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>