In the summer of 1969, a small group of college students met for Bible study led by Tommy Jenkins, who had recently graduated from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. In September of the same year, a church was organized under the name University Bible Church. It was the desire of those organizing the church to have a strong non-denominational, Bible teaching church in San Marcos.
In 1976, the present building was constructed, and in 1985, an Education building was built next to the church to accommodate a growing ministry. In 1984, the church changed its name to Grace Bible Church desiring to be more inclusive of the community.
Today the church is lead by three men. Upon Pastor Jenkins’ retirement in 2002, Jim Davis was called to join the pastoral staff. Jim, who had been associated with the church during his college days, graduated from Dallas Theological Seminary. Pastor Steve Hager has served the church with his musical abilities and teaching since 1985. Pastor Jenkins did not stay retired long. He now lives in Hardin, MT, where he and his wife minister to the Crow Indians through local churches.
GBC has always had a heart for missions. The strong Bible teaching throughout the years has lead numbers of men and women to enter full-time ministry. More information about the missionaries who are currently commissioned and/or supported by our church can be found here.
Grace Bible Church has a special heart for children in the community. An AWANA program has been meeting at GBC on Sunday evenings since 1990. AWANA emphasizes Scripture memory and seeks to involve parents in the training of their children. In 2006, GBC organized and coordinated an intensive week of Five-Day Clubs with the state chapter of Child Evangelism Fellowship throughout San Marcos and the surrounding communities. The week culminated in a Family Fiesta. It was a celebration of the many children who received Jesus Christ, and it was an opportunity to introduce those children and their families to GBC.
Throughout her history, Grace Bible Church has sought to be true to God’s Word and to exalt the Lord Jesus Christ.