Our History
Saturating Greater Austin
Founded in 1985, Hill Country Bible Church has always been about meeting people where they are and helping them take their next step toward a deeper connection with Jesus, spiritual growth, and purposeful living. This core tenet, which helped shape the church 40 years ago, remains the same today as it did then.
We’re not a group of perfect people—we’re real, ordinary individuals, navigating the highs and lows of life. But we follow an extraordinary God whose love and grace transforms us every day. Whether you’ve been in church your whole life, are just starting to explore faith, or fall somewhere in between, we invite you to join us. Together, we believe in the power of Jesus’ love to change lives and impact our city, our country, and the world.
A Movement of Faith Born in Austin
This powerful movement of faith began in Austin when 17 faithful believers gathered with a shared vision to ignite a church that would impact greater Austin and beyond. Led by a conviction to reach people without being confined by denominational boundaries, this small group sought to blend the best of traditional and innovative ministry to create a church that was Bible-based and community-focused. Their focus was clear—people experiencing the life-changing love of Jesus, not just attending programs.
On January 5, 1986, that dream became a reality with the first worship service at a local elementary school. Just a few years later, the church had outgrown its space, prompting the move to a larger facility to accommodate growth. In 1989, God brought Tim Hawks to Hill Country as Lead Pastor, where his leadership and vision would drive the church forward with an unwavering focus on reaching the city with the message of Jesus.
From Small Beginnings to a Growing Family
As the church family grew, so did the need for a permanent home. In the early 1990s, Hill Country raised over $950,000 to purchase land and build our first Worship Center, which was paid for in full through the generosity of our church family. We’ve continued to expand, developing three buildings across our campus, all while staying debt-free. This financial freedom allows us to steward our resources with one mission in mind—spreading the Good News of the Gospel.
Planting Churches, Expanding God’s Reach
Hill Country has always believed that the Church’s mission extends beyond the walls of any building. In 1992, we launched the Association of Hill Country Churches, with the vision of planting 10 churches in the Austin area within 20 years. God exceeded our expectations, and to date, we’ve planted 42 churches.
A Commitment to Community
From Sunday mornings to Small Groups, to specialized classes like Courageous Parenting and GriefShare, Hill Country is committed to meeting people where they are and helping them take their next step with Jesus. Whatever your season or stage of life, we have a place for you to connect and grow in your faith.
We also share the Gospel both in our community and beyond in many ways whether it’s hosting a food drive at Thanksgiving, giving out backpacks at the start of the school year, responding to natural disasters, or sending individuals on mission trips.
Next Lead Pastor, Same Unshakable Mission
In 2022, Pastor Tim Hawks announced the search for the next Lead Pastor to carry the mission forward. After much prayer and careful consideration, the elders of Hill Country called Tim Kuhl to lead the church as its next Lead Pastor. On May 21, 2023, Hill Country’s members affirmed our next lead pastor.
A man deeply passionate about spreading the love of Jesus, Pastor Tim Kuhl brings with him years of experience in student ministry, international missions, and church leadership. He’s committed to advancing Hill Country’s mission of saturating greater Austin—and beyond—with the love of Jesus.
We’re a community marked by God’s grace, committed to sharing the Good News of the Gospel with the world around us. We’d love for you to join us on this incredible journey.