Join us for the Season Three premiere of the WordSmith podcast as Pastor Clay is joined by Lee Taylor, Family Disciplemaking Pastor at Johnson Ferry, for a meaningful conversation to kick off the new year. This episode introduces the Five Ways of Jesus: worship, community, service, generosity, and multiplication. Clay and Lee talk about how these practices flow out of intimacy with Christ and why spiritual growth requires training, not just good intentions. Along the way, they reflect on Scripture, share personal stories, and offer practical insight into forming habits that shape everyday life—at home, at work, and in relationships. Whether you’re setting goals for the new year or simply longing for deeper spiritual rhythms, this conversation will encourage you to center your life on Jesus and live out your faith in ways that are authentic, sustainable, and deeply rooted in the gospel. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

In this bonus New Year episode of WordSmith, Pastor Clay Smith is joined by a very special first-time guest—his wife, Terrica Smith. Together, Clay and Terrica talk honestly about their own health journeys and why physical health matters for followers of Jesus—not as vanity, but as stewardship. Clay connects Scripture to the way we care for our bodies, exploring how our habits impact our ability to serve the Lord, love our families, and live with endurance. If you’re heading into the new year wanting real change—not just another short-lived resolution—this episode offers biblical perspective, thoughtful encouragement, and practical next steps to start moving toward healthier rhythms. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org.

In this special bonus Christmas episode of WordSmith, Pastor Clay Smith is joined by Ron Hughes and Barbara Jarrett from Johnson Ferry’s Pastoral Care team to talk about a side of the season many people quietly carry: loneliness, depression, grief, and strained family dynamics. Together, they explore why the holidays can intensify pain and expectations, how to be honest with God in hard emotions, and how the hope of Advent—Emmanuel, God with us—meets us in the middle of real life. Whether you’re walking through a difficult season—or you want to better love someone who is—this episode offers encouragement, next steps, and a reminder that Advent hope is real, even in the middle of pain. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org.

In this episode of WordSmith, Pastor Clay Smith welcomes Brian Fox from Johnson Ferry’s Global Team—who helps care for and equip those sent to share the gospel around the world.  Together, Clay and Brian turn to Luke 19 and revisit the familiar story of Zacchaeus and the sycamore tree, uncovering fresh insight into the heart of Jesus. They explore Christ’s intentional pursuit of the lost, the contrast between Jesus and the grumbling crowd, and what real salvation produces in a transformed life. This conversation will challenge you to examine your own heart, stay open to divine interruptions, and rediscover the joy of a Savior who came to seek and save the lost. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org.

Welcome to the WordSmith Podcast with Clay Smith. In today’s episode, Clay is joined by returning guest Bobby Smith for a conversation that blends theological depth, Christmas warmth, and plenty of laughs. As we continue our Advent journey, Clay and Bobby dive into Isaiah 11, a powerful prophecy written nearly 700 years before the birth of Jesus. Together, they unpack the imagery of the “shoot from the stump of Jesse,” explore how this passage points directly to Christ, and consider why the peace He brings is far deeper than the absence of conflict—it is the very presence of God Himself. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org.

In this week’s episode of WordSmith, Pastor Clay invites Adrian Coetzer back for a meaningful conversation on Advent and the hope that anchors the season. Building on Sunday’s message, Clay and Adrian take listeners back to the very first pages of Scripture—unpacking the mystery of the tree in the Garden, the reality of humanity’s first act of disobedience, and the remarkable promise God makes in Genesis 3:15. Together they trace this “first gospel” through the unfolding story of Scripture and show how the long-awaited promise of a Redeemer finds its fulfillment in the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. Along the way, they discuss liturgy, waiting, the tension between God’s sovereignty and human agency, and why the Christian understanding of hope is so different from wishful thinking. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

In this special bonus episode of the WordSmith Podcast, Pastor Clay welcomes Adrian and Jennifer Coetzer for a rich and practical conversation all about Advent. Whether you’ve celebrated Advent for decades or are hearing about it for the first time, this episode will help you understand its history, meaning, and importance as we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Clay, Adrian, and Jennifer unpack what Advent truly is, why it matters, and how this ancient practice can anchor us in a busy season. The Kutzers also share how their family has woven Advent into their rhythms with Scripture, meaningful traditions, and intentional moments that point to Jesus. If you're looking for a way to slow down, refocus, and infuse your December with purpose and joy, this episode is a great place to start. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

In this episode of WordSmith, Pastor Clay Smith welcomes first-time guest and Johnson Ferry elder, Bryan Tyson, as they wrap up a year-long journey through the Book of Romans with a final look at Romans 16. Clay and Bryan explore Paul’s deeply personal closing—his long list of greetings, faithful friends, and ministry partners—and what it reveals about the relational heart behind rich theology. Together they discuss the prominent role of women like Phoebe and Priscilla, how Scripture shapes our understanding of roles and service in the local church, and why “ordinary” believers whose names few remember still have an eternal impact. They also unpack Paul’s strong warning against false teaching and division, the difference between gospel freedom and rule-keeping religion, and how spiritual disciplines function as responses to grace rather than ways to earn God’s favor. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

In this week’s episode of Wordsmith, Pastor Clay Smith sits down with Meredith Stuart to explore Romans 15 and the heart of Paul’s mission. They dive into Paul’s personal reflections, his passion for preaching the gospel to the Gentiles, and the profound connection between our identity in Christ and living out God’s calling. Meredith shares her own journey as a missionary in China, the joys and challenges of cross-cultural ministry, and how God’s plans often redirect our ambitions for His greater purposes. Together, Clay and Meredith discuss practical ways to live faithfully in the workplace, navigate life’s unexpected twists, and grow in a Christ-centered identity that fuels meaningful mission. Whether you’re exploring your calling or seeking encouragement in your daily walk, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and biblical wisdom for living fully in Christ. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

Welcome to The Wordsmith Podcast with Clay Smith! In this episode, Pastor Clay is joined by Student Pastor Logan Grantham for an honest and heartfelt conversation about revival, repentance, and spiritual renewal. Together they dive into 2 Kings 22–23 and the story of King Josiah—an 18-year-old whose encounter with God’s Word sparked repentance and change across a nation. Clay and Logan talk about what true revival looks like, how repentance leads to renewal, and whether the growing spiritual hunger among today’s students might be the beginning of something bigger. They also share stories from ONE WKND, Johnson Ferry’s annual student retreat, where nearly a thousand students gathered to worship, hear God’s Word, and respond to the gospel. It’s a conversation about conviction, obedience, and the hope of seeing God move in our generation. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

Join Pastor Clay Smith and Elder Mitchell Taylor as they dive into Genesis 12:1-3 and see God's heart for the nations. This pivotal passage details God's call to Abraham, which is explored here as a foundation for global missions and God's pursuit of His people. Mitchell shares his compelling personal journey from a "transactional faith" to full surrender to Christ, setting the stage for a deep dive into the themes of decree, disruption, and discovery. Clay and Mitchell discuss why God often works through disruption—challenging us to move beyond the "shallow end of the pool" by sacrificing our time and comfort to join His greater work. The conversation draws on the incredible, youth-led legacy of missions at Johnson Ferry, highlighting that the hardest part is simply choosing to "get on the bus," knowing that God's disruptions are always for our ultimate good and His glory. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

Welcome to the WordSmith podcast! Join Pastor Clay Smith and a returning special guest, Bryan Hanson, as they dive deep into the Bible, focusing on John chapter 4, to explore Jesus' powerful and intentional encounter with the Samaritan woman. Clay and Bryan discuss how this biblical account reveals the incredible nature of God's love and why Jesus declared that His "food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work." They then break down one of the most challenging calls Jesus gives to His followers: "Lift up your eyes and observe the fields, that they are white for harvest." This insightful conversation will encourage you to stop walking around with your "head down," prioritize the mission God has given us, and be prepared in your daily life to recognize and respond to divine interruptions. Tune in to learn how you can cultivate "seeing eyes" and actively participate in the harvest all around you! Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

In this episode of Wordsmith, Pastor Clay Smith is joined by special guest George Etheridge, a longtime Johnson Ferry member and elder, to explore the powerful and deeply personal prayer of Jesus in John 17:20–26. Together, they reflect on what it means that Jesus prayed for us, the significance of supernatural unity in the church, and how our oneness as believers points the world to Christ. George also shares wisdom from his journey as a father, grandfather, and church leader, offering practical insight into living intentionally on mission with your family. Whether you're new to the show or a longtime listener, this conversation is an encouraging reminder that God's Word is alive, relational, and always pointing us toward Him. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

In this episode of the Wordsmith podcast, Pastor Clay Smith sits down with church elder and returning guest Tom Goodwin for an insightful discussion centered on Matthew 14:22–33, the powerful story of Jesus walking on water and Peter's dramatic step of faith. Clay and Tom explore what this miracle reveals about Jesus's divinity and sovereignty, and they offer practical wisdom for applying its lessons to your daily life. They distinguish between salvific faith and the ongoing sanctifying faith required to keep moving forward, even when the storms of life—or fear—threaten to pull you under. You'll hear them discuss how believers should process fear and what it means to truly "get out of the boat" and step into an active, faith-filled life. Additionally, Clay and Tom touch on the church's new "Going Forward" vision campaign and the role of spiritual leadership in discerning God's will. Join them as they seek to know the God of the Word through a deeper exploration of Scripture. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

This episode of the Wordsmith Podcast with host Clay Smith features guest Pastor Adrian Coetzer discussing Romans 15:1-13, focusing on the theme of commitment and discipleship within the church. Adrian draws on a personal story about his grandfather sharpening knives to illustrate how the "strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength," emphasizing that spiritual growth requires a relational, hands-on commitment—not just attendance. They explore the theological concepts of Ecclesiology (commitment to one another), Christology(Christ's self-sacrificing example), and Doxology (unifying for God's glory), challenging listeners to consider, "Who is sharpening you, and who are you sharpening?" Ultimately, the discussion stresses that our collective unity and dedication to one another is how we glorify God. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

In this episode of Wordsmith, Pastor Clay welcomes back David Anderson to dive into the second half of Romans 14. They explore the difficult but crucial questions Paul poses: Are you a stumbling block? Or even worse, a spiritual wrecking ball?  Listen in as they unpack what it means to be a "stumbling block" and why some of us act like bulldozers when we face conflict. Discover how to pursue peace, encourage one another, and remember that we are all on the same team. You'll learn the importance of walking alongside fellow believers, respecting their consciences, and seeing what God is already doing in their lives. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

In this episode of WordSmith, Clay Smith and guest Shane Bruce discuss Christian freedom as they unpack Romans 14. They explore how believers with different convictions can coexist, highlighting the difference between the "strong in faith" and the "weak in faith" within the early church. The conversation emphasizes that Christian unity is about coming together under the lordship of Christ, not about everyone having the same beliefs on non-essential issues like diet or holy days. The episode reminds listeners that all Christians will stand before the judgment seat of Christ, a time of accountability for how they lived. This powerful truth underscores the importance of prioritizing love and mutual respect over personal preferences. Ultimately, the discussion encourages listeners to remember that their primary allegiance is to Christ, which should guide their interactions with fellow believers. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

In this episode, Clay welcomes back special guest Meredith Beatty to delve into the practical wisdom found in the second half of Romans 13. They discuss the powerful connection between love and the fulfillment of the law, exploring how a genuine love for our neighbor embodies the heart of God's commands.   Drawing on the metaphor of a doomsday clock, Clay and Meredith examine how being mindful of Jesus's imminent return should awaken us from spiritual slumber and inspire us to shed our old, sinful habits. They discuss the importance of "putting on the Lord Jesus Christ" and living in the light, ready for His coming. This episode offers a timely reminder that while we don't know the day or the hour, we are called to live each day as if Jesus were coming back tomorrow. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

In this special episode of the Wordsmith Podcast, Pastor Clay Smith dives into the question: What is an Elder? Drawing from his own experience, Clay explains the biblical role of an elder, clarifying the qualities and responsibilities of these leaders. He discusses the difference between elders and deacons, the biblical call for a plurality of elders, and the four key responsibilities of an elder: to feed, lead, connect, and protect the church. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org

Join Pastor Clay Smith and a special guest, Nels Peterson, Chief Justice of the Georgia Supreme Court, for a fascinating and timely conversation on the Christian's relationship with governing authority, as they dive deep into Romans 13:1-7. Peterson shares his unique perspective on what it's like to navigate the legal system with a biblical worldview, highlighting the concepts of working hard, telling the truth, and treating everyone with the dignity of being created in God's image. This episode will challenge you to consider your own attitude toward government officials, encouraging a posture of respect and honor even in times of disagreement. Tune in to explore how the principles of Scripture can guide our conduct in a culture that often defaults to anger and division. Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus. Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org