"I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD." — Psalm 122:1
For generations, Sandy Lane Baptist Church has been a steady home of worship in the Handley community of east Fort Worth. We are an independent Baptist church that believes in the unchanging truth of God's Word, the saving grace of Jesus Christ, and the warmth of a congregation that truly cares for one another.
Whether you have walked with the Lord for many years or are stepping into a church for the very first time, you will find an open door and an open heart here. Our services are traditional, our welcome is genuine, and our prayer is that you would encounter the living God among us.
We would be honored to have you worship with us this Sunday.
A rich heritage of faith, faithful leadership, and a steadfast commitment to the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Sandy Lane Baptist Church has a rich history rooted in faith, faithful leadership, and a strong commitment to the preaching and teaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The church transitioned from Central Baptist Church in 1969, marking the beginning of a new season of ministry and outreach in the Fort Worth community.
The first pastor of Sandy Lane Baptist Church was Dr. Billy Beck, who faithfully served the congregation for 42 years. Dr. Beck was a respected pastor and spiritual leader in the Fort Worth community and was widely known for his strong commitment to biblical preaching, pastoral care, and faithful leadership within both the church and the surrounding community.
During his many years of ministry, Dr. Beck helped strengthen the church's foundation through the faithful teaching of God's Word, the development of ministries, and the encouragement of believers to live out their faith in practical ways. His leadership contributed to the spiritual growth of many individuals and families, and his influence helped shape the direction and mission of Sandy Lane Baptist Church for decades. He was respected not only for his preaching but also for his dedication to shepherding people through life's challenges, offering wisdom, compassion, and guidance rooted in Scripture.
In addition to his pastoral leadership, Dr. Beck served as President of Trinity Valley College and Seminary for 40 years. Through both his pastoral ministry and his work in theological education, he helped train and develop hundreds of preachers, teachers, and evangelists who continue to serve the Lord across the country. Many ministers considered him a spiritual father, and he is known to have more than 60 sons in the ministry. His legacy continues to be remembered through the lives he influenced and the ministry foundation he helped build.
Upon Dr. Beck's retirement in 2016, the church prayerfully called Pastor Robert Moreland to serve as pastor. Pastor Moreland faithfully led the congregation and contributed to the continued spiritual growth and stability of the church during his time of leadership. Known for his commitment to preaching the Word of God and shepherding the church with care, he guided the congregation through important seasons of ministry and development.
During his pastorate, Pastor Moreland led significant improvements to the church facilities, including the refurbishing of the sanctuary and the fellowship hall, helping to strengthen the church's ability to serve both its members and the community. He also strengthened the church's food bank ministry, continuing the church's tradition of meeting both spiritual and practical needs within the community. After a season of faithful service, the Lord gave Pastor Moreland a new assignment, and he transitioned from his role as pastor.
Following Pastor Moreland's departure, the church called Pastor Martin C. Jackson to serve as pastor. Under his leadership, the church continues to build upon the strong spiritual foundation laid by those who served before him. With a heart for preaching, teaching, and community outreach, Pastor Jackson remains committed to the mission of sharing the Gospel, strengthening believers, and serving the community with compassion and purpose.
Throughout its history, Sandy Lane Baptist Church has been blessed with faithful pastors who have shepherded the congregation with dedication, prayer, and a deep commitment to the Word of God. As the church continues to move forward in ministry, it remains grateful for the leaders who have helped guide the congregation through the years and looks with expectation to all that God will continue to do in the life of the church.
Pastor Jackson has been preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ for more than 35 years while also serving the community through a long and impactful career in social services. Prior to his retirement from full-time leadership in social services, he spent nearly two decades faithfully serving the homeless community throughout the Fort Worth area.
He is the former Chief Servant of Nehemiah Ministries, a transitional church ministry dedicated to the spiritual growth and development of the homeless population in Fort Worth, Texas. Through this ministry, Pastor Jackson and his team helped feed more than 100 people every Sunday, provided clothing and food to countless individuals, and assisted many families in transitioning from homelessness to stability and self-sufficiency. He also served as Director of the Family Life Center for The Salvation Army in Arlington, Texas, helping families rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
Pastor Jackson currently serves the community as a Senior Recreation Programmer for the City of Fort Worth, where he leads youth development initiatives designed to reduce crime, build confidence, and build stronger communities. He is also the host and founder of the Being the Change Conference, a leadership and faith conference designed to encourage believers, strengthen church leaders, and inspire individuals to make a positive impact in their communities.
A sought-after preacher, teacher, and lecturer, Pastor Jackson brings messages of transformation and hope wherever he goes. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Education and a Master of Theology degree and continues to pursue further theological study. He is also the author of three books, including God Is Not Controlled by Circumstances, Circumstances Are Controlled by God.
A native of Los Angeles, California, Pastor Jackson resides in Fort Worth with his wife of over 35 years, Lady Robbie Jackson. Together they are the proud parents of a daughter, Kristyan, and a son, Joshua; a son-in-law, Alton; and the proud grandparents of their grandson, Alton Jr. When he is not preaching, teaching, writing, or serving the community, Pastor Jackson enjoys spending time with his family and playing golf.
Lady Robbie Jackson faithfully serves alongside her husband, Pastor Martin C. Jackson, at Sandy Lane Baptist Church. With a heart for encouraging others and strengthening the church family, she is known for her love for God's Word and her passion for helping people grow in their faith.
Lady Jackson enjoys teaching and mentoring young adults and women, encouraging them to develop a deeper relationship with Christ and to live with purpose and confidence. Her gentle spirit, wisdom, and compassionate heart have made her a source of encouragement to many within the church and the broader community.
She is a proud graduate of Texas Wesleyan University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business, and she is continuing her studies toward a Master of Theology degree. Together with Pastor Jackson, she has also served the community through ministry and outreach, including their work with Nehemiah Ministries, providing food, clothing, and spiritual guidance to individuals experiencing homelessness in the Fort Worth area.
Originally from Los Angeles, California, Lady Jackson now resides in Fort Worth with her husband. They are the proud parents of two children and grandparents to one grandson. Through her quiet strength, faith, and commitment to service, Lady Jackson continues to be a blessing to the church and the community.
We believe the Bible is God's Word, Jesus Christ is the only Savior, salvation is by grace through faith, the Holy Spirit transforms believers, the Church exists to glorify God and serve others, and Jesus Christ will return again. Our desire is to love God, love people, and make disciples who live for His glory.
We believe that the Holy Bible is the inspired, infallible, and authoritative Word of God. It is God's complete revelation to humanity and is the final authority for faith, doctrine, and Christian living.
We believe there is one true and living God who exists eternally in three Persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. These three are equal in nature, power, and glory and are worthy of all worship.
We believe that Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God. He was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, performed miracles, died on the cross as the perfect sacrifice for our sins, was buried, rose bodily from the dead on the third day, ascended into heaven, and will one day return in power and glory.
We believe the Holy Spirit is God. He convicts the world of sin, regenerates those who trust in Christ, indwells every believer, empowers Christian living, equips believers for service, and produces spiritual fruit in their lives.
We believe that all people are created in the image of God and possess inherent dignity and worth. Because of Adam's sin, all humanity has inherited a sinful nature and is separated from God. Every person is in need of God's saving grace.
We believe salvation is the free gift of God, made possible solely through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is received by grace alone through faith alone, apart from works. Those who place their trust in Jesus Christ are forgiven, declared righteous, adopted into God's family, and given eternal life.
We believe the Church is the Body of Christ, composed of all believers in Jesus Christ. The local church exists to glorify God through worship, biblical teaching, prayer, fellowship, evangelism, discipleship, and compassionate service to the world.
We believe that believer's baptism by immersion and the Lord's Supper are ordinances established by Jesus Christ. Baptism is a public declaration of faith in Christ, and the Lord's Supper is a remembrance of His sacrificial death until He returns. These ordinances do not save but testify to the believer's faith.
We believe every believer is called to live a life that honors Jesus Christ through obedience to God's Word, personal holiness, love for God and others, faithful stewardship, and compassionate service. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers are continually transformed into the likeness of Christ.
We believe that Jesus Christ will personally and visibly return to establish His eternal kingdom. He will judge both the living and the dead, and every person will spend eternity either in the presence of God through faith in Christ or separated from Him because of unbelief.
We believe God has called His Church to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ, make disciples of all nations, demonstrate Christ's love through acts of compassion, and equip believers to serve faithfully until He returns.
Here's everything you need to find us and know what to expect. There's no dress code and no pressure — just come and worship.
Each week we gather to study the Scriptures, lift our voices in worship, and pray together.
Can't make it in person, or want to revisit a message? Our services and sermons are shared on YouTube and Facebook so you can worship and grow wherever you are.
There is a place for everyone to grow in faith and serve, in the church and beyond.
A ministry of inner transformation — devotionals, resources, and teaching to help believers grow from the inside out.
Visit The ShiftBible Institute & Seminary in Fort Worth — equipping preachers, teachers, and leaders through faithful theological training.
Explore the InstituteCaring for one another and serving our Handley community, sharing the love of Christ in word and deed. See our church family in action.
View Photo GalleryMoments of worship, service, and fellowship as a church family. Click any photo to view it larger.
Your faithful giving supports the ministry of Sandy Lane Baptist Church and the work of the Gospel in Fort Worth and beyond. Thank you for your generosity.
"God loveth a cheerful giver." — 2 Corinthians 9:7
You may also give during any service, or by mail to 2700 Sandy Lane, Fort Worth, TX 76112.
Have a question, a prayer request, or want to know more about Sandy Lane? Please don't hesitate to reach out — we are here for you.