I love Jesus, my wife Nicole, and our three amazing kids—Samuel, Emma, and Wilson. I'm a husband, father, and pastor—in that order. Our family is multi-ethnic through the beautiful gift of adoption, and I’m a passionate advocate for adoption and orphan care. More than anything, I love making disciples who make disciples.
I’m Eric Echols, the Lead Pastor of Freedom Bible Church in Evans, Georgia. My calling is to preach Christ, shepherd the church, and equip God’s people to live out the gospel with boldness, clarity, and love. My ministry is shaped by Reformed theology, rooted in the historic truths of the Christian faith.
I believe the gospel of Jesus Christ is the power of God for salvation and the heartbeat of the Church. My aim is to help believers grow deep in doctrine and wide in disciple-making, so they may glorify God and joyfully obey His Word in every area of life.
Whether I’m preaching a sermon, writing a book, or coaching leaders, I’m committed to helping people mature in Christ. I preach expository messages that seek to rightly divide the Word of truth, always pointing to Christ as the center of Scripture and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.
In addition to pastoring, I serve as a leadership coach, church consultant, and ministry strategist. God has given me a love for building healthy teams, cultivating gospel-centered churches, and raising up leaders who will serve the next generation with faithfulness and vision.
I’ve had the joy of co-authoring Turbocharged!: 100 Simple Secrets to Successful Preschool Ministry. I am also the author of The Passion: Exploring the Final Week of Jesus’ Life in Mark’s Gospel to help believers journey deeper into the wonder of Christ’s suffering and victory.
I’m a relational communicator who loves sitting across the table with a cup of coffee and talking about life, leadership, and the gospel. I’m energized by being outdoors, reading good theology, watching college football (go Dawgs!), and spending quality time with my family.
You can listen to my most recent sermons or connect with me on Facebook and X. I’d love to encourage you as you follow Jesus, deepen your faith, and live for God's glory.
Scripture References: Philippians 1:1
A Study of Philippians Written from a prison cell, the book of Philippians overflows with joy, hope, and gospel confidence. In this verse-by-verse series, we’ll explore how Paul found lasting joy—not in circumstances, but in Christ. From unity in the church to humility like Christ, from pressing on in the faith to finding contentment in all things, Philippians shows us how to live with purpose and joy no matter what we face. This series will encourage you to fix your eyes on Jesus, embrace gospel partnership, and rejoice in the Lord always.