Temple Baptist Church was officially established on September 18, 1949. "Uncle" Bob Bevington was our Pastor with Robert Gerwin as the Assistant Pastor. The church was located in the Lonsdale area of Knoxville, at Texas and Burnside, where we originally worshipped in the basement. Later an auditorium was added. After several years, the church was moved to the present address in the Fountain City area of Knoxville. We built a sanctuary building in 1980, and the older church building has become known as our Fellowship Hall.

Through the years, as with any congregation who loves God and wants to serve Him, Temple has undergone a lot of changes. After a succession of pastors, Rev. Charles Lawson came in 1976, has been with us ever since. A school and Bible Institute in the early eighties was established to educate children and adults in a Christian environment. The school was abolished after several years.

Our Fellowship Hall and Classrooms

Recently, our efforts to spread His Word have included an active Media Ministry. This ministry involves adding a television broadcast to an already successful radio ministry, and the publication of a monthly newsletter, The Lion of Judah. As a result of the Lord blessing our church, we continue to grow. In 1999, we celebrated our 50th year homecoming celebration.

From humble beginnings, our church has progressed to where we are today. Throughout all the changes, one thing has remained constant. That is the love we have for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We look forward to His glorious return, and say "Even so come, Lord Jesus."