Ben Smith

Channel · 4 Shows

Christianity

Christianity

Updated Weekly
Christianity

Christianity

Updated Weekly
Christianity

Christianity

Updated Biweekly
Christianity

Christianity

Updated Semiweekly

3d ago

Walk in the Light, 1 John 1:5–10

Walk in the Light, 1 John 1:5–10 How can you know whether your faith is genuine? In this episode of All for the Kingdom, Ben Smith Sr. explores John’s teaching about walking in the light, fellowship with God, confession of sin, and forgiveness through Jesus Christ. John confronts counterfeit faith with two tests: true faith that produces transformation and fellowship, and true repentance that acknowledges sin and rests in God’s promise to forgive. Sermon outline: • The test of true faith — 1 John 1:5–7A genuine confession of faith leads to a transformed life and fellowship with God’s people. • The test of true repentance — 1 John 1:8–10Those who walk in the light recognize the reality of sin, confess their personal sin, and trust God to forgive and cleanse them. For reflection: • Does your profession of faith show itself in a changed life?• Are you sharing in fellowship with other believers?• Is confession of sin a regular part of your prayer life?• Are you resting in Christ’s sacrifice as the basis of your forgiveness? Related passages: Psalm 32:5; Psalm 139:23–24; Proverbs 28:13; John 8:12; Romans 8:1; 1 John 2:1. To learn more, visit BenSmithSr.org.
5d ago

Are they really that dumb? Rethinking how we describe sheep

Sheep are often described as dumb. But is that the most helpful way to understand the Bible’s picture of God’s people? In this reading, Ben Smith, Sr., considers the sheep’s dependence on the shepherd and what that relationship reveals about Christ’s care for His people. The reflection moves from common descriptions of sheep to the blessing of being known, protected, and provided for by the Good Shepherd, who willingly lays down His life for His sheep. Scripture considered: Micah 5:4–5; Isaiah 53:5–6; John 10. Related sermon passage: Psalm 17. Read the original article, first published January 13, 2022: https://www.bensmithsr.org/ponderings/are-they-really-that-dumb-rethinking-how-we-describe-sheep-2022 Related study: “Satisfied in God,” Psalm 17. This sermon explores refuge in God, confidence in His protection, and rejoicing in His provision. Listen to the sermon (free): https://www.bensmithsr.org/bensmith-allforthekingdom/satisfied-in-god-psalm-17-podcast Sermon outline and listening guide (free PDF resource): https://www.bensmithsr.org/store/p/psalm-17-sermon-outline Full sermon manuscript (paid PDF download): https://www.bensmithsr.org/store/p/satisfied-in-god-psalm-17-sermon Written and read by Ben Smith, Sr. Ponderings with Ben Smith, Sr. — Thinking out loud about faith, culture, and life. Explore sermons, articles, and Bible study resources at https://www.bensmithsr.org/. Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. ESV Text Edition: 2025. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Oct 28

The Lord Never Fails, Ruth 4:13–22

Ruth 4:13–22 concludes the story of Ruth and Naomi. Ruth and Boaz welcome a son named Obed, Naomi rejoices in the child, and the final genealogy identifies Obed as the grandfather of King David. What began in loss ends with praise for the Lord’s faithfulness. This sermon considers God’s restoration and His willingness to use people the world may overlook. Ruth could not have seen the generations ahead when she chose to remain with Naomi. Yet God was working through her faith and obedience in the family line that would lead to Jesus Christ. Scripture: Ruth 4:13–22Themes: God’s faithfulness, restoration, Ruth, Naomi, Obed, King David, the genealogy of Jesus To learn more, visit BenSmithSr.org.
07/21/2025

Episode 22: A Conversation with Dr. Mac Brunson

Show Notes: “View from the Pulpit” Podcast, Episode 22: A Conversation with Dr. Mac Brunson Episode Theme: Changes and Trends among Baptist churches in approaches to preaching In this episode of “View from the Pulpit,” host Ben Smith talks with Dr. Mac Brunson, Senior Pastor of Valleydale Church in Birmingham, AL, about his approach to Bible study, sermon preparation, and lifelong pursuit of learning. Key Highlights: Early Days: Dr. Brunson chronicles how God has developed his preaching from his first church to his present ministry. Exposure to and learning to preach expository sermons: Dr. Brunson recounts his first exposure to expository preaching and how he learned to preach expository sermons. Sermon Illustrations: A gifted sermon Illustrator, Dr. Brunson, shares his insights into using illustrations for greater effect and where he finds his illustrations. Honoring the ministries of former pastors while being honest about your own personality and giftedness: Dr. Brunson shares his experience of pastoring FBC Dallas and FBC Jacksonville while honoring the legacy and ministry of the pastors that preceded him. Lifelong learner: Brunson shares how books and reading are crucial to a pastor’s pursuit of lifelong learning. Join Ben Smith and Dr. Mac Brunson for an engaging conversation about ministry, preaching, and the lifelong pursuit of learning. Host: Ben Smith Guest: Dr. Mac Brunson For more information and resources from Pastor Ben Smith, visit www.BenSmithSr.org. Follow Ben Smith on X at https://x.com/bensmithsr. Other podcasts by Ben Smith: All For the Kingdom is a weekly podcast of pastor Ben’s preaching ministry. https://www.bensmithsr.org/bensmith-allforthekingdom Sermon Shorts is a podcast of sermon clips that are 5 minutes or less. https://www.bensmithsr.org/shortspod Dr. Mac Brunson is the Senior Pastor of Valleydale Church in Birmingham, AL. Prior to coming to Valleydale Church, Dr. Brunson served as senior pastor of both the First Baptist Church of Jacksonville, FL, and the First Baptist Church of Dallas, TX. He holds a PhD, DMin., and MDiv from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, an honorary doctorate of divinity from Dallas Baptist University, and earned a B.A. from Furman University. He is an adjunct professor for New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and a sought-after conference preacher. He has published several books and articles, including the 2023 publication God is For You: Learning to Trust God's Wisdom through Life's Crises (2023) Mac and his wife, Debbie, have three adult children and 16 grandchildren. Follow Dr. Mac Brunson on X at https://x.com/brunson_mac. Listen to Dr. Brunson’s latest sermons through the Valleydale Church Sermons podcast available in Apple Podcasts. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/valleydale-church-sermons/id1345039445 For more information on Valleydale Church, Birmingham, AL, visit https://www.valleydale.org/. A special thanks to Jim Gibson for permission to use his recording of “Brethren We Have Met to Worship” for this podcast. You can find more information about Jim Gibson’s music and many other recordings at https://www.hickorycovemusic.com/. Music by Jim Gibson. “Brethren We have Met to Worship.” Songs of the South III, @2003 Hickory Cove Music. Subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app and never miss an episode. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/view-from-the-pulpit-with-ben-smith/id1796433489 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4H8yxbzbDmymNHZz5Z5JUI?si=a7ab7b7157a14ead
Oct 21

Redeemed, Ruth 4:1–12

In Ruth 4:1–12, Boaz meets the closer relative at the city gate. The man declines the responsibility of redemption, and Boaz publicly commits himself to redeem the property and marry Ruth. The witnesses respond with blessing. This sermon follows three themes: redemption is costly, redemption is settled, and God’s people should celebrate faithfulness. Boaz’s willingness to bear the cost points to Jesus Christ, who gave Himself to redeem sinners. His finished work is the hope of our forgiveness and assurance. Scripture: Ruth 4:1–12Themes: Boaz, family redemption, the cost of redemption, Jesus Christ, forgiveness, assurance, faithfulness To learn more, visit BenSmithSr.org.
Oct 19

Introducing Ponderings: An Invitation from Ben Smith

If you’ve joined our conversations about preaching and the local church on View From the Pulpit, I’d like to invite you to Ponderings. Ponderings is the audio companion to my Ponderings blog. In each episode, I read one of my articles, with small changes for natural spoken delivery. The reflections consider Scripture, faith, culture, the local church, and everyday Christian life. Some begin with a Bible passage. Others begin with an ordinary experience or a question worth considering in light of God’s Word. Start with the first episode, “Play for the Coach, Not the Crowd,” explore the written articles, and follow Ponderings on Apple Podcasts or Spotify using the links on its podcast page. Ponderings has its own feed, so follow it separately to receive the readings. Each reading links to the original article and related sermons or Bible study resources when available. Listen and follow Ponderings Find episode one: Play for the Coach, Not the Crowd Follow Ponderings on Spotify Read the Ponderings articles Explore sermons and Bible study resources Hosted and read by Ben Smith, Sr. Ponderings with Ben Smith, Sr. — Thinking out loud about faith, culture, and life.
08/04/2025

Episode 24: A Conversation with John Roland

Show Notes: “View from the Pulpit” Podcast, Episode 24: A Conversation with Pastor John Roland. Episode Theme: Blessings and challenges of bi-vocational ministry. In this episode of “View from the Pulpit,” host Ben Smith talks with Pastor John Roland, Pastor of Beulah Baptist Church in Sterrett, AL, about his experiences and perspectives as a bi-vocational pastor, his approach to preaching, and the unique aspects of his ministry at Beulah Baptist Church. Key Highlights: Study and Preparation on the Go: Pastor Roland's sermon preparation has to be mobile to accommodate his secular job requirements. He typically reads the chosen passage multiple times, writing down questions about it, and then consulting trusted commentaries to find answers. He outlines three to four main points for his sermon and writes out a manuscript in Google Docs. He often copies and pastes commentary notes below his points and summarizes them. He works on this document throughout the week, utilizing Google Docs for mobility across his devices (iPad, laptop, phone), especially when traveling for his secular job. He puts the finishing touches on the manuscript on Friday or Saturday. Challenges for Bi-vocational ministry: One of the significant challenges is the limited time for traditional pastoral duties like hospital visits and extensive personal visitation. He struggles with feeling like he should be doing more and has had to learn to say no to commitments outside his primary roles to manage his time effectively. Balancing the demands of his secular job with pastoral responsibilities also means he often doesn't have a dedicated day off during the week, requiring constant effort to maintain physical and mental energy. Importance of relationships: Pastor John encourages young pastors to prioritize "building relationships in the community, and partner with as many other ministries and pastors that you can for accountability, encouragement, and collaboration.” Join Ben Smith and Pastor John Roland for an enlightening conversation about bi-vocational ministry. Host: Ben Smith Guest: John Roland For more information and resources from Pastor Ben Smith, visit www.BenSmithSr.org. Follow Ben Smith on X at https://x.com/bensmithsr. Other podcasts by Ben Smith: All For the Kingdom is a weekly podcast of pastor Ben’s preaching ministry. https://www.bensmithsr.org/bensmith-allforthekingdom Sermon Shorts is a podcast of sermon clips that are 5 minutes or less. https://www.bensmithsr.org/shortspod Pastor John Roland is the Pastor of Beulah Baptist Church in Sterrett, AL. Prior to coming to Beulah Baptist Church, Pastor Roland has served as a transitional pastor and a senior pastor. He earned his undergraduate degree from Samford University, MDiv from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and an MBA from Kennesaw State University. John has worked for many years for various organizations as an executive in advancement. He is currently the Advancement officer for the Howard College of Arts and Sciences of Samford University. John and his wife, Amy, have three adult children. Follow Pastor John Roland on X at https://x.com/jaroland74 Listen to Pastor Roland’s latest sermons through the Beulah Baptist Church’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BeulahBaptistChurchSterrett A special thanks to Jim Gibson for permission to use his recording of “Brethren We Have Met to Worship” for this podcast. You can find more information about Jim Gibson’s music and many other recordings at https://www.hickorycovemusic.com/. Music by Jim Gibson. “Brethren We have Met to Worship.” Songs of the South III, @2003 Hickory Cove Music. Subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app and never miss an episode. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/view-from-the-pulpit-with-ben-smith/id1796433489 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4H8yxbzbDmymNHZz5Z5JUI?si=a7ab7b7157a14ead
07/28/2025

Episode 23: A Conversation with Chris Fowler

Show Notes: “View from the Pulpit” Podcast, Episode 23: A Conversation with Pastor Chris Fowler. Episode Theme: Preaching in a College Town. In this episode of “View from the Pulpit,” host Ben Smith talks with Pastor Chris Fowler, Pastor of Fletcher Memorial Baptist Church in Statesboro, Georgia, about his experiences and perspectives as a pastor in a college town and how his approach to expository preaching and leading his church to honor and live out God’s word. Key Highlights: · The importance of reading scripture in worship: Christ explains his practice of reading large portions of scripture (chapters or even entire books) in the worship service and how this has contributed to his church growing in appreciation of God’s word and the value of hearing the Word. · Resources to further the impact of preaching: Christ shares what resources he uses to aid engagement with preaching. These include a listening guide with space for notes and discussion questions provided for use throughout the week. · Sermon Preparation Process: Pastor Christ details his weekly process for preparing a sermon. He shares how he studies the passage and what he takes to the pulpit to preach from. Join Ben Smith and Pastor Chris Fowler for a helpful conversation about preaching and leading a church to a great appreciation for God’s word. Host: Ben Smith Guest: Chris Fowler For more information and resources from Pastor Ben Smith, visit www.BenSmithSr.org. Follow Ben Smith on X at https://x.com/bensmithsr. Other podcasts by Ben Smith: All For the Kingdom is a weekly podcast of pastor Ben’s preaching ministry. https://www.bensmithsr.org/bensmith-allforthekingdom Sermon Shorts is a podcast of sermon clips that are 5 minutes or less. https://www.bensmithsr.org/shortspod Chris Fowler is the Pastor of Fletcher Memorial Baptist Church, Statesboro, GA. Prior to joining Fletcher Memorial, Fowler served as Associate Pastor of Education and Discipleship at North Peachtree Baptist Church in Dunwoody, GA, and as Pastor at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Roanoke, North Carolina. Pastor Fowler earned both his undergraduate degree and MDiv. from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Chris and his wife, Amy, have four children. Listen to Pastor Fowler’s latest sermons on: · YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fletcherchurch768 · Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4CuxkyMUtnkjfvb2bGHOlX A special thanks to Jim Gibson for permission to use his recording of “Brethren We Have Met to Worship” for this podcast. You can find more information about Jim Gibson’s music and many other recordings at https://www.hickorycovemusic.com/. Music by Jim Gibson. “Brethren We have Met to Worship.” Songs of the South III, @2003 Hickory Cove Music. Subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app and never miss an episode. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/view-from-the-pulpit-with-ben-smith/id1796433489 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4H8yxbzbDmymNHZz5Z5JUI?si=a7ab7b7157a14ead
May 6

The Deadly Pride of Man, Genesis 11:1-9

In this episode of All for the Kingdom, Ben Smith, Sr. preaches from Genesis 11:1–9 on “The Deadly Pride of Man.” Genesis 11 records the rebellion at Babel, where the people sought to build a city, make a name for themselves, and resist the command of God. This sermon shows that Babel was not merely a story about a tower, but a warning about the deadly pride that draws the human heart away from God. This message considers: - The pride of ability - The danger of elevating preference over obedience - The pride of self-sufficiency - The desire to control worship apart from God - The pride of mastery - God’s sovereign judgment over human rebellion - The call to repentance, humility, and obedience The Tower of Babel reminds us that human ability is a gift from God, not a replacement for God. Man is not master over his mind, his life, or his future. The faithful response is to humble ourselves before the living God and live. To learn more, visit BenSmithSr.org.
10/13/2025

Episode 34: A Conversation with Dr. Danny Cochran

Show Notes: “View from the Pulpit” Podcast, Episode 34: A Conversation with Dr. Danny Cochran Episode Theme: A Lifetime of Passion for Expository Preaching and Fidelity to God's Word Join host Ben Smith in this episode of "View from the Pulpit" as he sits down with Dr. Danny Cochran, a seasoned pastor, teacher, and mentor with over 45 years in ministry. Dr. Cochran, who, prior to his retirement, pastored Holly Creek Baptist Church for 24 years and holds multiple advanced degrees. In this episode, Dr. Cochran shares profound insights into his ministry journey and preaching. Key Highlights: • Personal Testimony and Call to Ministry: Dr. Cochran shares how a DUI arrest and the need to borrow money from a friend led to a gospel encounter that led to his and his wife’s salvation. This conversion ignited a lifelong passion for studying the scripture, leading to his call to preach. • Education and Engaging Original Languages: Dr. Cochran describes his unconventional pursuit of theological education and how this has shaped and helped his ministry. • Community Involvement and Pastoral Experience: Dr. Cochran has ministered to his community through various roles. She shares how these opportunities exposed him to diverse community aspects, influencing his preaching and allowing for unique ministry opportunities. This conversation is filled with practical insights for pastoral ministry and faithfully preaching God’s words. Join Ben Smith and Dr. Danny Cochran for this honest discussion on preaching and pastoral ministry. Host: Ben Smith Guest: Dr. Danny Cochran For more information and resources from Pastor Ben Smith, visit www.BenSmithSr.org. Follow Ben Smith on X at https://x.com/bensmithsr. Other podcasts by Ben Smith: All For the Kingdom is a weekly podcast of pastor Ben’s preaching ministry. https://www.bensmithsr.org/bensmith-allforthekingdom Sermon Shorts is a podcast of sermon clips that are 5 minutes or less. https://www.bensmithsr.org/shortspod Dr. Danny Cochran recently retired as the long-serving Senior Pastor of Holly Creek Baptist Church in Chatsworth, Georgia. Throughout his distinguished ministry, he faithfully shepherded his congregation and made an indelible impact on both local church life and broader ministry contexts. Beyond pastoral work, Dr. Cochran has served as an adjunct professor teaching at the Leavell College of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and Piedmont International University. Dr. Cochran holds a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) from Liberty Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. from Piedmont International University. He received his master’s degree from Liberty University. Dr. Cochran is married to Tina, and they are proud parents of two married sons and grandparents to three granddaughters. A special thanks to Jim Gibson for permission to use his recording of “Brethren We Have Met to Worship” for this podcast. You can find more information about Jim Gibson’s music and many other recordings at https://www.hickorycovemusic.com/. Music by Jim Gibson. “Brethren We have Met to Worship.” Songs of the South III, @2003 Hickory Cove Music. A special thanks to Jim Gibson for permission to use his recording of “Brethren We Have Met to Worship” for this podcast. You can find more information about Jim Gibson’s music and many other recordings at https://www.hickorycovemusic.com/. Music by Jim Gibson. “Brethren We have Met to Worship.” Songs of the South III, @2003 Hickory Cove Music. Subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app and never miss an episode. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/view-from-the-pulpit-with-ben-smith/id##96433489 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4H8yxbzbDmymNHZz5Z5JUI?si=a7ab7b7157a14ead

Biblical preaching, devotional reflections, and pastoral conversations rooted in God’s Word. Ben Smith Podcasts help listeners understand Scripture, grow in faith, and serve Christ and His church. All for the Kingdom features expository sermons and verse-by-verse Bible preaching grounded in the truth and authority of Scripture. Sermon Shorts offers concise sermon clips and biblical encouragement in five minutes or less, bringing scriptural truth to everyday life. View From the Pulpit explores the theology and practice of expository preaching through conversations, interviews, and reflections on pastoral ministry and church leadership. Ponderings with Ben Smith, Sr. brings devotional reflections from Ben’s blog to the microphone, connecting Scripture with everyday experiences and encouraging a thoughtful, faithful walk with the Lord. Whether you’re looking for in-depth Bible teaching, brief encouragement, devotional listening, or thoughtful discussion of preaching and ministry, these podcasts share one purpose: to help you know God’s Word and live for His glory. Explore more biblical teaching, sermon manuscripts, and ministry resources at BenSmithSr.org.

Website

Ben Smith

Top Shows

Walk in the Light, 1 John 1:5–10

Are they really that dumb? Rethinking how we describe sheep

The Lord Never Fails, Ruth 4:13–22

Episode 22: A Conversation with Dr. Mac Brunson

Redeemed, Ruth 4:1–12

Introducing Ponderings: An Invitation from Ben Smith

Episode 24: A Conversation with John Roland

Episode 23: A Conversation with Chris Fowler

The Deadly Pride of Man, Genesis 11:1-9

Episode 34: A Conversation with Dr. Danny Cochran

About

Ben Smith

Top Shows

Top Episodes

About