Wordsmith 1 with Dr. Allen Jackson

When Good News Doesn't Feel Good | Brian Smith | Wednesday Night Worship

Brian Smith addresses the misconception that the Gospel is a burdensome or oppressive list of rules, noting that many people today view faith as harmful or restrictive. Drawing from Colossians 2, Brian explains that the true gospel is actually "good news" that offers freedom from man-made traditions, religious performance, and the weight of sin. He highlights the "glorious exchange" where Jesus takes on human brokenness and shame in exchange for his righteousness, emphasizing that salvation is a gift to be received rather than a status to be earned. Ultimately, Brian encourages students to "preach the gospel to themselves" daily to combat feelings of inadequacy and to fearlessly share this message of freedom with others, reminding them that they don't have to be perfect to point people toward a perfect Savior.

Hide And Seek: Genesis 1-2 | Brian Smith

In this message, Pastor Brian Smith addresses middle school students about the innate human tendency to hide our struggles, sins, and shame from those who love us. Drawing from the story of his daughter playing hide-and-seek and the biblical account of Adam and Eve in Genesis, he explains that while sin and shame naturally drive us into isolation and "church masks," this darkness only allows our pain to grow. He emphasizes that just as God sought out Adam and Eve in the garden despite their disobedience, He continues to actively pursue every individual today, regardless of their mistakes. Ultimately, Pastor Smith challenges the students to reject a life of hiding and instead choose "life over death" by being honest with their families, leaders, and a God who desires to replace their shame with the grace and forgiveness found in Jesus.

Wordsmith 1 with Dr. Allen Jackson

In this first episode of Wordsmith with Brian Smith, I sit down with Allen Jackson, a longtime pastor, professor, friend and someone who has shaped countless preachers over the years. We talk about how he studies Scripture, how he approaches sermon preparation week in and week out, and what he’s learned about preaching through decades of ministry.

The Comparison Trap and How to Get Out | Brian Smith

In the Wednesday Night Worship with the Students, Brian begins drawing from the wisdom of Solomon in Ecclesiastes and the teachings of Jesus in Matthew, Brian explains that constantly measuring ourselves against others is as futile as "chasing the wind" and serves only to fuel anxiety and fear. He argues that comparison robs us of joy and prevents us from becoming who God created us to be, emphasizing that our value is already secure because we matter to God regardless of how we "stack up" to our peers. To break free from this cycle, Brian provides a three-step practical application: call out the comparison when it rises, cut it out to avoid the path of anxiety, and change your focus toward God’s love and the abundant life Jesus promises.

Esther: For Such A Time As This | Annoura Wagemann

In a heartfelt message to her middle school students, Annoura shares her personal journey of overcoming the fear of public speaking by drawing inspiration from the biblical story of Esther. Initially ecstatic about the opportunity to help her peers, Annoura admits she nearly quit due to intense anxiety and the pressure to say something meaningful as the deadline approached. She explains how she found courage in Esther, who risked her life to save her people, specifically reflecting on the message that she may have been placed in her current position "for such a time as this." Ultimately, She encourages everyone to embrace their own "big scary things," trusting that God will use their bravery and obedience to impact others even when they feel unqualified or afraid.