Guided by the Word. Grounded in Truth. Growing in Faith.
At True Words Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky, our leadership team is committed to preaching the Gospel, winning souls, and turning believers into bold disciples of Jesus Christ.
We are an Independent Fundamental Baptist church, standing firmly on the King James Bible as the preserved Word of God and our final authority in all matters of faith and practice. Our leaders strive to serve humbly, lead faithfully, and keep Christ at the center of every decision.
Hebrews 13:17
Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
We do not follow the traditions of man that do not match the traditions set forth in the Holy Bible. We are Baptist, but we will not bow to the traditions of men. We will make changes when we don’t have something right. We will conform to the Word of God.
Our Pastors
True Words Baptist Church believes that a church, Scripturally, may have multiple pastors and multiple deacons. As the church grows, more pastors and more deacons are required to serve the people. We believe more pastors and more deacons are a blessing from God!
Pastor Joshua Tapp
Co-Founder and Pastor
“”2 Timothy 4:2
Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.““
Pastor Joshua Tapp was called by God to plant True Words Baptist Church and bring strong King James Bible preaching and soul-winning to the heart of Louisville, Kentucky. His preaching is bold, uncompromised, and centered on the authority of Scripture.
Raised in Kentucky and trained through years of ministry, study, and evangelism, Pastor Tapp has dedicated the rest of his life to equipping believers to stand firm in the faith and fulfill the Great Commission.
Ministry Focus
- Verse-by-verse Bible preaching from the King James Bible.
- Leadership in weekly soul-winning and evangelism.
- Training believers to live faithfully and serve boldly.
1 Corinthians 9:16
For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!
Read More About Pastor Joshua Tapp
Our Pastor
Pastor Nathan Holmes
Co-Founder and Pastor
2 Timothy 2:24-25
And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.
Pastor Nathan Holmes serves faithfully alongside Pastor Tapp in preaching, discipleship, and outreach. His dedication to the Word of God, his heart for souls, and his steady leadership help strengthen the mission of True Words Baptist Church.
He is known for his faithfulness, humility, and love for people—always pointing others back to the truth of Scripture.
Responsibilities
- Preaching and teaching sound doctrine.
- Leading outreach and evangelism in West Louisville.
- Discipling new believers and developing church leaders.
Read More About Pastor Nathan Holmes
Our Deacon
Deacon Gary Tapp
Co-Founder and Deacon
1 Timothy 3:13
For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.
Deacon Gary Tapp has been a pillar of faith since the founding of True Words Baptist Church. His wisdom, steadfastness, and servant’s heart have strengthened the ministry in countless ways.
He is known for his quiet leadership, strong convictions, and faithfulness to God’s Word. Whether through counsel, work, or prayer, he has helped uphold the spiritual and practical foundation of the church.
A true example of biblical service, he reminds us that strength in the church is not only found in preaching but in faithful men who serve with humility and love.
Read More About Deacon Gary Tapp
The Biblical Pattern of Church Leadership
At True Words Baptist Church, we follow the New Testament pattern for local church leadership—independent, scriptural, and accountable directly to God. Our authority does not come from denominations or associations but from the Word of God.
Ephesians 4:11-12
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.
We Believe:
- Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church. (Colossians 1:18)
- The Pastors are the overseers of the congregation. (1 Timothy 3:1-7)
- Deacons serve through ministry and support. (Acts 6:1-7)
- The people of God labor together in unity. (Philippians 1:27)
Leadership at True Words Baptist Church is not about power or position. It is about humility, faithfulness, and accountability before God.
Our pastors will not act high and lifted up as the church leaders do in so many other churches. Pastors are shepherds, and the last time we looked, they aren’t treated like kings. They are lowly servants to the people who care and love the people.
How We Lead
1. By Preaching the Whole Counsel of God
We preach all of Scripture, even the parts the world rejects. Truth is never to be hidden—it is to be proclaimed.
2. By Equipping the Saints
Our leadership trains believers to be confident in their faith, to understand doctrine, and to live according to God’s Word.
3. By Winning Souls to Christ
Evangelism is central to our calling. Like the early church, we go “daily in the temple, and in every house” to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
4. By Leading Through Example
Leadership is not just taught—it is lived. Our pastors and deacons strive to model integrity, devotion, and steadfast obedience to the Word of God.
The Men God Used
The founding of True Words Baptist Church was no accident. It was the result of prayer, obedience, and faith. God brought together men of conviction—men who would not bend to culture, compromise, or convenience—but who would stand for the truth of the Bible.
1 Corinthians 4:2
Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.
These men—Joshua Tapp, Nathan Holmes, and Gary Tapp—continue to lead with faith and courage, reminding us that a strong church is built on strong men of God who follow His Word without wavering.
Read Our Full Story
See Our Mission
View Our Statement of Faith
Meet Our Leaders in Person
We invite you to come and meet our church leaders in person. See firsthand what God is doing at True Words Baptist Church, where the preaching is bold, the fellowship is sincere, and the faith is real.
Location:
1377 S. 20th St.
Louisville, KY 40210
Phone:
Joshua Tapp (502) 396-1657
Nathan Holmes (502) 203-2320
Email:
info@truewordsbaptist.org
Contact us any time. We would love to hear from you. If you have questions, please let us know.
Hebrews 13:7
Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.

