OUR HISTORY

FreedomBaptistChurch was established in 1999.  The church was established by about 75 congregants who left another independent Baptist church due to a difference over “separation” doctrine.  The separating congregants immediately found themselves without a place to meet.  The first few services were held in a vacant storefront. 

Soon, the church was able to secure the right to meet at the auditorium in DoakElementary School.  After meeting there until March of 2000, the congregation had saved enough money to make a down-payment on 8 acres of land on Thornwood Drive.  Shortly thereafter, the church paid off the land, and then, in April of 2001, the church obtained a loan to begin construction of its currently-existing building.  The congregation moved into the building in 2001.  By December of 2004, all loans had been retired, and the church has operated debt-free since that time.

Dr. Marvin L. Dobson, a GreeneCounty native, graduate of BobJonesUniversity, and seasoned minister of the gospel, was called as the first pastor.  Dr. Dobson and his wife, June Dobson, relocated to Greeneville from Chattanooga, where Dr. Dobson had served as pastor for many years. 

Dr. Dobson was well-known to those in the Greeneville community for his weekly WGRV radio program, The Challenge of the Cross, which he had started in the 1960s.  During his pastorate, Dr. Dobson continued to host the program as well as pastor FreedomBaptistChurch.  He served faithfully as pastor until 2012, when his health prevented him from continuing as pastor.  June Dobson passed away on December 15, 2012, and Dr. Dobson passed away on February 20, 2013.

Since his passing, the church has continued without a pastor, but with steadfastness as to the doctrine of the church and with a commitment to the original calling of the church to stand against compromise and apostasy.  The church is currently led by a board of deacons who alternate responsibilities for worship services and preaching duties.

Freedom Baptist Church is a religious fellowship founded centuries ago by representatives of dozens of countries in Asia, Europe, and North and South America. Our fellowship is open to all people willing to promote happiness, harmony, and peace on Earth.