Grace Baptist Church, an Independent, Fundamental, Baptist Church, was founded June 21^st, 1981, by Dr. Ernest Hodge. Dr. Hodge, raised in the Bear Creek area between Avinger and Linden, led the church as pastor for over 30 years from 1981 until his retirement. He was instrumental in purchasing the land, building the church auditorium and fellowship hall, and was a loved and valued member until his passing in October, 2019.

After Dr. Hodges retirement, Brother Jim Withers accepted the call to pastor GBC in the summer of 2013 until his home-going December 29th, 2022. Pastor Withers will always be known as a man of God who loved his wife and family. He loved his church and the souls of men. Most importantly he had a testimony of loving his Lord.

Our current pastor is Brother Steve Zantjer. With a master’s degree in theology from Southern Indiana Baptist College of Dupont, in December of 2010, Brother Steve was ordained and sent from Wild Peach Baptist Church of Brazoria, TX under the Leadership of Pastor John Brewer. He followed the Lord’s leading to pastor Green Meadow Bible Baptist Church of Kalamazoo, MI for twelve and a half years. On Sunday evening April 30th, 2023, he accepted the call to Pastor GBC Gladewater. Brother Steve and his wife Amanda have been married since September of 2000. The Lord has given them four wonderful children who have all made professions of faith in Christ and are active in The Lord’s service.

Fundamental • Independent • Premillennial

Over 40 years with

The Same Bible – The Authorized King James
The Same Location – George Richey Rd., Gladewater
The Same Message – Salvation by Grace Alone

Our Purpose

Win the Lost, Baptize and Teach the Saved. (Matt. 28:19-20)

Schedule of Services

We cordially invite you to visit any or all of our services.

The Official Website of Grace Baptist Church, Gladewater, TX