Athens Church Podcast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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