Trinity Grace Church :: Athens, TN

Some say that the most important thing about us is what we believe about God. That certainly holds some truth. What we think about God does affect our lives. But as Pastor Walt argues today, the most important thing about us, ultimately, is what Jesus thinks about us. Do we belong to him? In this sermon, Walt looks at the controversial doctrine of definite atonement and how Jesus died to save thos...

In this passage, Jesus prays something that has never been prayed in all of biblical history, "Glorify me!" Yet, Jesus' glorification meant suffering. The greatness of God is displayed in the weakness of the cross. And so, Jesus prays, "Glorify me by handing me over." In so doing, he brings many sons to glory. The whole purpose of our existence is to see the glory of God in saving sinners through...

John 16:16-33 // Take Heart Taylor Hollingsworth

What difference does the Holy Spirit make? In today's passage, Jesus teaches that the Spirit is so essential - so vital to our mission in life - that to go forward apart from the Spirit would be unimaginable!

In some ways, following Christ does not make life easier, it makes it harder! Jesus tells us to count the cost. In these verses, Jesus tells us why. Every Christian must expect opposition from the world, even as they have opportunity to witness to the world about Jesus.

What is the path to joy? Is it in our comfort or circumstances or something else? Psalm 16 shows us the path to true joy found in God himself.

Jesus commands us: “Abide in my love.” That is profound but also perplexing. What does it mean to abide in Jesus? Is it mainly something passive, like enduring or waiting? Or is it something else? These verses continue & teach us that the only way to live a joy-filled fruitful life is to remain devoted to Christ & his commands.

“I am the vine, you are the branches.” Words so familiar we could recite them by heart—but what do they mean? Jesus tells us disciples in these verses to live now in the confidence that your past, present, & future are secure in Christ.

A large part of growth in the Christian life is remembering our unique identity in Christ. It was a joy to have Gil Balch back with us to share this helpful reminder!

John 14:15-31 // The Helper Taylor Hollingsworth

It was a joy to have our friend Brian Chesemore preach to us about the powerful relationship between the pupil & the pew, the pastor & the congregation, in devoting themselves to the Word.

This week, we continue our study of the Last Words of Jesus to his disciples. We see the stunning graciousness of Jesus, as we learn of Judas' betrayal, the Savior's cross, & Peter's failure. Let us who follow him not fall away.

Christianity hangs on two historical facts: the tomb was empty & 500 people claim to have seen the risen Jesus. This morning, we studied the testimony of John, Peter, & Mary from that first Easter morning.

Jesus continues & explains why he washed the disciple's feet. He did not just wash their feet to show he will cleanse them but also how they must follow his example. All who follow the Savior must deny themselves & selflessly serve others.

Ezekiel 36 // The New Covenant Kirby Key

We began a new series entitled The Last Words of Jesus. On the night he was betrayed, Jesus prepares his disciples for what will happen when he leaves this world. But first, he washes their feet—to show them that his death will cleanse them of their sin.

The Preacher says, it is better to go to the house of mourning? But how could that be? Only in the house of mourning do we learn to how to truly live.

Psalm 105 // Tell His Wondrous Works Taylor Hollingsworth

Genesis is a word from God that is all about God. It's the record of what he is like, the rundown of the way he was to our fathers—so that we might know how he will be to us. We are creatures who, despite suffering, evil, sin, & death, are held completely secure in the grip of God's sovereign grace.

Famine strives the world. Joseph is the governor of Egypt & all the world is coming to them for food. Joseph's brothers are coming. In one of the most surprising stories of repentance & reconciliation, God calls us to strive to live at peace with all, remembering God reconciled himself to you while you were his enemy.

The unstoppable providence of God continues to work in Joseph’s life, but not without the obedience of faith. God urges us in this passage to not just say, whatever happens, happens. God urges us to continue to take up the shield of faith and walk forward.

Genesis 39 // Joseph & Potiphar's Wife Taylor Hollingsworth

The story of Joseph is one of the most loved stories in the Bible. It begins with two dreams & a multi-colored robe. But it quickly turns to the brothers who sell him into slavery. Nevertheless, it teaches us that no sin or suffering can undo the plans of God's providence to make us more like Christ.

Jacob has been wresting with people his whole life—Isaac, Esau, & Laban—but in this story the Lord wrestles with him. The Lord comes to him at night to teach him & us a most important lesson: the only way to grasp the blessing of God is with the empty hand of faith.

In this passage, Jacob meets his match in Laban. Jacob is deceived. Rachel is barren. Leah is unwanted. But there is a love that is deeper than any pit in Jesus.