, this lifestyle becomes exhausting. Today we look at Samson and hear from Paul with the point of learning how we can defend against this temptation to throw in the towel.
Marriage is worth fighting for, and God's word gives us the tools to navigate through adversity when it comes.
Your desires can keep you from your destiny. Don't trade away God's lifelong gift in order to satisfy a short-term appetite.
Relationships are a matter of life-and-death importance. Whether you’re fed up with dating and hooking up as usual, tired of being single, numb because of porn and casual sex, or curious about how to improve your marriage, this series is for you.
The New Year is full of possibilities that fuel potential for a better future. That's why we make resolutions . . . even though those resolutions usually fall by the wayside. Here's something simple you can do to make the most of 2018.
We have a lot of hopes for what 2018 will be like and we have a lot of things we want to do this year. We all want life to be better and a great way for this to happen is to live in light of eternity. If we will live 2018 in light of eternity, especially when it comes to our finances and relationships, we will have the best year possible.
Who needs Christmas? Well, as it turns out, we all do. But it might not be for the reasons you think.
As you know, love must be shown to be known. Right? If you don't show it, nobody knows it. And that is the message of Christmas.
You may find the events surrounding the birth of Jesus a bit unbelievable. If so, you're not alone. But when you hear the entire story – the backstory – well . . . the whole thing is really quite remarkable.
Check out this secret ingredient to happiness. It's so counterintuitive that only people who have experienced it believe it.
Why are we tempted to make decisions that hurt us in the long run? This message will help you understand the difference between pleasure and happiness.
If your goal is to find happiness, no amount of money will ever be enough. But this one principle can change the way you view money and help you find peace.
Anger is an emotion we try to get rid of or to manage. That’s because we usually get angry about things insubstantial things like not getting our way. But did you know Jesus got angry too? His anger was different, though. It was about something more significant than his wounded pride.
Peace with God paves the way to peace with ourselves and equips us to make peace with others. Find out the one thing it takes to find peace with God.
We think we have to choose between being happy and pleasing God. Check out what Jesus had to say about that.
We all daydream about a trouble-free life made possible by something: a dream job, house, car, spouse, child, family, or pile of money. But what if no thing can make us happy?
Everyone has a story and everyone can relate their story to someone else's story. The only problem is we rarely take the time to understand our story, and if we do, we often don’t share it with others. Today Joseph shares his story and tells us the importance of getting familiar with our stories so that we can share them with others.
We all have regrets in our life. And when we think about them, we can feel ashamed or embarrassed. If we take the time to process it, we probably conclude that God is embarrassed or ashamed about us too. So the question is, what do we do with this?
We all want to be masters of our own destinies. We all want to feel in control of our lives. The idea of autonomy is attractive. It makes life feel ordered and predictable. But our desire for automony can stand in the way of faith. One of the biggest barriers to belief in God is that we don’t want to believe because we don’t want to need anyone. But what if autonomy is an illusion?
We all want to rid the world of injustice. But we can only recognize injustice if we know what justice is to begin with. But maybe the best way to rid the world of injustice is to rid the world of God. We don’t always agree about what is just. So, who gets to define justice if not God? When God is gone, injustice leaves with him because justice leaves with him.
Are you caught between doubt and despair because you’ve been trying to worship the bodyguard god, on-demand god, boyfriend god, guilt god, anti-science god, gap god, or angry-Old-Testament god? If big-G God has lost his appeal because you’ve mixed him up with a gaggle of little-g gods who don’t exist, then how can you know what God is really like?
Jesus loves me, this I know. For the Bible tells me so. Should we really believe something just because the bible tells us so?
Americans are migrating away from religion at an unprecedented rate; Christianity in particular. But not because atheism is more appealing. People are leaving because religion has lost its appeal. Once upon a time Americans believed religion offered solutions. Today, religion is viewed by many as the problem.
If you want to grow spiritually, commitment isn't enough. You must be connected. That's what groups are all about.
When we face pain and loss, they change the story we had planned for our lives. They can end our dreams. But what do pain and loss look like when we try to see the world as God sees the world, and to do as God says?
We tend to view our time the same way we view our money—we spend, invest, and waste it. The question is: how does God view time? If we saw it as he sees it, it might affect the way we use our own.
Seeing your money and possessions as God sees them will make you more inclined to do with them as God says. That can revolutionize your life.
How you see the world affects everything you do. It even affects how you see God. What would it take for you to broaden your view so you can see God more accurately and connect with him more deeply?
Before we take a break we wanted to pause and reflect on some of the amazing things God is doing at Athens Church. In the special message from Sean Seay we look back at the highlights of the past year in our church.
Most of us didn’t learn much about managing money when we were growing up. It’s an area of life where we tend to “figure it out” on our own. And for most people in our country, this hasn’t led to a lot of peace in our financial world.
What do you do when trials start to separate you and your spouse? Where do you turn when pain is destroying the connection between you and your spouse? Being better together is not being void of troubles, but allowing Jesus to draw you closer through the storms.
Josh Bayne shares his divorce story through the themes of failure, forgiveness, and future.
What happens after I do? How can the person to whom a woman gave her deepest vow become the person she despises most? How can the beautiful woman a man couldn't stay away from become the person he can't stand to be around? In Part 3, Andy Stanley dispels a common myth about why we fall out of love and exposes the true problem.
All marriages begin on the wedding day. That day every couple feels close, but many times the feelings of love are overshadowing some of our spouse’s flaws. We usually get married wearing “rose-colored glasses.” But it doesn’t take long for reality to set in and we realize we aren’t as close as we thought we were. It takes time and effort to get really close to someone. Tonight we want to discuss what else it takes.
Let’s face it, relationships are not easy! In fact, the more meaningful the relationship is…the more challenges we will likely face in it. We are not designed to live life alone. In marriage and in all relationships, we have to learn how to face those challenges in healthy ways so those relationships can stay meaningful. We all want to get better…so let’s get better together.